Council considers 'warm spaces' for Brighton and Hove

Brighton and Hove City Council is “exploring all options to provide the best support” for people in the city who struggle to pay their heating bills.

October’s new energy price cap will see a typical bill rocket to £3,549 per year - two-and-a-half times the average amount in the same month last year.

Councils are now rushing to find solutions as people are already struggling to make ends meet.

“We are looking around the country for innovative ideas such as using community facilities as ‘warm spaces’ in the winter,” a city council spokesman said.

“However, we know that what people really need is support to heat their homes and feed themselves and their families.

“We all need clarity from government on the support they will be offering both to individuals and councils.”

The government’s Household Support Fund, Council Tax Energy Rebate and Energy Bill Discounts are also set to provide continued support, the council said.

“A third round of the Household Support Fund from October to March is currently awaited,” the spokesman said.

Sussex has seen heavy snowfall in previous years

“While draft guidance has been issued, we are waiting for the government to confirm the level of support to be provided. We will prioritise distribution of this fund as soon as it is confirmed.”

The city council has also expanded its enforcement team, so it can “take on landlords renting cold, leaky homes in the private rented sector”.

More than £35,000 has been donated and will help those suffering the most during this crisis via the Brighton and Hove Cost of Living Crisis Fund, the council said.

Campaigners in Sussex have begun protesting against the rising costs.

Activists from Don’t Pay recently gathered outside the Octopus Energy offices and make a sign from pebbles on the beach in Brighton.

A national energy bill strike on October 1 is set to see thousands of people withhold their payments.