In the local church hall, conversations hum and the aroma of coffee fills the air. People line up with their broken belongings, hopeful they can be restored to live for another decade.
Amidst these various sounds, smells, and sights, a simple cup of tea or coffee becomes more than just a refreshment – at the Southfields Mend, Fix & Repair Cafe, it’s time to connect, and maybe share stories of cherished belongings. The repair cafe isn’t just a place to fix things; it’s a welcoming space where people can come together, exchange skills, and find community in the act of repair.
A surprisingly important matter: cake
Over in the refreshments area, volunteers serve delicious homemade cakes - very affordable homemade cakes. So much so that even visitors have suggested increasing the prices. But the repair cafe disagrees.
Serena Potter, Southfields Mend, Fix & Repair Cafe organiser, explains: “We choose to keep the cost of cakes and other refreshments low so the whole community feels welcome and included. The repair cafe is for everyone - even if you don’t have anything that needs repairing, it’s a wonderful community event, and we want to make sure that cost is never a barrier to joining us."
Cake ingredients are donated, and any profits from refreshments go directly back into the repair cafe, helping to cover running costs and keep the initiative thriving.
A space to connect
Tables are scattered around the room, each with a designated volunteer repairer ready for their next challenge. There’s also a communal table holding reading materials about local events - community gatherings, concerts at the church, charity initiatives, Wandsworth’s Library of Things, and more. Visitors can settle into a chair, enjoy their cake and coffee, and catch up with neighbours, all whilst enjoying the buzz of the event.
In a world where loneliness is increasingly common, gatherings like this offer a sense of belonging. A simple conversation over a repair can brighten someone’s day. That’s why spaces like this matter - not just for sustainability, but for wellbeing too.
A final note: building community
The repair cafe isn’t just about mending broken items - it’s about building a more connected community. Whether you go to fix something, learn a new skill, or simply enjoy a chat over a cup of tea, you’ll find a truly welcoming space. So next time you need something repaired - or just fancy a friendly conversation and a slice of cake - stop by. The repair cafe will be there, ready with tools, tea, and a friendly face.
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