Welcoming spaces this winter in High Peak

Issued on 18 October 2022

With winter approaching, and as the cost of living and energy price hikes continue, local groups and organisations are providing places where people can go and keep warm.

Charities, community groups and small businesses have committed to opening up their premises as 'welcoming spaces' where residents can go during the colder months.

And High Peak Borough Council is supporting them by publishing a list of all these spaces on its website at www.highpeak.gov.uk/CostOfLiving-WelcomingSpaces so residents who want to use these facilities can easily see where they are.

Executive Councillor for Housing and Licensing, Fiona Sloman, said: "Many people are facing a difficult winter due to the increase in energy costs so spaces such as these where people can go to keep warm are a welcome addition in local communities.

"We know that they will be a lifeline for some residents and we're supporting the groups and organisations providing these spaces by publishing a full list on our website so people can easily find out what's available to them.

"Rising food and other living costs means balancing budgets will also be concerning lots of us. To help with that our website also includes a page with links to the help and support available locally, including tips on reducing energy use, council tax reduction and housing benefits, alongside national initiatives such as the cost of living payment and other help for households.

"If you're worried about managing your finances over the coming months, please take a look at all this information and make sure you're getting all the help that you're entitled to and using the community facilities provided for you."

Find out more at www.highpeak.gov.uk/CostOfLivingHub

The Council is not responsible for the provision of the welcoming spaces, or the facilities at them, but is sharing the information to support residents. If you have a welcoming space you would like to be added to the list please email welcomingspaces@highpeak.gov.uk