Living with chronic pain can be a lonely and exhausting experience. For many people in Plymouth there has long been a gap in accessible support that brings people together, helps them manage their symptoms, and reminds them that they are not alone. Thanks to a grant from The Livewell Foundation, Chronic Pain Coaching CIC has been able to change that.
“I have significantly reduced my medication and actually feel better already. The session was supportive and empowering.”
In May 2024 they launched their first Pain Cafes, a programme designed to give people living with chronic pain a welcoming community space, practical tools, and gentle ways to rebuild confidence in their bodies. What began as an idea to fill a local gap in provision has quickly grown into a much-needed lifeline for dozens of Plymouth residents.
Across 39 sessions the team at Chronic Pain Coaching introduced a mix of group discussions, education, and guided movement. All exercise was delivered by qualified instructors so that participants could take part safely whatever their level of mobility or fitness. The aim was simple but powerful: to help people improve their physical and mental wellbeing in a supportive environment that understands the realities of chronic pain.
“After years of not belonging I have finally found my tribe.”
The results speak for themselves. All participants took part in guided exercise and many have gone on to join gyms or increase their daily activity. Mental wellbeing improved for 78 per cent of participants, with average scores rising by 7.5 points on the WEMWBS scale. Pain levels also dropped. On average people reported a one-point reduction in their pain score and more than half reduced their use of pain medication.
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| £9,996 grant awarded |
67 participants |
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78% increase in
wellbeing |
Medication use dropped
in 50% of participants
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189 attendances
across 39 sessions
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The social impact of the Pain Cafes has been as important as the clinical outcomes. Since launching, 67 regular participants have attended 189 times. One of the most popular sessions took place in a local gym and was so well received that participants asked for it to continue in the future.
People repeatedly told the team that what mattered most was feeling understood. Many spoke about finding a safe space where they could share their experiences without judgement or fear of being a burden. One participant described the group simply as, “the only group where we are all equals.”
For some, joining the Pain Cafes opened the door to support they would never have sought out alone. As one participant said, “I would not have thought to attend help for my chronic pain otherwise.”
“I find comfort in talking about my pain openly.”
Chronic Pain Coaching CIC is already exploring ways to continue the Pain Cafes so that more people can benefit from them. Their founder shared deep gratitude for The Livewell Foundation whose funding made the entire project possible.
“We have worked hard to improve the lives of those whose lives have been severely impacted by chronic pain. We remain very grateful to the Livewell Foundation in allowing us to support Plymouthians via the Pain Cafes.”
The message from the team and participants is clear. This project has created hope, confidence, connection and real improvements in health. It has brought people together at a time when they needed it most.
Thank you to everyone who supported this work. You have made a meaningful difference to people living with chronic pain across our community.