Stockport’s Warm and Well initiative returns to help residents through winter

Stockport is redoubling its efforts to support residents this winter through targeted anti-poverty initiatives and the return of the Warm and Well programme.

The Warm and Well scheme, delivered in partnership with local community groups, Sector 3 and Stockport Council, aims to ensure that no one has to choose between heating and eating this winter. 

Recent figures presented to the Communities & Transport Scrutiny Committee reveal that the number of children living in absolute low-income households in Stockport has risen by 11.3% in the past year, with more than 11,000 children now affected.

Food insecurity, fuel poverty, and demand for crisis support remain at record highs, with local food banks distributing more than 25,000 parcels in the last year alone.

R, an autistic resident, found herself living in her car last winter, struggling to stay warm and access support. Through the council’s crisis team and the Warm and Well initiative, R received immediate help: a car tent, a weighted sensory hoodie, and access to a warm space funded by the Council. With continued support, R has now secured stable housing and meaningful employment, and her experience has led to improved support for autistic residents across the borough.

Another resident, Frank, living with cancer and heart failure, was struggling to manage daily expenses and access the benefits he was entitled to. With help from Stockport Homes’ Money Advice Team, Frank successfully appealed a benefits decision, secured backdated payments, and received vital adaptations to his home.

“This award will be life-changing for myself and my wife,” Frank said, expressing gratitude for the council’s support network.

Building on these successes, the Warm and Well initiative returns this winter, offering free, welcoming spaces across Stockport where residents can keep warm, enjoy hot drinks, and access advice on energy bills, benefits, and wellbeing.

In addition, the Stockport Live Well directory is part of the Council’s neighbourhoods and prevention initiatives, which aim to create happy and healthy lives for everyone living in Stockport. The directory brings together local support and things to do in the community to make it easier for people to help themselves, their families, and those they care for.

Cllr Dan Oliver, Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Public Protection, said:

“No one in Stockport should have to face winter alone or in the cold.

“The cost-of-living crisis is hitting our most vulnerable residents hardest, but through initiatives like Warm and Well, and by working closely with our partners, we are determined to provide practical help and a sense of community.

“These case studies show the real difference our support can make. I urge anyone who is struggling to reach out—help is here, and together we can get through this winter.”

Residents can access advice on benefits, debt, and crisis support through the council’s Cost of Living Helpline. Despite challenging financial conditions, the council continues to invest in targeted outreach, digital inclusion, and food support, ensuring that help is available for those who need it most.