A leading charity has launched an initiative offering warm spaces to people struggling to heat their homes this winter.
With energy bills set to hike again this winter, Hampshire not-for-profit Community First, is offering its Warm Hubs, which sees libraries and community centres open up for people to come inside for a hot drink or meal.
Community First has helped launch and promote several Warm Hubs across Winchester, the New Forest, Fareham, East Hampshire and Havant.
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Some are open to anyone who would like a hot meal and drink, to participate in activities, games, clubs and classes, or sit down and read a book. There is also free WiFi access.
People will also be able to benefit from free and impartial energy advice and help to save money on energy bills and take away free energy packs at some of the sites.
Tim Houghton, CEO at Community First, said: “The cost of living crisis is already affecting millions across the UK, with many reporting they will be unable to switch on the heating in the coming months.
“We believe everyone should have a warm and welcoming space to go to this winter, which is why our network of community organisations, churches, libraries, businesses and other groups across the region have opened their doors to provide exactly that.”
Other services Community First offer and can signpost to which are beneficial to people at this time, include community pantries and foodbanks, help with transport, an employment hub and connecting people with health and wellbeing support including Health Walks – a free walking scheme led by trained volunteers.
Community First is also signposting people to other cost-of-living support schemes in Hampshire, and information on how to set up a warm space in your community.
The full list of warm hubs in New Forest, Winchester and Fareham are:
Hope Church Winchester
Winchester Library
Winchester Vineyard Church
All Saints Church
St Pauls Church
New Life Church Winchester
St Barnabas Church
St Mark’s Church
St Anne’s Catholic Church – Brockenhurst
Sway Youth Centre – Sway
Lymington Library
Totton Library
Fareham Library
Fareham United Reform Church
Hill Park Baptist Church
Portchester Library
Stubbington Library
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