WARM banks – similar to foodbanks – are to be offered to Cheshire West and Chester residents struggling to cope with the cost-of-living crisis this winter.
Cheshire West and Chester Council is co-ordinating a local response to the cost of living crisis that is affecting many of its residents and communities.
The response will focus on food, fuel, financial assistance, advice and wellbeing and will evolve over time as the situation develops.
It will be closely aligned with national support available and utilize funding from the Government’s national Household Support Fund.
It will also involve working very closely with a range of local organizations and community groups and whilst it won’t be possible to tackle all issues, it will support a coordinated approach.
One element of the local response will be to offer residents access to warm hubs through the autumn and winter months.
The council will be working with a range of organizations to offer these across the borough to support residents.
Leader of the council and Cabinet Member for Poverty and Wellbeing, Cllr Louise Gittins, said: “We understand the pressures facing households as the cost of living continues to increase.
“As a council we are determined to do all we can to support residents, focusing on actions we can undertake locally that can improve people’s situations.
“We will also be taking stock of national announcements which will link very closely with our response.
“There is still time for people living in properties with a Council Tax band AD to claim their £150 energy rebate or to apply for help with food, fuel and other essential costs through the Household Support Fund.
“I would urge anyone who is struggling financially to go on the council’s website or get in touch by phone. In these difficult times the council does not want anyone to miss out on support that’s currently available.”
Further details of the local response will be issued in the coming weeks.
Find out more about the energy rebate scheme by calling 0300 123 7022, option 5 for rebates.
The Council’s cost of living support page provides advice for residents that may be struggling with the cost of living crisis, including information about welfare rights, benefits and debt advice, and support getting all the money you’re entitled to.
