As the borough exits a winter which has seen very low temperatures and tough weather conditions, warm banks in Oldham have been praised for their work.

Warm banks have been set up by several community groups and have received support from the council in order for them to help people throughout the borough who have struggled.

Rising energy prices made it very difficult for most Oldhamers to heat their homes, but warm banks have helped people to get through the tough winter.

One of these spaces is the Salvation Army’s warm space at The Brew in Fitton Hill.

Open four days a week, residents have been able to visit the warm environment and enjoy a hot drink while playing board games, accessing computers and receiving general advice.

The warm bank is open on the following days:

  • Mondays - 9am to 3pm
  • Tuesdays - 12pm to 3pm
  • Wednesdays - 12pm to 5pm
  • Fridays - 9am to 3pm

Graham Rogers from the Salvation Army said: “Energy bills continue to be a cause of great anxiety for many people in our community – so much so, people dare not turn the heating on because of the associated costs.

“Money is extremely tight and in the worse cases we’ve had people come to us who have had no gas or electricity for days, which is extremely worrying.

“But we are here to help, and our warm friendly environment is open to everyone so please visit us if you can’t keep warm at home.”

Leader of Oldham Council Amanda Chadderton said although warm banks should not be necessary in today's world, they have become a "vital lifeline" for people in the borough.

She urged anyone who is struggling with rising energy costs and cannot afford to heat their homes to call the council’s helpline on 0161 770 7007 or visit www.oldham.gov.uk/wecanhelp for information on warm banks across Oldham.