Council relaunches its warm and well hubs
As Challenge Poverty Weeks gets underway today (Monday 2 October), the council has relaunched four warm and well hubs across the county to provide support with the cost-of-living crisis.
In four libraries
Part of the #MidlothianCares initiative started by the council last winter, the hubs are in Danderhall, Newbattle, Loanhead and Lasswade libraries.
Hot food and drinks
They offer warm spaces and free hot drinks and soup and bread during normal library opening hours.
Plenty on offer
Local residents just need to turn up to stay warm and enjoy what’s on offer. They can also access free wi-fi, as well as books and games, and library staff are on hand to give advice and support.
Partnership working
The council is working with third sector partners and the hubs will host drop-in information sessions on energy advice, income maximisation and financial and wellbeing supports.
“Staff in our warm and well hubs tell us the hubs are quietly appreciated and used by local residents. Discreetly being able to enjoy a hot lunch, recharge your phone and just have a chat in the welcoming atmosphere of a hub library is a godsend for scores of local people who might otherwise be cold and alone at home. Please drop-in, you’re assured of a warm welcome,” said Council Leader, Councillor Kelly Parry.
More warm spaces
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.
Cost of living supports
You’ll also find details there of other cost of living supports, including how to get help with money, fuel costs, food and clothes.
In the picture
From left to right pictured at Newbattle Library, one of four relaunched warm and well hubs, are: Council Leader Councillor Kelly Parry, Library Assistant Lorraine Martin, Customer Services Team Leader Jacqueline Elliot and Catering Assistant Diane Moyes.