Among a range of measures approved by the cross-party Cost of Living Taskforce led by Cllr Parry, the hubs will offer warm spaces and free hot drinks or soup and bread during normal opening hours.

Residents will also be able to access the free wifi and enjoy books, card games and jigsaws. Meanwhile, library staff will be on hand to offer help and advice to make sure customers know where to go to make sure they are getting all the support to which they are entitled.

The #MidlothianCares warm and well hubs will run throughout winter and will be paid for from Midlothian’s £1.36 million share of an £80 m Local Authority COVID Economic Recovery Fund distributed by the Scottish Government to councils across Scotland.

Speaking at Lasswade Library on Friday before the hubs throw open their doors on Monday, Councillor Parry said: “It’s vital we get these hubs opened before the winter weather worsens.

“Our libraries and staff have always been warm and welcoming so it makes sense to base our hubs in two of our main centres and to offer free hot drinks and soup with bread.

“All councillors will be aware of constituents who can’t afford a hot drink or meal so we’re hoping the facilities will be well-used. Please come and use them, even if it is for a bit of warmth and some company. Staff are here to welcome you and to help.”

Other #MidlothianCares measures to help people struggling with the cost of living include £50,000 of funding for food banks and pantries to make it easier for local people to get emergency and affordable food.

Plans are underway for a three-month pilot offering support to 200 people to make sure they can afford to wash and dry their clothes at laundrettes once a week.

Free, re-heatable meals will also be made available at three different local venues to help feed up to 200 vulnerable people five days a week for three months during the winter.

Other help already agreed includes £400,000 to expand the council’s ‘trusted partners’ – a network of local organisations offering help and support to those in need.

A ‘Heat and Eat Fund’ of £279,000 will help families not eligible for Scottish Welfare support was among the first initiatives approved by the taskforce.

Councillor Parry added: “Many thanks to all our staff who have organised the warm and well hubs in time for December. They are looking forward to their first customers.”