Clarion Futures extends wellbeing spaces programme thanks to over £1m Rothesay Foundation donation

Clarion Futures, the charitable foundation of Clarion Housing Group, has announced a two-year extension of its wellbeing spaces programme in partnership with the Rothesay Foundation, as part of a shared commitment to help people stay connected, warm and supported all year round.

In 2025, Clarion Futures and the Rothesay Foundation supported over 50 wellbeing spaces across England, generating almost 65,000 visits – a 50% increase on the previous year demonstrating the continued need for this type of support.

Coordinated by Clarion Futures, the programme sees community centres and partner-run hubs across Clarion neighbourhoods offer free, welcoming places for people of all ages, particularly older generations, to spend time and take part in activities. These spaces also provide practical help with issues such as benefits entitlement, energy use and digital skills.

Backed by an over £1m donation from the Rothesay Foundation, the charitable foundation of the UK’s largest pensions insurance specialist, Rothesay, and Clarion Futures funding, the programme will support a minimum of 55 wellbeing spaces nationwide for the next two years.

With households continuing to feel the impact of rising costs and many experiencing loneliness or isolation, the wellbeing spaces provide accessible support that is community-led and reflective of local needs.

Partners will help people navigate everyday challenges by signposting towards guidance on benefits, housing, health, learning opportunities, budgeting and building digital confidence, including access to the full range of services offered by Clarion Futures.

People visiting these wellbeing spaces will also be able to take home items such as electric blankets, draught excluders and energy-efficient appliances like air fryers or slow cookers. This means support will extend beyond the wellbeing spaces themselves, helping people stay warm and manage household energy costs more effectively.

Each space will host a varied programme, from gentle movement sessions, bingo and quizzes to hands-on workshops. People will be able to explore new interests, whether that is creative activities like crafts, painting or gardening, cooking sessions, or games designed to keep the mind active.

Phil Miles, Director of Clarion Futures, said:

“We often hear from residents who are worried about feeling isolated, staying warm or managing rising bills, especially as the cost of living crisis continues to affect people across our communities. Our wellbeing spaces are designed to provide practical support, but also connection – places where people can meet others, build confidence and take part in activities that improve wellbeing.

“Collaboration is at the heart of this programme which is all about investing in the places and relationships that help people thrive, and we couldn’t do it without our longstanding partners at the Rothesay Foundation. Many organisations are already doing fantastic work in their neighbourhoods, and these spaces build on that, bringing people together and offering additional support at a time when communities need it most.”

James Dickson, Chair of Trustees at the Rothesay Foundation, said:

“The Rothesay Foundation is dedicated to improving the quality of life for older people in the UK, so we are pleased to renew our partnership with Clarion Futures and extend our funding of these vital wellbeing spaces for a further two years. This multi-year commitment will make a real difference for those experiencing isolation and financial hardship by creating more spaces to bring communities together, foster greater wellbeing and help older people to live in a happy, safe and fulfilling way.”

One of the wellbeing spaces supported by Clarion Futures and the Rothesay Foundation is run by Sporting Inspirations CIC at the Stoneyhall Community Centre in Stevenage. Open each Thursday from 9:30am until 12:30pm, it provides a welcoming place for local people to come together and enjoy food and drinks, as well as activities including bingo, games and light exercise sessions to boost physical and mental wellbeing.

John Manitara, CEO of Sporting Inspirations CIC, said:

“Thanks to the support we’ve received from Clarion Futures and the Rothesay Foundation, our wellbeing space has become a vital part of the community and a thriving hub. It’s a place where people feel comfortable and safe, with a variety of activities on offer such as chair exercises, bingo and quizzes. The key part is the social element, with the sessions providing the chance to mix with other people and reduce isolation whilst enjoying a cup of tea, cakes and sandwiches. Ultimately, our wellbeing space has made a huge positive difference in everyone's lives, and for many it’s become the main thing they look forward to each week.”