A Huntingdonshire mum whose son died last year has set up a grief café to support people who have lost loved ones.

Rica Scott's son William was 30-years-old when he passed away in August, following a five month battle in hospital with Haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH).

Rica, who manages Pinnies tearoom in Godmanchester on behalf of the charity Mencap, said: "No parent should have to bury their child, there are no words that can articulate the pain and emptiness that leaves.

"William was such a positive person, his smile lit up the room and he was loved and adored by everyone who knew him.

"So many people are grieving but when you lose someone that can feel like a very lonely and isolating time.

"Your life will never be the same and you suddenly find yourself on a new road map of life.

"I wanted to do something in William's honour to help others going through the same journey as me.

"Which is how The Grief Café was born, offering a safe space for those navigating the grieving process.

"I wanted to provide somewhere people can connect, share experiences and hopefully leave feeling a little brighter.

"It is a place where you can sit and reflect or lean on others for support or just company."

Cambs Times:

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The Grief Cafe, which is held at Pinnies in Godmanchester, is open two Mondays a month 10.30am until 12noon. There is tea, coffee and pastries available.

The next session will be held on Monday February 12.

Pinnies has been providing work opportunities for adults with learning disabilities for more than a decade.

Rica added: "What started off as a small business adventure quickly evolved into an incredible project.

"It provides a safe space for the people we support to socialise with their peers and feel part of the community.

"Something that most of us take for granted, but for people with learning disabilities, is not easy to find."

In 2021, Pinnies were given a Covid-19 Community Hero award, recognising the dedication of its team to the community during the pandemic.