Peer workers at a mental health unit in south Essex have launched a new recovery café.
The patient-led initiative is based at Brockfield House, a mental health facility in Wickford.
It is designed to offer a welcoming, stigma-free space for conversation and support, and forms part of a wider recovery programme.
Dan Buck, peer worker at Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT), said: "The Recovery Café is about creating a space where people feel seen, supported and understood.
"Recovery isn't a straight line, and no one should have to walk it alone.
"We want patients to know that this café belongs to them - a place to talk, connect, or simply be themselves with a warm drink in hand.
"We're incredibly excited to welcome people through the door."
The idea for the café was developed by EPUT's peer workers, who draw on their own experiences of mental health challenges to help support others in treatment.
Patients are invited to drop in every Friday for refreshments and conversation, and can stay for the full session or just stop by briefly.
The café is led by peer workers Louisa, Charles, Dave and Dan, who guide conversations and offer support based on shared experience.
Weekly affirmations shape gentle discussions around hope and healing, and guest speakers are invited to talk about their own journeys.
Support for the café has come from Tesco, whose community champion donated coffee, tea and biscuits to help create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.
The café is part of the broader Recovery College programme at Brockfield House.
The Recovery College offers a range of therapeutic and educational activities, including pet therapy, spirituality groups, arts and crafts, music, and horticulture.
The aim is to help patients build new skills and take an active role in their treatment journey.