A SOUTHAMPTON community bakery that’s the commercial venture for a city charity marked its fourth official anniversary last Friday by giving its first 30 visitors free slices of birthday cake (February 2026).
CommuniBakes in Shirley was taken over in 2021 to support the charity Communicare, which boosts social connectedness in Southampton, and was officially launched in 2022.
Kieren Jones, Baker at CommuniBakes, which is at 21, St James Road, says: “To celebrate our birthday, we treated the first 30 people through our doors from 8am on Friday, January 30, 2026, to a free slice of our birthday cake – a decorated vanilla sponge filled with jam and buttercream. We chose the 30th and the first 30 visitors to mark Communicare’s 30th anniversary as a charity in 2021. The slices were given away on a first‑come, first‑served basis, with no purchase necessary, while stocks lasted, with one slice per person.
“Every penny of profit from any tea, coffee, elevenses, lunch, or afternoon treat purchased here goes directly to Communicare, helping support the remarkable work its staff and volunteers carry out across our neighbourhood and the wider Southampton community. When you shop with us, you’re buying both locally and socially – enjoying something delicious while giving back to the community at the same time.”
As well as supporting Communicare, the bakery’s other main aim is to make as much as it can on the premises.
Sally Ann Belward, Communicare Trustee, says: “I’m incredibly proud of the hard work, love and passion that goes into everything CommuniBakes produces. And, as the saying goes, the proof really is in the eating! The team offers a wonderful and delicious range of breads, cakes and baked treats for customers. It was extra special for me as it was my birthday on the day too!
“But what means most to me is that every item they bake helps raise vital funds for Communicare and the work we do across the neighbourhood and the wider city. We support those who are isolated or in need of a helping hand, and through our good neighbours’ network and multigenerational befriending initiatives, we aim to ensure people can truly live their best lives by improving their social connectedness.”
Communicare, which is a friendly, neighbourhood charity, provides services that enrich the lives of isolated people in and around Southampton.
Annie Clewlow, Communicare’s Manager, says: “Our services are vital for people in our city who need regular social interaction and support. Having the bakery as an additional revenue stream has made a tremendous difference, helping us continue to provide that lifeline to those who need it most.
“We want to say a huge ‘thank you’ to everyone who has visited during the past four years and picked up a loaf of bread or a delicious, sweet treat from CommuniBakes. Your support directly strengthens the work we do across our community and we’re truly grateful.”
Communicare is currently supporting more than 750 individuals/families through tasks including, befriending, transport for appointments and assistance with shopping and always needs more donations and volunteers to help with its work.
Annie adds: “As the current economic climate continues to challenge so many charities, our need for support from CommuniBakes and from public donations is greater than ever. Every penny we receive goes directly towards making someone’s life better. We also urgently need more volunteers.
“If you have even an hour or so to spare each week, we’d love to hear from you. We’re always looking for more befrienders – the experience can be incredibly rewarding. Many of our Communiteers tell us that volunteering has enriched their own lives just as much as it has supported those they help. We’re flexible and can work around your existing commitments. Please get in touch on 023 8250 0050 or email us at enquiry@communicareinsouthampton.org.uk.”
CommuniBakes was purchased to help raise funds for Communicare in 2021 and is a separate limited company. Any profits it makes go to the charity.
For further details about CommuniBakes, which is at 21, St James Road in Shirley, please pop in when it’s open or visit its website www.communibakes.co.uk.
