Three centres in Cambridgeshire have been designated Warm Spaces by GLL, the not-for-profit charitable social enterprise that operates ‘Better’ leisure centres on behalf of Cambridge City Council and East Cambridgeshire District Council.

The centres are: Parkside Pools and Gym, Cherry Hinton Village Leisure Centre, and The Hive Leisure Centre in Ely.

This is the second year the Warm Spaces initiative has run, having been set up in response to the 2022 winter’s cost-of-living crisis.

It will offer anyone living in the vicinity of a participating leisure centre a warm welcome, comfortable seating, the opportunity to charge a phone or device, use the free WiFi or even have a hot shower.

Wholesale food service company Brakes, has agreed to donate free tea, coffee and biscuits.

The Warm Spaces are open to leisure centre members and non-members.

Parkside offers this from Monday to Friday, 9am-4pm, Cherry Hinton on Monday, Thursday and Friday 1-3pm, and The Hive from Monday to Friday 9am-4pm.

Daryl Emes, partnership manager for Cambridgeshire, said: “As a facility at the heart of our community, we quickly became aware that a number of local residents were concerned that they might struggle to heat their homes this winter.

“As a charitable social enterprise, we wanted to help.

“Leisure centres are ideally suited to serve as warm spaces. They are easily accessible, known to everyone and a natural meeting place.

“Our staff will be on hand to offer a warm welcome to anyone wishing to make the most of our warm spaces during the difficult months ahead.”

For further information on Warm Spaces operating from Better leisure centres and libraries visit: https://www.better.org.uk/healthy-communities/warm-spaces