91Èȱ¬

A church is opening its doors for a third year to provide a warm space for those struggling with the cost of living.

Bishop Auckland Baptist Church in Westfield Road said it would be spending £5,000 this winter providing hot meals and a place for people to get warm.

Volunteer Marion Hodgson said about 20 to 30 people were expected to come to the space three days a week to "warm themselves against radiators".

Durham County Council said grants of up to £3,000 were available to venues wanting to be warm havens with training in promoting good mental health and food safety also available.

Ms Hodgson said: "The warm space is for all ages and peer groups, from the homeless to families as well as isolated people, of all faiths and none.

"We provide home-cooked meals, food parcels, budgeting ideas and a warm space during the winter.

"People are struggling, they often don't have any money and are coming and warming themselves against the radiators.

"People coming to our space say they always leave with a smile on their face."

She also said the church had a book swap shop, jigsaws and a community garden for visitors to enjoy.

The council said 83 groups received funding last winter and it was hoping more would come forward to share in £330,000 available for the scheme.

Alan Shield, member for equality and inclusion, said: "The energy price cap increases earlier this month coupled with many pensioners affected by the loss of the winter fuel allowance means there is concern about the cost of heating homes this winter."

He also said many people felt "isolated" and coming to warm spaces was a chance to catch up with friends, make new ones and feel "connected" to the community.

The church is open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10:00 to 14:00.

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