The Sands Centre to offer a warm welcome this winter

The Sands Centre in Carlisle has been designated a Warm Space by GLL, the not-for-profit charitable social enterprise that operates it on behalf of Cumberland Council.

The new initiative has been set up in response to this winter’s cost of living crisis and will offer anyone living in the vicinity of a participating leisure centre a warm welcome, comfortable seating, the opportunity to charge a phone or device, use the free WiFi or even have a hot shower.  In addition, leading wholesale food service company Brakes, has agreed to donate free tea, coffee and biscuits.

The Warm Space will be open to all, both leisure centre members and non-members alike from Friday 1st December 2023 until end of March
2024.

Commenting on the Warm Spaces initiative, The General Manager at The Sands Centre said: “As a facility at the heart of our local community we quickly became aware that a number of local residents were concerned that they might struggle to heat their homes this winter and as a charitable social enterprise we wanted to help.

Leisure centres are ideally suited to serve as warm spaces, they are easily accessible, known to everyone and a natural meeting place. Our staff will be on hand to offer a warm welcome to anyone wishing to make the most of our warm space during the difficult months ahead."

Location:                          The Sands Centre

Starting Date:                  4th December 2023 (Monday – Friday)

Finishing Date:                29th Feb 2024

Time:                               9am – 11am & 2pm -4pm

Facility Provision:            Seated area with table and chairs and access to toilets

Activities (if any):            pay and play Activities available at an additional charge (at users discretion)

Food / Drink (if any):      Food and drink can be purchased from the café. No other food and drink is permitted.