How to Set Up Community Warm Hubs for Pensioners This Christmas and Winter

As energy prices continue to rise, and with the stopping of Winter Fuel Allowance to many pensioners,  pensioners and vulnerable members of our communities will face difficulties keeping their homes warm this winter. 

Community warm hubs are a fantastic way to provide safe, welcoming spaces where people can find comfort, companionship, and warmth. 

Here’s how to set up and run a warm hub to support pensioners and others in your community this Christmas and winter season.

1. Define Your Purpose and Scope

To set up a warm hub, it’s essential to start with a clear purpose and vision. Are you aiming to provide warmth, social engagement, or both? Decide if your hub will focus solely on pensioners or open its doors to other community members in need. Some questions to consider:

What hours and days will the hub operate?

What resources (e.g., food, blankets, hot drinks) will you provide?

What activities (e.g., games, classes, holiday events) could help make it a lively and engaging place?

What level of funding will be required, and how will it be managed?

A well-defined purpose will guide every decision, from choosing a location to selecting volunteers.

2. Find a Suitable Location

The best locations for warm hubs are central, accessible, and equipped to handle a steady flow of visitors. Good options include:

Libraries

Community centres

Church halls

Schools (during holidays)

Check local regulations and make sure the space is safe, with reliable heating, accessible toilets, and comfortable seating. Ideally, choose a location near public transport routes, making it easy for elderly visitors to attend.

3. Engage the community and Seek Partnerships

Setting up and maintaining a warm hub is a community effort. Partnering with local organisations can be a major help:

Local councils may offer funding or resources.

Charities and support groups can provide training or assistance with outreach.

Local businesses might donate supplies like tea, coffee, blankets, or even Christmas decorations.

Reach out to local charities like Age UK, community churches, food banks, and local shops to spread the word and secure partnerships.

4. Recruit and Train Volunteers

A warm hub’s success relies on a team of dedicated volunteers. Look for people who are empathetic, patient, and experienced in interacting with older adults. Basic training in safeguarding, first aid, and hospitality will ensure that everyone feels safe and welcome.

Consider creating a rota system for volunteers to cover opening hours without fatigue. If possible, organise training sessions on how to assist elderly people with mobility issues, address their dietary needs, and manage basic medical concerns.

5. Prepare Facilities and Amenities

Ensuring a warm, cosy environment is key. Here’s what to include:

Heating: Keep the space warm throughout opening hours.

Comfortable seating: Arrange chairs and sofas in small groups to encourage conversation.

Hot drinks and snacks: Offer free tea, coffee, biscuits, and soups. Consider catering to common dietary restrictions among older adults.

Blankets: Place extra blankets around for those who need them.

Add holiday decorations to make the space cheerful and welcoming. Organise some seasonal treats, like mince pies, for a special touch during Christmas.

6. Plan Activities and Social Engagement

Pensioners coming to a warm hub may also be looking for social interaction. To keep spirits high, consider activities such as:

Game afternoons with bingo, cards, or board games.

Craft workshops like knitting, card-making, or painting.

Film screenings of classic films or Christmas specials.

Guest speakers or entertainment like local musicians or storytellers.

Exercise classes designed for older adults, such as chair yoga or simple stretches.

These activities can brighten visitors’ days and offer them a reason to keep coming back.

7. Advertise and Raise Awareness

Once your warm hub is ready, it’s time to spread the word. Here are ways to reach pensioners and community members:

Flyers in community centres, post offices, and libraries.

Social media and community forums.

Local newspapers and radio.

Doctor’s surgeries, pharmacies, and shops that are frequented by pensioners.

Clearly communicate the opening times, location, and facilities available. Highlight any free services, such as tea, biscuits, or special Christmas events, to attract those who might otherwise stay home.

8. Measure Impact and Seek Feedback

Gather feedback from visitors to understand what’s working and what could be improved. You might set up a suggestion box or conduct informal chats with attendees to capture their thoughts. Use this feedback to adapt and improve the hub experience throughout the season.

9. Secure Funding and Plan for the Future

Setting up a warm hub requires ongoing funding for resources, activities, and facilities. Grants from local councils, sponsorship from businesses, or donations from individuals can help. Consider setting up a simple donation page and sharing stories of your impact to encourage support.

If your warm hub proves successful, consider extending it to run through the colder months or even year-round.

10. Create a Festive Atmosphere

Lastly, add a touch of Christmas cheer to your warm hub. Consider organising a Christmas dinner or a small gathering with holiday music, lights, and festive treats. Simple touches like Christmas crackers, carolling sessions, and gift exchanges can make pensioners feel loved and valued during this season.

Final Thoughts

A warm hub can be a lifeline during the winter, not just for the physical warmth it provides but for the companionship and sense of community. By offering a safe, cheerful, and engaging space, you can make a significant difference in the lives of pensioners this Christmas and throughout the winter months.

Together, we can create a community that cares for everyone, especially those most vulnerable, during these chilly months.