Community Cafe

What to expect at the Community Cafe?

We are passionate about our local area and want to see our neighbours thrive. We know that life can be challenging, and that many in our community are navigating seasons of loneliness or quiet struggle. We believe that no one should have to carry their burdens alone. Whether you need a boost in your job hunt, help with technology, or just a friendly face to talk to, we are here to serve our community one conversation, one relationship, and one cup of coffee at a time.

When you step through the doors of The Vale Gospel Hall, you’ll find much more than just a warm welcome. Our cafe is centered around high-quality, Organic Barista Coffee and a selection of Fairtrade Teas, accompanied by fresh Cakes and Biscuits all served absolutely free as a service to our neighbours.

While you enjoy your drink, we offer a range of practical support designed for the Coulsdon and Purley community. If you’re struggling with technology, our volunteers provide IT Tech Help to get you confident with your phone, tablet, or laptop. For those looking for their next career move, we offer friendly CV and Job Hunt Support, helping you with modern formatting and application tips.

Families are at the heart of what we do, which is why we have a dedicated Children’s Play Corner with soft toys and colouring to keep the little ones happy while you relax. If you’re looking for company, join our Table Talk for a friendly chat. We also offer a dedicated Quiet Corner for those seeking a moment of peace; we provide a selection of daily newspapers and books for you to browse, though you are always welcome to bring your own. Whether you stay for ten minutes or the full two hours, this is a space for you to connect, refresh, and find support.

Dates & Times

  • Opening Times: 09:30 AM – 12:00 PM

2026 Fortnightly Schedule:

  • Friday, 16th January
  • Friday, 30th January
  • Friday, 13th February
  • Friday, 27th February

Price: Its all Absolutely Free.

Four cups of coffee with intricate latte art designs sit on a round wooden table, viewed from above. Each cup features a unique leaf or heart-shaped foam pattern.
  • Address: The Vale Gospel Hall, The Vale, Coulsdon, CR5 2AU
  • Accessibility: We offer step-free access, accessible toilets, and plenty of space for buggies and wheelchairs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 Do I have to be a member of the church? 

No! This is for everyone in the Coulsdon & Purley community regardless of background or belief.

Do I need to book? 

No booking is required for coffee or IT help. For CV support, you can just turn up, though arriving early is recommended.

Is it really free? 

Yes. There is no charge for any of our refreshments or services.

Who runs the Community Cafe? 

The Community Cafe is run by a dedicated group of volunteers from The Vale Gospel Hall. Our team brings a wealth of professional experience, including backgrounds in Senior Management, IT, Business Management and Children’s Consultancy, ensuring you receive high-quality support. Our volunteers are fully DBS-checked and follow our church’s strict safeguarding policy.

Can I come alone?

Absolutely! Many of our visitors come by themselves. You can choose to sit at our “Table Talk” to meet new people, or enjoy some quiet time with a newspaper in our Quiet Corner.

Is there Wi-Fi available?

Yes, we provide free Wi-Fi for our guests. It’s perfect if you want to bring your laptop to work or need to download a document for our IT team to look at.

Are there gluten-free or dairy-free options? 

We usually have a selection of refreshments that cater to common dietary requirements. Please just ask one of the team when you arrive.

Have a specific IT question or need a CV review?

Feel free to drop us a message (click here) ahead of time, or just turn up on the day!