Cafe Link Newcastle

Overview of location  

Nestled in the heart of the Santalla community, and home to the blueberry scone, the Cafe link has a very diverse and rich history. Before becoming a cafe, the location used to be a handball alley. The Cafe was established in 2004 through a partnership with the HSE and Link Galway CLG. In 2023, the cafe was extensively renovated following support and reinvestment from the HSE. Cafe link Newcastle is located on the HSE Community Care at 25 Newcastle Road next to the Shantella Clinic serving the local Shantella residents, patients and hospital staff alike some staff calling it “a home away from home”  

Impacts  

Our main impact is our inclusive hiring process. We employ 8 staff on site with a disability who may otherwise not be employed. As a result of our work, Link Galway CLG was nominated by Galway City Council as one of two community groups representing our city in the 2025 Pride of Place Awards as well as winning the Galway Chamber of Commerce Award in Diversity, Accessibility and Inclusion in 2025. At Cafe Link, customers and staff of all backgrounds have a safe space making this location so special.