Monday October 7th 2024
left to right pictured at Loanhead Library, Stephen Harris – Libraries Development Officer and Midlothian Council Leader, Cllr Kelly Parry.
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Luke Jackson
As Challenge Poverty Weeks gets underway today, the council has relaunched four warm and well hubs across the county to provide support with the cost-of-living crisis.
The four hubs are based in Danderhall, Newbattle, Loanhead and Lasswade libraries, as part of the #MidlothianCares initiative which is now in its third year.
Each hub offers warm spaces, free hot drinks plus soup and bread during normal library opening hours.
Local residents just need to turn up to stay warm and ask a member of the library staff for soup, bread and a hot drink. If residents prefer not to ask, then they just need to say ‘Alex Sent Me’ to a member of staff instead.
Library staff will also be on hand to provide advice and access to cost of living support information. Residents can also access free wi-fi, as well as books and games too. A coat collection will also be in operation at Dalkeith and Loanhead libraries.
As part of Challenge Poverty Week, Changeworks will be offering a drop-in event at Newbattle Library where residents can receive free and impartial advice and support with energy saving and efficiency. The event takes place on Friday 11 October, 11.00am – 3.00pm.
The council also continues to work with its public sector partners to host regular drop-in services to support those looking for careers guidance.
Skills Development Scotland continue to host a drop-in service at Penicuik Library every Monday (10am-5pm) and Loanhead Library (every first and third Tuesday of the month, 10am-5pm).
Council Leader, Councillor Kelly Parry said: “The four Warm and Well Hubs are here to help residents through this challenging winter. Staff are on hand to not only provide a welcoming space but a supportive local community too. No one should feel they have to struggle alone at home, so we’re encouraging residents to come in from the cold and enjoy the warm atmosphere at our libraries.
Whether you need free hot drinks and soup, or just friendly chat, you can find both at our hubs. Please drop-in, you’re assured of a warm welcome.”
A full list of warm spaces, community cafes and other support provided by the council, voluntary groups and churches across Midlothian can also be found on the council’s cost of living website pages.
Keep warm this autumn and winter
You’ll also find details there of other cost of living supports, including how to get help with money, fuel costs, pension credit, food and clothes.
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