By Warm banks to be set up in North East Lincolnshire this winter
North East Lincolnshire could see warm banks set up across the area this winter as the cost of living crisis is forcing people to choose between heating their homes and buying food.
As of October 1, families up and down the country saw the energy bills rise by a huge percentage, with many stating that they simply cannot afford to heat their homes as the weather begins to turn.
Although the government announced that they would be capping bills at £2,500 a year, many families will still feel the pinch as their wages struggle to cover the bare necessities.
In order to help the poorer households, organisations have suggested setting up warm banks.
Similar to food banks where families can go to get free food, people will be invited to sit inside a warm building with heating rather than staying home in the freezing cold.
North East Lincolnshire Council have stated that they will support any such organisations across the area and are currently in discussions with community and partner organisations.
A council spokesperson said: “North East Lincolnshire Council is in discussions with a network of community and partner organisations and will do all it can to support such groups in their plans for Warm Banks, along with other measures to assist our residents through the on-coming winter.
“For those who do not know the Council has a team, managed by its partner Equans, which offers information and advice on grants that may be available to residents and their eligibility. People should call 01472 326296 (Option 5) for more information.
“People who require particular help or support are also asked to contact ConnectNEL https://connectnel.com/ or phone 01472 403403. This is a 24-hour confidential helpline for people in North East Lincolnshire, which offers advice and information for those in any kind of need – signposting them to the help they need.”
