Alnwick Garden hails drop-in centre landmark

A Northumberland visitor attraction is celebrating a community support milestone.

The Alnwick Garden’s Drop-In Centre has reached its tenth anniversary.

Helping people struggling with loneliness and isolation, the venture has hosted 50,000 visits from individuals seeking to make connections and regain a sense of purpose.

Founded in 2015 with support from the Stuart Halbert Foundation, the centre operates in The Alnwick Garden’s courtyard and welcomes visitors every Thursday, Friday and Sunday.

The Duchess of Northumberland, who founded the project in 2015, said: “The centre represents a safe space for people to come together and find new friendships. 

“Loneliness can happen to all of us, and can have a serious impact on our emotional and physical wellbeing.

“With the support of our incredible volunteers and friends at the Stuart Halbert Foundation, we’ve created something extraordinary, which will continue to support those in need.”

Volunteer Sue Simpson added: “We believe there is life to be lived at any age, and it's invaluable to provide a space for people to do so.

“We are here for people at the best of times and the most difficult of times.”

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