Upton upon Severn Baptist Church Warm Space

Upton upon Severn Baptist Church, headed by Minister Amy Wearing, was one of the recipients of Worcestershire Community Foundation’s  Communities in Crisis grants.

This funding helped around 150 residents in Upton and its surrounding villages by providing a warm space for people struggling with social isolation, simple refreshments, access to Wi-Fi and printing. They provided a bi-monthly lunch with afternoon tea for senior residents and  helped households with essentials including warm bedding for a child. A small number of families received food hampers for school holidays including one in fuel/food poverty due to sudden bereavement.

One person came along with a family member following the loss of their partner of 65 years during Covid. For the past year, apart from family, they had had limited social interaction. They settled well and came twice a week eating a modest meal with others. The simple act of eating a meal with other people in a warm space has made a huge impact to their mental wellbeing. They now play a part in welcoming others and spending time with new people. Their family have expressed their thanks for the difference the warm space has made.

Amy says “The warm space and offer of soup has enabled many older people who live alone to find friendship and company. Many have suffered bereavement and worry about heating their home, so it has been wonderful to be part of making a difference. We have also got to know those who need extra help like heating or buying food.”