Cadent Gas Centre for Warmth
We are a Cadent Gas Ltd Centre for Warmth, working with Cadent on advice about keeping warm, and safe. Free carbon monoxide alarms, heated blankets and advice on the Priority Services Register- for carers, people with children under 5, with chronic illness, pensioners – all could be eligible to be on the PSR – a free UK service that offers extra support and advice to people who may need it, especially during power cuts, gas or water supply interruptions, and emergencies. Contact us here at the centre to find out more.
Community Cafe
Run by volunteers and open every Monday, between 12-2pm. Serving jacket potatoes and a weekly special, with a veggie option, dessert and unlimited hot drinks. The Cafe is run on a Pay What You Can basis in an effort to make it accessible to all. The volunteers that work in the café have their food hygiene certificates. We also work closely with Assist Trust, who provide volunteers- this offers those with SEN a chance to socialise and gain work experience. The café makes the ideal meeting place to catch up with friends and neighbours, and to just enjoy that cuppa and a snack, or a full wholesome meal.
Phoenix Lounge
The Phoenix Lounge was introduced in November 2022 after the Centre became an official Community Hot Spot. The Lounge runs every Tuesday 12-2pm and is a scaled down version of the Community Cafe, where lighter meals like sandwiches and soups are on offer, along with teas and coffees.
Phoenix Larder
The Centre received funding from Norfolk Community Foundation in 2023 to open up a social supermarket. The Phoenix Larder is open Mondays and Fridays between 10am-12pm. Household essentials are available to purchase at very low prices and is open to anyone, however, you must complete a registration form. These are available upon request. Crisis bags are also available for emergencies. Surplus food donations are also still available every Friday morning.
School Holiday Activities
The Centre currently hosts free activities and events throughout the school holidays, these are suitable for ages 0-11 years; adult/guardian supervision is required.
We have worked with Norwich Samba, Ruddy Muddy, Norwich Men’s Shed, Crazy Colin, Bert’s Amazing Creatures and many more. We have also worked with MX PEG (Mile Cross Projects and Events Group) to hold larger events for the local community such as The Galley Hill Dash and A Very Merry Mile Cross Christmas. Further details for our events can be found on our Facebook and Instagram pages.
Holiday Hunger Programme
The Centre provides free packed lunches during school holidays. These are available every day, except Wednesdays, between 11:30am-1:30pm, and consists of a filled roll, drink, piece of fruit, packet of crisps, yogurt, and a treat.
MX Care Free
MX Care Free offers free day trips during school holidays for young carers from the Mile Cross area. It has been running successfully for a year now, and we hope to continue for the foreseeable future. Places we have visited include The Sainsbury Centre, Whitlingham Adventure and Norwich Puppet Theatre. For more information on this please email Ally McClagish, Events Coordinator.
Phoenix Tiny Tots
A baby and toddler group which runs every Tuesday 9:30-11am (term time only). Suitable for 0-3.5 years. Staff and volunteers are fully qualified in Safeguarding, First Aid and are DBS checked. We do themed weeks such as Animals, Role Playing, Sensory Play, and more. We ask for £1 per child donation, no booking required. Snacks and refreshments are provided.
Citizens Advice/Support
We have two members from Citizens Advice at the Centre every Monday, Tuesday and Friday between 9am-3pm offering free advice and support on welfare benefits, employment, housing, and more.
The Phoenix Centre 