Free event to be held in Southport to show residents how to keep warm and well this winter

Sefton Council is hosting a Keep Warm, Keep Well event as part of its commitment to helping vulnerable people get through winter.

The Council’s Affordable Warmth team, in partnership with Sefton OPERA are holding the free event at The Atkinson Centre in Southport, Monday 31st October, from 10.30am to 3:30pm.

Information stands will be open between 10:30am and 12.30pm. Blood pressure checks, chair-based exercises, free goody bags and massages will also be on offer.

There will also be dance sessions taking place from 1.30pm onwards accompanied by live bands, music and entertainment.

Sefton Council recognises many households will struggle to pay their bills this winter due to the cost of living crisis. Autumn’s expected rise to £3,554 will leave average household bills 80 per cent higher going into the colder months when energy use soars. Many vulnerable people will be hit hard, including older people and those in ill-health, living in energy inefficient homes that are difficult and expensive to heat.

People can find out more information about the event by contacting Sefton Opera on 0151 330 0479 or 07452 867 648 [email protected].

Anyone concerned about keeping warm at home should contact Sefton’s Affordable Warmth Team on 0151 934 2222.

People worried about paying gas and electricity bills or who are struggling due to rising prices in shops can find support and advice by visiting www.sefton.gov.uk/cost-of-living

Cllr Trish Hardy, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing said: “With their gas and electricity bills set to rocket and inflation rising to the highest rate in 40 years, households and business across Sefton will be wondering just how they are going to get through the coming winter and beyond.

“While Sefton Council has no magic solutions and like councils across the UK is hit by the same rises in costs to run its operations and services, it is vital we recognise people’s plight and work with our partners to provide what support and advice we can.”