Warm welcome for Antrim and Newtownabbey residents

Organised in partnership with local community and voluntary groups, this programme will host a range of activities for residents in a community setting with hot refreshments provided.

Commenting on the initiative, Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Alderman Stephen Ross said: “I am delighted council has decided to launch this much needed programme.

"The winter months can be a lonely time for many and with the current cost of living crisis, this is a great opportunity to open our doors and offer somewhere welcoming and inviting for residents to go and socialise whilst staying warm.

" I would like to take this opportunity to thank the various community and voluntary groups across the borough who have played a massive part in helping us facilitate this programme, as well as the Northern Healthy Lifestyle Partnership who have part funded the programme.”

The Warm Welcome programme includes a range of activities suitable for all different ages and across many locations in the borough including arts and crafts, tea dances, physical activity classes, home safety talks and movie sessions.

Whilst the majority of the activities are free of charge, some of the community organised activities recommend a small donation.

For full details of the programme, check out antrimandnewtownabbey.gov.uk/warmwelcome

Meanwhile, neighbouring Mid and East Antrim Borough Council is offering grants of up to £500 to organisations hosting Warm Spaces for the community and has appealed to those interested in providing this much needed support to contact them.