Winter of the ‘warm banks’
LIBRARIES and leisure centres will be among dozens of winter “warm banks” opened to offer respite from the cold and soaring energy costs.
Clifton Park Museum, Rotherham Civic Theatre and community centres will also provide a comfortable setting for anyone struggling to heat their homes.
Rotherham Council has pledged at least 25 Warm Welcome sites across the borough, with a range of activities and opening hours.
Cllr Dave Sheppard, RMBC cabinet member for social inclusion, said: “What a dreadful state it is that in 2022 in the sixth richest country in the world, we are actually sitting here in the knowledge that millions of people are going to go hungry, cold or both this winter time.
“It’s an absolute disgrace.
“We have been doing a lot of work in making plans for our residents, led by our public health team.
“The underlying principles are that residents get a warm welcome at a range of RMBC and community venues and are able to use the facilities within.
“But most importantly, it’s that there is no stigma in attending or staying at these sites for any period of time.
“Also, advice and signposting will be available for residents in respect of the support and benefits that are available to them, both nationally and locally, as they are ever-changing.”
The Warm Welcome centres will support Rotherham residents at risk of fuel poverty or who might be feeling lonely or isolated.
RMBC will use its own buildings and is in talks with parish councils and voluntary sector organisations about further arrangements.
Cllr Sheppard said: “Where feasible, sites will be promoting a warm welcome alongside a range of activities to ensure that there’s lots of stimulation and engagement for the people getting together.
“We have got to look after people’s mental health as well, throughout this period.
“Council sites that are included in our plans are libraries, Clifton Park Museum, the theatre and our leisure centres.
“These will provide wide coverage and a range of opening hours across seven days a week.
“Discussions have already taken place with some voluntary sector groups and interest has been expressed by some of our parish councils, which is greatly appreciated.”
The council said its Warm Welcome approach would be monitored and amended throughout the winter.
Cllr Joanna Baker-Rogers asked last week’s (6) full council meeting if all 25 wards would be covered.
Cllr Sheppard said: “We don’t have leisure centres in each ward but we are going to work across our range of RMBC-owned buildings. We are not going to leave any community behind.”