‘It will make a big difference’ - Suffolk charity backed by Ed Sheeran receives boost for its mental health work

A Suffolk mental health support group has received a £500 donation towards a minibus so it can offer more day trips.

The cafe takes its name from a tree on which people are encouraged to write their worries. Picture: TAYLOR WIMPEY - Credit: TAYLOR WIMPEY

Framlingham’s Worry Tree Cafe, which is backed by singer Ed Sheeran, received the donation from Taylor Wimpey, which is currently building 163 homes at Castle Keep in the town.

The group, which takes its name from a tree outside the cafe where people are encouraged to write down their worries on a branch before entering, holds weekly sessions to combat depression, anxiety and loneliness.

Millie Corke, who set up group after her own experiences with mental illness, said: “We’re saving for transportation so we can go out for more day trips, which will give people who don’t get out very much a bit more confidence.

“For some people, just stepping through the door of the cafe is a huge thing, so being able to take them out with us is massively important as it gives them so much more freedom and independence. We’d like to thank Taylor Wimpey East Anglia for their kind donation - it will make a big difference.”

Caroline Carter, sales and marketing director for Taylor Wimpey East Anglia, said: “Mental illness can affect anyone at any time, so the support offered by groups like The Worry Tree Cafe is vital to communities across our region.”

The Worry Tree Cafe runs 4.30-6.30pm on Fridays at The Day Care Centre in Mills Meadow, Framlingham,

To find out more about The Worry Tree Cafe and to offer your support, visit Hour Community or FacebookVisit Taylor Wimpey for information about Castle Keep.