More than £1 million has been approved by Hampshire County Council to boost community hubs and libraries across the county.

The money will go to community hubs, library programmes, and local projects that support households with higher food, fuel, and living costs.

The biggest share, over £240,000, will go to the Hampshire Achieves programme, which runs practical courses in libraries and hubs.

These courses teach skills to help people manage money, use online services safely, and cook healthy meals on a budget.

Another £200,000 will fund a food voucher scheme for vulnerable families who take part in library activities.

The scheme runs in all Hampshire libraries and hubs and combines food support with learning and community programs.

Smaller grants from the Community Hubs Household Support Fund will allow individual hubs to respond to local needs.

This money will cover food provision, advice sessions, outreach work, and the running of warm spaces during the winter months.

As part of the funding package, £100,000 has been allocated for new glass pods at Basingstoke Community Hub.

These pods can be used as private meeting rooms or collaborative areas for community groups, allowing confidential discussions and small events without disrupting the main library environment.

Hampshire County Council said the funding would be focused on residents most at risk, including those in crisis, and would prioritise “sustainable approaches” to food and fuel support rather than short-term fixes.