The cost-of-living crisis is already affecting millions across the UK, with many reporting they will be unable to switch the heating on in the coming months.

Warm Welcome Spaces believe everyone should have a warm and welcoming space to go to this winter, which is why they have partnered with a network of community organisations, churches, other faith groups, libraries and businesses across the UK who have opened their doors to provide exactly that.

Each Warm Welcome Space will be:

• Free to enter.
• Warm, spaces are heated and able to provide basic refreshments such as tea/coffee.
• Welcoming, inclusive, non-judgemental spaces, where everyone can expect a warm welcome from staff and volunteers.
• Safe, in accordance with each organisation’s usual safeguarding policies and hygiene rules. Basic signposting information will be available to people who may need further support.

Visit the Warm Welcome Spaces website to search for open spaces near you!

Merton Council, in support of this national initiative across Merton, has also set up a page on the Council website Merton Warm Spaces where people can find organisations that are participating in this initiative and have opened up their doors this winter. This includes Merton Libraries and many other local spaces.

If you are an organisation and are able to help people who need a space to go to this winter as part of the Merton Warm Spaces initiative, please make sure to register your space via this link: Get Started | Register (warmwelcome.uk)

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