Inverness CAB and Café 1668 team up with BID to launch new initiative to support people in need this February and March
A new initiative aiming to support those struggling with rising living costs and the impact of food and fuel poverty in Inverness has been launched.
Running until the end of March, the Inverness Warmth and Wellness Project will offer a welcoming space where people can enjoy a cuppa, connect with others, and receive specialist home energy advice.
This is a joint effort between Inverness, Badenoch and Strathspey Citizens Advice Bureau and Café 1668, with marketing support from Inverness BID.
No appointment is needed, and all are welcome to drop in for general guidance or themed discussions.
Alasdair Christie, chief executive of Inverness Badenoch and Strathspey Citizens Advice Bureau, highlighted the urgency of the initiative.
He said: “Too many people in our community are facing impossible choices between heating and eating.
“The drop-in clinic will provide immediate, practical support while also ensuring individuals receive specialist energy and fuel rights advice. We aim to reduce hardship, improve wellbeing and to empower individuals to take control of their circumstances.
“By working together and offering this extra community-based service we can make a real difference.”
Café 1668 will play a key role by providing the venue and free refreshments, along with larder essentials for those in need.
Val Cooper, manager of Café 1668, said: “We are delighted to be part of the Warmth and Wellness initiative as it will directly support those who might need a bit of extra help.
“Café 1668 has always been about more than just serving coffee or meals, it’s about being part of a friendly community.
“We encourage anyone who could benefit, especially those who may have challenging circumstances or be at risk of drug or alcohol-related harm, to take advantage of this opportunity.”
Margaret Laws, deputy manager of Inverness BID, reinforced the importance of collaboration: “It has been fantastic to be able to bring together two of our valued city centre stakeholders to deliver this much-needed project to reduce poverty and inequality. By combining their resources and expertise, those worried about paying bills this winter can now more quickly access support.’.
The project partners also noted that they would like to say a big thank you to the Highland Third Sector Interface and the Highland Drug and Alcohol Partnership for recognising the value of the initiative and for providing the necessary funding support via the Local Improvement Fund.
The drop-in sessions will take place at Café 1668 from 1pm to 4pm on February 12, 20, and 25 and on March 5, 13, 18, and 26.
