Places for People – the UK’s leading Social Enterprise – has announced it will provide a warm space for people in Preston this winter.
Working with the city’s council, the company will open its Millbank Wellbeing Centre as a Warm Hub, offering local people the chance to use the warm community space, enjoy refreshments, play games, and meet new people.
The news comes as Places for People aims to extend its support to people across the country; in October, it announced its three Brio Retirement Living developments in Aberdeen, London and the Cotswolds would also open as Warm Hubs. Katie Procter, head of supported housing at Places for People explained: “We know that people are struggling with increasing energy costs and fearing for their finances.
“We are finding ways to help, offering respite and ensuring those in need have somewhere that’s not only safe and warm, but a place in which they can socialise and be part of a community.”
Millbank is part of Places for People, offering a Supported Housing Unit for homeless vulnerable families. The Centre helps visitors with a range of issues – including budgeting, housing, benefits and community involvement. The Centre also runs different activities involving the local community and is open at other times of the week to offer a jobs club, young parents advice club, and a sexual health service.
Katie continued: “Millbank is a well-used space, but we are hoping this initiative – and the support and reach of the Council – will encourage even more local people to venture inside to stay warm, meet new friends and get the support they need this winter.”
Warm Hubs aim to support local people who may be at risk of fuel poverty or may be feeling lonely or isolated. A Warm Hub can be any community building and will provide a warm and friendly environment for people to socialise over refreshments and take part in activities. The Warm Hub at Millbank will open to all from 12-3pm each Friday. Find out more at: https://warmspaces.org/
