East Suffolk Council
Offering a Warm Welcome this winter
A network of venues offering residents a warm, safe space to socialise over the winter has reopened for the third year.
East Suffolk Council’s Warm Welcomes (formerly Warm Rooms) scheme has reopened for the winter, with more than 20 libraries, churches and community hubs providing a warm space and an opportunity to connect with other members of the local community.
Part-funded by the UK Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund, Warm Welcomes provide a safe and welcoming space where members of the community, including people who may be struggling with the cost of heating their homes, can come to meet with others and access information about additional support available in the community.
Cllr Sarah Whitelock, East Suffolk Council’s cabinet member for Communities, Culture, Leisure and Tourism said: “I'm delighted to see the return of our Warm Welcomes scheme this winter, which provides people of all ages with a safe space to meet others, take part in activities, get on with work or just relax and enjoy a hot drink.”
Earlier this year, community groups interested in joining the Warm Welcomes programme were encouraged to apply for grant funding. Venues must be open for at least 8 hours per week and the funding can be used as a contribution towards energy costs, refreshments, food, activities and the purchase or hire of resources such as craft materials.
Addresses and opening times for all Warm Welcomes.
Thanks to funding from East Suffolk Council and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, Suffolk Libraries are also offering free 'Warm Welcome' boxes, containing helpful items such as LED light bulbs, blankets and flasks, in a selection of libraries for anyone who needs them this winter.