As temperatures drop, Croydon Council and local organisations are offering a network of warm spaces across the borough to support residents through the colder months.
For the third consecutive year, warm spaces in Croydon provide residents with access to free, welcoming venues to stay warm, connect with others from their community, and receive essential support.
They are part of a range of measures from the Council aimed at reducing the impact of rising energy costs, whilst supporting people in need.
This winter, residents can visit and use over 20 locations across the borough; such as community centres, libraries and Waddon Leisure centre and Ashburton Hall, and St Mary the Blessed Virgin, in Addington, which are part of the warm spaces network.
At some warm spaces, visitors can get a hot drink and food, join activities and receive information about local support services, and advice on energy and household costs.
Some leisure centres, operated by council partner Better, provide charging for mobile devices, free wifi and a hot shower. Details of activities and facilities available are on the Council’s website, including opening times.
Anyone concerned about someone sleeping on the streets this winter can report their location to StreetLink, and local outreach teams can offer them care and advice.
Residents struggling with the cost of living increases who need additional support can visit the cost of living hub to find out what services are available such as:
- Food banks, food hubs and pantries
- Energy saving advice
- Household support fund
Executive Mayor, Jason Perry said: “Winter is a challenging time for many, and it is important that we have safe and welcoming places in the borough for the people who need it. I am glad we are able to provide this support to our residents, working with our partners and the voluntary and community sector.
“Many people also struggle with loneliness, especially in the winter, so warm spaces are crucial in helping them to connect with others in the community and get any support that is needed.”
Debbie Forman, Vicar at St Mary, the Blessed Virgin, in Addington, said: “Our warm space turned into a ‘welcome place’ because we saw communities coming together, enjoying being in company, so wanted that to continue. Hospitality is a core value, and we love being able to welcome between 20 and 30 people every Tuesday. They give us such a gift by their presence and we are all one.”
David Hughes, Partnership Manager for Better in Croydon, said: “As a facility at the heart of our local community we quickly became aware that a number of residents were concerned that they might struggle to heat their homes this winter and, as a charitable social enterprise, we wanted to help.
“Leisure centres are ideally suited to serve as warm spaces, as they are easily accessible, known to everyone and a natural meeting place. Our staff will be on hand to offer a warm welcome to anyone wishing to make the most of our warm space during the colder months ahead.”
The Council’s winter health and wellbeing newsletter has lots of guidance and advice to keep warm and well with a reminder to look out for others during the colder months.
