Where to find 'Warm Spaces' in communities across North Northamptonshire

16 December 2024

North Northamptonshire Council recognises that it will be unaffordable for many residents to heat their homes for as long as they would do normally again this winter. That’s why they are once again running and supporting what has become known as the Warm Spaces initiative.   

Warm Spaces provide somewhere a person who needs to get warm can go to, for free, to enjoy warmth, have a hot drink and socialise if they choose to.  

This year a total of 45 community organisations, volunteer groups and public bodies, supported by the council, have opened their doors, to give their time, and share their resources with local residents to provide a safe, warm and welcome space.  

The council has added map of Warm Spaces across North Northamptonshire on their website. The map sets out areas in each area: Corby, Kettering, Thrapston, Rushden, Oundle and surrounding areas and Wellingborough. The venues include libraries, village halls, churches, community hubs and even Bonkers Playhouse Theatre in Kettering.

They are also are calling all residents for their help in spreading the message. They are asking that if you know someone who you think might benefit, but doesn’t have access to the internet, please let them know about their nearby Warm Spaces by looking at the website page which also offers opening times and dates. Residents can attend for activities at these locations without any need to discuss their personal circumstances.

When people enter a warm space they do so with a guarantee they will be treated with respect and dignity, without judgement and in confidence. Supporting our communities is always our priority and that is why, during this continuing cost of living crisis, we are taking urgent, and tangible action to ensure that our residents are supported.

This Winter will be a difficult time for many, both in terms of physical health and mental health, which is why both North Northamptonshire Libraries and Community Libraries are being supported to signpost residents to Public Health’s free health and wellbeing services. Health and wellbeing advisors will also be on hand at many of the library Warm Space sessions.Councillor Gill Mercer, Executive Member for Adults, Health and Wellbeing

The winter and festive periods can be challenging times for many individuals and families struggling to make ends meet. That’s why it is important that we put our and our partners’ buildings, which are often already heated, at their disposal and so help those worse affected by the impacts of energy costs.

Importantly, these buildings do more than just help keep people warm – they also offer free facilities such as Wi-Fi, showers, baby changing areas, quiet study areas period products and children’s play areas. Jason Smithers, Leader of North Northamptonshire Council

An application form to register a warm space is available if there any other organisations who would still like to apply.