Belfast Council run community centres are guaranteeing an extra warm welcome to older people this winter with an extended programme of activities.
Centres operated by Belfast City Council in the four corners of the city will dedicate time each week with its new 'Warm Spaces, Warm Welcomes' campaign to support older residents in response to the ongoing challenges of the cost-of-living crisis.
The council states: "Our campaign will see each community centre dedicate time each week for older people to drop into their local community centre, where they can enjoy a chat over a hot cuppa, some light refreshments and catch up with other people in their community."
Read more: Belfast fuel poverty scheme criticised for £60,000 income threshold
Sessions are free to attend throughout December, January, and February. For information on which community centres offer warm spaces and the times, visit here.
Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Christina Black, said this support will be a "vital lifeline" for many older residents. She said: “A difficult winter lies ahead for many of us as we continue to face the challenges of the cost-of-living crisis. Quite often, our older residents are some of the most vulnerable and isolated in our city and they need that extra bit of help, particularly at this time of year.
“I’m delighted the council is acting and reaching out to help our older residents through the campaign. Our community centres are such a vital resource within local communities and this new campaign ensures our senior citizens have a safe and welcome space to visit each week.”
Older residents will be encouraged to make the most of the facilities on offer at the centre and will also have access to information on other council services.
The Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland, Eddie Lynch said: “It’s great to see the “Warm Spaces, Warm Welcomes” programme running throughout the city over the coming months. Earlier this year I contacted all councils calling for a community response to the cost-of-living crisis, so this initiative by Belfast City Council has to be applauded.
"The range of activities organised will offer older people the chance to get out of the house for a few hours and socialise in a warm community centre, which will make a big difference to anyone who might be struggling alone in a cold home.”
READ NEXT:
Belfast Council report on ethnic inequalities in city a "sobering" read
Belfast's Fountain Street pavement cafes at centre of City Hall and Stormont clash
Belfast Council says no Christmas tree switch-on or countdown for "health and safety" reasons
Belfast Council to employ more staff to cope with dual language street sign demand
For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here. To sign up to our FREE newsletters, see here.
