Residents in Cumberland looking for somewhere to warm up and have a hot drink and a chat will be able to choose from a number of “warm spots” this winter.
There’s been an incredible response from organisations across the area to open their venues to those in need as part of the Warm Spots initiative.
The scheme encourages and supports local organisations to open their doors to people in need of warmth and help, as the cost-of-living crisis and high fuel costs continue to put many people under real strain.
There are now Warm Spot venues all the way from Millom to Carlisle operating from community centres, churches, libraries, and arts centres. Some are open every day and some just a few hours a week. Everyone is welcome and you will not need to give any explanation of why you are there.
To help people find the Warm Spot nearest them, a new website has been launched. The site provides an easy way to find out which Warm Spots are open and what they offer.
Any organisations that would like to be added to the map, can do so by going to the same webpage and clicking on the link to register their details.
As a minimum, a Warm Spot will offer a warm space, a warm welcome, someone on hand to talk to if you wish, and, in most cases, a hot drink (free or at cost). But many are offering a much wider range of facilities, activities, and support.
Cllr Lisa Brown, Deputy Leader and Executive member with responsibility for Governance and Thriving Communities, said:
“I’m really pleased that we and many other organisations have been able to step up and offer somewhere people can be warm and get a friendly welcome in their communities.
"Winter can be a difficult time, and with prices of energy and other items continuing to rise, many people will be making hard decisions on whether to keep the heating on or not. So whilst there is a need we want to help people as much as we can.
"I’d encourage people – young and old – to take a look at our website and see what is on offer from your nearest Warm Spot.”
The Warm Spot initiative is brought together by a number of partners including Cumberland Council, Action With Communities in Cumbria, Cumbria CVS, and Cumbria Community Foundation.