Cardiff Council is looking into the possibility of setting up warm spaces this winter to help those struggling with the rising cost of living. A number of councils across the UK have already committed to setting up 'warm banks' - spaces where members of the public can go and shelter from the cold.
Community groups and churches in Cardiff are already looking at how they can support people who will struggle with high energy bills this winter. Liberal Democrats group leader at Cardiff Council Cllr Rhys Taylor has also called on the local authority to provide small grants to local groups in order for them to keep their doors open during the colder months.
A Cardiff Council spokesperson said: “We are rapidly working on a number of projects, including warm spaces in some of our community buildings, to support anyone struggling with the cost of living this winter. Our projects will help people to claim everything they are entitled to and provide support with debts they may have."
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Energy prices look set for a steep rise this autumn. Ofgem announced last week that the energy price cap will be rising to £3,549 per year for dual fuel for an average household from 1 October 2022. Cardiff Council has said that if people are struggling, they want them to get in touch. You can contact the council by:
- Visiting any Hub, where they have new food and fuel champions as well as money advice officers
- calling the Adviceline on 029 2087 1071
- visiting www.cardiffmoneyadvice.co.uk
The council also said that they are looking for the help of volunteers to help deliver support this winter. A Cardiff Council spokesperson added: “All of our community hubs and libraries will be providing warm and welcoming spaces, where hot drinks will be available.
"In addition to this, planned activities and information from our drop-in advice services will be provided on a regular timetabled basis. To support our plans, we need volunteers to help us look after our communities during these difficult times, so if you can spare a few hours to support people in your community please contact us on 029 2087 1071 or email volunteeringcardiff@cardiff.gov.uk.
“We will also be working with Cardiff Third Sector Council to look at how a small grant scheme could be used to support community organisations to offer activities that people could access in their community buildings.”
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