MORE than 40 people have benefited from 'Warm Spaces' that have been set up in Thurrock Council's libraries and hubs for the winter months.

Since Monday, 28 November, 45 people have visited the free, safe and supportive 'Warm Spaces' where they have been given free hot drinks, alongside accessing free Wi-Fi, computers, local information support and more.

Residents can access Warm Spaces between 2pm and 4pm at the following libraries and hubs:

• Mondays – Tilbury Library & Hub
• Tuesdays – Aveley Library & Community Hub; Chadwell Library & Information Centre; Purfleet Library & Community Hub
• Wednesdays – Belhus Library/South Ockendon Centre; Stanford-le-Hope Library
• Thursdays – Grays Library; East Tilbury Library & Hub; Purfleet Library & Community Hub
• Fridays – Corringham Library

Cllr Qaisar Abbas, cabinet member for communities and equalities, said: "Teams in our libraries and hubs offer welcoming spaces and free services all year round to our residents and visitors. However, we're boosting this offer as part of the Warm Spaces initiative in the colder, winter months with a free hot drink between 2pm and 4pm.

"These will still be available over the festive period to ensure anyone who needs to access a 'Warm Space' during this time, can, including those who find this season difficult and lonely. 

"We're grateful to a number of organisations who have helped to support these 'Warm Spaces' and made this initiative possible. Thank you."

Corringham Integrated Medical & Wellbeing Centre (IMWC) also hosts a 'Warm Space' at The Sorrells, Stanford-le-Hope, SS17 7ES, on Thursdays between 10am and 2pm. Hot drinks are available, and this space is open over the festive period.

Find a list of the 'Warm Spaces' across Thurrock, as well as information about other support available, at the Stronger Together Support for Residents webpage. More information about the library and hubs Warm Spaces and cost of living support is available on the council's website.

Check online for library Christmas and New Year opening hours.