One mother’s determination to find a safe social space for her son, who has complex health issues and learning disabilities, has helped establish a thriving weekly drop-in at The Green Café in Clarence Park, Bury. And it’s been described as “a place of hope that’s open to all.”
Dianne Graham’s son, Chris, was born with microcephaly, a condition where a baby’s head is much smaller than expected for their age, which has resulted in a wealth of challenges. She said: “Chris is now 39 and has neurological issues, learning disabilities, used to turn blue when feeding, and has challenging behaviour.
“Because his condition causes so many different and difficult challenges, he didn’t fit the criteria for ‘traditional’ social or activity sessions often open to those with a particular physical or mental health need. But everyone needs a place to go. It’s a basic of humans to be together.”
As an NHS care co-ordinator working closely with GP practices across Bury to support the social and psychological needs of patients, Dianne realised there was an opportunity to create a regular drop-in session for “those who might otherwise slip through the net due to complicated multiple physical and mental health challenges.”
Established in June 2024, Dianne’s Monday sessions at The Green Café feature opportunities to socialise, play sports, enjoy crafts and music, participate in quizzes, talk about any concerns, seek advice and enjoy a leisurely walk in the park. She says: “From initially establishing a space for patients I support, we now have around 20 regulars all with different multiple needs including autism, learning disabilities, mental health challenges and loneliness. It’s been inspiring to witness friendships develop and people growing in confidence. It’s a place of hope and happiness.”
While Dianne oversees the drop-in and is also supported once a month by Bury’s Live Well Team. The community café also provides an opportunity for those attending the sessions to learn new skills. Making and serving food, interacting with customers, learning hygiene skills, plus handling cash, has helped some of the group have a taste of work for the first time.
Dianne adds: “It’s wonderful to see people step forward and enjoy a chance to work in a safe space. Everyone says they love it, their confidence has grown, and they have had fabulous comments from customers.”
Her son, Chris, from Radcliffe, described his “happy Mondays” as a safe space where he “can go and relax,” and Dianne also highlighted the impact the drop-ins have had on Kaii Laing, age 27, from Bury.
“Kaii is an impressive sportsman whose autism and learning disability can present itself through crippling shyness. It’s taken him a year to gradually open up. He admits the weekly drop-in has given him ‘more confidence and new friends.’” She added: “When everyone first came to the café they would sit at separate tables and not make eye contact. It was very quiet. Now people sit together, they talk, laugh and interact. It really is a special place.”
Mark Beesley, Chief Officer of Bury GP Federation, explained that a team of 11 care co-ordinators work across Bury GP practices. “Working closely with GPs they review patients’ needs, create personalised care and support plans, and help patients access the services and support they require. Our care co-ordinators specialise in learning disabilities, severe mental illness, cancer care, dementia, frailty and also work within care homes and alongside paramedics as part of our acute visiting service. The difference they make to the lives of so many people is invaluable.”
Dianne’s sessions are every Monday from 10-12.30pm at The Green Community Café, Clarence Park Bowling Pavilion, Walmersley Road, Bury, BL9 5DH