Football clubs, community centres and churches are among the places that have become warm spaces across the Malvern Hills district.
Warm and Welcoming Grants from Malvern Hills District Council (MHDC) have enabled 15 organisations to open their doors to anyone who needs somewhere to go.
A warm space is a free, safe and supportive space for residents to visit during the colder months to enjoy a hot drink and some company.
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The grants of up to £500 go towards the creation or improvement of a warm space - and so far, £5,400 has been allocated to 15 organisations.
These are:
• Tenbury Town Council
• Malvern Town Football Club
• Upton Baptist Church
• Malvern Cube
• Malvern Cube Projects
• Welland Parish Council
• MAGGs Day Centre
• Kempsey Promotions CIC
• Hanley Castle Parish Council
• Suckley SPACE
• Malvern Vale Community Centre
• YMCA Worcestershire
• Upton Stitchery Ltd
• Martley Memorial Hall
• Bar Limon
A Warm Spaces Charter has also been created for those offering a warm space, which is intended to help local people know what to expect when they step across the threshold of a venue: a guarantee of respect, dignity, and warmth.
Cllr Natalie McVey, portfolio holder for Housing and Health at MHDC, said: “We are pleased to have provided funding for these organisations to set up or improve warm spaces for the community.
“There are lots of people that are struggling to heat their homes this winter and this not only has a physical effect but also an effect on their wellbeing. Warm spaces provide a safe haven for people to enjoy some warmth at no cost but to also meet people and socialise.”
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Cllr John Gallagher, poverty champion at MHDC, said: “Warm spaces are a brilliant way of meeting new people and socialising.
“Reducing isolation and loneliness is a priority of the council and warm spaces provide a supportive and friendly environment, with food and drink to enjoy.”
For more information about the Warm Welcome grant, email the Community Services team on communityservices@malvernhills.gov.uk
Visit www.malvernhills.gov.uk/support for more information about the support available across the district.
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