Assistant director for policy, partnerships and communities at NYCC, Neil Irving, said: “We are currently looking at all aspects of how we can support people in North Yorkshire to stay warm and well this winter.

“This includes highlighting grants and financial support available to residents in the county, as well as looking at how people can stay warm in their homes and communities.

“Our libraries have always offered a warm, safe space to people in their community and will continue to do so.

“Services across NYCC are currently looking at further help and support the council can provide with the rising cost of living and energy bills.”

This statement comes after Ofgem announced that the energy price cap will rise to £3,549 from October 1.

As reported by the Gazette and Herald in August, the support on offer from NYCC includes help with energy bills and food costs; council tax reductions; free school meals; and energy-saving home improvements such as insulation and solar panels.

A full list of the support can be found on NYCC’s 'Cost of living support' webpage at: https://www.northyorks.gov.uk/cost-living-support