Support for families and young people this winter

Warm Spaces

• The Westminster council has a total of 21 spaces, which can be located here (https://warm.open-innovations.org/directories)
• 24 warm spaces can also be found across RBKC, which can be found here (https://warm.open-innovations.org/directories)
• Warm Home local grant - The Warm Homes Local Grant is a new scheme to provide free home improvements like insulation, heat pump or solar panels in privately owned homes. It will help low-income households heat their homes, save money and reduce the potential for damp and mold. Apply online:  https://www.gov.uk/apply-warm-homes-local-grant
   

Free Events taking place

• Chelsea Winter Village: free and costly activities but entry is free
• Outside of the two boroughs: Union Chapel Carols by Candlelight on 22 December, National Churches Trust Carol Concert
   

Library events

• Age UK digital support at Paddington Library: on 17 December, participants can bring along their device such as a smartphone or iPad if they have one. Booking is not necessary and further information can be requested from Sarah (07399301938 or email under sarah.robinson@ageukwestminster.org.uk
• Coffee morning at Queen‘s Park Library: on 15 December from 10:30-11:30 am, booking is not required and participation is free (https://www.westminster.gov.uk/event/coffee-morning-queens-park-library)

Grenfell support

Community drop ins to apply for Grenfell Community Support (https://www.rbkc.gov.uk/grenfell-response-and-recovery/grenfell-support-2024-2028/grenfell-community-support-application):

• Kensington Leisure Centre, Silchester Road, every Tuesday 11am-2pm
• Baseline Studios, Whitchurch Road, every Thursday 11am-2pm
• Clements James Centre, 95 Sirdar Road, every Friday 11am-2pm
• Emailing The Grenfell Foundation under info@grenfellfoundation.org.uk, the team will offer support and advice as needed
   

Domestic violence support

• The National Domestic Violence Helpline is available 24/7, including during the holidays under 0808 2000 247
• Housing Solutions emergency line for Kensington and Chelsea: open during the holidays and can help find emergency housing, they can be reached under 02073613008, open from 5pm-9am on weekdays and 24h on holidays and weekends
• Angelou Partnership: ten organisations have partnered together to help women and girls experiencing domestic or sexual violence including in both Kensington and Chelsea and Westminster
   

Housing and affordability

Holiday activities and food programme for children aged 4 to 16 eligible for free school meals during school holidays -  https://ourcity.org.uk/haf-programme

Discretionary Housing Payment (WCC) – an extra payment towards rental costs. Means tested. Apply online: 

Westminster Local Hardship Fund (Household support grant extension) – helps households most in need to pay for essentials such as food and utilities. Tel: 0808 278 7834 or Email WLHF@westminstercab.org.uk

Green Doctors – London based charity offering free and impartial energy advice to low income households, over 65s or those with long term health conditions or disabilities. 

Affordable broadband - some broadband providers can offer social tariffs for London residents. Check the handy comparison chart showing offers and eligibility. 

Community Wardrobe Regent Hall- Community Wardrobe has been created for those impacted by the Cost of Living crisis and in need of clothing. It relies on donations and is staffed by volunteers from their Church and local community. Community Wardrobe offers good-quality pre-loved clothing, supporting families and individuals with women's, men's, and children's clothing, including a wide range of school uniforms and work/smart wear. The Community Wardrobe accept self-referrals and referrals from agencies working with families and individuals. 

See our mental health support during the winter article and our cost of living and winter support articles for more.