Warm Hubs: Supporting Our Community Through the Winter
- Dan Coast
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
This winter, 36 local groups came together to deliver Warm Hub opportunities across Newport, offering safe, welcoming spaces where residents could connect, find support, and access essential services during one of the most isolating times of the year.
Funding and Support
Applications to host Warm Hubs opened in September, with funding made available through the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund. Demand was high applications totalled nearly double the available budget. Thanks to additional support from the Welsh Government and Newport City Council, all eligible schemes received funding. In total, £118,404.16 was distributed to community groups across Newport to run the programme.
More Than Just Warmth
The diversity of activities and the widespread availability of hubs meant there was something for nearly everyone, right on their doorstep. Far beyond just offering a warm drink and a place to sit, Warm Hubs became vibrant community spaces.
This year’s hubs featured a wide range of activities, including:
Wellbeing and personal development: Art, sports, and mindfulness sessions
Practical skills: Cooking, sewing, and energy-saving workshops
Community building: Social meetups and peer support networks
Most importantly, these hubs offered a lifeline of connection—bringing people together to form lasting friendships and a stronger sense of community.
Impact at a Glance
Sessions delivered: 473
Total attendance: 12,945
Average attendance per session: 27
Stories That Matter
We visited several hubs throughout the winter to capture their impact firsthand. Watch our video case studies, showcasing the stories, smiles, and spirit behind the numbers.
Video Case Studies
We’re also incredibly thankful to the groups who shared testimonials and reflections from participants—real voices showing the power of community-led support.
"After losing my husband, I’ve spent many winters feeling lonely and isolated. The Warm Hub has been a place where I can connect with others, even if just for a little while. The heated blankets have made such a difference—they help me feel physically warm, but they also bring me a sense of comfort and security. The volunteers are so kind, and the safe space they provide makes me feel cared for and less alone. It’s been a lifeline during a time that’s often been very hard.
"I loved how this workshop gave me the freedom to be creative without pressure. It was a much-needed break, and I left feeling lighter and more connected to myself. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, and I appreciated the chance to express my emotions through art in such a supportive space. Can’t wait for the next one!"
"Pamper Night was a truly special experience. It felt amazing to be in a space that celebrated our wellbeing and reminded us to care for ourselves as much as we care for others. The atmosphere was warm, welcoming, and filled with positive energy. I left feeling refreshed, connected, and grateful for this beautiful community."
"The Sewing Club has been such a wonderful space for both myself and my daughter. It’s more than just learning a skill—it’s about connecting, unwinding, and feeling a part of a warm, creative community. Each session leaves us feeling accomplished and uplifted, and we always look forward to coming back!"
"This session was such a gift! Sipping chai, painting, and simply being present in a warm, supportive space helped me relax and recharge in a way I didn’t know I needed. It reminded me how important it is to take time for myself, and I left feeling lighter, more inspired"
"This workshop was an incredible experience! The process of carving and printing felt so therapeutic, and seeing my ideas come to life on paper was truly empowering. It reminded me of the power of creativity in telling our own stories. I left feeling inspired, accomplished, and excited to continue exploring this art form!"
'' Sharing stories over a cup of tea while knitting has been the main highlight to my week.''
“This space has been a lifesaver for me during the cold months. It’s not just about staying warm, it’s about meeting people and feeling part of something."
“This hub has been a lifeline, offering warmth, good food, and a sense of community when it’s needed most.”
“I was embarrassed to ask for help so coming to a community workshop made it easier for me to accept the help.”
"I spend most of my time alone, and the winters can feel so long and lonely. The Warm Hub has changed that for me. It’s a place where I can enjoy a hot cup of tea, chat with others, and feel like part of the community. The heated blankets are a wonderful addition—sometimes, just being wrapped up in one feels like a little piece of happiness in my day. It’s a small gesture, but it makes me feel cared for and connected, even when the outside world feels so cold."
Finally, a big thank you to the following groups who hosted Warm Hub sessions this year
Active Lives | Faith Church | Newport Chinese Community Centre | Newport Sudanese Community | Regeneration Association Somerton Community at Large (RASCAL) | St. Andrew's Primary School |
And Breathe | Feed Newport CIC | Newport City Radio | No Comply Skatepark | Roots Newport | The Gap Wales - the Sanctuary |
Community House Eton Road | Gaer Community Family Learning | NEWPORT DIYANET COMMUNITY CENTRE | Pillgwenlly Millennium Trust ltd | Southwales Sports Club | The Pill Trust |
CultureMindsUK | Iqra Community centre | Newport International Church | Pobl Group | St Basil & St Gwladys Community Room | TIN SHED THEATRE COMMUNITY INTEREST COMPANY (The Place) |
Cynefin Pamoja | Maindee Unlimited | Newport Live | RE:MAKE Newport | St Joseph's Boxing Club | Y Plant Affricannaidd CIC |
Duffryn Community Link | Marshfield Village Hall | Newport Mind ( part of Mind in Gwent) | Reality Theatre CIC | St Julians Methodist Church | YMCO (Young Muslim and Community Organisation) |