Island Energy Hub Marks Warm Welcome Week This Month

The Isle of Wight’s only high street energy hub is marking Warm Welcome Week, which runs from Monday 19 to Sunday 25 January, starting on so-called Blue Monday.

January is often the coldest and loneliest month of the year, and organisers say Warm Welcome Spaces, like the Utilita Energy Hub in Newport, can be a vital lifeline for Islanders who may be struggling to keep warm or who are feeling isolated.

Warm Welcome Spaces offer a safe, friendly place to spend time, keep warm and connect with others — something the Newport hub says is especially important at this time of year.

Hub Supervisor Dan Green said Warm Welcome Week is about making sure more people know support is available close to home.

“Warm Welcome Week is all about raising awareness of Warm Welcome Spaces like ours, so more people can find a place of warmth and connection,” he said.

“This year, we’re taking Blue Monday back by giving it a colourful makeover.

"We’re asking everyone to wear warm colours — pinks, oranges, reds and purples — to chase the blues away and help spread the word.

“We don’t want anyone to feel cold or lonely this winter. Our Energy Experts are here and ready to welcome people in.”

The Utilita Energy Hub aims to support the local community by offering free energy advice to anyone who needs it.

The team also works closely with local charities, including Isle of Wight Foodbank and Pan Together, which supports Island residents through the Downside Community Centre.

The hub also regularly hosts community groups in its free-to-book Community Room, including u3a and Women On the Wight’s (WOW!) Knit and Natter group.

Dan added:

“We want more people to know about spaces like ours.

"It’s a great chance to connect with others, make new friends and have some fun.

“People tell us they always leave with a smile on their face.

"We’d love you to come along, have a cuppa and get to know us — and please help us spread the word so everyone can find our Warm Welcome Space.”

David Barclay, Warm Welcome Campaign Director, said demand for Warm Welcome Spaces is expected to be high again this winter.

“These spaces don’t just help people struggling with bills — they play a vital role in bringing communities together and giving people a sense of belonging,” he said.

“The dark winter days of January can be extremely tough. We don’t want anyone to feel cold or alone.”

He added that everyone can take part in Warm Welcome Week, whether by wearing something colourful or getting creative with crafts or cooking.

The Utilita Energy Hub is open Monday to Saturday at 121 High Street, Newport.

On Thursdays, the team is out and about on community outreach days.

More information about Utilita Energy Hubs can be found online.