'Warm banks' could be set up in public or community buildings in Richmond borough this winter to help some residents cope with spiraling gas and electricity bills.

Just as food banks have provided vital meals to households struggling in what is the biggest cost of living squeeze since the 1950s, warm banks would offer a safe place to stay warm.

Historically, some people might have used public buildings such as libraries during the winter, while there have even been stories of pensioners spending their days on buses to keep warm.

The consumer campaigner Martin Lewis, founder of MoneySavingExpert, has raised the prospect that the country may need to set up 'warm banks' and a number of councils around the country, including some in Kent and Bristol, are drawing up plans.

Similarly, sources at Richmond Council have indicated they are looking at the idea and will be consulting local groups on the issue.

Increases in the price cap on tariffs is set to take the annual bill for a typical household from just under £2,000 to around £3,400 in October and then £3,600 or potentially £3,850 in January. Based on these figures, many households will be charged over £500 for the month of January alone.

The option to visit community buildings to stay warm, rather than remaining at home in the cold is seen as offering practical help.

Writing on Twitter, Martin Lewis, said: "Can't believe I'm writing this, but I wonder if this winter we'll need 'warm banks' the equivalent of 'food banks' where people who can't afford heating are invited to spend their days at no cost with heating eg libraries, public buildings?"

While it might be assumed that a relatively wealthy area like Richmond borough would not need such help, the fact is that there is strong demand for community food initiatives such at Richmond Foodbank at the Vineyard Project and The Real Junk Food Café, which is run out of the ETNA Centre, Twickenham

A spokesperson for Richmond Borough Council told Nub News: "The Council is looking at a range of initiatives that could provide extra assistance to residents facing challenges from the rising cost of living. This is an initiative we are aware of and will be considering in discussion with the local community."

Looking at other areas, the mayor of Bristol, Marvin Rees, said: "The sad reality is we have been actively organising a citywide network of warm places - we call them 'Welcoming Places'.

"We plan to have them set up by Sept, ready to open in Oct."

In Kent, church leaders in the Diocese of Rochester are examining whether churches could be used. Similarly, local councils in Swale, Tonbridge and Canterbury are looking at the idea.