Warm Spaces in South Tyneside

• 11th Jan 2023

South Tyneside Council has coordinated a network of nearly 70 warm spaces across the borough as part of its response to the cost of living crisis.

Following a Cost of Living Summit in October 2022, the establishment of a multi-agency Poverty Group and a focus on benefit maximisation, warm spaces were established in October as free places where residents can keep warm, save money, avoid social isolation and receive support and advice. Over 200 residents made use of them in October and November and over 450 in December, with many warm spaces open over Christmas. Feedback shows residents are using this to access activities and reduce loneliness.

The Council and partners – such as the VCS sector, Fire & Rescue and NHS– are providing experts in warm spaces, holding monthly calls and training, producing fortnightly newsletters to share information and are considering how to continue to support through funding, activities and warm packs.