More than 23,000 people sought refuge at warm banks in Oldham last year

The warm bank offer is available at all Oldham libraries, though the Central Library isn’t able to provide free hot drinks

Around 24,000 people in Oldham sought refuge in a council-run warm bank last year, as people were hit by the high cost of heating.

Oldham libraries gave out 23,753 free hot drinks to people who needed them, according to data revealed exclusively to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The figure was disclosed as the local authority opened warm banks across the borough, which will provide residents with a warm place to stay during the day.

Members of the public can visit the heated libraries, churches and community centres across the borough, where they can claim a free hot drink, make use of free WiFi and take part in family friendly activities. 

The offer is available at all Oldham libraries, though the Central Library isn’t able to provide free hot drinks.

A number of community organisations are also hosting warm banks at Greenacres Community Centre; Oldham Chapel; United Reformed Church, Oldham; Dovetales Christian Centre, Shaw; Beulah Community Church, Hollins; and The Mare and Foal, Failsworth. 

The scheme comes alongside a £2.5m winter support campaign, with £200k provided to charities, £185k in emergency fuel payments and food vouchers will feed around 15,000 eligible kids. 

At council venues, staff will also be on hand to advise individuals who to contact for additional support, the local authority has said, and will host events such as ‘Bounce and Rhyme’ for under 5s. 

Speaking to the LDRS outside the Central Library, one visitor who did not want to be named, told the LDRS the warm banks had been a ‘relief’ for him last year, when he’d struggled to heat his home in the coldest winter months. 

Though he added: “I’m 73. I should be able to stay warm in my own home.”

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