Located in Newcastle upon Tyne’s vibrant Ouseburn Valley, Café Beam at Ouseburn Farm is a heartwarming, community focused café with a meaningful mission. Set within the free to enter urban farm, it serves delicious home cooked food, cakes and hot drinks in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. What truly sets Café Beam apart is its team, with young people with disabilities and learning difficulties preparing, serving and welcoming visitors while gaining valuable work experience. It’s a must visit spot for locals and visitors alike who appreciate great food, a strong sense of purpose and a warm, inclusive vibe in one of Newcastle’s most creative neighbourhoods.
Good Sustainability
Sustainability Profile
Cafe Beam Ouseburn demonstrates a comprehensive sustainability approach, prioritising local engagement, resource efficiency, and responsible waste management across its operations.The business actively supports local North East businesses for its supply chain, sourcing coffee, eggs, milk, and bread from regional suppliers. They assess suppliers for stated sustainability values such as transparent pricing, emission reduction, and the use of reusable containers, while also consolidating orders to minimise transport emissions.Cafe Beam employs diverse strategies to minimise waste. This includes providing durable crockery and cutlery, reusing cleaning materials, and repurposing items like jars and old wooden spoons. Single-use plastics are avoided, and bulk purchasing reduces packaging waste. Clearly labelled recycling bins for various materials are available for both customers and staff, supported by a can crusher to reduce waste volume and collection frequency. Furniture and decor are refurbished, with old items offered for reuse within the local community. Waste generation is monitored through stock inventory and segregated bins to inform reduction efforts.Energy is conserved by turning off appliances when not in use, utilising eco modes, maximising natural light, and managing building temperatures passively. Kitchen practices include efficient appliance use and fully loading dishwashers. Water consumption is monitored via regular meter checks to promote efficiency and detect leaks promptly.Sustainability practices are communicated internally through monthly staff meetings, visual reminders, and the planned recruitment of a young person Sustainability Champion. Externally, visible recycling points, a paperless loyalty app, social media, and educational posters developed by young people engage customers in sustainable choices.The cafe also ensures an accessible environment for all customers with ramps, disabled toilets, and thoughtful layouts. It fosters community engagement by collaborating with local artists and promoting local events. Staff receive regular training in areas such as safeguarding, allergens, and skill development, with well-being supported by open communication and formal review processes.
