THE BIG C & A CUPPA TEA
A welcoming community space for anyone whose life has been touched by cancer.
The Big C & A Cuppa Tea is open to friends, family members, carers, partners, and anyone who has ever been affected by cancer — directly or indirectly.
We use the phrase “The Big C” gently and intentionally — acknowledging something that can feel heavy, while creating a space that feels human, approachable, and safe.
This is not a structured support group.
There is no expectation to speak about diagnosis or treatment.
It is simply a relaxed, welcoming environment where you can come as you are.
Some people come to talk.
Some come to listen.
Some come for connection.
Some come simply for a cup of tea.
The space is gently facilitated and fully equipped to hold conversation if it arises — but there is never pressure to share.
Because cancer affects more than one person.
And no one should feel alone in that experience.
GROWING WITH OUR COMMUNITY
As our community has evolved, so too has The Big C & A Cuppa Tea.
What began as a simple space for connection has grown in response to the needs of those who attend. Through funding support and partnerships, we have been able to introduce additional wellbeing sessions and creative workshops alongside our regular gatherings.
These additions enhance the space — without changing its heart.
Our focus remains the same:
A welcoming environment where people feel supported, understood, and never alone.
MOVEMENT IS MEDICINE
We are proud to have received £6,020 of funding from Sport England to deliver Movement is Medicine as part of every Big C & A Cuppa Tea session.
This programme recognises the powerful role gentle movement can play in emotional regulation, physical wellbeing, and recovery for those whose lives have been touched by cancer.
Movement is Medicine runs at each session, however participation is always optional.
As with everything we offer, individuals remain in control of how they engage. Some may choose to participate fully, some may remain seated, and others may simply observe. There is no expectation — only invitation.
MOVEMENT & MUSIC
Facilitated by Michelle - Gentle, adaptable movement combined with intentional music to support emotional expression and reconnection with the body.
UNWIND
Facilitated by Beth - A calming session including somatic stretching, breathwork, and guided relaxation, suitable for seated or lying participation.
MEMORY MAKING WORKSHOP
Our Memory Making Workshops run monthly and are especially personal to us.
Through lived experience, we understand how easy it is to become consumed by appointments and simply getting through each day. Looking back, we wish we had taken more opportunities to pause and create meaningful memories during that time.
These workshops gently offer that opportunity.
They provide space for individuals and families to capture moments, create keepsakes, and spend intentional time together in a supportive environment.
Each month, we aim to collaborate with local businesses and creatives to deliver varied and thoughtful experiences.
Because sometimes the moments made in between matter most.
CHILDRENS CORNER
During school holidays, our Children’s Corner joins The Big C & A Cuppa Tea to ensure younger family members feel included and supported within the wider community space.
These sessions provide gentle, age-appropriate activities for children whose lives have been touched by cancer — whether as a child of someone undergoing treatment, a young carer, or part of a family navigating change.
The focus is not on discussing illness, but on:
- Creativity
- Connection
- Confidence-building
- Feeling safe and included
Children are never expected to talk about cancer unless they wish to. Participation is relaxed, guided with sensitivity, and centred around comfort.
From time to time, we collaborate with local businesses and creatives to enhance these sessions and bring fresh, thoughtful activities into the space.
Because when cancer affects a family, it affects every generation.
Explore our Wellness Timetable to discover a range of wellbeing sessions, classes, and Making Memories workshops designed to support your health, creativity, and connection. All sessions are open to everyone and can be adapted to suit individual needs. To book your place, please visit the link below.