A COMMUNITY space in Newport which helps those in recovery from addiction is trying to raise funds for a kitchen.

The Voice Hub, at McCarthy’s Court in School Lane, in the city centre, currently doesn’t have any cooking facilities.

However, both staff and service users think having a kitchen would make a “huge difference”.

Steve Masterman, recovery co-ordinator at the Voice Hub, said: “We desperately want a kitchen downstairs.

“That way, we can teach the guys things like healthy eating, cooking or shopping for food. It is about giving them life skills, such as being able to cook for themselves.

“It is a real valuable resource that we do not have at the moment. All we have is a kettle and a microwave.”

Mr Masterman, who used to work as a chef, said they used to have a kitchen in their old building - so they were able to do have a quiz and curry night, for example.

“It is a shame we couldn’t bring the kitchen with us,” he added. “Now, if we decide to do a quiz night, we are having to order a buffet, which is more expensive.

“We have had to stop the quiz nights because we can’t afford the buffet.

“It would also give us the ability to open at the weekends and show the football or rugby while serving something such as chilli or spaghetti Bolognese.”

Engagement worker Jason Campbell said they estimate it will cost around £8,000 to get the kitchen fitted, together with having the electrics done.

He said they have approached companies such as Ikea or B&Q, but they have not heard anything back yet.

Mr Campbell said: “It is the obvious step forward. If any company want to give us a kitchen that would be so lovely.

“It would make a huge difference – we have people who could do the lessons, we just need the facilities.”

Mr Masterman said they have between 30 and 40 people coming through their doors every day.

“They are people in recovery, who are clean and free from substances but are still piecing their lives back together,” he said. “It is probably a very big ask because it is short notice, but I would love to cook a Christmas dinner for all of them.”

To find out more, contact Mr Masterman on steve.masterman@gdas.wales or ring 01633 245 000. You can also visit facebook.com/thevoicehubnewport