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Warm Spaces: Help Us Map Winter Support
As the colder months draw in, our local warm spaces become more than just places to keep warm — they become hubs of connection, comfort, and community spirit. Across our towns and villages, organisations of all sizes are stepping up to offer safe, welcoming spaces where people can find warmth, company, a hot drink, and often much more.
From community centres offering drop-ins and social groups, to churches running craft sessions and coffee mornings, to volunteer-led warm hubs providing meals, advice or digital support, we are already seeing incredible work happening. Local food providers, neighbourhood groups, libraries, and charities are contributing to a network of support that is quietly transforming winter experiences for many residents.
Many groups told us they’re already working closely with partners such as Citizens Advice, Age UK, parish councils, local businesses and grassroots community organisations to strengthen their offer. Others are running health and wellbeing sessions, winter health projects, or collaborating to increase food donations and emergency support. It is clear that our communities are already pulling together brilliantly — and we want to recognise and thank every organisation, volunteer, venue and neighbour who is helping to make this winter safer and kinder for others.
Help Us Build an Accurate Map of Warm Spaces
To make sure residents know where help is available, we are creating a winter support map — but we need your help to make it as accurate and useful as possible.
We want to hear from everyone offering a warm space, whether you are:
- A council-led space
- A community centre or charity
- A small café, local business or shop
- A village hall or parish group
- A library, church or faith space
- A local pub offering warmth, conversation or a cuppa
If your venue is providing warmth this winter — even informally — we want to include you.
Please Complete Our Short Survey
To ensure we capture the full picture of what’s happening in our communities, please take a moment to complete our Winter Support Survey. Your responses will help us:
- Map every warm space available locally
- Highlight what each space offers (food, activities, advice, social connection, health support, etc.)
- Identify gaps and opportunities
- Share information with partners (only if you’ve given permission)
- Connect organisations who want to collaborate
Your input is vital — and will help residents find the support they need quickly and confidently throughout the winter.
A Heartfelt Thank You
To everyone already opening their doors, offering kindness, and creating welcoming spaces: thank you. Your efforts are making a real difference — reducing isolation, supporting wellbeing, and strengthening the fabric of our communities when people need it most.
