A warm welcome this winter

Henley Leisure Centre in South Oxfordshire has been designated a Warm Welcome Space by GLL, the not-for-profit charitable social enterprise that operates it on behalf of South Oxfordshire District Council.

Warm Welcome exists to turn poverty and isolation into warmth and local connection through the power of local Spaces made by and for the community. Formed in the depths of the worst Cost of Living Crisis in 70 years, the campaign emerged as a collective response to resource, champion and connect Warm Welcome Spaces in every community across the UK.

The Centre 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 Wi-Fi or even have a hot shower.  We will also be offering one free hot drink of tea or coffee per visit, just let our friendly team know that you are here for the scheme.

The Warm Space will be open to all, both leisure centre members and non-members alike on weekdays from 9-2pm. A full list of participating centres is below:

Commenting on the Warm Spaces initiative Alex Norris, General Manager at Henley leisure 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.”