Services

Aspire Creative Hub

Our creative hub is based in the crypt of our Victorian church building and is an amazing space in which to learn and develop musical ability and other creative skills.  Our expert team of staff and volunteers provide a warm welcome and are always on hand, teaching, encouraging and supporting people.  We host lots of young people who find a second home here and develop their passion for music.  We also provide groups for older people, supporting those with poor mental health and early onset dementia.

We are proud to be sponsored by BBC Children in Need and to have been a featured project on their 2024 fundraising programme.  See the film here. >>

Softplay and Café

Our large three-storey softplay facility is a great community resource for children and young families. Only £4.00 per child with free adult entry, we are pleased to be able to offer affordable indoor play in the heart of Ryde.  Our café offers affordable drinks and snacks and a great place for parents to sit and chat while the children play.

Check out our dedicated facebook page for latest opening times and events. >>

During Christmas, Easter and Summer school holidays we also offer our food and fun play scheme  – four hours play, entertainment and a hot meal, all for free to those who qualify for free school meals or £10 for others.

Community Lunch

Four days a week, from Tuesday to Friday, we provide a freshly cooked two-course meal in our welcoming community hall on Dover Street. This service is free of charge for anyone who needs it, with a suggested £3 donation for those who wish to contribute. All dishes are prepared by our professional chef in our five-star food-hygiene-rated kitchen, ensuring quality and safety.

It’s more than just a meal — it’s a chance to sit down with others, share conversation, and enjoy a relaxed, non-judgemental environment.

No booking needed; simply arrive between midday and 12.30pm to receive a warm welcome and a hot, nourishing meal.

Living Well and Early Help Service

This Island wide service, commissioned by the local authority, is there to help anyone who needs a little support in their daily lives.  This could be due to feeling isolated or lonely, financial issues or physical or mental health needs.  Our team can offer 1-2-1 support and help through various groups that meet around the Island.  You can find more information on their dedicated website here. >>

Aspire Ryde Community Hub (ARCH)

Based at the top of Ryde High Street (opposite Poundland), our community hub has been transformed. Our hub sells a variety of second-hand goods including furniture, bric-a-brac and children’s toys. The hub has a brand-new coffee shop which has created a light, welcoming space for customers to enjoy. We have lots of groups happening during the week, the hub is a hive of activity. Our coffee shop menu includes jacket potatoes, bacon sandwiches, iced lattes, fresh cakes in the cabinet and much more! Please come and see us, we are open Mon-Sat 9:30am-4pm. 

Groups

We run numerous groups, both in our buildings and in the wider community around the Island.  These range from music and craft groups to gaming groups and even our amazing Waves of Wellness programme which uses water therapy (surfing, kayaking and paddleboarding) to improve mental health and resilience. See our facebook pages for information on all of our regular groups or contact us to find out more.

Young People’s Mental Health and Personal Finance Support Project

Our project supports young people to improve their mental health and financial wellbeing through personalised one-to-one support, outreach, and pop up workshops. By meeting young people in familiar and trusted environments, we create safe spaces for them to talk openly and access guidance. We help them build confidence, manage financial challenges, and connect with wider services, empowering them to achieve greater stability, independence, and improved life outcomes for the future. For more info email:-  daisy@aspireryde.org.uk

Welcome Desk

Our welcome desk is currently based at 24 Newport Street, Ryde (opposite Ryde Police Station) and is open Monday to Thursday 10am – noon and 1pm- 3pm, and 10am – noon on Fridays.  Feel free to drop in for any support needs such as an urgent food need, help in accessing other services or just for information on what we offer.

Whilst we are not a crisis support service and don’t have access to emergency accommodation or health provision, we will always do what we can to help.

The Lost Crypt

Based at the Church on Dover Street, The Lost Crypt – Escape room in Ryde, Isle of Wight is the only escape room in the UK, based in a real Church Crypt.  An atmospheric experience, not to be missed, this unique attraction is entirely dedicated to raising funds for Aspire projects which means you can have a great time, knowing that all the proceeds are going to a good cause.