Safe and warm hubs are providing vital support this winter, offering welcoming spaces for people to stay warm, connect with others, and access advice and services during difficult times
In the aftermath of Storm Darragh, which left many households without power, these community hubs have become a lifeline.
Developed locally to meet local needs, warm hubs also offer practical support, including advice on debt and welfare entitlements; opportunities to try new activities and form friendships; and information about financial and community services.
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One week in December, volunteers from the Llanddewi Velfrey warm hub, welcomed Jane Hutt, who thanked them for their dedication.
Lynda Hill, representing Llanddewi Velfrey Village Hall Committee, who has volunteered at the hub since 2002 helping to manage the hall and organise events, said: “We are particularly grateful for the help from the Warm Rooms initiative as it helps us to help those in our community who are in most need.
“Many homes in this area lost their electricity and water for quite a long time during and after Storm Darragh. Fortunately, this didn’t affect the hall so we opened to provide access to a warm space where anyone could use cooking facilities, toilets, charge their phones, and connect with others when they may have otherwise been isolated.
“Listening to stories of other halls and community initiatives whose representatives attended the meeting, it was inspiring to hear the huge range of support that is available across Pembrokeshire. We all want people to know we’re here throughout the winter, and that the Warm Rooms hubs provide a warm and friendly welcome for people of all ages and background.”
Across Wales, safe and warm hubs also offer practical support, including advice on debt and welfare entitlements; opportunities to try new activities and form friendships; and information about financial and community services.
In October, the Welsh Government announced £1.5m in funding to ensure hubs can continue their crucial work this winter.
Jane Hutt, said: “Hubs, like the one in Llanddewi Velfrey, are a great example of communities coming together to support one another during tough times. Volunteers are at the heart of these spaces, creating a warm and inclusive welcome for people in need.
“We know the winter months can be difficult for many, which is why we’re doing all we can to alleviate financial pressures and maximise incomes. Our investment in safe and warm hubs forms part of a wider package of support to help people through the cost-of-living challenges.”
Pembrokeshire Association of Voluntary services (PAVS) has been instrumental in channelling the funding for warm spaces and hosts a regular forum for those involved with community buildings, which is invaluable for sharing ideas and experience.