28/05/2026
There is a network of Pain Cafés across Cornwall.
These were the first Pain Cafés in England, pioneering peer support in the community for people experiencing chronic and persistent pain.
Have you heard of them?
Over the past few years I have been going along to talk to the people who attend.
Today I was at the new Redruth & Cambourne Café based at Krowji, a creative hub.
I heard the stories from participants, sharing a few insights, but mainly offering a safe space to talk freely about the challenges they face.
The connection and feeling safe to share is key.
It sets up the expectation for next time, for deeper bonds and trust.
That’s the nourishing environment where pain can be understood, skills learned and practiced.
For successes to be shared.
As ever, my message is to meet the person where they are—
clarify their needs, concerns and picture of success.
Then “ask—offer” ways forward.
A strategy that must work in their world.
Reflections on experiences for learning and growth.
At the heart, persistent pain asks for self-care.
This does not come naturally to many people. Especially women who care for everyone else except themselves.
In fact, persistent pain demands self-care.
And self-compassion.
Whole person pain care focused on the person, their experiences and lived world.
There is no specific therapy or treatment “for” pain because this implies pain is the same.
It isn’t.
Pain is unique to the person in that moment.
Meet them where they are—
what are their concerns right now?
Ask them, because they may not be the ones you assume.
Let’s not assume.
Let’s ask, then offer.
With care,
Richmond Stace 🕊️🌿
