A charity café that was hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic could close imminently if sufficient funds are not found.

Southampton-based charity U Support helps disabled and disadvantaged children by taking them on special excursions.

Previous trips include football matches, pantomimes, and various theatre performances.

Founded by husband-and-wife duo Adam and Tracey Gregory, the charity opened a tearoom in The Marlands Shopping Centre in 2013 to help finance the charity.

'Absolute nightmare'

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However, the doors could close forever if a solution is not found.

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Adam, 59, said: “I started ChariTeas because I wanted to raise money to help disabled children.

“We take them to the theatre and pantomimes, and we even do our own concerts as well, all to give the kids the opportunity to experience these special things.

“But ever since the pandemic we have been losing money hand over fist.

“We have never got back to where we were before. It’s been an absolute nightmare.”

'Make or break'

A fundraiser has been launched to help save the charity and café, which is due to celebrate its 10th anniversary in July 2023.

But Adam fears the café will not make it to the special milestone.

He said: “This coming year is make or break.

“I would love to keep the café going until our 10th anniversary.

“I have had so much support from when we started, but since Covid it has been a nightmare.

“The last thing I want is for the café to shut down, but I don’t have a method of funding it.

“People are struggling, and those who used to eat at the café are now having to make the decision between going out and meeting people or staying warm at home.

“It’s heart-breaking and we have seen a massive decline because of this.”

To help U Support, visit the GoFundMe page. 

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