Scunthorpe community laundrette opens to help families battling fuel poverty and damp conditions

A new community launderette has opened in Scunthorpe to support families living in damp and mouldy homes. 

Oasis Community Hub in Scunthorpe has been selected as the latest Warm Wash Centres that Cadent, the UK’s largest gas distribution network, has opened. It will offer free washing and drying facilities, energy efficiency advice, and a warm, welcoming space for those living in vulnerable situations. 

Cadent’s recent research revealed that over three in five people (63%) have reported severe mould problems in their homes, illustrating the significant health and safety risks for households. Additionally, almost one third of people (29%) turn their heating to uncomfortably low temperatures to cut costs, a contributing factor to the growth of damp and mould.  

The research also found that two in three people (66%) struggle to wash and dry basic household items like clothes, sheets and towels, while one in three (33%) have reported worsening damp in their homes over the past year. 

In Scunthorpe, around one in six households live in fuel poverty (17%), according to National Energy Action. The new Cadent Warm Wash Centre has been designed to offer relief for those living in vulnerable situations. While users wash their clothes and wait for them to dry, they will be supported by the trained energy advisers at Oasis Community Hub, who will be able to share tips and advice on how to make their home more energy efficient all year round. 

Benefits support will also be available, where the advisers will be able to assess current applications and identify if there are any unclaimed benefits available. Carbon monoxide advice will also be available. 

Tyrone Curran, Community Leder at Oasis Community Hub said: “This is about more than washing clothes, it’s about dignity, health and community. We know too many local families are struggling with damp homes and rising costs, and no one should have to choose between staying warm and living well. Our Warm Wash Centre is here to support people in a practical, caring way, with free facilities and friendly advice all under one roof.” 

Nicola Campbell, Safeguarding Specialist at Cadent, said: “Nobody should have to choose between staying warm, keeping their home dry or protecting their health. Our research shows that there are too many families trapped in conditions that are unacceptable. Damp and mould aren’t just housing issues, they are issues of safety and wellbeing. 

“We are proud to expand our support to Oasis Community Hub, which is already one of our Centres for Warmth, with the launch of wash room. By combining free laundry services with trusted advice, we will ensure households receive the support they need.” 

The Oasis Community Hub Warm Wash Centre is now open to bookings.  

https://calendly.com/oasislaundryspace/30min - Click here to book