Wiltshire Wildlife Community Energy (WWCE) is running its ‘Keeping Warm This Winter’ programme – friendly, pop-up ‘Energy Information Cafes’ hosted in venues throughout Swindon and Wiltshire to support residents struggling with energy costs. At the cafés, people can get information, suggestions, tips and see examples of effective energy-saving measures they can use. Through the partnership between the Diocese of Bristol and Wiltshire Wildlife Community Energy, cafés are being were hosted by churches across the Diocese and are supported by the Diocesan Environment and Sustainability team. Information on the two most recent are below;
St Peter’s, Penhill
The regular Craft Group from St Peter’s Penhill in Swindon enjoyed “a stitch in time” while gaining information, support, and free lightbulbs generously provided by WWCE through their Keeping Warm This Winter resource hub. Jessica from WWCE and Hannah from Wiltshire Wildlife Trust supported more than 25 people in creating draft excluders using fabric supplied by the Scrap Store Wiltshire.
St Andrews, Chippenham
More than 50 people enjoyed delicious homemade cake and fairtrade coffee at the regular Coffee morning held at St Andrews in Chippenham, which hosted a Keeping Warm This Winter resource hub. St Andrews itself is an excellent example of how churches can care for creation and currently holds a Silver Eco Church award for its efforts.
Both events helped families and communities in Wiltshire to keep warm and save money on their energy bills. Belinda from the Diocesan Environment Team provided information about Eco Church to inspire energy and emissions savings for churches within the Swindon Deanery.
Speaking about the events, Belinda said:
"At the heart of my commitment to caring for God’s creation is a deep care for all who inhabit it. It is with real gratitude that I stand alongside the generosity of Jessica from WWCE to offer a moment of warmth and respite in these uncertain times. My thanks go to those who welcome us in, serve the tea, and return home inspired to rethink what Earth Care can look like in their own lives and communities."
If you would like to host a Climate, Cake, and Keeping Warm Café, or know a bit more about starting your Eco Church journey, please contact Belinda at the email address below to reserve your opportunity.
To contact Belinda, please email environment@bristoldiocese.org
To find out more about Keeping Warm This Winter cafés, click here