John Healey MP has paid tribute to local businesses, libraries, charities and other venues that have opened their doors to help people keep warm across the borough this winter.
Opticians, churches and foodbanks have all been in touch with John to say they are opening their doors to help as part of the Warm Spaces Programme.
It’s as there’s been a rise in the number of people contacting John’s office in Wath to find out about the scheme since the cold weather hit.
John said: “I’d like to thank all of those organisations, charities and venues that have come forward to offer their support for people across the borough this winter. With food prices and rents increasing, heating bills going up and taxes rising, I know this is a very difficult time for many.
“But warm banks shouldn’t be needed in 2022. This is the first time in my 25 years as an MP that this has happened, and it clearly shows how this Conservative government has failed people over the past 12 years.
“We’ve had people contact my office saying they need somewhere to go as they simply can’t afford to have the heating on and heat their homes. People shouldn’t be in that position in the 21st century.
“Labour’s Warm Homes Plan would insulate up to 2 million homes a year, saving pensioners and families up to £1,000 off their energy bills.”
A number of Warm Welcome spaces are available across Rotherham and Barnsley for anyone who is feeling the cold.
They have been set up to help people get warm, stay warm and meet with others for a little company.
More information on Warm Spaces can be found on:
Rotherham Council website here
Barnsley Council website here
And at warmwelcome.uk