We Are Honoured: Open Door Warminster Named “Group of the Year”
We are absolutely delighted to announce that Warminster Open Door has been named “Group of the Year” in the inaugural Warminster Journal 2025 awards.
It is a privilege to be recognised alongside our very own Debs Gogarty, who took home the “Person of the Year” award. Debs is a vital part of our volunteer team, in addition to her tireless work as Chair of the Health and Well-being group and her service at Bath Cats and Dogs Home.
A Recognition of Community Spirit
The awards were established this year by the Warminster Journal to celebrate those who have made a significant contribution to our town. Nominations were submitted by local readers, with the final winners chosen by Warminster Mayor Andrew Cooper and Journal Editor Ian Drew.
For us, this award belongs to every single person who walks through our doors. Our Trustee, Marion Barton, summed up the mood perfectly:
“The group was thrilled at receiving the Group of the Year Award. Many of our volunteers expressed surprise at being chosen for what they do, as we simply enjoy being part of our café and look forward to our time together.”
Why the Chat Cafés Matter
At Open Door, we strive to create a space where no one feels alone. Whether it is our standard Chat Cafés or our specialised support groups for those navigating cancer, prostate cancer, or grief and bereavement, the goal remains the same: connection.
The Cafés provide a simple but essential opportunity for visitors to share news and concerns over a coffee. This environment enables people to feel part of the community again. For those facing the heavy burden of illness or loss, being with others who truly empathise and understand can make all the difference.
How You Can Help
While we are incredibly fortunate to have a dedicated team, our work is never finished. We are always looking for more volunteers to support our mission—especially those who are happy to be “chatters” and lend a friendly ear to our visitors.
Finally, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all our funders and donors. Without your financial support and the selfless time given by our volunteers, these Cafés simply would not exist.
Thank you, Warminster, for your continued support!
