Just over six weeks ago, councillors from across the chamber were united in calling for the council to declare a cost of living crisis.

We did so because we wanted to show our local residents that we recognise the pressures that everyone is under at the current time and that, as a council, we are committed to providing whatever support we can.

Back in May, we were very quick to launch a Cost of Living campaign, which aims to help those who are struggling with living costs so they know where they can obtain support and how to check for state benefits they may be entitled to.

To build on this work, my cabinet colleague Cathy Martyn is extremely keen to take forward a number of initiatives to help those who are really in need and this week we outlined how 10 Warm and Welcome Spaces have now opened in time for the colder winter months.

Warm and Welcome Spaces are places where people can spend time, stay warm and feel safe over winter.

At the present time, 10 Council-run and community venues have been confirmed as being part of the scheme and more are in the pipeline.

There will be a variety of facilities on offer at each venue. Some may offer hot drinks or free Wi-Fi or there may even be some activities taking place.

Some of the spaces may just offer a friendly place where individuals can meet other people.

We will be updating a list of all the venues taking part in the scheme on our website: www.swindon.gov.uk/warmandwelcome.

This includes the Swindon Hub in the town centre, Gorse Hill Baptist Church, Wroughton Library, and some of the libraries and community centres across the Borough.

Guidance and support may be provided for those affected by the cost of living crisis by staff at some venues.

We are also looking for volunteers to help out at the Warm and Welcome Spaces.

If you can spare a few hours and would like to help please email: volunteer@swindon.gov.uk or calling the Live Well team on 01793 465 513.

If any organisation or business would like to register to be a Warm and Welcome Space we would love to hear from you.

Please contact our Live Well Team at costoflving@swindon.gov.uk.

We do not expect any venues to open outside of their normal hours or to provide refreshments as this is a completely voluntary scheme.

However, the Council can provide grants of between £100 and £500 to successful venues, with the amount given linked to the number of days per week the space is open.

You can find out more about Warm and Welcome Spaces, and more cost of living support, by visiting the Council’s website: www.swindon.gov.uk/costofliving