More than 400 borough residents are keeping safe and well with winter packs being distributed to the most vulnerable.

The packs were funded through the government’s Household Support Fund.

Bury has received £3m from the fund to provide support, and, as well as the packs, food and fuel vouchers are being offered along with emergency help towards rent and council tax and other support.

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The winter warmer pack included blankets, hats, gloves, socks, draft excluders, hand warmers and information booklets about support services available.

Bury Art Museum was also asked to produce mindfulness packs which included creative activities, toiletry pack, Christmas tags to produce, indoor gardening pack, tea, coffee and biscuit pack, Christmas cards and postcards.

The packs were distributed through Bury and Prestwich libraries, the council’s Staying Well team, Fairfield General Hospital and Pennine Care, community mental health groups, and local food banks and food pantries.

Supplies of gloves, socks and hats were also given out to rough sleepers who attend the Bolton Road Methodist Church during severe weather.

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Cllr Nathan Boroda, cabinet member for health and adult care, said: “The packs have been well received and have been given out to families, elderly individuals, those who are homeless and other vulnerable groups.

“The feedback we have received is that residents and partners have welcomed the packs and food banks and pantries have appreciated being able to support residents who attend their sessions.

“Through those community organisations we have been able to make contact with and support people who are struggling who have not previously been known to us.”

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Cllr Richard Gold, cabinet member for finance and communities, added: “Rising cost of living is still with us and there are many residents who are struggling.

“The packs are part of a wide range of support that is available from the council and our partners.

“We are already looking at how we improve the packs for this year and working with more businesses and partners to provide further help and support.”