Funding for local authorities to provide ‘Warm Hubs’ this winter

As the cost-of-living crisis goes on, many people, including the elderly and vulnerable, could struggle to heat their homes this winter.

Last month, the Welsh Government announced £1m of funding to support ‘Warm Hubs’ across Wales.

That funding will be distributed to local authorities, which will be expected to work with local groups to determine how best to provide the Warm Hubs.

Jane Hutt MS, Wales’ Minister for Social Justice, said: “With domestic fuel prices increasing, it is expected many people will struggle to keep their homes at a healthy temperature this winter, particularly those people at home all day, the elderly and the vulnerable.

“Many organisations including local authorities, community councils, faith groups, sports clubs, community centres are already setting up, or looking to set up, Warm Hubs within local communities. 

“Warm Hubs are intended as places in local communities where people can find a safe, accessible and warm environment during the day to help reduce the cost of heating their own homes and to help those facing extreme fuel poverty this winter.”

In a statement, Ms Hutt said local authorities would be “best placed to gauge and understand local needs, existing provision and to design and deliver local solutions”.

Ms Hutt also set out what a Warm Hub could offer. She said they would include refreshments and snacks as a minimum, with a more substantive meal where possible.

They could also offer advice and support services to those who attend, such as advice and support on financial issues, health, wellbeing or even digital accessibility, as well as activities such as exercise or arts.

The minister also stressed that Warm Hubs “should be an inviting place to spend time” and insisted: “They should be open and inclusive and take into account local and cultural needs.”

Any organisations wanting to set up a Warm Hub is advised to work with their local authority or their county voluntary council to make sure it is being delivered as part of the overall approach, as opposed to duplicating provision.

Caerphilly Observer contacted Caerphilly County Borough Council to ask what plans it had for Warm Hubs and when and where they would be running. A council spokesperson said it would let us know once dates and locations were confirmed.

Councillor Sean Morgan, leader of the council, said the cost-of-living crisis is providing “an unprecedented financial challenge to many residents”.

He spoke about the council’s recently-approved £3m cost-of-living hardship fund, which he said will allow the council to provide targeted support to residents in need.

Cllr Morgan added: “Proposals include a ‘warm the person not the home’ initiative – provide warm packs: thick curtains, draft excluders, warm clothing etc, and the establishment of a network of ‘Welcoming Spaces’ – physical venues spread across the county borough where residents will be able to access warmth, social connection and community interaction.”