New Preston ‘warm bank’ to help people in need this winter

A new ‘warm bank’ has opened in Preston.

Social enterprise Places for People has partnered with Preston City Council to open its Mill Bank Wellbeing Centre as a Warm Hub.

The Warm Hub offers locals the chance to use the warm community space, enjoy refreshments, play games, and meet new people.

Katie Procter, head of supported housing at Places for People, said: “We know that people are struggling with increasing energy costs and fearing for their finances.

“We are finding ways to help, offering respite and ensuring those in need have somewhere that’s not only safe and warm, but a place in which they can socialise and be part of a community.”

People at Mill Bank Warm Hub — Mill Bank Warm Hub is open every Friday afternoon

Mill Bank is part of Places for People, offering a supported housing unit for homeless vulnerable families.

The Centre helps visitors with a range of issues, including budgeting, housing, benefits and community involvement.

The Centre also runs different activities involving the local community and is open at other times of the week to offer a jobs club, young parents advice club, and a sexual health service.

Katie continued: “Mill Bank is a well-used space, but we are hoping this initiative – and the support and reach of the Council – will encourage even more local people to venture inside to stay warm, meet new friends and get the support they need this winter.”

Mill Bank Wellbeing Centre is located at 8 Edmund Street, PR1 1ED. The Warm Hub is open to all from 12pm to 3pm each Friday.

Find out where to find warmth this winter on the Warm Spaces website.