Birchen Coppice Primary School in Woodbury Road, Kidderminster, is launching a new community cafe with a difference this week.

From Friday 17 February, local residents can drop in and get advice on a range of issues including housing, welfare advice or help with complex letters from government agencies and the district council.

The cafe will run at the school between 9.30am and 11am, and has been backed by Wyre Forest MP, Mark Garnier.

Charlotte Jeynes, School Community and Events Co-ordinator, said: “We recognised that there is a need for this service as many of our parents do not have access to computers so are in danger of missing deadlines which can affect their income and family life.

“We are delighted to have the support of our MP, Mark Garnier, who already plays an active role in the community and we would encourage anyone who needs any advice to pop along. No appointments are needed.” 

Helen Zinzan, Financial Inclusion and Customer Insight Manager at The Community Housing Group, added: “This is a great idea as the benefit system can be confusing. We can make sure that everyone has a chance to get the help they are entitled to.”

The community cafe will run monthly at Birchen Coppice.