Cost of Living programmes delivered across Monmouthshire in 2025/26 have helped thousands of residents stay warm, enjoy a meal and get support through the colder months.

The programmes were delivered through strong partnerships with community organisations, volunteers, and local groups, all supported by the council.

‘Warm Welcome’ spaces across Monmouthshire offered a place residents could spend time without spending money. 32 Warm Welcomes ran 1973 sessions and welcomed more than 2,800 people. As well as offering a warm, welcoming place to spend time, more than 27,000 hot drinks, snacks and meals were served. Hundreds of enrichment activities and advice sessions also took place, helping people stay connected and get the support they need.

Many residents told us the sessions felt “just like meeting friends”, gave them “a reason to get out during the dark winter months”, and helped them feel visible, connected and supported.

Emergency Food Aid Funding continued through both the summer and winter programmes, supporting more than 3,700 people across 962 sessions. In total, more than 17,000 meals and snacks were distributed. Volunteers also helped people build confidence with cooking and nutrition, and created opportunities to share food together.

The council’s Period Dignity Project also continued to tackle period poverty, distributing thousands of free period products through schools, community venues and open-access locations. Residents’ feedback showed that this support has eased financial pressure, improved dignity and wellbeing, and helped meet growing demand for both products and menstrual education.

Along with council and community organisations officers, we’d like to pay tribute to the more than 700 volunteers who played a huge role throughout the year, helping to welcome people in, serve food and drinks, run activities and share practical advice. Their time, care and local knowledge helped create friendly, welcoming spaces where people felt comfortable, supported and part of their community.

Cllr Angela Sandles, Monmouthshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Equality and Engagement, said: “These projects are about people, not just numbers. They’re about dignity, kindness and strong communities. Hearing people tell us they feel supported, less alone and more confident really shows the difference this work makes. I want to sincerely thank our community partners and volunteers, whose commitment and compassion make such a positive difference to people’s everyday lives.”

To find out more about the support available, please visit: www.monmouthshire.gov.uk/money-matters/

Tags: community, cost of living, Monmouthshire