Public buildings will be opened up across Northumberland this winter to provide "warm spaces" for residents who may be struggling to pay their energy bills ahead of further price rises.
Northumberland County Council has announced the likes of leisure centres and libraries will be opened to create a network to support communities this winter.
The council has teamed up with partners in the community and voluntary sector and is also inviting more organisations to sign up to what is being called the Northumberland Warm Spaces and Places Promise.
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Community Action Northumberland (CAN) has been developing so-called warm hubs for a number of years, but it is now hoped that the likes of community hubs, leisure centres, village halls, businesses and cafes will get on board.
Coun Wendy Pattison, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Adult Well-being, said: “Following on from the events of recent years and the amazing community spirit that played such a vital role, we are keen to continue to work together and find spaces and places that people can visit for support.
“Working closely with our community partners we are creating a map and list of warm spaces and places – welcoming, local places where people can pop in and enjoy a warm welcome and be connected to other support if they need it.
“These may be community centres, village halls, our fabulous Warm Hubs, libraries, or cafes and museums – near people and for people, and it’s ok if some spaces are only open for a short time each week or day – it all helps.
“There is no one size fits all solution – so we work closely with the organisations involved to provide the right support package for them – this could be support with utility costs, or with cooking equipment, or food.
“We know there are lots of different ways to give people a warm welcome and we are looking forward to showcasing our vibrant community spaces.”
Among those to get involved is the Country Award-winning Hadston House, which has partnered with housing association Karbon Homes to offer "hot food and fun nights" during the winter.
From October 5, people in Hadston village will get access to an "evening of food and fun" to come together and keep warm, get fed and be provided with partnership organisations around benefits, housing, energy and financial management.
Scott Dickinson, managing director of Hadston House and the leader of Northumberland Labour, said: “This initiative is one that’s needed and one we are happy to partner with Karbon Homes on. We are delighted to be offering this service on top of all our other services that support the most in need all year round.
“The additional service will ensure that families and individuals who are suffering during the winter months will have a fun, safe, and warm space to come to and see friendly staff and volunteers. It’s going to be really informal and more of a social event but organisations will be on hand to give optional support to those in attendance in a private setting if anyone needs it.
“We need to do something to ensure local people are given the support they need as we do all year round with our meals on wheels services, day services for older people, youth services for young people and daily support for residents.”
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