As the temperatures drop, a network of community-driven safe and warm spaces are providing a vital lifeline, offering more than just warmth but also combating isolation and delivering heart-warming festive spirit during the Christmas season and beyond.
These community spaces—dubbed "Safe and Warm Spaces"—are focused on bringing residents together, providing a warm, welcoming environment, and ensuring no one has to face the long winter days alone.
The idea is simple, no matter what your circumstances, the spaces offer a safe, heated place where people can gather, enjoy a warm drink and snack, and sometimes even a full meal, find companionship and get vital information if and when they need it.
Since the project launched in 2022, safe and warm spaces have supported over 14,000 residents and continue to grow every year – largely thanks to the dedicated volunteers that go over and above in Rhondda Cynon Taf!
Councillor Bob Harris, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Communities, said:
“I think it’s a valleys thing, we’re good people here in the valleys, we’re loving, caring people. We offer a warm welcome.
“I’m so proud to be part of it. We have 96 spaces across RCT – plus our libraries, so that’s well over 100 spaces where men, women and children can come to get warm, enjoy a meal and chat. This time of year, is often full of festive spirit for many – but not for everyone, it can sometimes shine a spotlight on loneliness.
“A volunteer, Adrian at the Penrhiwceiber warm space, shared his experience with us, telling us how it has helped him after his wife’s passing – that’s what it’s all about – connection, community, people, you could say its RCT Together. These warm spaces don’t just keep you warm outside, but as one member of the Llanharan group, Liz said to us – it warms you from the inside, out and that’s a lovely way to put it. We met with Barbara in Maerdy and she described it as a lifeline that’s good for everybody.
“I’d like to personally thank all the staff and volunteers across all sectors in RCT for the invaluable work you all do! You make a huge difference where it matters. If you ever wonder where festive or community sprit has gone – visit one of these spaces I know it’s definitely helped me find mine this year!”
The "Safe and Warm Spaces" initiative has significantly expanded its reach and impact and this year there are more Safe and Warm Spaces open than ever before, with around 108 venues receiving a share of £125,000 of Welsh Government Safe & Warm Spaces funding.
This is in addition to, over £2.5 Million that has been secured and allocated by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council from UK Government Shared Prosperity Fund, Welsh Government and other external funding sources which has been awarded to third and voluntary sector community groups to help support the amazing work they do across our County Borough.
The Warm and Safe Spaces are now open and will provide a safe place to stay warm, have a snack, warm cuppa and a chat.
If you’re feeling the cold and need a safe place to stay warm, have a snack, warm cuppa, a chat, charge your mobile phone, get free energy advice and even get involved in free activities – then these spaces are for you and your family.
All 13 Libraries in RCT will operate as Safe and Warm Spaces this Winter and residents will be assured of a warm welcome, and a place to relax and recharge mobile devices.
A member of the Council’s Community Development Team, Rhiannon Edwards, RCT food Coordinator , said:
“As a Council we are committed to doing all we can to support our most vulnerable residents and the organisations that support them. It’s more than just warmth, it’s essential support with no questions asked.
“For many residents, the spaces are not a luxury, but a necessity, providing a reason for people to get up, get dressed, and be part of a community. The program is specifically designed to ease financial pressures, as many attendees come because they "don't have to put their heating on" at home, but they often leave with new friends and filled with community spirit.
“The welcoming spirit of the Warm Hubs helps to reduce social isolation, especially for the old, providing an invaluable source of social contact. The atmosphere is described as "so lovely and friendly," and the social interaction "gives you a boost" and "a warm feeling inside."
This Christmas, the Safe and Warm Spaces stand as a powerful testament to the strength of community, offering a vital beacon of hope, warmth, and friendship to thousands of residents across Rhondda Cynon Taf.
To find your nearest safe and warm space please visit Safe and Warm Spaces | Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council
Residents who feel that they need extra support can contact the Council at any time via the Community Resilience Hubs by completing a ‘request for support form’ online at www.rctcbc.gov.uk/CostOfLiving.
Support will be provided by; Council Staff, Community Resilience Volunteers; 3rd Sector and community partners.
Rhondda Cynon Taf residents can also get advice on the services available through the Council’s Heat and Save Team, the services available include:
- Grant or Loan Assistance - financial aid may be available to improve the energy efficiency of homes with (examples of works).
- RCT Switch - an impartial free tariff switching advice.
- General energy efficiency advice to save energy at home.
- Advice regarding utility debts (gas, electric and water).
- Advice regarding maximising income and money management. For more information visit www.rctcbc.gov.uk/heatandsave or email the team at heatandsave@rctcbc.gov.uk.
For full details and locations on the Safe and Warm Spaces please visit
www.rctcbc.gov.uk/SafeAndWarmSpaces and for general advice on the cost of living support that is available to you, visit
www.rctcbc.gov.uk/CostOfLiving
Posted on 22/12/2025