Pain Cafe

In January 2025, we launched our first 'one of a kind' Pain Café in partnership with Pure Physiotherapy, with the aim of supporting people in the local community who are living with long-term pain. What started as a single monthly session has grown into a thriving and valued support network, helping 101 individuals better understand and manage the challenges associated with persistent pain.

The success and popularity of the Pain Café has seen attendance continue to grow, leading to the expansion of the service to include a second monthly session. This development reflects the clear need for accessible, community-based support for those living with chronic pain and related conditions.

The sessions provide a welcoming and supportive environment where attendees can share their experiences, learn practical pain management techniques, access information about local support groups, and explore strategies to help prevent the escalation of symptoms. The sessions also give people the opportunity to connect with others over a cuppa and friendly quizzes, helping to ease the sense of isolation that often comes when living with chronic pain. The cafés are also supported by local partners, including Saints Nuneaton, who help to promote wellbeing and community connection.

The group continues to meet monthly on the first and third Tuesday of each month from 10.30am to 12.30pm at Saints Café in Nuneaton.

Karen Ashby, Lead Social Prescriber, said:

"The openness and honesty with which people share their stories continues to be incredible. Over the last two years, we've seen the positive impact these sessions have had on people's wellbeing, confidence and ability to manage their pain. It is clear that this support is both valued and needed within our community."

Kieran from PurePhysiotherapy shares that:

"I just had a call off a patient who has just attended the Nuneaton Pain cafe and wanted to ring to thank the people running it. The patient said they have never felt more listened to, was wonderful to meet like minded people and find they wasn't alone and that they will be most definitely attending the next one"

As the Pain Café enters its third year, it continues to provide a safe, supportive space where people can connect, share experiences and access the tools and resources needed to improve their quality of life.