A national charity has opened a warm space in Romford providing support, tea and biscuits for locals in need. 

YMCA Thames Gateway Group, part of the YMCA charity, opened the new hub as the first of three it has planned, with the other two in Dartford and West Kent. 

The Romford space was launched this week in the charity’s Rush Green Road premises, and is to be open to residents on Mondays and Fridays, 10am to 2pm, throughout the winter. 

Georgie Squires, head of customer experience and impact at YMCA Thames Gateway Group, said: “Like so many other charities, we've had to adapt to meet the needs of our communities.  

“We want to do everything we can to support our local community and hope that our warm spaces will provide some respite to anyone struggling to heat their home this winter. 

“Everyone is welcome and on a drop-in basis. There will be free tea, coffee, biscuits and soup.  

“Magazines, books and games will also be available, as well as a space for anyone who wants to simply relax and enjoy some quiet time.” 

Havering Council has also launched its own network of warm spaces in locations including Hornchurch, Harold Hill and Upminster, to support residents through the winter.  

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