Places of Welcome is celebrating 10 years of Community and Connection

A decade of creating spaces for everyone to feel safe, connect, and belong

For 10 years, Places of Welcome has been building bridges between people from all walks of life, fostering spaces where everyone can feel a sense of belonging. As we celebrate a decade of growth and impact, we look back at the incredible ways that Places of Welcome have brought people together across England and Wales.

Each week, over 800 venues open their doors as Places of Welcome, creating inclusive spaces supported by dedicated leaders and volunteers. Whether hosted in churches, libraries, community centers, or even gardens, these venues are driven by the core values of the “5 Ps”: a welcoming Place, open People, simple Provision of refreshments, Participation that values everyone’s unique gifts, and a Presence that listens.

Growing Together Through Community

From its beginnings in Birmingham, the Places of Welcome network has blossomed, reaching 821 venues in 2024. These venues vary widely in style, from a bustling community cafe in Birmingham’s St Ambrose Barlow Church to an outdoor center in Staffordshire that combines social connection with hands-on skills like gardening and crafts.

Many venues now partner with local social prescribers, who refer people looking for community and support. The strength of Places of Welcome lies in its diversity—both in venue types and the communities they serve. This year alone, 42 venues received Near Neighbours micro-grants, which have expanded the network’s reach and enabled a richer array of activities.

Embracing Diversity Through Faith and Interfaith Connections

Our Places of Welcome come from various faith traditions and even non-religious backgrounds, creating interfaith spaces that are open to all. Venues span Anglican, Catholic, Muslim, and multifaith locations, among others, all unified by the goal of fostering inclusion.

The EKTA sessions hosted by Belgrave Neighbourhood Housing Association in Leicester, for example, offer a welcoming space that encourages sewing, community cooking, and skill-building. “Our Place of Welcome is open to everyone, regardless of faith or background,” shares project lead Rupal. “After recent community tensions in Leicester, we wanted to provide a space to bring people together. We’ve found that there is something really special in creating a place for everyone.”

The Warm Welcome at Elim Church in Leicester serves a similar mission, responding to local needs for friendship and food security. Each week, volunteers welcome people in for a hot meal and companionship. Christine, a regular attendee, now volunteers herself. “When I first came, I didn’t know anyone, but I was welcomed right away. Now I help out with the food pantry every Wednesday. It’s a highlight of my week.”

Highlighting Voices and Stories of Impact

From West Yorkshire’s Hamwattan Centre, which empowers attendees with English lessons and confidence-building activities, to Nottingham’s Cosy Cafe, where people gather for crafts and conversation, Places of Welcome have deeply impacted lives and fostered new friendships.

One participant in Nottingham was first welcomed by regulars who invited him in as he walked his dogs past the cafe. Now, he returns weekly, saying, “I live alone, so coming here is a chance to meet people from different backgrounds and connect.” For many, these connections are more than just weekly meet-ups—they’re a chance to experience the joy of shared community.

Places of Welcome has proven that small acts—like a cup of tea, a listening ear, or a shared meal—can make a big difference. This Interfaith Week and beyond, we’re grateful to everyone who has made Places of Welcome a reality—our volunteers, participants, and supporters. Together, we’ll keep building a world where everyone feels welcome, valued, and at home.