Expect a warm welcome when visiting one of many Welcoming Spaces across the borough

Welcoming Spaces are available to all residents of Cheshire West. They offer a safe and warm welcoming space where people can connect with others in their community and make new friends.

The network of Welcoming Spaces includes Council libraries, churches, community centres and more.

The Council’s libraries team have been welcoming thousands of people into libraries this year, providing residents with an opportunity to use free library services and take part in activities.

Library information and opening hours are available on the Council’s website:

 https://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/findalibrary

Cabinet Member for a Fairer Future, Councillor Lisa Denson, said:

“It’s important that during these colder months, everyone has a warm place to go to, particularly if they’re struggling with the rising cost of energy bills.

“Welcoming Spaces are for everyone. They are also there for people who may be feeling alone or isolated, and who fancy a change of scenery from their own home. It’s a great opportunity to meet others in your community for a nice friendly chat over a cup of tea or coffee.”

To find your nearest Welcoming Space, visit: 

https://www.warmwelcome.uk/#map

Please remember to check Christmas and New Year opening times before you leave home.

The Council continues to work with Cheshire Community Action and the wider voluntary and community sector, to explore opportunities to expand the network of Welcoming Spaces and provide additional support services to residents.

A Welcoming Spaces Fund for the year 2023-24 has now launched, aimed at creating warm inclusive spaces for residents facing cost of living challenges. Grants of up to £2,500 are available to organisations wishing to set up a Welcoming Space for their local community.

More information including details on the application process can be found using the link below:

https://cheshireaction.org.uk/category/news/

26 January 2024 - 1^st round application deadline

1 March 2024 – 2^nd and final application deadline

The fund is administered by Cheshire Community Action on behalf of Cheshire West and Chester Council.

Residents in need of support due to the cost-of-living crisis can also find lots of useful information on the Council’s cost of living webpage:

www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/costofliving