The aim of this report is to present findings from the evaluation of the initial Local History Cafe programme between 2017 and 2019, managed by social enterprise Crafting Relationships, in partnership with museums and libraries. This Local History Cafe programme involved heritage and wellbeing get-togethers for over 50s at risk of, experiencing or looking to keep at bay, isolation and loneliness.

The evaluation is based on 40 pre and post surveys with participants who attended Local History Cafes, ten face to face interviews with participants, a focus group with participants and four telephone interviews with stakeholders (both paid employees and unpaid volunteers) who were organising and running Local History Cafes.

Initial findings have indicated that participation does not see higher satisfaction with health or increased quality of life. Those who completed pre and post questionnaires already reported ‘good quality of life.’ However, other findings suggest Cafes can be an effective way to engage older people in social and educational activities which encourage agency and can help with loneliness.