Watford Mencap Cafe in the Library reopens

Charity Watford Mencap, which supports people with learning disabilities in the town, has received £3,000 in funding from the Elected Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor’s Small Grants Fund.

The grant will go towards the opening of its outdoor café, called the Cafe in the Library, which launched this week.

Set beside Watford Central Library, the café is where people can enjoy a cup of coffee and cake, with all proceeds going to Watford Mencap.

The funding from the Mayor’s Small Grants Fund has gone towards reanimating the unused area outside the library, with the charity adding tables, furniture, planters and an outdoor takeaway service.

Outdoor seating in the Cafe in the Library

Elected Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor said: “I’m really happy we have been able to support and fund Watford Mencap’s outdoor café.

“Mencap do amazing work for the community and with all the café proceeds going to the charity, it will help them gain some vital fundraising after a difficult year for charities across the town and UK.

“Re-opening the café will also means trainees once again have opportunity to work in a safe environment and rebuild their confidence.”

Jane Pattinson, chief executive at Watford Mencap, said: “When you have a learning disability, it’s for life, and it’s something that can make it difficult to learn, understand, or relate to other people.

Mayor Peter Taylor and deputy mayor Aga Dychton with Mencap staff

“The aim of our café is to combat the prejudice and social isolation that people with learning disabilities face on a daily basis.

“Our café is an environment where people with learning disabilities can learn new skills, enjoy new experiences and gain confidence, as well as raise awareness of learning disabilities and bring the local community together in a positive and progressive way.

“I’m therefore over the moon that the café received funding from the Mayor’s Small Grants Fund and can reopen outdoors."