Tell us: have you visited or worked at a UK 'warm bank'?

As winter descends upon the UK, millions are bracing themselves for a long and chilly season ahead. But amidst the bitter Arctic air and rising energy bills, there's a beacon of warmth and community that's been popping up in libraries across the country: warm banks.

For those who may not be familiar with the concept, warm banks are essentially public spaces where people can escape the cold and find refuge from the economic squeeze. Since 2022, when the cost of living crisis hit hard, these community hubs have sprouted up like mushrooms, providing a lifeline for those struggling to make ends meet.

The idea behind warm banks is simple yet brilliant: by providing a warm and welcoming space, people can escape the freeze and find some sense of normalcy. Many libraries have taken on this role, with some even setting up dedicated warm spaces during winter months. The charity Warm Welcome Spaces has been instrumental in facilitating these efforts, with a network of almost 6,000 community warm spaces across the UK.

But what's driving this trend? For many people, it's not just about finding warmth and comfort – it's also about social connection and community building. Working at or visiting a warm bank can be a lifeline for those feeling isolated and disconnected. "It rings alarm bells" for lawmakers, says a coordinator at the End Fuel Poverty Coalition, highlighting the urgent need for support.

So, we want to hear from you: have you visited, set up, or worked at a community warm space recently? What was your experience like? How did it make you feel? And what do you think about this innovative response to one of our most pressing social issues?

Share your stories with us and help shed light on the power of community and compassion in the face of adversity.

just had a cuppa at my local library's warm bank and I'm all fuzzy inside ! they've got games, books, comfy chairs & even free hot chocolate it's like a mini oasis from the cold outside, you know? what I love most is that it's not just about the warmth, but also about meetin' new peeps & feelin' less alone . been there during peak hours when the place was jumpin', and also when it was quiet as mouse, both times it felt like a safe space to be myself. #WarmBanksAreTheFuture #CommunityFirst #WinterBluesBeGone

Wow , I'm so glad to see libraries being used as community hubs during winter months! It's like they're taking a classic space and turning it into a cozy oasis for people who need it most. And 6,000 community warm spaces? That's just amazing !

I don’t usually comment but... I've been lucky enough to visit a warm bank once, it was a real game-changer for me . I live in a small flat that's pretty chilly, especially during winter, and energy bills are a nightmare. But this place was like walking into a cozy little hug - they had fireplaces, comfy chairs, and even free hot drinks ️. It was amazing to just relax and not have to worry about the cost of heating my own place.

But what really struck me was how friendly and welcoming everyone was. I'm an introvert, so sometimes it's hard for me to meet new people, but at this warm bank, I felt like I could just be myself without judgment . It was amazing to see so many different ages, backgrounds, and abilities all coming together in one space.

I think what's even more impressive is that these warm banks are popping up everywhere - rural areas, urban centers, you name it! And they're not just for people struggling financially; I've met loads of folks who were just looking for a social fix or some adult conversation . It just goes to show that sometimes the simplest solutions can be the most powerful ones .

I don't usually comment but I gotta say, warm banks sound like an amazing concept . I mean, who wouldn't want a cozy spot to escape the cold and just chill out? For me, it's all about the people aspect – I think it's so cool that they're creating these community spaces where folks can connect with others who are going through similar struggles. It's like, we're not alone in this, you know? I've seen some vids of warm banks on Instagram and they look so inviting! comfy sofas, hot drinks, and just a general vibe of warmth and kindness... it's like a hug for your soul .

I've got a friend who works at a library that's set up a warm bank, and it's literally been a lifesaver for them. They were struggling to pay bills during the cost-of-living crisis, but every week they'd head to this cozy space filled with comfy chairs and hot drinks – it was like stepping into a different world. The sense of community there is incredible; people just chill out and chat with each other, like they're at a relaxed family gathering . It's not just about the warmth itself, but about the connections you make when you have a safe space to relax.

I'm low-key obsessed with warm banks, tbh they're like a breath of fresh air amidst all the bleakness of winter. I've been to a few and it's crazy how much of a difference it makes just having a cozy space to chill out. For me, it's not just about the heat though - it's about feeling seen and heard too . I've met some really interesting people there who are going through similar struggles and we can have real conversations about it. It's dope how libraries and charities are stepping up to create these spaces for people in need

omg, warm banks are literally saving lives over here i was at a library warm bank last year and it was like a breath of fresh air (no pun intended) they had hot chocolate, comfy chairs, and even a little play area for kids - it felt like the coziest oasis in the middle of winter ️ my friend who's struggling to make ends meet said it gave her hope she can finally take a break from stressing about bills and just be herself... sounds like a game changer to me

omg u guys i just heard abt these warm banks popping up in libraries across the uk & its literally genius theyre like a lifesaver 4 ppl struggling 2 make ends meet during winter lol like who didnt wish they had a cozy spot 2 escape the freezin cold anyway im so down 4 these community hubs, its amazing 2 see ppl comin 2gthr & supporting each other thru tough times i feel like we need more of this kinda thing in our communities

This is just another example of how the government's policies are failing the people . I mean, we've got rising energy bills and freezing temperatures, but instead of investing in affordable housing or job creation programs, we're seeing libraries turn into community centers to provide warmth and refuge for those struggling . It's like they're putting Band-Aids on a broken system.

But you know who the real winners are here? The people who get to enjoy the benefits of these warm banks without having to pay a dime . Meanwhile, working-class families who can't even afford to heat their own homes are stuck in the cold. It's just not right.

We need systemic change, not just Band-Aid solutions. We need policies that address the root causes of poverty and inequality, not just provide temporary fixes for symptoms . Let's get serious about creating a more equitable society, instead of just patching up the problems with community centers and charity initiatives .

just been to a warm bank myself and it was literally a lifesaver , felt like I'd found my tribe after months of feeling so isolated . we had hot drinks, comfy chairs and a fire going - it's amazing how something as simple as that can make you feel human again . the volunteers there were super friendly and welcoming too . i think this is exactly what our communities need more of right now . let's keep spreading the word about these incredible warm spaces and get support for them ASAP