Enjoying a hot drink and a chat in one of Wandsworth’s warm and welcoming Community Spaces is putting smiles on the faces of local people this winter
As the winter chill sets in across London, Wandsworth residents are finding comfort and support in the borough’s community spaces. A vital part of this initiative are spaces that, whether council-owned or run by local community groups with council funding, offer a warm and welcoming environment for everyone, especially for those who face the bitter cold at home. These spaces provide not only warmth but also the chance to connect with others, enjoy a hot meal or drink, and access various services that can make the colder months more manageable.
For 64-year-old Jan, a retired lawyer from Balham, the Battersea Library Community Space has become a regular part of her week. “It’s a very social experience,” Jan explains with a smile. “I come here several times a week and I feel warm as soon as I walk through the doors. My home is so cold it can be painful getting out of bed in the morning. I’ve been here so often now that there are lots of people I know, and it’s very nice to meet them and have a little chat. It’s absolutely lovely here; I look forward to coming.”
Jan is not alone in seeking the comfort these community spaces offer. Christine, a 65-year-old retired police worker, regularly attends the free coffee morning at Battersea Library’s Community Space every Tuesday at 11 am. “It’s quite a relief coming here where it’s warm and dry,” Christine shares. “I enjoy the coffee morning; the staff are very friendly and helpful, and you can meet new people. I would recommend others to come along, as you can meet different people, read the newspaper, and get warm. It’s good that there are places like this, especially since many older people are worried about the cost of heating their homes.”
The sense of community and connection in these spaces is what draws many to them. Robert, a part-time photographer who resides in Putney, enjoys quiet time at several of the local Community Spaces, including those at Putney Library, Battersea Park Library, and Battersea Library. “It’s a warm space, but it’s also a place to come to read the paper and not have to rush home,” the 59-year-old explains. “It’s more than needed because of the high winter bills and the cold. You see people coming here for warmth, and that’s the purpose of these spaces. I think it’s a really good thing because it keeps people safe and warm. Otherwise, they might be sitting at home in the cold, and that’s not a good thing.”
Elizabeth, 52, a housewife from Battersea, also finds joy in the warm social atmosphere at the library spaces. “The best thing about coming here is meeting new people and chatting,” she says. “I enjoy it here. I come to have a bit of a laugh and catch up. I love having a nice cup of coffee and biscuits. It’s a nice escape, especially on a cold day.”
The 11 libraries in Wandsworth are part of a broader initiative that provides free access to the internet, hot drinks, and a range of activities aimed at helping residents through the cold months. These include children’s events, coffee mornings, and opportunities for local residents to simply enjoy the warmth and company. The libraries have become a community hub where residents from all walks of life can feel supported and connected.
In addition to the libraries, Wandsworth’s Children’s Centres are stepping up to provide services that cater to families. These include breakfast clubs for children under five, lunch and learn sessions, as well as stay-and-play activities. Parents can also take advantage of charging stations for their phones, and in some locations, shower and washing facilities are available. Older children can finish their homework in a warm, friendly environment with internet access, and evening meals are also provided.
This network of community support has been bolstered by Wandsworth Council’s £15 million Cost of Living Support Fund, the largest such fund in London. Council Leader Simon Hogg expressed the importance of these initiatives, saying, “The Council is determined to do all we can to make a difference by offering a compassionate helping hand and supporting our residents through these difficult winter months. Our £15 million Cost of Living support fund is the biggest and most generous in London, and we will continue to invest it where it makes the most difference in people’s lives.”
The winter months can be a difficult time for many, particularly for older residents and those struggling to make ends meet. However, thanks to the warmth, social opportunities, and essential services offered by Wandsworth’s community spaces, residents are finding solace and support during these challenging times. These spaces not only help people stay warm but also provide a sense of belonging, offering an opportunity to connect and make lasting memories during the colder months.
