Up to £3 million is to be funded to South Lanarkshire community groups and organisations to offer a ‘warm welcome’ this winter.
It was agreed in October that a range of warm spaces would be introduced in community settings and public buildings where locals can access warmth, advice and support.
The first phase of this plan includes asking community groups who have bookings across halls, centres and schools to open their doors to invite their wider community neighbours in to join them.
In turn, South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture (SLLC) will waive accommodation charges until March 31.
A new package of funding of up to £3m for the Warm Welcome initiative will go to SLLC from the local authority.
The groups and organisations must agree to welcome others members of the community to join them with no charges being applied to any individual.
Council leader Joe Fagan, said: “We have a range of packages and further supports coming soon to help people cope with the cost-of-living crisis.
“The Warm Welcome initiative is at the forefront of that – inviting people into safe, welcoming spaces across South Lanarkshire.
“I would ask community groups and organisations to get in touch as soon as possible if they want to take part in the initiative.”
On top of offering ‘Warm Welcome’ spaces, SLLC and SLC are offering free access to its swimming pools for under 16-year-olds until March 31 next year.
This free offer applies during public swimming sessions.
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