Local community space offering relief from winter blues

As the winter chill deepens and Blue Monday (January 20) approaches, Westbank Community Health and Care in Exminster is inviting the community to Warmwell, its newly upgraded warm space. Designed to ease cost-of-living pressures, combat loneliness, and provide relief from the seasonal blues, Warmwell offers a welcoming environment for anyone in need of warmth and companionship.

Warmwell is part of Westbank’s Healthy Living Centre, which has undergone recent improvements to better serve the community. Head of Fundraising and Marketing Katie Elliott said the space is intended to provide practical and emotional support during a challenging time of year.

“We want everyone to know that there’s a warm welcome for them here at Westbank,” said Katie. “As Devon’s foremost health and wellbeing charity, we are keenly aware of the pressures people face, particularly during the winter months when things can seem bleak.”

Katie highlighted the upgraded facilities, including a new kitchen corner and the Community Larder, where visitors can help themselves to warm drinks and store cupboard essentials. “We also provide advice on staying warm at home and share information about organisations that can offer additional support,” she added.

Warmwell is open to all from 10am to 8pm on Mondays and 10am to 4pm from Tuesday to Friday at Farm House Rise in Exminster. Donations are welcomed to help sustain this free service, but anyone can drop in without any obligation.

Katie explained that Warmwell isn’t just about keeping warm but also about fostering social connections. “Whether you want a comfortable space to relax or are looking for social interaction, you’ll find it here at Westbank. We’re looking forward to welcoming as many people as possible during Warm Welcome Week and throughout the remainder of winter,” she said.

The initiative is part of the national Warm Welcome Campaign, which promotes the importance of community spaces where people can connect, belong, and find support close to home. By offering a space like Warmwell, Westbank hopes to create a sanctuary from the cold and the struggles many face during the colder months.

Warmwell is open during Warm Welcome Week, from Monday 20th to Sunday 26th January, and will remain available throughout the winter. For those feeling the weight of the season, it provides not just physical warmth but a vital sense of connection and care.