Sandwell opens up 29 venues as 'warm spaces' this winter
They opened on Wednesday (19th October)
This month sees 29 venues in Sandwell open their doors as warm spaces, to help local people struggling to heat their homes.
Nineteen libraries, three community centres and seven leisure centres are now open in Sandwell, helping people save on their home energy bills.
And these warm spaces are just some of the many open across the country to help with the rising cost-of-living.
They will allow people to connect digitally, charge their devices and have a free hot drink.
They will also serve as a chance for local people to see what other support services are available, including energy support, help from local charities and access to community support to combat isolation.
Leader of Sandwell Council, Kerrie Carmichael, said: “Libraries and community centres have always provided a safe space and warm welcome to our communities. As we enter the winter months, we are taking practical steps to support people in their community who need it the most.
“These include warm spaces across all six towns in Sandwell as well other important initiatives that are aimed at both addressing immediate hardship and building longer-term financial resilience and wellbeing.
“We know how much people are already struggling with rising energy prices and this network of Warm Spaces is just a part of our response," she said.
Sandwell Council have also launched a small grant programme for voluntary and community sector organisations to keep their buildings open over the winter months as warm spaces.
You can find out more about the warm banks here.