As winter approaches amid the cost of living crisis and energy bills surging, some groups are setting up ‘warm spaces’ in South Holland.
They include both Spalding and Long Sutton libraries which are being donated free tea, coffee and biscuits to serve attendees during the usual opening hours.
Visitors, both members and non-members, will be able to access free wi-fi, use of the computers, charging and reading materials while extra groups are set to be created to encourage visitors.
Diana Edmonds, libraries operator GLL’s director of libraries said: “We know that this winter many people will struggle to heat their homes and we want to help.
“Libraries are ideally suited to serve as Warm Spaces because they are at the heart of the community.
“They are welcoming environments, easily accessible, often being in town centre locations and already offer a wide range of free services and facilities.
“In addition to expanding our activity sessions, we have also invested in more comfortable seating and are hugely grateful to Brakes for their generous donation of tea, coffee and biscuits. We will be working in partnership with local authorities, charities and food banks to provide maximum support to those in need this winter.”
* Also in Long Sutton, councillors Jack Tyrrell and David Wilkinson have teamed up with Churchill’s in West Street to offer a warm hub at the pub.
It’ll be opening its doors from 9.30am to 2.30pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from November 8 until the end of February.
“The owner has very kindly let us use her place for no charge and my daughters Lauren and Leah, who is an excellent chef, will be providing something to eat,” Coun Tyrrell said. “You can be warm without having to turn on the heating at home.”
* Broad Street Methodist Church is also set to open the church up as a warm space every Monday starting from next Monday, November 7.
A spokesman said: “You are invited to come and use our warm, welcoming, safe space on Mondays between 10am and 4pm.
“Our church lounge will be open offering free hot drinks, activities and people to chat to throughout the winter months.”
