A Warm and Welcome Space this Winter

Leisure centres in South Oxfordshire and the Vale of White Horse have been designated Warm Spaces by GLL, the not-for-profit charitable social enterprise that operates it on behalf of South Oxfordshire and the Vale of White Horse District Council.

The new initiative was set up in response to this winter’s cost of living crisis and offers 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 and even have a hot drink.

The Warm Space will be open to all, both leisure centre members and non-members alike on weekdays from 9am until 2pm.  Spaces will include cafes and seating areas where people can take some time for themselves or have a chat with other customers or staff. 

Commenting on the Warm Spaces initiative Kevin Williams, Partnership Manager for a South Oxfordshire and the Vale of White Horses 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.”

Come along to our centre where we will offer a warm welcome, comfortable seating, the opportunity to charge a phone or device, use the free Wi-Fi or even have tea or coffee. Just let our friendly staff know that you are here as part of the warm spaces scheme and then make yourself comfortable.