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Interactive maps help people find local offers of support
14/12/2023
Those struggling with the cost-of-living can find help close to them
People needing help with winter provisions or somewhere friendly to escape the cold can benefit from two interactive maps which have been made available showing the closest places to find help.
With Christmas approaching the maps are part of a support package available to those struggling with the cost-of-living crisis.
The easy-to-use online maps show the nearest warm spaces and centres offering access to food are available.
Cherwell District Council’s warm spaces map features nearly 50 locations across the Cherwell district where people can get out of the cold and access information about help with the cost of living.
Good Food Oxford also hosts a handy food map that includes foodbanks, community fridges and larders throughout the district.
People can also access the Citizen’s Advice money advice service, which Cherwell funds, to help with issues such as problem debt and accessing benefits. For anyone needing immediate, one-off financial help, there is the Resident Support Scheme, administered by Oxfordshire County Council.
Councillor Phil Chapman, Portfolio Holder for Healthy and Safe Communities, said: “We know that with the arrival of winter, many people in the district will be worried about rising fuel bills and how this will impact their household finances. It has always been our goal to provide a local support offer that complements national cost of living support measures.
“Our new warm spaces map will make it easier for people to find a friendly place to get out of the cold. These welcoming venues also offer information about further support that is out there, which includes help with access to food, direct financial assistance, and keeping fuel bills down.
“We are extremely grateful to the large numbers of community centres and other venues which are opening their doors this winter. Advice and support are available online or over the phone – and in many cases, they are closer than people may realise, at a warm space near them.”
The council also supports Better Housing Better Health (BHBH), which provides free, impartial help and advice on energy efficiency and switching providers to save money.
All the support options can be found here.
Published: by Banbury FM Newsteam