A LIFESAVING mental health charity is ensuring nobody goes cold or hungry this winter thanks to its new drop-in service.

Man On Inverclyde will open its Nelson Street doors every Wednesday for 'Heat and Eat' - an initiative launched to combat the cost of living crisis.

As well as an opportunity to enjoy the warm environment and fresh food, people can also take advantage of free food parcels provided by Aldi.

Charity board member and recent retiree Jim Percival (front left), an expert on fuel poverty, is also using his 40-plus years of knowledge to assist those who need it.

Jim, from Greenock, told the Tele: "I have been on the board for 12 months but felt like I wanted to take on a more 'hands on' role.

"Since retiring I knew I wanted to do something where I can use my knowledge to offer free and confidential advice to those who need it.

"People can come along and get something to eat, sit somewhere warm and I'll be on hand to answer any questions or direct them to a service or person who can help."

The initiative was the idea of the charity's wellbeing worker Kyle McKelvie (middle back).

He said: "The cost of living crisis is having a real impact on people from all walks of life, so we wanted to do our bit to help.

"We know people are struggling, there will be some who are perhaps choosing whether to eat or have heat in their homes.

"With costs going up, we wanted to offer a free space where people can enjoy fresh food, get support if they need it and get warmth."

There will also be staff members on hand for those who are looking for further mental health advice and support.

Kyle added: "It's a trying time and many people might be struggling mentally too.

"There will also be staff on hand to offer support in a group or on a one to one basis.

"It's a real community effort - we've been supported by local businesses such as Aldi, Purdie's Pantry and Cafe Gray.

"Everyone is doing their bit to help."

The drop-in is open to all each Wednesday from 9.30am to 1.30pm and will be running all winter.

For more information or to offer support to help the group run, visit support@manoninverclyde.com