The cost-of-living crisis is forcing more people than ever to choose between heating and eating . Energy prices are skyrocketing; for some families , the idea of turning up the thermostat is unthinkable.
In an effort to combat this and keep people warm as the temperature plummets , local authorities, charities and community groups are preparing to open “warm banks” this winter. The idea is a community space where people can gather to spend the day somewhere warm, without fear of judgement or what effect it’ll have on their bottom line .
Warm banks are like food banks but dedicated to keeping the temperature up. Here’s everything you need to know about warm spaces, including what they are, where to find them, who is responsible for them and how to help.
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What is a warm bank?
A warm bank, or a warm space, is a safe place with heating. They are dedicated to helping those who cannot afford to put their heating on at home stay warm this winter.
In many warm spaces, the heating will be kept on round the clock. Many spaces will offer warm drinks, too, such as tea and coffee, to help.
Why are warm banks needed?
This year, household energy bills are skyrocketing and the cost of heating the home may become too much to bear. According to National Energy Action, the UK’s leading fuel poverty charity, “each year, around 10,000 people die as a result of living in a cold home”.
Where can I find my local warm bank?
Warm spaces and warm banks are set up by charities and local authorities. Many council websites, including Newcastle and Gateshead, have dedicated pages on their website to find what they are calling “winter wellbeing hubs”.
Alternatively, the Warm Welcome campaign is creating a map of warm spaces across the UK. The campaign has been described as a “community response to the cost-of-living crisis” and is the work of the ChurchWorks Commission.
Visit the Warm Welcome website to find its map of warm spaces across the UK. Searches can be carried out by town or city and new spaces are being added all the time.
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