Transforming the Former Hearts Club

Our vision is to transform the former Hearts Club building into a welcoming, inclusive, and accessible space where people of all ages and backgrounds can connect, access support, enjoy affordable food, and take part in community life.

📍 Located in the heart of Craigmillar, next to Greendykes Early Years Centre and close to the Thistle Foundation and Niddrie Mains Grove, the hub aims to become a safe and vibrant space that serves the community seven days a week.

More Than Just a Café

Kitchen & Bean CIC is being built around community need. While the café will provide affordable food and drinks in a warm and welcoming environment, the wider project is focused on creating long-term social impact.

• A safe and accessible social space for elderly residents and disabled individuals
• Community meals and affordable food initiatives
• A "pay it forward" scheme supporting those experiencing hardship
• Local workshops, training, and community events

• Volunteer opportunities and pathways back into employment
• Environmental initiatives and litter-picking support
• Arts, heritage, and cultural activities for the local community
• Flexible space for community groups and local organisations

Responding to Local Challenges

Craigmillar is a strong and proud community, but many local residents continue to face challenges including social isolation, food insecurity, and limited access to services and activities.

Kitchen & Bean CIC aims to respond directly to these challenges by creating a local hub that is welcoming, non-judgemental, and community-led.

Everyone Should Have Access To

• A friendly place to meet others
• Affordable food and support
• Opportunities to learn and participate
• A sense of belonging within their community

Local Employment & Volunteering

Kitchen & Bean CIC will focus on creating local employment and volunteering opportunities. The project aims to help individuals:

• Build confidence
• Gain work experience
• Learn new skills
• Reconnect with the community
• Take positive steps back into employment

Growth & Inclusion

We believe community spaces should not only support people — they should create opportunities for growth and inclusion. Our goal is to create a long-term community asset that is owned by the community in spirit and shaped by local people.

By securing the former Hearts Club building for community use, we believe this project can become a central hub for Craigmillar — a place where people feel welcome, supported, and connected.