Hive Cafe

Providing employment opportunities for individuals with learning disabilities and disadvantaged backgrounds in South London since 2022.

OPENING HOURS

MON-FRI 8:30-4

SAT 8:30-3

SUN CLOSED

EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES

Established in 2022 as part of the Lambeth Elfrida Rathbone Society, our organisation supports individuals with learning disabilities around South London. The charity takes it’s name from Elfrida Rathbone, an educationalist who pioneered the practice of creating equal opportunities for people with learning disabilities to learn and develop skills from education and employment. The Hive Cafe continues to champion this ethos by providing a welcoming, accessible environment for people to learn and grow.

QUALITY, COMMUNITY AND CARE

The Hive is more than just a place to grab a cup of coffee—it’s a welcoming hub that brings people together— a space where people can connect, share experiences, and build relationships. Offering a warm, inclusive atmosphere, The Hive hosts events, workshops, and activities that promote social interaction and support local initiatives. Whether it’s providing space for local artists to showcase their work or offering job training for people facing barriers to employment, supporting and uplifting the community is at the core of what we do.

BARISTA COFFEE

We understand how crucial a good cup of coffee can be—it can set the tone for your entire morning. That’s why we believe you deserve the very best. Origin Coffee is one of Europe’s top specialty coffee roasters and has been at the forefront of the industry for nearly two decades. Driven by a commitment to excellence, Origin follows a core philosophy: to source, support, and promote farmers and producers through a sustainable, triple-bottom-line approach.

FRESH FOOD

We are committed to serving fresh, high-quality food to the public at an affordable price. Our goal is to provide delicious meals that don’t break the bank, without compromising on quality. Our entire team is involved in menu creation and development, and we value customer feedback to help us grow and improve together. From breakfast and brunch to lunch and dessert, we’re here for the community.

DELICIOUS PASTRIES

We source our pastries and breads from Lockdown Bakehouse. They formed when businesses & livelihoods came to a complete standstill when lockdown was announced in 2020. Baking from a small cafe kitchen evolved into a move to full-time bakery. Forced by adversity in the worst of times, Lockdown Bakehouse was born. We receive daily deliveries from the bakehouse with the most incredible selection of pastries!

A PLACE TO LEARN

We provide work placements for people with learning disabilities, offering valuable training and experience to build skills and confidence in a supportive environment. We offer three unique roles—Barista, Front of House, and Back of House— with each placement lasting three months. We offer comprehensive, on the job training , as well as certification in fire safety, food handling, and health and safety, equipping people with the skills to seek employment in the hospitality industry. After completing the placement, our Rathbone employment hub team supports participants with CV building and securing paid employment.

We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity and empowers individuals to reach their full potential.

Join us at the Hive and be a part of a community that values every unique talent and embraces the beauty of differences.

Contact J.Broaders@rathbonesociety.org.uk to apply today, or even to have a casual chat about what we do!

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