Westwood Cross is set to host its first Independents Day on Saturday 28th September, which will showcase 40 small businesses across Thanet and raise money for local mental health charity, East Kent Mind.
The one-day event, organised by East Kent Mind will provide a platform to promote isle entrepreneurs and a space for visitors to take time out for their mental health.
The Primark car park at Westwood Cross will be transformed into a bustling hub of creativity, community and care. Visitors can explore stalls by independent traders including artisans, makers and small business owners whose pitch fee will be donated to East Kent Mind, directly funding mental health services in the area.
There will also be local food, handcrafted goods and entertainment for all ages. Vendors include fudge maker The Copper Pan, face painting by Cheeky Chops, and dog accessories from Loopy Lulu’s.
As part of the event, Westwood Cross will also be setting up a Mall Talk area, a dedicated space where visitors can take a pause and reflect on their mental wellbeing. Attendees can talk one-on-one with mental health professionals and compassionate volunteers trained to listen, support and guide. Volunteers will have expertise ranging from mental health first aid to life coaching to business mentoring.
Fran Donovan, Centre Director at Westwood Cross, said “We’re excited to be working with East Kent Mind on Independents Day. It’s a charity that’s dear to our hearts and this event means we can all do our part to both celebrate and support our local community. We hope visitors enjoy this special day and take part in raising funds as well as take a moment for their wellbeing.”
Karen Brinkman, of East Kent Mind, founder of Thanet Virtual High Street and the Mayoress of Margate, added: “I am absolutely thrilled that Westwood Cross is hosting the inaugural Independents Day event. It’s a fantastic opportunity for over 40 small, local businesses to showcase their products and services on a bustling Saturday. I’m also deeply grateful to Westwood Cross for their generosity in supporting East Kent Mind by donating all pitch fees to this cause.”
For more information and the full list of traders visit https://westwoodx.co.uk/articles/events/come-our-independents-day-event-westwood-cross.
