Beatson Cancer Charity café wins award

12th June 2018 12:00

"There is such a good atmosphere in the café and we meet wonderful people from all walks of life. We try to bring a bit of hope and support to those who might need it."

Beatson Cancer Charity’s Head of Trading Kathleen McLaren

12th June 2018


"There is such a good atmosphere in the café and we meet wonderful people from all walks of life. We try to bring a bit of hope and support to those who might need it."

Beatson Cancer Charity’s Head of Trading Kathleen McLaren

Beatson Café has been named Best Not for Profit café at The 1st Scottish Café Awards 2018. 

Despite tough competition, Beatson Cancer Charity’s café, based in Gartnavel Hospital campus, took home the well-deserved trophy.

Beatson Cancer Charity’s Head of Trading Kathleen McLaren said:  “I am absolutely delighted that Beatson Café has been recognised for its hard work. 

“I am so proud of my team, who work so hard every day to serve patients, families and staff on a daily basis, aiming to make their day that little bit brighter. They provide so much more than coffee and cake.” 

Beatson Café opened in July 2016 and was originally run solely by Kathleen and five volunteers. Having gone from strength to strength, the café now has six permanent members of staff and over 30 volunteers. Opening hours are Monday to Friday 8am – 6pm and the café offers drinks, snacks and hot lunches. 

Kathleen started as a volunteer with the charity in 2014 after her brother was treated at The Beatson. She applied for a trading manager role and was the driving force behind Beatson Café and its success. Kathleen is now head of trading for the charity She added: 

“There is such a good atmosphere in the café and we meet wonderful people from all walks of life. We try to bring a bit of hope and support to those who might need it. 

“Our motto is ‘we’re with you’, and the staff and volunteers are definitely there for the patients throughout their journey.” 

Beatson Cancer Charity is always looking for more volunteers to support our Beatson Cafe, if you would like to chat about your skills and availability, feel free to contact us by email or by calling on 0141 212 0505.