Drop‑In Sessions: Locations & Times

Our Coffee & Chat Drop‑In Sessions offer families a friendly, informal way to access support across Cheltenham and Tewkesbury. Held monthly at each of our five Children and Family Centres, these sessions provide a welcoming space where parents and carers can meet a Family Support Worker (FSW), ask questions, and find out what help is available - all without needing an appointment or referral.

Whether you’re looking for advice, reassurance, or simply a chance to connect with others, our drop‑ins are an easy and accessible way to start your journey with Aspire Foundation’s Family Support Service.

What Are Coffee & Chat Drop‑In Sessions?

Coffee & Chat sessions are relaxed, open‑access gatherings designed to make family support approachable and easy to access. Families can drop in at any point during the session, enjoy a warm drink, and speak to a member of our team about anything related to family life.

Parents and carers often come to drop‑ins for:

Advice on routines, behaviour, sleep, or boundaries
Support with emotional wellbeing - for themselves or their children
Guidance on early child development
Information about groups, courses, and activities
Help understanding what services are available locally
A friendly chat with someone who understands family life

There is no pressure, no judgement, and no expectation - just a warm welcome and practical support when you need it.

Why Families Find Drop‑Ins Helpful

Families tell us that Coffee & Chat sessions are one of the easiest ways to access Early Help in Gloucestershire. They offer:

Immediate access to support

You don’t need to book or complete a referral — simply turn up and talk to a Family Support Worker.

A relaxed, friendly environment

Sessions are informal, making it easier to ask questions or share concerns.

A chance to meet the team

Families can get to know the staff who may support them in the future.

Connection with other parents

Many families enjoy meeting others who are experiencing similar challenges or milestones.

Information about local services

Our team can signpost you to groups, courses, and community organisations that may help.

Drop‑ins are often the first step families take before accessing one‑to‑one support, parenting courses, or other services.

I was reminded that I’m a good mum and that I’m doing a good job, and sometimes you really need to hear that.

Where and When Drop‑Ins Take Place

We run Coffee & Chat sessions across five Children and Family Centres in Cheltenham and Tewkesbury. Each centre hosts a monthly session, giving families regular opportunities to access support close to home.

Below you’ll find the full list of locations and times.

Cheltenham Locality

Gardners Lane Children & Family Centre

📅 2nd Wednesday of the month ⏰ 8:45 AM – 10:30 AM 📍 Gardners Lane, GL51 9JW

This morning session is ideal for families dropping in after the school run. It offers a calm, friendly space to chat with a Family Support Worker and find out what support is available in the Cheltenham area.

Hester’s Way Children & Family Centre

📅 3rd Friday of the month ⏰ 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM 📍 Dill Avenue, GL51 0ES

Held in the early afternoon, this session is perfect for parents and carers who prefer a quieter time of day. Families can access advice, signposting, and information about local groups and activities.

Oakwood Children & Family Centre

📅 4th Wednesday of the month ⏰ 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM 📍 Clyde Crescent, GL52 5QH

This friendly drop‑in welcomes families from across the Oakwood and Whaddon communities. It’s a great opportunity to meet the team and explore the support available for children aged 0–11.

Tewkesbury Locality

Noah’s Ark Children & Family Centre

📅 1st Wednesday of the month ⏰ 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM 📍 York Road, GL20 5HU

Families in Tewkesbury can join this monthly session for advice, signposting, and a chance to connect with other parents and carers in the area.

Brockworth Children & Family Centre

📅 3rd Tuesday of the month ⏰ 8:45 AM – 10:30 AM 📍 Moorfield Road, GL3 4JL

This morning drop‑in is ideal for families looking for support at the start of the day. It’s a welcoming space to talk through concerns, ask questions, or simply enjoy a chat with the team.

What to Expect When You Arrive

When you attend a Coffee & Chat session, you can expect:

A warm welcome from our Family Support Workers
A relaxed environment where you can talk openly
A chance to share concerns or ask questions
Practical advice tailored to your family
Information about groups, courses, and local services
Support with next steps if you need more targeted help

You’re welcome to bring your children, and you can stay for as long or as little as you like.

Do I Need to Book or Register?

No — all Coffee & Chat sessions are open access. You can simply turn up at the time that suits you.

If you decide you’d like more support after attending a drop‑in, our team can talk you through the next steps, including how to make a Request for Support through the Early Help front door.

Find Out More

Families can also check centre calendars and timetables for:

Parenting courses
Play sessions
Early years groups
Workshops
Seasonal activities
Additional support opportunities

These timetables are updated regularly, so we encourage families to check them often.

A Simple Way to Access Support

Our Coffee & Chat Drop‑In Sessions are designed to make family support easy, approachable, and local. Whether you’re looking for advice, connection, or a friendly conversation, our team is here to help.

If you’re unsure which session to attend or want to know more about what to expect, you’re welcome to contact your nearest Children and Family Centre.