Better leisure centres to offer a warm welcome this winter
GLL, the charitable social enterprise that operates municipal leisure centres on behalf of 50 local authorities under its Better brand, has today announced that it will be offering up its facilities as dedicated Warm Spaces this winter.
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 to have a hot shower. In addition, leading wholesale food service company Brakes, has agreed to donate free tea, coffee and biscuits.
The scheme, which is thought to be the first of its kind for the leisure industry, is initially being rolled out across 50 leisure centres and will span the whole of the UK. It is supported by Age UK, with local collaborations taking place with community food banks, charities and Citizen’s Advice Bureaux.
Commenting on the launch of the Warm Spaces initiative, Gareth Kirk, GLL chair said: “As a charitable social enterprise, whose ethos is to give back to local communities, we knew we had to step up and do our bit to help those struggling to heat their homes this winter.
“Our facilities are at the heart of local communities and are ideally suited to serve as Warm Spaces. They are easily accessible, known to local residents and are natural places to socialise. Our staff will be on hand to offer a warm welcome to anyone, whether they are leisure centre members or not, who are in need of a place of respite during the coming months.
Paul Nieduszynski, Chief Commercial Officer for Brakes and Sysco GB said: “We are delighted to be supporting such a fantastic initiative. This winter is going to be tough for so many people but Warm Spaces offers a lifeline to those who are struggling to heat their own homes by giving them somewhere to go for warmth, activities and the company of others. This sort of initiative links perfectly to our wider company purpose of connecting the world to share food and care for one another.”
For further information and to find a list of participating Better leisure centres visit: https://www.better.org.uk/healthy-communities/warm-spaces