Warm, welcoming spaces will once again open their doors across North Tyneside this winter, offering residents a free, safe and friendly place to spend time, stay warm, and connect with others.
The Warm Welcome scheme is returning as part of the Council’s continued efforts to help people minimise the impacts of cold homes and social isolation during winter months.
Community hubs, libraries, Customer First centres and other local venues will take part, providing warm and comfortable spaces with hot drinks, internet and computer access, baby-friendly facilities, friendly faces and access to support.
Open to everyone, they will run for at least 2 hours each week and will run social activities such as film and book clubs, bingo, board games, craft lessons and more.
The scheme, which is part of North Tyneside Council’s Household Support Fund grant, is designed to support those most in need with food, fuel costs, and staying warm.
Elected Mayor of North Tyneside, Karen Clark said: “I’m delighted that our Warm Welcome initiative is continuing into this year. They provide more than just a warm space, giving our residents the opportunity to meet new faces, learn, take part in activities and be able to relax in a safe and comfortable space, preventing isolation in the colder months.”
Warm Welcomes has already proven to be a successful and valued part of the Council’s winter support offer, with positive feedback from both visitors and community organisations involved in running the spaces.
This announcement is the latest in a line of commitments to help residents with the cost of essentials including food, energy, clothing and wellbeing support.
Forming one part of the support package, the Warm Welcomes accompanies help for residents with school uniform and warm coat costs alongside other funding schemes.
The Warm Welcome spaces will be available throughout the colder months, and residents will be encouraged to use them as often as they need. They are free to attend, with no booking or registration needed.
A full list of Warm Welcome venues and opening times will be shared later in the year. The Council is working closely with its voluntary and community sector partners to make sure the network is as accessible, welcoming and inclusive as possible.
Community venues and organisations are able to apply for a share of the funding now by completing a form: Warm Welcome Provider Application. Applications will close 26 September 2025.