Support is available to make sure everyone in South Gloucestershire can eat well and keep warm over the coming colder months.
South Gloucestershire Council is launching its annual winter support package, which this year focuses on food and warmth which are key to staying well during winter.
Getting enough to eat and being able to stay warm are essential to stay well and in South Gloucestershire, the council and its partners are committed to making sure no one has to choose between food and heating their homes. This is especially important for vulnerable people including older residents, those with health conditions, and very young children.
The Eat and Heat campaign will provide information and advice and additional help for those struggling to feed their household or heat their home, bringing support to the people who need it most with a series of roadshows in community venues.
The campaign will deliver food support including tips to make meals go further and store food for longer, free cookery classes for eligible older residents through our partner Age UK South Gloucestershire, and for families with Cook Stars, and supermarket vouchers for those who need emergency help.
To stay warm, the council will be giving 1,000 free warm packs to residents who are struggling with energy bills and cannot afford to turn their heating on regularly. Funded by the government’s Household Support Fund, the packs include a hot water bottle, thermal flask, reusable hand warmers, soup, hats, socks, gloves and a blanket. Family packs are also available which include hats, socks and gloves for two adults and two children. The packs will be available to South Gloucestershire residents, subject to a few eligibility questions, from One Stop Shops and some of our partner organisations.
The campaign will also provide advice for everyone on conserving heat by reducing draughts and using less energy and how to access grants and subsidies from Severn Wye’s Warm & Well service to make homes more energy efficient.
Community Welcome Spaces will also be open over the winter offering a warm place to enjoy a hot drink, meet new people or just enjoy a hobby. You can find your nearest welcome space at www.southglos.gov.uk/community-welcome-spaces
Councillor Alison Evans, cabinet member responsible for the cost of living and public health, said: “We are here to help anyone who is struggling to get enough food to feed their household and to heat their home. No one should have to choose between eating and heating during winter.
“Please come along to one of our events, ask if you’re eligible for a free warm pack, or get in touch as there are many ways we can support you. There is no shame in asking for help and our friendly team will be pleased to get you the help you need to stay well this winter.”
Mark Flower, chief executive of Age UK South Gloucestershire, said: “We are very pleased to be partnering South Gloucestershire Council for the Eat and Heat campaign this winter.
“Sadly, we see so many older people who can’t afford to keep warm or eat well. We don’t think that is acceptable in 2025 and together with the council, we are doing everything we can to help people.
“We will be delivering some of the warm packs, oil fired radiators and heated blankets as well as offering our full range of services – from 1-2-1 cooking classes, coffee mornings and digital support sessions. If you or someone you know are struggling this winter, please contact us.”
The first roadshows will take place in One Stop Shops in November (all 9am-12noon):
- Tuesday 4 November, Kingswood One Stop Shop
- Wednesday 5 November, Patchway One Stop Shop
- Thursday 7 November, Yate One Stop Shop.
There will be further pop-up events at various locations and details of these will be publicised soon.
If you are struggling financially, including difficulty to buy enough food or heat your home, get in touch by visiting a One Stop Shop or calling 0800 953 7778. You will be treated with respect and everything discussed is in complete confidence.
For help with debt and budgeting, North Bristol Advice Centre offer drop-in sessions and bookable appointments at Kingswood One Stop Shop every Monday (2-4pm).
For more information visit www.southglos.gov.uk/costofliving
