North Tyneside Council’s Warm Welcome scheme is back this winter, offering free, friendly spaces across the Borough to help residents stay warm, connect with others and be supported during the colder months.
More than 20 venues, including community hubs, libraries, churches and local organisations will open their doors each week.
Visitors can enjoy free hot drinks, Wi-Fi and computer access, comfortable seating and baby-friendly facilities. Many spaces also offer books, puzzles and games, alongside social activities such as craft sessions, bingo and film screenings.
Some venues go further, with cafés, hot meals, baked goods and specialist support. Libraries provide free local history services like Ancestry and Find My Past, while hubs host digital skills workshops and Care and Connect drop-ins for advice.
Other locations offer energy and income support, signposting to welfare services and unique community activities.
Jubilee Court in Annitsford will host a Warm Welcome every Wednesday from 10am to 1.30pm, with tea and coffee available and opportunities to join arts and crafts, quizzes and bingo. Resident Jan said:
“I feel really happy that Jubilee Court Community Centre is now being used regularly again. I love having sessions on a Wednesday – Warm Welcome has made the community centre a community centre again. The space hasn’t been used for a while and it’s bringing residents back together, people who haven’t really ventured out since Covid.”
The scheme is funded through the Household Support Fund, part of the council’s wider package to help residents with food, fuel and essential living costs.
Elected Mayor Karen Clark said: “I’m really pleased that our Warm Welcome spaces are returning this year. They offer residents a warm, safe place to spend time, meet others and access support through the colder months. A huge thank you to all those who have offered up their space to support our residents.”
Warm Welcome spaces are free, open to everyone and require no booking. Opening hours vary, with some venues offering extended access throughout the day.
A full list of venues, opening times and extra information is available here: Warm Welcome venues | North Tyneside Council