Warm space opens at Age UK offices in Scarborough town centre
It's been set up as it's getting colder
A 'warm room' has opened in Scarborough and people are being invited to use it for whatever they like.
It is based at the Age UK offices on Aberdeen Walk in the town centre.
It has been set up as it is getting colder and people might not be able to afford to put the heating on inside their homes.
Neil Bradbury, Chief Executive of Age UK in Scarborough, said:
"We're in October and there can be a big cold snap at any time. We're already hearing some quite sad stories about people who are literally choosing whether to heat or eat. Our priorities are now working with other people in the community to try and get projects like this up and running. We don't pretend it's an answer to the crisis but we felt like we had to do something.
"It's a lovely room which is fully heated as you would fully expect. There's a range of games, we have free tea and coffee and free Wi-Fi. We're going to get some magazines and newspapers. If people want to talk to some of our advisers about some of the problems they face and stuff then they're welcome to but it's not compulsory.
"People are going to use this space for all kinds of reasons. We set it up in reaction to the fact that it's getting cold out there and concerns about people being able to afford their heating bills. We don't want to attach any stigma to this; people could be coming in because they want a natter or they could be coming in because they want to see what we have to offer as a charity.
Mr Bradbury continued:
"I spoke to a family the other day where the adults are only eating the evening meal. They aren't eating breakfast or lunch because they can't afford it as they have disabled children. It's difficult for them to afford all of their bills and to make sure that those children are well looked after. It's awful choices that I don't think anyone should have to make.
"We don't want anyone to suffer through this winter. Don't sit in silence worrying about these things. Come and speak to people before it hits freezing and you're in real crisis. We want people to come forward and realise everyone's in this situation. It's a challenging time for everyone and there's no shame or stigma in asking for help."