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Glasgow Live
Glasgow Live
National
Keiran Fleming

Glasgow 'honesty cafe' where customers pay what they can afford

Volunteers who help run a 'Honesty Café' in Dennistoun have been praised by Scottish politicians.

MSPs applauded the New Parish Church for giving the community a lifeline during the cost of living crisis which has hit many people hard.

Those visiting the café are only asked to part with what they can afford to access the space which includes free Wi-Fi, food, drinks and social interaction.

READ MORE: Glasgow cafe awarded 'best brunch' in Shawlands 2022 by locals

A motion was lodged at Holyrood which celebrates the fact that the café is 'inclusive and supportive of all those in the community through operating an honesty jar'. This was signed by MSPs from the Conservatives, Labour and SNP.

Reverend Ian McInnes, minister of Dennistoun New Parish Church, said: “It was an extremely pleasant surprise to learn that our Honesty Café, known as Dennistoun New Den Café, has been recognised by the Scottish Parliament.

“It came about due to the question we asked ourselves ‘how can we, as a parish church, serve the parish in a practical down to earth way?"

The café, based in the church’s upper hall, is run by a team volunteers who serve up rolls with fillings such as flat sausage, eggs, bacon, cold ham or cheese and tomato, salad and soup.

Mr McInnes said: “The idea for the café is that anyone and everyone is welcome to come along, enjoy a blether and simply pay what they can afford or nothing at all if they’re struggling with money.

“We have free Wi-Fi which means that patrons can access the internet, which can be helpful for job searches, catching up on the news, email and so on.

“The cost of living crisis is at the forefront of people’s minds and we can provide a warm, safe, friendly atmosphere.

“A place to go and simply be without any expectations or any judgements made.”

The Labour MSP Paul Sweeney is hoping to present volunteers with a framed copy of the Scottish Parliament motion at the café very soon.

Mr Sweeney said: “The reopening of the New Den Café at Dennistoun New Parish Church is incredibly welcome, particularly in the context of the ongoing cost of living crisis.

“By virtue of being honest, café users are able to pay what they like, or nothing at all if they are unable to do so and it has been a huge source of relief for local residents who are inevitably cash strapped.

“I pay tribute to the Church and the minister in Dennistoun for showing initiative and for the work to ensure local people are looked after during these difficult times.”

The café is open every Thursday between 11am and 2pm.

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