Across the UK, many households are struggling with clutter. New research from LoftZone suggests almost half of adults feel overwhelmed by the amount of stuff in their homes, while a quarter avoid inviting people over because of it. With limited storage space, the average home now uses one spare room entirely for storage and two more that end up doubling as makeshift storerooms.

Clothes that don’t fit in wardrobes, piles of paperwork, and empty luggage are among the most common offenders. Yet, one of the largest potential storage areas — the loft — often sits unused. Although nine in ten households have one, most use it only a few times a year, and a small number never use it at all.

The loft’s underuse is mirrored in the housing market, where many estate agents fail to include the space in property tours or floor plans. Developers and insulation companies are now urging a rethink, calling for lofts to be seen as usable, valuable parts of the home rather than forgotten attics.

Dust, poor access, and fears of pests stop many from using their lofts, while others simply find them too full already. Still, the idea of converting the area into functional storage appeals to many homeowners, not just for tidying up but for improving energy efficiency and even adding value.

On average, homeowners believe an accessible, well-insulated loft could add over £8,000 to their property’s value. Six in ten say it would influence their decision to buy, and most agree that storage ranks high among must-haves when choosing a home.

Industry figures say that with the right upgrades, such as raised boarding above insulation and safe access, lofts can unlock as much as 50% more storage space while helping reduce heat loss. In a property market where every metre matters, the loft may be one of the simplest ways to gain both space and peace of mind.

Cleethorpes turned a bright shade of orange last weekend as local runners joined forces to support North East Lincolnshire Council’s fostering campaign. The community came together at the weekly parkrun event to highlight the growing need for foster carers across the region.

The event formed part of the council’s Corporate and Community Parenting Fortnight, a programme aimed at encouraging residents to help children in care remain close to their schools, friends, and local communities. With the number of children requiring stable homes on the rise, the campaign focuses on ensuring every young person has the chance to grow up in a safe, nurturing environment.

Sean Clark, one of the event co-directors of Cleethorpes parkrun said:

“We were proud to be part of this important initiative. parkrun is more than just a run, jog or walk – it’s a celebration of people from all walks of life coming together in a spirit of inclusion, encouragement, and community. Supporting fostering and corporate parenting aligns perfectly with our values. These young people are the potential parkrunners of tomorrow, and we’re committed to creating a space where every background is welcomed and every future is nurtured.”

Cleethorpes parkrun, held every Saturday morning, has become a hub for community spirit, welcoming runners and walkers of all ages. The special orange-themed event reflected that same spirit of inclusion, showcasing how local people can play a role in shaping brighter futures for care-experienced children.

As runners crossed the finish line, the message was clear: fostering is not just about opening your home, but about strengthening the fabric of the community, one supportive step at a time.

A new temporary library is set to open in Freshney Place, Grimsby, on Tuesday, 4 November. Located on Baxtergate opposite Costa Coffee, the pop-up library will operate from Tuesday to Friday between 8.30am and 5.30pm, and on Saturdays from 9am to 1pm. It will remain closed on Sundays, Mondays, and Bank Holidays.

The new space will provide core library services such as book borrowing, returns, and reservations, covering both adult and children’s titles. Visitors will find large print, audiobooks, picture books, and a Health and Wellbeing collection. Facilities include two public computers, study spaces, scanning, photocopying, and printing services. Events like Story Time for toddlers and Shake Rattle and Read sessions will also take place, though with limited capacity.

The pop-up library comes as Grimsby Central Library remains closed following water damage earlier in the year, which raised asbestos concerns. A structural survey has been completed, and further investigations are underway to assess the refurbishment required. North East Lincolnshire Council has approved, in principle, the reopening of the Central Library, subject to costs and options for the work being confirmed and publicly reviewed.