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Leeds councillors to discuss ‘warm places’ plan as part of cost of living response

People encouraged to visit public venues across the city over the winter months.

Clementine Hall - 11th October 2022

Senior councillors in Leeds will meet next week to consider plans to open up venues across the city as 'warm places'.

At it's meeting on Wednesday 19 October 2022, the council's executive board will meet to discuss reports on how the city will respond to the current cost of living crisis.

The first report will focus on the range of support that the council and it's partners will offer on welfare and financial inclusion, whilst the second is aimed at the impact of the current crisis on child poverty in the city.

One feature of the council's response to the cost of living crisis is to promote public locations such as community hubs and libraries as warm sites. These locations will act as places where people can be warm through the winter and reduce their home energy costs.

The council is working with partners across the city and with 36 sites planned, they hope to reveal their location and open them soon with further venues to follow.

The venues will offer a 'warm welcome' to those visiting, with free hot refreshments and activities for children and families to enjoy. These facilities will join the already existing services of free access to books, computers and Wi-Fi.

Leeds City Council executive member for communities, Councillor Mary Harland said:

“We know people across Leeds are really struggling due to the cost of living crisis, and the council is committed to doing everything it can to work together with our partners and stakeholders to help.

"Especially during the cold winter months ahead, we would encourage people to make use of the warm places around the city to help keep their home costs down and to make use of all free support and guidance available. By working together and looking out for each other we can help especially the most vulnerable people in Leeds to get through this challenging time.

Further support and free financial guidance is currently available in all council-managed community hubs whilst an overview of all the support available can be found at the council's dedicated website. This includes help across food services, health, housing, water and jobs.

You can also find low-cost and free events for children and families at the Leeds Inspired website.

Feature image - Unsplash