Libraries across Manchester will once again open their doors to people in need of support this winter.
For the past two years Manchester has proudly been a supporter of the Warm Welcome Spaces Campaign.
This campaign seeks to provide safe, welcoming and stigma-free places for people in need of support during the colder winter months. Whether it is accessing free Wi-Fi, a hot cup of tea or the companionship of other people, our 24 libraries across the city will be open to those who need them.
The range of support available for people attending our libraries will include:
- Free hot drinks – available until February 2025 (excluding the Central Library)
- Comfortable seating and welcoming spaces for all ages
- Free access to the internet
- Information and advice
- Staff who can signpost to other support agencies.
- Digital drop-ins one day a week
- Under 5s story times once a week at 11am (more detail available via your local library)
There are also a range of other non-Council operated venues which are taking part in the Warm Welcome Spaces programme this winter, details of which can be found by following this link.
The Warm Welcome Spaces initiative is just one of the ways Manchester City Council is working to support people who may be struggling.
The Council recently announced the additional help which is on offer for pensioners, people in receipt of benefits or Council Tax credit. An additional £200,000 has been made available for the voluntary sector as well as £190,000 for the Holiday Activity Fund which provides activities and free meals for children during the school holidays.
Councillor Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council said: “Heading towards winter we are very much aware that the cost-of-living crisis still continues to affect many families across Manchester. This is why, more so than ever, we as a Council continue to do our utmost to support people who may be struggling. Our participation in the Warm Welcome Spaces programme, combined with our Cost-of-Living support package shows we are committed entirely to helping any many people as possible during this difficult period.”
Councillor Joanna Midgley, Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council said: “The cost-of-living crisis, combined with the additional hardships winter can bring mean this time of year can be especially difficult for people who are already struggling.
“The Warm Welcome Spaces scheme provides a lifeline for people in need of support, whether that is just a cup of tea, a supportive person to listen, or the wealth of additional support they can access via our libraries service.
“While it is a situation we wish did not exist, I am proud that Manchester will continue to play its part in combating the impact the cost-of-living crisis continues to have.”
