The council and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) have joined forces to offer a warm space for over 50s.

Not only will those taking advantage of the warmth at Farnworth Community Fire Station on Albert Road be able to save a bit of money, but they will also benefit from free fire safety advice from the fire fighters stationed there.

The community-led resource, set up by station manager Carl Haslam and public health community facilitator Rebecca Estcourt, has also been introduced to reduce social isolation throughout the winter months.

The first session has already taken place and was well received by members of the community.

They enjoyed a warm drink, a chat with other people that lived nearby, and learned how to keep their homes safe.

The Bolton News: Group picture at the first warm space meeting - Mick, Rebecca Estcourt, Davina, Janet and Kate.Group picture at the first warm space meeting - Mick, Rebecca Estcourt, Davina, Janet and Kate. (Image: Bolton Council)

Station manager Haslam said: “Working with our partners at Bolton Council we are pleased to welcome members of our local community into Farnworth Community Fire Station to keep warm for a few hours each week while learning about fire safety in the home. 

Each Wednesday afternoon for the foreseeable future we are offering a warm space for people to come together to have a warm drink and we will be talking with those booked on the sessions about staying safe at home.

“We have access to computers so as well as talk about fire safety and answer any questions we can help people complete a Home Fire Safety Check - which may lead to a visit from our colleagues or additional online advice.”

The council’s executive cabinet member for wellbeing, Cllr Susan Baines, said: “It’s great to see the community coming together to support each other and to take advantage of this warm space set up by Carl and Rebecca.

The Bolton News: Over 50s club flyerOver 50s club flyer (Image: Bolton Council)

“As the cost of living continues to increase, it’s more important than ever that we look after ourselves, our family, friends, and our neighbours.

“Local schemes like this, alongside other advice and support available from Bolton Council and partners, are key to enable residents to live healthier, happier lives.”

The warm space sessions will run on Wednesdays from 1pm to 2pm at Farnworth Community Fire Station on Albert Road.

Places must be pre-booked by emailing r.estcourt@bolton.gov.uk or calling 07385955775.

Visit www.letskeepboltonmoving.co.uk to find out more.

To find more warm spaces visit the national Warm Spaces website at www.warmwelcome.uk.

For more information about the GMFRS campaign to stay fire safe visit www.manchesterfire.gov.uk/your-safety/stay-fire-safe.

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