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A warm space with free craft activities is coming to Bargoed. 

The sessions will run from January 11 until February 15 at Gilfach Bargoed Community Centre.

Staff and volunteers from the mental health and social change charity, Platfform, will run the events.

Bargoed Town Council provided the funding. 

A spokesperson for Platfform said: “The sessions are really about increasing social inclusion, meeting new people, having a bit of fun with crafts.” 

They added that they hoped the sessions would “encourage more people to take advantage of the Warm Space concept” which is about “close and connected communities and locally available support”.

Warm spaces are a way for people to come together and keep warm for no extra cost.

Many opened up throughout the UK after the Cost of Living crisis took hold. 

According to the National Lottery Community Fund, 6,300 organisations across the UK had registered with the Warm Welcome network as of September 2024. 

Different types of crafts will be on offer with all supplies provided for free.

People who attend the sessions can also access other services that run out of the centre.

This includes Platfform‘s Perfect Fit, which offers free workwear and toiletries, DVDs and books from Taraggan Community Gardens.

Referrals and information about the Gwent Out of Work Service, which helps people find work, volunteering or training opportunities, will also be available.

The Warm Space craft sessions run every Thursday from January 11 until February 15 from 11.30am to  2.30pm at Gilfach Bargoed Community Centre.

A list of warm spaces throughout the borough can be found on the council’s website.