'Warm Spaces' project in Barnet

Burnt Oak Leisure Centre has been designated a Warm Space by GLL, the not-for-profit charitable social enterprise that operates on behalf of Barnet Council.

The initiative has been set up in response to this winter’s cost of living crisis, with many residents in Barnet feeling the pressures of increased energy costs having to choose between heating and eating this winter. Our warm space will try to ensure that anyone in Barnet who is cold knows where they can go to get warm, stay warm and enjoy a little company and some hot refreshments. Burnt Oak Leisure Centre will offer anyone living locally a warm welcome, comfortable seating, the opportunity to charge a phone or device, use the free WiFi, and free hot drink/biscuit.

Local residents will be able to keep warm, charge a phone and enjoy a friendly chat over a cuppa with our new Warm Spaces Scheme. Feel free to drop-in during the times below and enjoy the company of your community. We'll also be able to sign post to local leisure and sport activities available at the centre and local area.

Centre – Burnt Oak Leisure Centre (Watling Ave, Edgware HA8 0NP)

Tuesdays:  13:00 - 15:00

Thursdays: 13:00 - 15:00

Start date: Tuesday 5th December 2023

Commenting on the Warm Spaces initiative Brian Page, General Manager at Burnt Oak 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.”

Throughout the winter months, Better customers and non-customers will be welcomed by our staff to use our ‘Warm space’ where you can get a hot drink, play a board game or just spend some quiet time reading a book.

The scheme is also being supported by AgeUK Barnet who will be helping to promote the scheme amongst their service users.