The Pain Café is a relaxed, welcoming, and supportive space for people living with persistent pain. It provides an opportunity to meet others with similar experiences, share ideas, and learn practical strategies to help manage pain and improve day‑to‑day wellbeing.
The Pain Café is not a clinical appointment. Instead, it offers a community‑based, informal environment where people can talk openly about pain and focus on living well alongside it.
Meeting details
Date: First Friday of every month (starting Friday 7 August 2026)
Time: 10:30am to 12pm
Venue: Highlight Active Wellbeing Hub, Highlight Centre, Hartlepool, TS24 0XN
Cost: Free
Who is the Pain Café for?
The Pain Café is open to members of the public 18 years of age and older, who are living with pain, and would like to meet with others, share their experiences, and learn tips to help manage their pain better.
Who supports the Pain Café?
The Pain Café is supported by:
Physiotherapists and psychologists
Professionals with experience in pain management and pain science who can:
- Facilitate discussions
- Share evidence‑based information
- Support skills that help improve confidence and self‑management
Attendees
People living with pain who may choose to:
- Share their own experiences
- Offer peer support
- Learn from others in a shared, respectful environment
What is involved within the Pain Café?
You can expect:
Group activities
Peer support
Mindfulness
Relaxation techniques
Guest speakers
A safe space
What topics are covered?
Sessions are guided by the ‘Living Well with Pain – 10 Footsteps’ framework. Topics may include:
- Understanding pain
- Activity pacing
- Sleep
- Movement
- Stress and mood
- Self‑management strategies
The order and focus of topics are flexible and may change based on:
- Group interests
- Attendee questions
- Ongoing feedback
There will be opportunities to ask questions throughout the session.
Learn more about the Living Well with Pain – 10 Footsteps frameworkWhat do we not offer?
We do not offer:
Medication reviews
Scans such as X-rays or MRI scans
Medical interventions, such as injections, or medical advice
One-to-one physiotherapy or psychology appointments
How often does the Pain Café run?
The Pain Café runs monthly to give attendees regular opportunities to:
- Meet others
- Share experiences
- Learn and practise skills
- Build confidence in managing pain
How do I access the Pain Café?
Anyone living with pain is welcome.
No referral required
No pre‑booking needed
Simply turn up on the day
How much does it cost?
The Pain Café is completely free to attend.
You are encouraged (but not required) to purchase a drink or snack of your choice at the venue.
