A READING charity is launching the town’s first Warm Bank, as the cost of living crisis continues.
New Beginnings Reading has announced it will keep its heating on around the clock throughout the winter to provide a warm space for those struggling to pay their heating bills.
The charity provides support for some of the most vulnerable people in Reading, but is now expecting to help a wider community as energy bills and general costs continue to rise.
Despite the rising costs hitting charities and businesses hard, it has announced that anyone struggling to stay warm will be welcome to join its cafes and community fridge events, or at the Queens Arms pub.
The charity will provide a warm bank once the temperature begins to cool in October.
Vice-chair of New Beginnings Reading Sophie Kimber said: “We know how scared people are about the winter ahead and we knew we had to act to help where we can.
“Historically we’ve provided a warm space, bed, and food for Reading’s homeless community but we know things are going to be different over the next few months. Many people in our community will not be able to pay the cost of their energy bill and face the appalling choice of heating or eating.
“It’s extraordinary in 21st century Britain that we have to do this but we want people to know that this winter, there is a safe, warm and welcoming place for them to come to. Please don’t sit at home in the freezing cold because you can’t afford heating when this is a place all are welcome.”
Trustee of New Beginnings Reading and junior doctor, Dr Jamie Carruthers said: “The cost of living crisis poses significant risks to the physical and mental health of people across the UK.
“New Beginnings Reading is here to support our local community during this difficult time.
“Nobody should suffer through this crisis in silence – we are here to help.”
New Beginnings Reading runs an All-Day Cafe on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, from 10am-4pm.
It also runs community fridges on Tuesdays and Fridays, from 6-7pm, and from noon-1pm on Wednesdays.
New Beginnings Reading is appealing for help as it also struggles with rising costs.
To meet costs, the charity is aiming to raise £100,000 with a fundraising page.
To make a donation, visit: www.justgiving.com
