Warm Spaces announced in Ashford as winter bites

Ashford Borough Council has announced that four of its Dahlia independent living schemes have been designated as Warm Spaces this winter to provide a welcoming and comfortable environment for local people to meet and socialise.

A free hot drink and biscuits, a range of activities, support and advice, accessible entrance to the buildings with disabled toilets, parking and free Wi-Fi are all provided by the council.

Throughout the time the warm spaces are available, the council has arranged for other professionals to attend to provide advice and guidance to residents, these include benefits advisors, Hi-Kent which supports people with hearing loss, Kent Fire & Rescue Services, sustainment officers and others.

The Dahlia schemes participating are:

• Danemore, Beachey Path, Tenterden – open every Thursday 12 noon-3pm from 4 January
• Luckley House, Little Chequers, Wye – open every Tuesday 10.30am-3.30pm from 9 January  
• Farrow Court, Stanhope Road, Ashford – open every Tuesday 10am-3pm from 9 January
• East Stour Court, Mabledon Avenue, Ashford – open every Thursday 9.30am-12 noon from
  11 January

Cllr Bill Barrett, Cabinet Member for Homes and Homelessness, said: “We piloted offering warm spaces last winter and this year we have expanded the scheme to more locations across the borough. We are opening our doors to local communities, offering everyone a free, warm and welcoming and friendly space, where you can relax and hopefully make new friends.”

For information about the national Warm Welcome Spaces campaign visit their website.