THE county council is encouraging residents who are struggling with the cost of living to attend advice sessions at libraries across Hampshire.

Well-known organisations, like Citizens Advice and mental health charity MIND will be offering valuable support and guidance to anyone that needs it. No appointment is necessary.

The drop-in sessions will be taking place at Alton Library on Tuesday, November 7 from 9.30am to 12.30pm, at Winchester Library on Wednesday, November 8 from 10am to 1pm, and at the Basingstoke Discovery Centre on Thursday, November 9 from 10am to 12pm.

Hampshire Chronicle: The Winchester ARCThe Winchester ARC The sessions have been made possible with a grant from the connect4communities programme, which is run by the county council - working with partners, including voluntary and charity groups - to coordinate a range of measures that support families facing hardship. Funding is provided to local authorities by the Department for Work and Pensions from its Household Support Fund.

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Hampshire County Council's executive member for education, Cllr Steve Forster, said: “Libraries serve as vital hubs within our communities, making them the perfect venues for these assistance sessions. For those grappling with financial challenges, our libraries can offer a welcoming place for anyone seeking advice and support.”

The council is also making the most of its library network to offer warm spaces to residents during the autumn and winter months.

Anyone who needs a place to spend some time, connect with others or to work or study can do so at one of the 40 branches across the county. The libraries offer a range of free or low-cost resources, events, activities, and learning opportunities for both adults and children, with public access to Wi-Fi and computers.

Residents facing financial challenges can also visit the county council’s cost of living web page to find more sources of support. There is additional information about warm spaces, as well as details about accessing school meals, meals on wheels, expert advice on reducing heating bills and more.