HMP Inverness’ Visitor Centre has opened its doors to the public as a ‘warm bank’ this winter, in partnership with Action for Children.
Staff have been working hard on ways to support the surrounding community over the past few months, particularly as temperatures drop and the rising cost of living adds additional strain to family budgets.
Hot soups and drinks are being served to anyone who visits, and ‘Winter Warmth Boxes’ have been prepared to help people at home. Each box contains a blanket, warm hat, gloves, one pot meals/slow cooker recipe cards, and canned/dried food. The boxes are tailored to the 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 our 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 are also on hand to provide outreach services to those in need.
Brian McKirdy, 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, 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.”