There’s no denying there are tough times ahead.

Energy prices are rising astronomically and the cost of living crisis is a worry for most of us.

It’s important for those living in Bridport to know that there is help available – and that includes a new initiative being launched by Bridport Town Council with support from community groups.  

Warm hubs are to become accessible for anyone who needs a warm and friendly place to enjoy the company of others.  

The town council said it was concerned about the challenging winter ahead for many residents and wanted to ensure there were warm hubs available in the town.

After talking to community venues and places of worship, venues already offering such a space - the library, coffee mornings and various lunches – were mapped.

Looking for gaps in provision, the town council has decided to trial a café at Bridport Youth and Community Centre on a Tuesday and Chapel in the Garden on a Thursday with the support of Brit Valley Rotary and Bridport Emergency Volunteers.

Bridport and Lyme Regis News:

On Wednesdays, the United Reformed Church is running a morning café followed by soup and toastie lunch.

In December and January there will be new sessions at St Mary’s and St Swithun’s churches to add to the help available.

One of the first organisations to get involved was Chapel in the Garden. Rev Lizzie Harley said: "Each year we try to provide what is most needed for the community. This warm room initiative is one way we can do that and I love that it involves getting the room cosy, chatting away, making food and sharing time together.

“All are welcome, and that is delightfully simple and something I'm so happy to be a part of".

Anyone is welcome at the warm hubs, whether you are in search of company, a place to sit and work or a hot drink served by super friendly volunteers. The warm hub sessions are currently:

Tuesdays 10 – 1

Cafe, newspapers, Wi-Fi, board games at Bridport Youth and  Community Centre, Gundry Lane, DT6 3RL.

St Mary and St Catherine's Church in Bridport will take place every Tuesday until the end of February except from Tuesday, December 27. Starting at 12:30 there will be soup, cheese and bread. Free to enter. 

Wednesdays and Saturdays 10 – 12

Thursdays 11 – 2 

Café, newspapers, games at Chapel in the Garden, Rax Lane (entrance via the alleyway behind The Lyric Theatre on Barrack St).

Wednesdays 10 – 4 

Cafe followed by soup & toasties at United Reformed Church, East Street, DT6 3FG