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A press release from Everyone Active...

This Wednesday 13th November 2024, a free winter warmer pop-up at Hitchin Swimming and Fitness Centre offers free advice and support for Hitchin residents facing rising fuel costs

Residents in Hitchin and the surrounding areas are encouraged to take advantage of a free pop-up event offering practical support and guidance for staying warm this winter.

The Hertfordshire Winter Fuel Support Roadshow is coming to more than 100 locations across the county, including the Hitchin Swimming and Fitness Centre on Wednesday 13 November from 10am to 12pm.

Age UK Hertfordshire, Herts Help and Hertfordshire County Council are delivering the event with the aim of connecting local residents - especially older adults and low-income families - with the help and resources available to them.

Everyone Active, North Herts Council's leisure operator, is hosting several of these events across its sites in the county, including the one at Hitchin Swimming and Fitness Centre.

Kirsty Jones, Area Contract Activity & Wellbeing Manager at Everyone Active, said: "We know a lot of people in our community are really struggling with the rise in energy bills and the cost of living. These events are about bringing that support directly to people and making sure no one falls through the cracks.

"The goal is to give people a warm, welcoming space where they can get the help they need, all in one place. Whether it's advice on applying for benefits or just having someone to talk to, we want to make sure no one has to face this winter alone."

Councillor Mick Debenham, Executive Member for Leisure at North Herts Council, added: "With the cost of living continuing to put pressure on so many in our community, it's crucial that people know there is help available. This initiative is about making support accessible and ensuring residents feel seen and supported. I encourage anyone who needs advice to come along."

At the Hitchin pop-up, a team of trained advisors will be on hand to provide one-on-one assistance. This includes checking eligibility for Pension Credit and other benefits that can boost household incomes, as well as helping access the Welfare Assistance Scheme for food and energy vouchers.

The team will also be able to connect residents with additional services, such as Winter Welfare Checks, befriending programmes and carer support. In cases of extreme hardship, small grant payments may even be available.