An arctic blast that arrived yesterday (Tuesday) is forecast to last for the rest of the week.

Like many London boroughs, Wandsworth has created a network of Warm Spaces' to provide shelter during this cold snap and throughout the winter months. Some offer hot drinks, snacks, meals and a place to shower and wash.

People are welcome at any of the borough's 11 libraries where they can keep warm and enjoy free internet access.

Local residents will find a range of other events such as children's activities and coffee mornings at Battersea Library (265 Lavender Hill), Battersea Park Library (309 Battersea Park Road) and Northcote Library (155e Northcote Road).

At the Rose Community Clubroom in Battersea an existing programme of arts and wellbeing activities on Mondays has been expanded to offer a hot meal and healthy snacks and free childcare support for up to eight children, each for two hours to run alongside its existing homework club, film screenings, and evening classes.

Feedback already received from residents visiting the warm spaces includes:

• 'It's making a big difference already'
• 'Thank you, such a kind thing to do'
• 'Thank you so much, we usually go to the park but it's so cold now' 
• 'Really good that warm lunches are available too. It's really helping, and I don't have to worry about cooking" 
• 'This place is a lifeline' 
• 'The food is more filling than expected'

Council Leader Simon Hogg said: "With a very cold spell of weather forecast for the rest of this week, our warm spaces are offering families somewhere to get out of the cold.

"We know that many of our residents are facing real hardship this winter because of the cost-of-living crisis. We know that many are having to make really difficult choices about eating properly or keeping warm, which is why we've created our network of Wandsworth Warm Spaces to provide shelter to those in need.

"We are determined to do all we can to make a difference, by offering a compassionate helping hand and supporting our residents through these difficult winter months."