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Six warm welcoming places

As the temperature drops here is a reminder of some local spaces to visit and enjoy some company, meet new people or simply relax, read or work while staying warm.

Here are just some examples:

1. Libraries

library card

All six Council-managed libraries across the borough are open to everyone, offering a warm and welcoming space and free WiFi. Hot drinks and a selection of board and card games are available at our libraries in Bexleyheath, Crayford, Erith, Sidcup, Thamesmead and Welling. 

Community-managed libraries - including those in Bexley Village, North Heath, Belvedere and Blackfen - also offer warm spaces for residents.

Find out more about Bexley libraries

2. Age UK Befriending Cafés

These cafés offer tea, a chat and a chance to meet new people - with games, quizzes and even the occasional guest speaker. The first visit is free, with the opportunity to sign up as a member for £10 per month for unlimited Befriending Café visits for free tea, coffee and biscuits. 

Find out more at Age UK

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3. Erith Exchange

Elderly man and women who is a carer smiling

The Exchange doors are open for all to use our ‘Town Square’ - the main space at The Exchange - every Wednesday to Saturday from 10.30am to 4.30pm. You can use the space to work, study, meet, or simply to keep warm, for free. 

For more information visit the Exchange Erith

4. Salvation Army

The Salvation Army provide free tea, coffee and biscuits as well as soup and a roll at lunchtime. They also have free WiFi and accessible toilets. All ages welcome. Tuesday and Fridays 10am to 2pm.

For more information visit Salvation Army

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5. Churches

Image of people talking

Churches right across the borough offer a range of welcoming warm spaces, including: dementia-friendly, free community cafés offering free coffee, tea, biscuits, cakes, conversation and board games. Some offer Wi-Fi, activities and books to take away. Visit your local church for more details.

6. Peabody Cosy Corners

Cosy Corners are offered at some of Peabody’s community centres based in and around Thamesmead and everyone is welcome. Each provides free tea and coffee, energy saving advice, use of charging points and support and advice about managing the cost of living. 

Contact us at communications@bexley.gov.uk if you would like to add your organisation to our ‘warm space’ web pages.   

For more information visit Peabody

Photograph of a hot drink and a winter scarf