Warm spaces across Lancashire offering refuge during Winter months
Charities and groups support communities with free activities and hot drinks
Last updated 9th Jan 2026
As temperatures drop, community organisations across Lancashire are providing Warm Spaces to help residents stay warm, safe, and socially-connected, during the coldest months of the year.
The Warm Spaces scheme, initiated by Lancashire County Council, offers free hot drinks, activities, and a safe environment for anyone seeking comfort. Initially launched in council libraries, the Warm Spaces Grant Scheme has since expanded, allowing voluntary groups, community organisations, and faith groups to apply for grants of up to £750 to create or enhance warm spaces in local areas.
Veterans in Communities in Rossendale, Ember and Blossom Community Interest Company in Wyre, and Trinity Methodist Church near Houghton are three of the groups awarded funding this year to provide Warm Spaces for their local communities.
Veterans in Communities aims to reduce isolation and improve wellbeing by offering refreshments, activities, practical support, and peer-to-peer help targeted towards veterans, ex-service personnel, emergency service workers, and their families.
Operations manager at Veterans in Communities, Phil Speddy, said, “People can come in here and just relax and be themselves. Nobody leaves anybody out… We can help and assist any veteran or ex-service personnel, blue lights, and their families for anything, whether it be social inclusion groups, peer-to-peer, or therapy.”
Wyre-based Ember and Blossom CIC welcomed around 200 guests on Christmas Day to enjoy a freshly cooked three-course meal in a heated and welcoming space, entirely free of charge.
Meanwhile, Trinity Methodist Church provides a Wednesday Warm Space with soup and snacks, alongside craft activities, board games, and support services for 20–30 people each week.
Beyond warmth and refreshments, the Warm Spaces scheme offers opportunities to try new hobbies, make friends, and combat feelings of loneliness or isolation. Members have shared their experiences of finding comfort, purpose, and community within these spaces.
Arts and crafts coordinator at Veterans in Communities, Darren Horsnell, explained how the scheme transformed his outlook. “For me, to give back is better than any medication… It’s a great feeling, seeing their faces light up.”
Cabinet member for Health and Wellbeing at Lancashire County Council, Councillor Daniel Matchett, praised the initiative: "The Warm Spaces scheme is… a fantastic way to make new friends and try out hobbies and activities for free.”
Residents interested in visiting Warm Spaces or learning more about the scheme can find information on the Lancashire County Council website. Details about staying safe and warm during winter are also available through Winter in Lancashire.