Where the government fails, people in Blackpool step up: Inside Bispham's warm bank

There are around 1,300 spaces like Kilmory Community Centre in Bispham keeping people out of the cold. But their future is far from secure.

By Antonia Charlesworth Stack, first published 11 January 2024

“I’m freezing,” says Jackie, greeting her friends as she walks through the front door of Kilmory Community Centre, her teeth chattering. She’s walked the 100 metres or so from the front door of her home assisted by a mobility walker and her daughter, Donna. 

At least for the next few hours, sh…