'Warm, welcome spaces' and a cost of living helpline - find out how Manchester is supporting its residents this winter

Warm Welcome Spaces will once again have their doors open this winter as Manchester City Council sets out its support for residents.

Last year there were tens of thousands of visits to places which had been set up as non-judgemental safe spaces where people could get out of the cold.

This year the city’s 22 libraries will once again operate as 'warm welcome spaces', providing a range of support to people who need it.

This can range from free hot drinks, free Wi-Fi, free data SIM cards, newspapers, information and advice and extra signposting to support services in the city.

It is important to say that these spaces – locations of which can be found here – are free to enter, and can be stayed in for as long as you like.

As well as the City Council’s 22 libraries, there are dozens of other community and volunteer-run spaces that will be taking part in the support offer this year.

Councillor Joanna Midgley, Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council said: "Through our Warm Welcoming Spaces offer we are extending a helping hand to people who may be struggling this winter.

"Through this scheme we want to help tackle poverty and isolation and show, that help is always available to people in Manchester who may be finding things difficult.

"In Manchester no one should be cold this winter and I am proud that once again our communities are pulling together to support our vulnerable residents."

In addition, the council is continuing with its cost of living advice line that can give help and support on a range of issues including food, benefits, rent, bills and debts.

Each day the advice line takes around 23 calls, which can often be complex in nature, and since it opened in October last year it has taken almost 7,000 calls.

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