Aberdeenshire’s Castle Café in Huntly set for new life as coffee shop
A “full make over” could turn an empty café into a coffee shop about “more than just coffee”.
Angie Shearer, who owns the old Castle Café in Huntly, has unveiled plans to turn it into a social enterprise that will benefit young people and improve mental health.
She has invited the public to have their say on the future Castle Street Coffee site during Hairst, on Saturday, September 7, between 11am and 2pm.
Included in plans is a relaxed chill out space for young people to play games, meet friends, and “seek coaching help in a safe and neutral environment”.
Angie also runs Full Colour Coaching, which provides “early intervention and preventative mental health and wellbeing coaching” for young people.
She said it was important to her to combine both roles.
This coffee shop is set to be a social enterprise and she pledged to reinvest profits into the community.
However, the project will require further funding and Angie said she would be looking for “community support” in the coming months.
“This is the genesis of the project and the input by the community is very important and incredibly welcome,” Angie said.
“Anyone wishing to discuss opportunities for partnership at this early stage will also be able to attend.
“Our coffee shop will serve as a safe and welcoming space for young people to relax, socialise, and access support services without feeling judged or isolated.
“It can become a central place where young people feel a sense of belonging and connection to their community.”
Mental health can have a lasting impact on young people, the owner added, making it important to provide support early.
She added: “Half of all mental health problems start from the age 14.
“If we can provide early intervention support, we can make a difference in helping young people.
She also hopes to provide work experience through the coffee shop, helping young people develop skills like teamwork, customer service, organisation and communication skills.
“They will also have the opportunity to gain qualifications and improve their employability and career prospects,” Angie added.
“This will also boost confidence and self-esteem, fostering a sense of pride, independence and a can-do attitude.”
Angie said it was important to her that the new coffee shop is a welcoming place for all.
“This is a Coffee Shop for everyone to come and relax, enjoy a coffee and some food, meet friends old and new, and feel welcomed the very moment you set foot in the door,” she said.
“Creating a space to reduce social isolation and loneliness is also a driving force behind the project, as too many people fall between the cracks and feel forgotten or invisible.
