Places of Welcome
We are a Place of Welcome
A national network of over 600 spaces offering an unconditional welcome to local people and visitors to connect and contribute for few hours each week.
They are places where everyone can go for a friendly face, a cup of tea and a conversation if and when they need it. Places of Welcome take place in a variety of venues including churches, community centres, libraries, mosques, temples and other community group buildings across the UK.
Transforming Lives Together is an independent charity working in partnership with Chester cathedral and they are the local contact for the set-up, resourcing and support of Places of Welcome across the Diocese of Chester.
Chester cathedral is the only cathedral in England to host a Place of Welcome. It stays open on almost every Monday through the year and is very popular, welcoming an average of 30 visitors each week. The room is fully accessible and everyone is welcome.
Places of Welcome responds to the challenge to make our cities and neighbourhoods more welcoming. The network has developed a set of guiding principles for all Places of Welcome, known as the 5P’s
Place
An accessible and hospitable building, open at the same time every week.
People
Open to everyone regardless of their circumstances or situation, and staffed by volunteers.
Presence
A place where people actively listen to one another.
Provision
Offering free refreshments (at least a cup of tea and a biscuit) and basic local information.
Participation
Recognises that every person coming to a Place of Welcome will bring talents, experiences and skills that they might be willing to share locally.