JanineA small, unassuming shop in Harehills is quietly making a big difference in its local community.
The BricaBrac&snacks Community Shop isn’t just a shop to find affordable items; it’s a hub of activity, providing affordable goods, essential services, and a much-needed sense of community.
Run by Nina Bah and her husband, Shane Rawson, the shop is built on a simple yet powerful vision: to create a welcoming space where everyone feels valued.
“We want it to be like a breath of fresh air,” said Nina who added: “A place where people can sit down, have a cup of tea, and chat.”
This ethos extends far beyond retail. The shop hosts a variety of community workshops, ranging from art and meditation to English language classes. This commitment to community engagement has made it a vital resource for people in the community, especially those facing mental health challenges.
For many, the shop has become a sanctuary. Those struggling with loneliness or mental health issues find solace within its walls. For these visitors, the shop isn’t just a place to browse or buy—it’s a welcoming space where they can share a conversation and, most importantly, feel truly heard.
Nina explained: “People come in and tell us their problems. We try to encourage them and offer support, whether it’s a listening ear or practical advice. People have told us that we have helped them with their mental health problems. We do this by signposting people to other services that can help them and giving them a space to come in and chat.”
But the mission isn’t without its hurdles. Financial constraints and language barriers are a constant challenge. Yet, Nina and Shane remain unwavering in their commitment to the community. Their generosity knows no bounds—they’ve donated food, clothing, and shoes to those experiencing homelessness and continue to support Harehills’ most vulnerable.
As one of Leeds’ most culturally diverse neighborhoods, Harehills is home to communities from Nigeria, Romania, Pakistan, Syria, the Caribbean, and beyond. At the heart of this neighborhood, the BricaBrac&snacks Community Shop serves as a gathering place for people from all walks of life. Despite the occasional language barriers, the shop has become a bridge between cultures, creating a sense of unity and shared community among its visitors.
Looking ahead, Nina and Shane hope to expand their efforts, reaching even more people in need. “We want this to be a place where everyone feels welcome,” Nina said. “A place where people know they’re not alone.”
Nina and her husband are preparing for renovations to unlock extra space and offer a wider range of community workshops. They’ve launched a GoFundMe campaign to help bring their vision to life—every contribution brings them one step closer to making it happen.
For now, this small shop in Harehills is proving that community spirit, compassion, and a cup of tea can truly change lives.
