As it is the time of year to give as well as receive, why not buy someone a ‘suspended coffee’.

It doesn’t sound as enticing as a cappuccino, flat white or latte, but a new beverage called the ‘suspended coffee’ is set to take cafes across the country by storm.

In a concept born in Naples, Italy, coffee drinkers not only place their own regular order, they also request a second drink for someone who cannot afford to pay for their own.

The idea, which is not just aimed at helping the homeless but those who simply find themselves out of work and broke, for example, spread to Bulgaria and, thanks to the power of social networking sites, is beginning to take off in Britain and around the world.

So far, about 150 British cafes have signed up to what has become a formal scheme, while big chains like Starbucks and Costa are making positive noises about getting involved.

The concept is based on good faith by both shops and the customers – anyone can enter and asked for a ‘suspended coffee’ and are unlikely to be asked for their credentials, but it is hoped the most needy people will take advantage.

Many cafes in Sheffield are now running the scheme and its just a way of making sure someone who needs it can get a drink.