This winter, the Warm Welcome project turns Cardiff City Stadium into a warm community Hub aiming to tackle fuel poverty and social isolation by offering warmth, companionship, and support to those in need. With the help of funding from the National Grid, Cardiff City FC Community Foundation are offering weekly sessions to locals for a chance to chat and an exchange of valuable energy saving tips, over some hot drinks and refreshments.

On the 12th December, the Community Foundation launched the Warm Welcome initiative at the Ninian Lounge, now opening its doors every Tuesday until March. Fuel poverty isn’t just a financial strain; it can also lead to social isolation. By creating weekly sessions, we are offering space where people can come together, share experiences, & find solace in a supportive group. Each weekly Warm Hub session is free of charge and will be facilitated by our dedicated team and volunteers.

In line with our mission to changing lives and transforming communities, we will provide Warm Home Packs to the initial 200 participants. These packs include essentials like draft excluders, blankets, hot water bottle and information to empower individuals to navigate challenges at home.

Additionally - Hats off to our BTEC Sport Level 3 students on our Post-16 Education programme, who got stuck in and helped prepare each Warm Home Pack ahead of the launch!

Zac Lyndon-Jones, Head of Community Inclusion, said:

“We’re very grateful to the National Grid Electricity Distribution’s Community Matters Fund for supporting our Warm Welcome project. Amidst the winter chill, our Warm Welcome at Cardiff City Stadium offers a haven to combat fuel poverty while fostering new connections. We're genuinely thrilled to host a weekly 'match-up' where individuals can meet, converse, and discover ways to stay warm.”

Chris Hayton, Director of Corporate Affairs at National Grid, also said:

"Unfortunately, we know that many people will struggle to keep their homes warm this winter. At a time when addressing fuel poverty has never been more critical, our Community Matters Fund will support local groups to deliver help where it’s most needed. We're looking forward to working with community groups like CCFC Community Foundation to create positive change and to seeing the results of their hard work.”

Working with partners we’ll ensure that sessions not only provide warmth & comfort but a network of comprehensive support services, that connect beneficiaries to the right practical assistance.