In view of the rising cost of living, Rotherham Council and its partners will be offering a Warm Welcome at venues across the borough this winter.
The Council is offering a range of brand-new activities for residents of all ages at libraries, including board game groups and crossword sessions. The events will be free to access.
Libraries will also be open as usual for anyone wanting to loan out books or learn more about local history.
Rotherham Council’s Director of Public Health, Ben Anderson, said: “The Council’s libraries have always been open to residents to use and for them to get involved in activities, however, as the weather gets colder, many people will be concerned about saving money for household bills. This is why the Council is working with a range of its own services and partners to provide residents with free activities in public spaces so that they can still meet with friends and family, and get advice and support from our teams. We will also be working with our partners out in the community to promote Warm Welcome spaces. Residents will be able to find their nearest Warm Welcome space by going online to www.warmwelcome.uk.
“The idea of a Warm Welcome is more than just providing a service, it’s about engaging with residents and making sure they have an opportunity and a place to go if they feel isolated or lonely. Our staff are always happy to help, and I encourage you to make use of the new activities and old favourites on offer.”
Rotherham Council’s Cabinet Member for Social Inclusion, Cllr David Sheppard, said: “Libraries offer residents a range of free and entertaining activities across the year, all of which are perfect for children and young people, as well as adults and older people. They are also brilliant places to meet new friends and for you to be involved in your community, so please, get involved in the Warm Welcome this winter and make the most of the services available to you.”
Other partners and organisations will also be able to get involved in the scheme by getting in touch with the Council. Posters and social media graphics will be available on the Council’s website for them to download and use.
Further information about Warm Welcome can be found online at Warm Welcome Spaces – Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council