BrumEnergy Centres for Warmth: Reflecting on Two Years of Impact and Looking Ahead

Over the past two years, BrumEnergy’s Centres for Warmth has provided vital, community-based support to residents in Sutton Coldfield, helping people stay warm, safe and financially resilient during a challenging time.

Funded by Cadent and NAVCA and delivered through trusted local partners, BVSC, Age Connects West Midlands and ecobirmingham, the programme has been part of a wider national initiative supporting people in vulnerable situations – offering energy advice, Carbon Monoxide safety information and financial guidance in welcoming community spaces.

What is a Centre for Warmth?

A Centre for Warmth is a free drop-in session where people can get:  

• Home energy advice to reduce energy use, save money, stay warm and comfortable as well as to reduce carbon emissions to help tackle climate change; 
• Information about how the Priority Services Register can help you and support to sign up to it; 
• Benefits and debt advice and support; 
• Free slow cookers 
• Gas Safety support and advice. 

 
Making a Difference, One Conversation at a Time

What has made this programme so impactful is the combination of immediate, practical support and longer-term help. From providing Carbon Monoxide alarms and slow cookers, to offering one-to-one advice on benefits and grants, the service has helped people stay safe, reduce costs, and build greater financial resilience.

Across twelve centres – including both regular sessions and pop-up locations – we’ve supported hundreds of residents, often identifying wider needs through simple conversations and trusted relationships.

For some, this has meant help to access Pension Credit or Housing Benefit; for others, support to settle into a new home after a period of homelessness; and for many, increased awareness of vital safety issues like Carbon Monoxide risks.

Stronger Partnerships, Stronger Communities

A key success of the programme has been the partnerships built along the way. Working alongside organisations like Age Connects West Midlands and ecobirmingham, as well as foodbanks, community groups and local networks, has enabled a more joined-up approach to providing support.

These relationships have strengthened referral pathways and ensured that people can access the right help at the right time. The Centres for Warmth model has shown the value of delivering support in welcoming, familiar environments, helping to remove barriers and encouraging people to engage.

Looking Ahead: Relaunching Centres for Warmth

As we move into the next phase of the programme, we’re building on what we’ve learned to reach even more people who could benefit from support.

We’re pleased to be relaunching Centres for Warmth from:

 
In this next phase, we’re excited to be working with Birmingham Settlement, who will be providing dedicated debt support as part of the offer.

We’re also delighted that Age Connects West Midlands (formerly Age Concern Birmingham) and ecobirmingham will continue to be at the heart of delivery – offering their friendly, welcoming presence and trusted expertise at our centres.

“Centres for Warmth is a brilliant community support initiative that makes a real and positive difference to people's lives, health, and financial security. In this next phase, BVSC is delighted to be partnering with key local anchor organisations like Age Connects West Midlands, ecobirmingham, and Birmingham Settlement - and with funders Cadent and NAVCA - to get this vital help to where it's most needed."
 
Brian Carr, Chief Executive, BVSC

"At Age Connects West Midlands, we are proud to be part of the Centres for Warmth partnership, delivering practical, community-based support that helps residents across Sutton Coldfield stay safe, warm and financially resilient. Through our free drop-in sessions, people can access energy advice, benefits and debt support, Priority Services Register referrals, gas safety guidance and practical resources such as slow cookers and carbon monoxide alarms. Over the past two years, our Centres for Warmth sessions have welcomed more than 4,000 attendances, helping residents reduce costs, access vital support and build greater resilience. We are proud to work with our partners and funders to deliver meaningful support that makes a lasting difference to local communities.” 

Kirsty Homer, Operational Services Lead – Age Connects West Midlands

“ecobirmingham are excited to continue out role with the Centres for Warmth project, supporting and empowering householders to feel warmer and more comfortable in their homes while saving energy, money on their bills and carbon emissions”

Jason Horner, Energy Project Coordinator - ecobirmingham

Join Us

Centres for Warmth will continue to provide a safe, supportive space where people can access advice, practical help, and a warm welcome.

Whether you’re looking for support or simply want to find out more, we look forward to welcoming you at one of our centres soon.

If you would like more information about Centres for Warmth or how to get involved, please contact [email protected] or visit www.brumenergy.info