A NEW ‘climate cafe’ is being launched by the Extinction Rebellion group in Bournemouth for people suffering from “eco-anxiety” over climate change.

Extinction Rebellion says that the pop-up ‘cafe, which launches at Obsidian in Bournemouth on Tuesday July 5 from 4pm to 7pm, is an opportunity for people of all ages to visit and chat with like-minded people about their environmental concerns.

Eco-anxiety has been defined as “a chronic fear of environmental doom” linked to ecological disruption from climate change and deforestation.

Liz Brereton, a support worker from Bournemouth, said: “Lots of people have told me that they are very worried about the climate emergency but don’t find it easy to talk to the people around them, particularly when everyone else seems to be carrying on as normal. Talking to others who have had similar experiences can be a lifeline.

“We don’t expect anything from people who come. It's a confidential, warm, friendly, space to explore feelings. There will be no lectures, no commitment and no expectations.”

A survey for the British Psychological Society conducted by YouGov in November last year suggests that 29 per cent of young people (18-24 years) believe their mental health has suffered due to concerns about climate change.