Women’s charities and refuges are struggling to meet demand in the wake of government cuts. So thank goodness for Luminary Bakery, which has set up shop to work with women who have experienced domestic violence, homelessness, sexual exploitation and crime, training them to become professional bakers.
As well as getting to grips with sourdough starters, trainees at the Scandi-style bakehouse learn about marketing and budgets and get one-to-one support to help them back on their feet.
How can you help? Easy: drop by the Stoke Newington café to stuff your face with cake (it’s open seven days a week). Or you could make the trip for a baking class, order a birthday cake or splash out on afternoon tea and eat your own weight in fresh mini sandwiches and sweet treats. There’s also a brand new branch at 47 Chalk Farm Road, Camden Town.