Hard-pressed Inverness families battling the cost of living and energy crisis can go to jail for warmth this winter after Scottish Prison Service offers a safe haven from the chill
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People struggling to heat their homes in the wintry chill are being invited to serve time in an Inverness prison.
Rather than being sent behind bars though, those struggling with soaring energy costs and plummeting temperatures will be able to take refuge within Porterfield prison’s visitor centre from January 9.
The Scottish Prison Service is inviting families and individuals to spend time at HMP Inverness in an effort to help those most in need during the cost of living crisis.
SPS is also teaming with the charity Action for Children to offer ‘warm boxes’ containing vital supplies to beat the big freeze.
Staff at the establishment have been working hard on ways to support the surrounding community in coming weeks and months.
The move to create a ‘warm bank’ at the jail was made in recognition that the rising cost of energy, food and fuel is putting pressure on family budgets, just as temperatures plummet across Scotland.
Hot soups and drinks are being served to anyone who visits.
The winter warmth boxes can be taken home with each containing a blanket, warm hat, gloves, one pot meals and slow cooker recipe cards, and non-perishable canned and dried foods.
The boxes can be tailored to the particular needs of the recipient, with items such as colouring books, baby sleeping bags and warm coats available.
Donations were made by staff and people in care at HMP Inverness, along with a number of local businesses including Johnny Foxes, Kinmylies Spar, Home Bargains, B&M, Go Outdoors, Eating With the Kids, HobbyCraft and Mountain Warehouse.
Action for Children representatives will also be on hand to provide outreach services to those in need.
Brian McKirdy, the governor of HMP Inverness, said: “We know this time of year can be tough, especially when costs are rising, and staff have been keen to do all they can to help.
“I would like to thank Action for Children, all the local businesses and groups, and the staff and prisoners who have worked with us to make this happen.
“The relationships we have with our communities are vital to us at HMP Inverness, and I hope this initiative makes a real difference to families who need it.”
Lorna Pattie, the Action for Children visitor centre co-ordinator, said: “The warm box project offers tailored boxes to individuals and families filled with items to help them remain warm through the winter months and cost-of-living crisis.
“The project will be extended in the coming weeks to include a ‘Place of Warmth’ offering a safe, warm place for the community to relax, charge their device and get a hot drink or bowl of soup.
“The Centre will also offer emotional and practical support in the form of food bank provision, support towards essential shopping/fuel top ups and signposting to other relevant support services as required.”
