We're setting up a network of warm spaces this winter
Tuesday, 22 November 2022
We're launching a network of warm spaces, which residents can use during the day to keep warm as temperatures fall and energy prices rise.
Our 12 libraries and 6 leisure centres are available as warm spaces, where everyone is welcome. Four of our 6 leisure centres have cafes available for people to use, and libraries offer free Wi-Fi and access to public computers, as well as seating so people can enjoy time with a book. Residents are welcome to take their own food and drink to our libraries.
A number of community organisations are also providing warm spaces this winter. Find a list of warm spaces near you.
To support community and voluntary organisations to set up warm spaces, we're making grants available. To express an interest in applying for funding to set up your own warm space, please email partnerships.communityengagementteam@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk with the following information:
- the address of the warm space
- hours of opening
- what will be available (for example a hot drink, wifi, company etc.)
- how people can book, or if it will be a drop in service
- contact details
Councillor Richard Wenham, Leader of Central Bedfordshire Council said:
As temperatures fall and energy prices rise, residents can find free, warm and safe spaces all across Central Bedfordshire including our leisure centres and libraries. We know many residents are concerned about the increase in the cost of living, and particularly about the cost of heating their homes this winter. We hope our warm spaces and our other cost of living initiatives will help ease that pressure.
Visit our dedicated cost of living information hub, which is full of information and resources that can help anyone concerned about the cost of living.