A ‘Community Living Room’ initiative in Leyton is providing support and encouragement for vulnerable people
Free warm meals and drinks with guest chefs working their nutritional magic; workshops from art therapy to afro hair treatment; a marketplace for local makers to sell their products; and Caribbean music vibes in the background.
These are just some attractions on offer at the beloved Pepper’s Ghost pub in Leyton High Road.
During the pandemic years, it was our communities that showed, over and over again, that they could be the driving force in helping many people in need, especially in London – a city where many live in solitude and anonymity.
The ‘Community Living Room’ network was initially started as a winter event, running on Thursdays and Fridays, hosted by the Pepper’s Ghost pub, and organised by a community interest company called The Skills Within, based in North London.
Nathan ‘Nate’ Gabbidon, who is a former youth counsellor as well as the CEO and co-founder of The Skills Within, has always been passionate about bringing out the spirit of local communities.
This story is published by Waltham Forest Echo, Waltham Forest's free monthly newspaper and free news website. We are a not-for-profit publication, published by a small social enterprise. We have no rich backers and rely on the support of our readers. Donate or become a supporter.
Nate is committed to helping the community and young individuals find their path to success. Alongside his co-founder Natalie, through the projects organised by The Skills Within, they offer a range of expertise and can help anyone, ranging from counselling, family therapy, visa and immigration inquiries.
In response to the cost-of-living emergency, a winter spaces network was designed by Waltham Forest Council to ensure that there is support available in every corner of Waltham Forest. With this funding provided by the council, The Skills Within provides a space for people to relax, meet and socialise in an inclusive and warm environment, while enjoying a free hot drink or meal and access to important services.
The Skills Within is currently collecting items ranging from coats and jumpers to personal hygiene products and games, as well as unwanted Christmas gifts, which will be donated to those in need. Products can be dropped off in Leyton on arrangement.
The Community Living Room at Pepper’s Ghost runs on Thursdays and Fridays from 12pm until 6pm. For more information and to make a donation:
Call 07985 122 654
Visit theskillswithin.com
No news is bad news
Independent news outlets like ours – reporting for the community without rich backers – are under threat of closure, turning British towns into news deserts.
The audiences they serve know less, understand less, and can do less.
If our coverage has helped you understand our community a little bit better, please consider supporting us with a monthly, yearly or one-off donation.
Choose the news. Don’t lose the news.
Monthly direct debit
Annual direct debit
£5 per month supporters get a digital copy of each month’s paper before anyone else, £10 per month supporters get a digital copy of each month’s paper before anyone else and a print copy posted to them each month. £50 annual supporters get a digital copy of each month's paper before anyone else.
More information on supporting us monthly or annually
More Information about donations
