This year Voluntary Action Leeds is once again working with Leeds City Council and Leeds Community Anchor Network to develop a citywide network of Welcome Spaces which will provide places for people to come together and make connections through the winter months.

Last year over 120 voluntary and faith-based organisations stepped forward to become part of the network, with the busiest months seeing over 12,000 recorded visits to spaces across Leeds. We know from the feedback that in the best spaces people made new friends or tried out new activities and were directed towards services that could support them.

Leeds Community Anchor Network and VAL are now seeking Expressions of Interest for 2023/24, for not for profit and faith-based organisations to once again provide a Safe, Warm and Welcome space for your local communities.

Please read our guidance on becoming a Welcome Space here.

Update December 2023: The initial application round is now closed, we will, however, still consider funding new Welcome Spaces where a local need is highlighted. 

We are particularly interested in hearing from communities of interest and those located in the following wards of the city: 

• Adel and Wharfedale
• Morley North,
• Harewood
• Ardsley+Robinhood
• Farnley and Wortley

Please note there is now a new application form to complete should you with to be consider for funding: Welcome Spaces Registration

If you have any question please contact welcome.spaces@leeds.gov.uk

Voluntary Action Leeds

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