Support and services available to manage the cost of living
This winter, Hertfordshire County Council wants to make sure that advice and support is available to help every resident deal with the rising cost of living.
Practical help is available for those who need it most. To make sure everyone knows what financial and practical support is available, the council is highlighting advice and services Hertfordshire residents can access.
Welcome Space Network – Home Energy Support
‘Warm Space’ centres were the initial response in supporting individuals affected by ongoing cost-of-living pressures. Evolving from this initiative, a Welcome Hub is a safe community space that is accessible for everyone to attend on a regular basis. A variety of activities are delivered by staff and volunteers, with free or low-cost refreshments provided.
Communities 1st is delivering a two-year project across Hertfordshire (and Beds), funded by Cadent and focusing on income maximisation. Since January 2024, the network has grown and will deliver through 30 community hubs that originated as warm spaces. Beneficiaries can receive home energy advice that includes the priority services register, carbon monoxide safety (with monitors) and general information on keeping safe and warm. Slow cooker workshops are being delivered that include budgeting, numeracy, and nutrition awareness. Participants of these sessions are given a slow cooker after attending. Communities 1st Benefit Advisors visit the centres regularly to offer support. Candent offers various resources and information that is shared to the centres.
Participating centres to date:
Aberford Rd Community Centre, Borehamwood
Farriers Way Community Centre, Borehamwood
Windsor Hall, Borehamwood
Organ Hall, Borehamwood
Bushey Library, Sparrows Herne
Wormley Community Centre, Broxbourne
Community Skills Hub, Waltham Cross
Rosedale Community Church, Cheshunt
St Albans Community Pantry, Fleetville and Cottonmill Community Centres
Sowing Seeds Family Hub, Cuffley
Dunstable Community Halls
Goffs Oak Methodist Church
(HILS) Friendship House, Hatfield
Potential Futures (Kids), Hatfield
St. Johns Community Café, Hatfield
Highfield Community Centre, Hemel Hempstead
Mill End Community Centre, Rickmansworth
KCM Church, Potters Bar
Phillimore Community Centre, Radlett
(HILS) Jubilee Centre, St Albans
Bedwell Community Centre, Stevenage
Stoneyhall Community Centre, Stevenage
Create-Community, Letchworth Garden City
St. Clements Church, Cheshunt Wash
Isabel Hospice Compassionate Café, St Joseph’s Church, Waltham Cross
Red Trust Café, Phoenix Community Centre, Bushey