Warm Welcome in Northumberland

Residents receive a warm welcome at Northumberland’s Warm Spaces

Residents are receiving a warm welcome this winter thanks to Northumberland’s network of warm spaces.  
 
Together with its community partners, the council is growing a network of over 150 warm, safe spaces where residents can enjoy a hot drink, have conversations with others or join in activities if they would like.  
 
Libraries, community hubs, village halls, churches and cafes are among the venues taking part
 
Councillor Wendy Pattison, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Adult Wellbeing, said: “Our friendly warm spaces are for anyone in Northumberland to visit.  
 
“Every space is unique in what they offer. Some have books and board games, others have free wifi where you can work. There are activities you can join, community projects to get involved with – or just sit quietly.  
 
“But they all share the same aim of providing a warm, safe and welcoming space.  
 
“Just look out for the warm space window sticker – or search our online map to see what’s available in your community.  
 
If any organisation would like to join too, please get in touch.” 
 
Take a virtual tour of some of our warm spaces here: Warm Spaces 
 
Northumberland County Council works with community and voluntary organisations, including Parish Councils, as part of its response to the rising cost of living. 
 
The Warm Spaces network is just a part of this, in addition:  
  • Northumberland Communities Together operates a seven-day-a-week helpline and advises on the support available to residents  
  • Northumberland County Council distribute The Government’s Household Support Fund (HSF) to those who need most, both directly to residents and through the community and voluntary sector to provide support with food, energy and water and other essential household costs 
  • Families continue to receive vouchers during the school holidays towards food, energy and other essential costs.  There is also support for young people in an education setting throughout the year, such as hygiene products, learning equipment, and school uniform   
  • Children and young people are making memories and enjoying nutritious food through the Holiday Activity and Food programme  
  • Community-led food partnership Nourish Northumberland is working together to make sure everyone in Northumberland can access safe, healthy and affordable food.   
 
Council Leader, Cllr Glen Sanderson, said: “We know that our residents are facing challenging times. I want to assure everyone that support is available if you need it.   
 
“I urge anyone who is struggling, worrying or simply wants to talk to someone confidentially about their situation to get in touch.   
 
I'd like to also take this opportunity to thank our Parish Councils, community and voluntary organisations for their support in ensuring our residents are continually kept safe and well.”  
 
Find your nearest warm space here: Cost of Living Support Hub   
Phone the Northumberland Communities Together on 01670 620015 between 9am to 6pm, 7 days a week or email NCT@northumberland.gov.uk   
If it is urgent and someone needs immediate support, help or protection ring the emergency response line OneCall on 01670 536400 - 24/7, 365 days a year. 
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