Longfellow's Café, a local community café popular with CFH staff and based just a stone’s throw away from our Radstock site, has been nominated in the ‘Café’ category at the prestigious Bath Life Awards.
With winners decided on the 27th of March 2025, we caught up with Debbie and Wendy from Longfellow’s, discussing everything from their pride at being nominated, to the important opportunities the café presents to young people with learning difficulties.
"Longfellow’s is a local community café that has been based in Westfield for around 13 years, but we see it as more than just a café. It serves as a platform for young people from Fosse Way School next door - a special needs school for ages 3 to 19 - helping individuals to develop essential hospitality skills."
"From food preparation and handling the tills to customer service and front-of-house interactions, the café provides hands-on experience in a real working environment, equipping students with valuable skills for their future careers."
"Being named a finalist for the Bath Life Awards is a huge source of pride for us, as it reinforces that the work we do is making a real difference. It’s a testament to the dedication of our team and the young people we support."
"Beyond the recognition, it’s also an incredible opportunity to raise awareness about Longfellow’s and our purpose. We hope that by reaching a wider audience, more young people and their families will discover the opportunities available to them here."
"The day-to-day experience at Longfellow’s is incredibly rewarding. We get to meet so many friendly faces and become a real part of the local community. The most fulfilling aspect is seeing the young people we train grow in confidence and ability."
"Watching them develop new skills, gain independence, and take steps towards beginning their own careers is truly inspiring. It’s amazing to see their progression from learning the basics of hospitality to becoming self-assured individuals ready for employment."
"Working at Longfellow’s provides a safe and supportive environment where young people can build their confidence. Many of our staff start off feeling quite nervous, especially when it comes to interacting with customers."
"Over time, we see them become more comfortable, outgoing, and self-assured, not just in the workplace but in their personal lives as well. The experience helps them develop key communication and practical skills, preparing them for future employment and increasing their independence."
"Beyond hospitality training, we encourage creativity and hands-on learning. The students regularly take part in arts and crafts projects, which we proudly showcase at the café. For example, we currently have a soap display featuring pieces that students have personalised using laser etching and braille."
"Many of the students are also talented artists, and their paintings and drawings are displayed throughout the café, giving them a sense of pride in their work. We love being a platform for them to express themselves and develop skills in different areas."
Everyone at CFH wishes Longfellow's the best of luck at next week’s awards show. For all up-to-date information, events and promotions at the Cafe, follow the Longfellow’s Cafe Facebook page.
