Cheshire East Council has officially launched a 'Warm PlaCEs' scheme to help with the cost-of-living crisis. 

And it is inviting organisations or groups in Sandbach to apply for grants of £250 or £1,000 to help set up or improve an existing warm space for their community this winter

'Warm PlaCEs' are spaces where people can go, free of charge, to spend time to keep warm if they are struggling to heat or keep their homes warm. 

The move is as a result of increasing energy prices and concern that many households may be unable to heat their homes sufficiently this winter. 

Organisations can apply for a grant of £250 or £1000 to help set up or improve an existing warm space for their community this winter.

Businesses can also register their interest in supporting the 'Warm PlaCEs' scheme.

Councillor Sam Corcoran, leader of Cheshire East Council, said: "The ongoing cost-of-living crisis is having significant impacts nationally and the council anticipates seeing increasing financial pressure on residents, businesses, and community organisations across Cheshire East. 

"Building on the excellent work of 'People Helping People', I was delighted to announce at full council last week, residents will have access to 'Warm PlaCEs' across the borough including in all our libraries. 

Cllr Sam Corcoran

"In the participating connected community centres residents can meet, keep warm, enjoy light social activities, and find out about ways in which people can help each other, alongside a warm meal and/or a hot drink. Useful information and advice on reducing household bills, saving energy, and tackling debt will also be available.

"Residents who are simply looking for somewhere warm and comfortable to sit are also welcome in the 'Warm PlaCEs' across Cheshire East."

Cheshire East say It is recognised that many families struggling to pay their fuel bills.

They may also be experiencing food poverty and social isolation, and so the intention of this scheme is to provide free, public places where people can go to get warm, save money on their heating costs, avoid social isolation, receive vital support and advice while staying as well as possible, wherever you live and whatever your circumstances.

Working with partners, the council is also providing a range of free winter wellbeing items to those who may need extra support.

They include warm clothing, hand warmers, duvets, hot water bottles and energy saving products. 

Information about the support and advice the council has put in place for residents and locations of and services available at 'Warm PlaCEs' is available on the council's cost of living web page - https://www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/livewell/education-employment-and-money/money-matters/warm-places-keeping-cheshire-east-warm.aspx