We have told you all about this scheme before, but the headlines in the coffee industry are still buzzing with the story and so we thought we’d let you have a little update.

Which story are we talking about?

The story about the coffee scheme which is spreading like wildfire in coffee shops around the United Kingdom and which seeks to help out those in need or financial difficulty.

As with all good schemes, this one is remarkably simple.

Here’s the deal: you are feeling flush and kind.

You walk into a coffee shop which participates in the ‘suspended coffee’ scheme.

You buy your own coffee to drink, as usual, but you also buy a coffee which you do not drink.

This coffee is ‘suspended’ (that’s to say, paid for, but not prepared and drunk), until someone in need asks for it.

Then, hey presto, the coffee is ready to be prepared and enjoyed by the person who is down on his luck, at no cost to him.

The idea started in Italy and it is getting more and more popular.

Many have ascribed the rising popularity of the scheme to the financial crises   when many people could do with a bit of help as they are strapped for cash.

The scheme has kicked off all over the place, including Hereford, Brighton and London in the UK.

Fancy joining in?

Check out whether your local coffee shop has such an option.

If not, they might think about doing so if you make the suggestion.