Newcastle College to welcome public into warm spaces

Newcastle College is opening its doors to help keep people warm this winter, as the cost-of-living crisis deepens. The College will open up to the community twice a week, providing a safe, warm space with access to hot food and a range of activities and digital support.

As well as having the heating on, hot drinks and soup are available free of charge, along with free internet and electricity access and a range of films, craft activities and board games. There will even be support with CV writing and job searching available one day a week.

Launching this week, as part of a project that will expand to partner with a similarly impactful offer from Newcastle United Foundation, the College is initially open to the public twice a week but will look at offering additional times if it’s needed.

Principal Scott Bullock explains: “We consider Newcastle College to be at the heart of our community and we want to provide for that community during this difficult time.

“The weather has really started to turn cold, and nobody should have to face the choice between heating or eating. We want to make sure that the most vulnerable people in our community can come and keep warm and safe, and so our warm spaces are open to everybody. There will be warm meals provided and there will be a range of crafts and activities for everyone.”

On Fridays, the College will offer additional IT access and support with things such as CV writing and job searching, something that Scott says is at the core of what the college is here for.

He continues: “Our role in the North East is to enable social mobility and economic prosperity and make real impact in the local area. We’re here to help people of all ages and backgrounds whatever their circumstances. Part of that is providing access to technology, but we also want to provide as much practical advice and support as possible too.

“It’s not just about keeping warm, it’s a safe space and a safe community that I hope can really make a difference to people in our local area.”

There is no booking or registration required to make use of Newcastle College’s warm spaces, simply turn up at the locations on the days and times listed below.

Tuesday 5pm-7.30pm
HE Hub Armstrong House
Rye Hill Campus
Scotswood Road
NE4 7SA

Friday 1pm -3.30pm
Riverside Dene Campus
Cruddas Park
Newcastle Upon Tyne
NE4 7RW