Beacon opens doors as ‘Warm Space’ this winter

The home of the Foundation of Light will join forces with other voluntary and community sector partners to join the City Council’s network of warm spaces across Sunderland this winter.

The warm space venue will offer residents a place to go where they can access a range of services and facilities this winter.

As well as offering a free, relaxing and informal warm space with internet access and family friendly activities, the Beacon of Light will also be providing a free hot drink and snack to those who need it.

The community hub hopes that residents will use the facility to combat loneliness and the ever-growing cost-of-living crisis this winter.

Residents will be able to access the Beacon of Light seven days a week, from 3:30pm til 6:30pm on weekdays and 10am til 1pm on weekends.

Newspapers, books, games, television and other resources will also be on offer as well as advice and guidance to signpost visitors to other supportive programmes.

The announcement comes as the Foundation of Light announced its ‘Small Change Big Difference’ campaign this week, a campaign which aims to raise money to support communities who are increasingly feeling the impact of the cost-of-living crisis and rising energy costs.

‘Small Change Big Difference’ aims to tackle the difficulties caused by the cost-of-living, encouraging Sunderland AFC fans and members of the public to donate a small amount each month – if they can - to make a big difference to the lives of local people.

Foundation of Light Chief Executive Lesley Spuhler OBE DL said: “Times are increasingly tough for many across the country, and we are seeing more and more families needing support and help, whether it’s food during the school holidays, a place to keep warm or support to find work and learning opportunities.

“We are working hard to provide front line support across Sunderland, South Tyneside and Country Durham in some of the most deprived areas of the UK. Young and old, the cost-of-living crisis does not discriminate, and we are seeing a rise in demand for a number of our programmes, at a time when our funding opportunities and charitable giving is falling.”

Details of the Warm Spaces can be found at: www.sunderland.gov.uk/warm-spaces

Timings:
Monday 3.30pm-6.30pm
Tuesday 3.30pm-6.30pm
Wednesday 3.30pm-6.30pm
Thursday 3.30pm-6.30pm
Friday 3.30pm-6.30pm
Saturday 10am-1pm
Sunday 10am-1pm