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Hugo’s Brew Stop: Healing Through Coffee & Connection

The Heart of the Business: Hugo

The name of the business inspired by my 16-year-old dog, Hugo. A Bichon Frise–Shih Tzu cross, Hugo has been my constant companion through some of the most challenging periods of my life. During the times I struggled with my own mental health, he was my anchor; steady, loyal, and at his happiest simply sitting beside me at a local café while I took a breather from the world.

Felipe under the Hugo's Brew Stop tent with the van in the background during an event.

Those quiet mornings with him showed me the power of simple companionship. That feeling became the blueprint for this coffee van. I was already working on the business and knew I wanted it to serve a community purpose long before it officially launched. I wanted to create a space that offered people the same comfort Hugo gave me.

Turning Loss into Action

While the plans for the van were already in motion, a devastating tragedy changed my perspective forever. A year ago, my family lost my niece, Roma.
Roma was only 20. To everyone on the outside, she appeared to be a happy, vibrant teenager. Her death by suicide was a profound shock that left us reeling. Losing her forced me to see how many people might be hurting behind a smile, and it made the mission of Hugo’s Brew Stop feel urgent. It wasn’t just a project anymore; it became a priority. I felt a deep responsibility to do something now to help people connect before it’s too late.

More Than a Mobile Café

Operating across Dorset and Bournemouth, I bring the coffee shop experience to workplaces and local events. Coffee is the ultimate icebreaker. By setting up at an office or a community gathering, I’m providing a “neutral ground” where people have permission to step away from their desks and check in with one another.
Sometimes, a ten-minute chat over a latte is exactly what someone needs to decompress and feel seen.

A Mission to Reach Out

My goal is to work with employers and community leaders who value the wellbeing of their teams. I’m also looking forward to starting community coffee mornings (relaxed spaces where anyone can show up, meet someone new, and just talk.)

Why This Matters

Hugo’s Brew Stop is my livelihood, but it’s also my heart. Hugo’s loyalty provided the “how” for this business, and Roma’s memory provides the “why.”
I want to bring a little bit of light to people who might be struggling in silence. If this van can help even one person feel less alone, then every cup served is worth it. It all starts with a simple question we don’t ask enough:
“I’m here—how are you really doing?”

Finding Community with Dorset Mind  

We have a variety of support groups that may be right for you! Visit https://dorsetmind.uk/what-we-offer/adult-services/adult-groups/ to explore our range of support groups for people facing mental health challenges.  

  

You can also explore a variety of volunteering and fundraising opportunities on our website. Our welcoming community of volunteers, (many with lived experience of mental health challenges or supporting a loved one) helps ensure that no one faces these difficulties alone. Volunteering is a fantastic way to meet new people, build connections, and make a meaningful difference in the community.  

  

Visit dorsetmind.uk for a range of resources and support. If you are worried about your mental health, please visit your GP or a mental health professional. In a crisis, please call 999 or The Samaritans at 116 123. 

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Dorset Mind is a self-funded local charity that helps people in Dorset experiencing mental health problems access the vital support they need. The charity is at the very heart of our communities shaping futures, changing and in some cases literally saving lives.

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