We’re officially an award-winning café!

We’re absolutely delighted to share some news that’s left the whole 21 Young Hearts team beaming.

At the East Anglian Daily Times Business Awards 2026, held at Milsoms Kesgrave Hall, we were named winners of the Positive Impact in the Community award, sponsored by Norse. To be recognised among Suffolk’s very best businesses — for the difference we set out to make in our community — is something we couldn’t be prouder of.

And the good news didn’t stop there. We were also named a finalist for Start Up Business of the Year, and picked up a commendation at the Suffolk & Norfolk NHS Expo — a lovely recognition of the work we’re doing alongside health and community partners.

What this means to us

When we opened our doors, our mission was simple: to encourage, empower and support young people with disabilities into the workforce, giving them a safe and inclusive place to build real skills and confidence. We’ve always believed that disability should never be a barrier to success.

Awards like these matter because they shine a light on that mission — and, more importantly, on the incredible young people at the heart of it. Every coffee poured, every table served and every warm welcome you receive is a step forward for one of our trainees. This recognition belongs to them.

Thank you

To our brilliant team, our trainees and volunteers, our families, our partners, and every single customer who has walked through our door and become part of the 21 Young Hearts story — thank you. None of this happens without you.

So next time you pop in for a barista coffee, a slice of cake or one of our home-made toasties, you can enjoy it knowing you’re supporting an award-winning community café doing something genuinely good.

We can’t wait to welcome you in.

Come and say hello — Unit 20, The Square, Martlesham Heath, Ipswich, IP5 3SL. ☕