A NEW community cafe to support people who have been in foster care or residential homes has opened in Redditch’s town centre.

Rees Cafe, on Church Road, opened on May 9 in association with national charity Rees - The Care Leavers Foundation.

The cafe wants to increase awareness about care leavers and promote Rees, with managers delighted at the reception from visitors.

Polly Jones, who is running the cafe, said: "We’re very excited that we have opened and we hope to create more awareness for the charity by welcoming as many customers as possible to the shop and cafe.”

The cafe has big plans to become a hub for the community and will also sell clothing, household essentials and collectables, host food banks, offer space for hire events, and offer apprenticeship schemes for those looking to develop their career.

Volunteers are also needed to help run the cafe and they are looking for a part-time supervisor.

Anyone who can help with donations or is interested in volunteering, or is looking for further information on the types of volunteering and hours required, can email Sarah and Polly on cafe@reesfoundation.org.