Devon project offers hot drinks in warm spaces

People in Torbay are also being offered advice and support about applying for benefits including pension credit

A community project in south Devon is aiming to give locals a warm space, hot drinks and company.

Torbay's Warm Spaces Project, which launched this week, also offers advice and practical support to help people apply for pension credit and other benefits.

Eight venues across Torquay, Paignton and Brixham will be open for regular drop-in sessions on selected weekday mornings and afternoons until the end of March.

Organisers Torbay Communities said people do not need to book in advance for the two to five hour sessions, adding: "Remember you are not alone and you should not suffer in silence."

'No judgement'

Sarah O'Connor, co-ordinator of the Ellacombe Community Partnership said: "The project is to offer a space for the most vulnerable people in our community.

"Anyone can come in, even to sit for the day next to the radiator to stay warm.

"There are a lot of people who are looking for that safe space, especially in the winter months."

She said the warm spaces were for people "who fall through the cracks".

"Anyone is welcome to walk through our door - there's no judgement whatsoever," she said.