While Christmas may now be over, the cost of living crisis is not - meaning the ‘warm spaces’ where people can drop in and spend a few hours in comfortable surroundings remain as vital as ever. There are more than 100 such places across Stockport where anyone is free to come along and maybe grab a brew, have a chat or try out a new activity.
Among them is Vernon Park Cafe, in Offerton, which - as well as offering a haven for residents over the winter months - is helping to connect disabled and disadvantaged people with the wider community. It’s run by Pure Innovations - a charity that supports people with disabilities or health-related issues to lead ‘fulfilled lives with a sense of purpose and belonging’.
Some go on to work in the cafe itself or create clothes that are sold from a shop at the venue. After successfully bidding for council funding, the cafe has a special 'warm spaces' table with hot drinks, biscuits, soup and juice - as well as free children’s meals during the school holidays.
READ MORE: More than 100 'warm spaces' launched across Stockport ahead of 'challenging' winter months
