Winter packs keep our vulnerable residents warm this season

More than 400 residents are keeping safe and well this winter thanks to Bury Council and Public Health, GM Fire Service, Six Town Housing (now part of Bury Council), Morrisons Whitefield and the Co-op in Whitefield.

The packs were targeted towards those most vulnerable because of cold weather and due to the rising cost of living.

Two different packs were distributed. The Winter Warmer Pack included blankets, hats, gloves, socks, draft excluders, hand warmers and information booklets about support services available.

The council’s Public Health also commissioned Bury Art Museum to produce mindfulness packs which were distributed along with the winter well packs and to Fairfield General Hospital and to mental wellbeing groups. The packs included creative activities, toiletry pack, Christmas tags to produce, indoor gardening pack, tea, coffee and biscuit pack, Christmas cards and postcards.

The packs were distributed through Bury and Prestwich libraries, the council’s Staying Well team, Fairfield General Hospital and Pennine Care, community mental health groups, and local food banks and food pantries.

Supplies of gloves, socks and hats were also given out to rough sleepers who attend the Bolton Road Methodist Church during severe weather.

Councillor Nathan Boroda, Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Care said: “The packs have been well received and have been given out to families, elderly individuals, those who are homeless and other vulnerable groups.

“The feedback we have received is that residents and partners have welcomed the packs and food banks and pantries have appreciated being able to support residents who attend their sessions.

“Through those community organisations we have been able to make contact with and support people who are struggling who have not previously been known to us.”

Councillor Richard Gold, Cabinet Member for Finance and Communities added: “Rising cost of living is still with us and there are many residents who are struggling. The packs are part of a wide range of support that is available from the council and our partners.

“We are already looking at how we improve the packs for this year and working with more businesses and partners to provide further help and support.”

The Winter Warmer packs were funded through the government’s Household Support Fund. Bury has received £3m from the fund to provide support and as well as the packs is offering food and fuel vouchers, emergency help towards rent and Council Tax and other support.

If you are struggling and need help or know anyone who is please contact 0161 253 5400 or go to https://www.bury.gov.uk/benefits/cost-of-living-support.