Croydon Council and local organisations including churches, community centres and public libraries have created a network of 20 warm spaces across the borough to support residents through the colder months.
Warm hub: St Mary’s, Addington, one of the oldest churches in the country, is part of the Croydon warm spaces network
They are part of a range of measures intended to reduce the impact of rising energy costs, while supporting people in need.
The warm spaces network includes Waddon Leisure Centre, Ashburton Hall and St Mary the Blessed Virgin, in Addington.
Some may offer visitors a hot drink and food, receive information about local support services and advice on energy and household costs. Some leisure centres, operated by Greenwich Leisure, provide charging for mobile devices, free wifi and a hot shower.
Details of opening times, activities and facilities available are on the council’s website.
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
Debbie Forman, the 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.”
And David Hughes, from Better, the trading name of Greenwich Leisure, 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.”
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