A number of organisations across the Malvern Hills District have received funding from the council to create or support warm spaces for their local communities.
Malvern Hills District Council (MHDC) has provided 'Warm and Welcoming Grants' up to £500 to go towards the creation or improvement of a warm space.
A warm space is a free, safe and supportive space for residents to visit during the colder months to enjoy a hot drink and some company.
Groups and organisations were invited to apply for the funding from the council and so far, up to £5,400 has been allocated to 15 organisations.
These include:
- Tenbury Town Council
- Malvern Town Football Club
- Upton Baptist Church
- Malvern Cube
- Malvern Cube Projects
- Welland Parish Council
- MAGGs Day Centre
- Kempsey Promotions CIC
- Hanley Castle Parish Council
- Suckley SPACE
- Malvern Vale Community Centre
- YMCA Worcestershire
- Upton Stitchery Ltd
- Martley Memorial Hall
- Bar Limon
A Warm Spaces Charter has also been created for those offering a warm space which is intended to help local people know what to expect when they step across the threshold of a venue: a guarantee of respect, dignity, and warmth.
Cllr Natalie McVey, Portfolio Holder for Housing and Health at MHDC, said: "We are pleased to have provided funding for these organisations to set up or improve warm spaces for the community. There are lots of people that are struggling to heat their homes this winter and this not only has a physical effect but also an effect on their wellbeing. Warm spaces provide a safe haven for people to enjoy some warmth at no cost but to also meet people and socialise".
Cllr John Gallagher, Poverty Champion at MHDC, said: "Warm spaces are a brilliant way of meeting new people and socialising. Reducing isolation and loneliness is a priority of the council and warm spaces provide a supportive and friendly environment, with food and drink to enjoy".
Please email the Community Services team on
Visit www.malvernhills.gov.uk/support for more information about the support available across the district.
Pictured: Cllr Eric Hudson, Mayor of Tenbury Wells (left), Cllr Graham Brittain, Tenbury Town Councillor (middle) and Cllr John Gallagher, Poverty Champion at MHDC (right), with visitors at the Tenbury Wells Warm Space in the Pump Rooms.
