The warm welcome initiative is already up and running in many city communities. In Weoley, six venues - including churches, a youth centre and a library - are already opening their doors to residents in need of a friendly place to drop in.

Cllr Jamie Tennant (Lab) said: "The wonderful community groups in my ward have stepped up to ensure nobody goes cold or hungry this winter. While it is terrible they are having to do this, it shows how strong the community here is. More are coming and will be needed until the Government takes proper action to address this cost of living crisis."

The Weoley Warm Welcomes already operating are as follows:

• Tuesdays, 4-5pm, Foodcycle at St Gabriels, B29 5LD
• Wednesdays, 9.30-12.30pm, Stonehouse Gang youth group, B29 5SN
• Thursdays, 10.30-2.30pm, Encounter Church B29 5QD, with kids' corner, arts and games
• Fridays, 10-3pm, Weoley Castle Community Church B29 5LE, with games, snacks and fun
• Fridays, 3.30-5pm, St Gabriels B29 5LS, play and fun