Warm Spaces this Winter

Glenfield Methodist Church Warm Space

What made you want to run a Warm Space last Winter?

We completed a major refurbishment at Glenfield Methodist Church in January 2023 which meant we could welcome more of the community into the new part of the building. One thing the church members really wanted to do was to offer a Warm Space, and we were able to do that from mid-January until the end of March.

Having seen how the cost-of-living crisis (in particular, how heating bills had gone through the roof) was affecting so many people, we wanted to offer a comfortable chair, hot drinks, and then soup and a roll, in a warm room with the opportunity to chat to friends or new acquaintances. From April to October this year, we have continued to open 10am-12 noon for a Coffee & Chat event.

Are you planning to run the Warm Space again this year?

Yes - we are starting our 'Monday Warm Space' again, this time in November through to the end of February, 10am-2pm.

What can someone expect if they come along?

Our team of brilliant church volunteers offer a welcome as someone arrives at the door and accompany them into the lounge if it is their first visit. People are encouraged to either join another group already around a table, or one of our volunteers will sit and chat to them. Drinks are served, and we have learnt that no one likes their tea or coffee the same strength! There is always a good hubbub of noise as people get to know each other or continue their friendships.

Around 11.45am we start to take orders for one of two soups on offer. Some like butter on their rolls, and some don’t! We then start to serve soup from around 12noon.

How can someone get in touch if they have a question about it or need help?

If anyone is interested in coming along, they can email glenfieldmethodistchurch@gmail.com for more information, or just turn up any time on a Monday, between 10am-2pm where they will receive a warm welcome. There is no charge, but donations are always welcomed.

Littlethorpe Community Association Warm Space

What made you want to run a Warm Space last Winter?

The Littlethorpe Community Association’s Warm space initiative began due to a long serving group of volunteers wishing to offer a warm lunch and friendly welcoming event for the community. The thought had already been brewing but when the cost-of-living crisis became a reality we all thought it was the perfect time to begin the sessions.

Are you planning to run the Warm Space again this year?

Yes. The sessions are held fortnightly with a Book sale from 9:00 and the Warm Space officially starting at 11.30am until 12.30pm. It is held at Littlethorpe Village Hall, 16 Biddle Road, LE19 2HD.

Our warm space initiative started again on 18 October. We have been able to provide everything free of charge with the help of some grant funding and hope to continue to be able to do so.

What can someone expect if they come along?

The village hall is warm and the faces are welcoming with hot soup, drinks and a roll all sat around a large table. Everybody feels included and conversations and laughter flow. The volunteers even run a raffle which adds to the fun!

How can someone get in touch if they have a question about it or need help?

If you or anybody you know would benefit from some community cheer and a warm hour or so of companionship, then please come along or recommend us. For more information please either email littlethorpecommunity@gmail.com or call Liz on 07840736715.