South Norfolk Council’s Leisure Centres are throwing open their doors to help those struggling with the cost of living. The Centres in Long Stratton and Wymondham are running schemes to help people stay warm and well this winter.

South Norfolk Council’s Cabinet Member for Healthy and Active Lifestyles, Cllr Kim Carsok, said: “If you are struggling to heat your home this winter and would like somewhere warm to go, you are welcome at our Leisure Centres. Whether you are hungry, need a shower, or a warm mug of tea, then please don’t struggle, come and see us, there are lots of things we can do to help. Our leisure staff are also working alongside our Help Hub to extend that support even further if needed.”

Residents struggling with the cost of living and keeping warm, can drop in the Centres during opening times and let the reception staff know they’re there for a ‘warm space’. They will then be offered a seat somewhere toasty and a free cup of tea. Visitors can stay for as long as they like and are encouraged to bring a book or something to do while they get their core temperature up.

People in need can also use the showers at the Centres, with hair and body wash available, they just need to ask at reception. There will also be baskets within the Leisure Centres for non-perishable food and pet food, which can be added to, swapped, or taken away.

The Council are also running free family drop-in sessions on Tuesdays at Long Stratton from 4-5pm and on Thursdays at Wymondham from 4-5pm during term time. Families can come along and take part in activities such as arts and crafts, short tennis, badminton and basketball. Please check southnorfolkleisure.co.uk for more details.