Wandsworth residents looking for places to keep warm amid rising energy bills can visit libraries, community centres and children’s centres in the borough.
Residents can go to any of the borough’s 11 libraries where they can keep warm and use the internet free of charge, the council has announced.
These libraries include Baltham library, Battersea library, Battersea Park library, Earlsfield library, Northcote library, Putney library, Roehampton library, Southfields library, Tooting library, Wandsworth Town library and York Gardens library.
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Some of the 18 buildings are offering hot drinks, meals and a place to wash and shower.
Libraries will host events such as children’s activities and coffee mornings, as well as five branches extending their opening hours to support new film clubs.
Voluntary and community organisations can apply to receive funding from the council’s £200,000 grant fund, which is part of the £5 million package the council has invested in cost-of-living support.
Leader of Wandsworth Council, Simon Hogg, said: “We know that many of our residents are facing real hardship this winter because of the cost-of-living crisis.
“They are having to make really difficult choices about eating properly or keeping warm, which is why we are creating our Wandsworth Warm Spaces to provide a sanctuary to those in need.
“We are determined to do all we can to make a difference, by offering a compassionate helping hand and supporting our residents through these difficult winter months.
“The funding for this important scheme comes from council reserves. That means we can keep the same low council tax. This is important as council tax hits those on low incomes the hardest.”
Six children’s centres will also be offering family-oriented services for young families with children under the age of five.
These children’s centres include Baltham Children’s Centre, Fayland Children’s Centre, Franciscan Chidren’s Centre and Smallwood Children’s Centre.
The centres will host breakfast clubs, lunch and learn sessions, stay and play, and facilities where parents can wash and charge their phones.
The centres will also provide evening meals and internet access for older children.
The council encouraged anyone struggling with their household bills and in need of help to call 0808 175 3339.
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