Deadline day for organisations to apply for 'warm spaces' grants in Mid Suffolk and Babergh
Community groups can apply for grants of between £250 and £5,000 to help provide spaces for people to stay out of the cold
Organisations in Babergh and Mid Suffolk have three days left to apply for grants to fund warm spaces for those struggling with the cost of living.
Applications for between £250 and £5,000 as part of the ‘winter warmth support grant’ will close on October 31, having opened on October 21.
They are intended to help community groups and not-for-profit organisations to create places where people can stay out of the cold, combine these spaces with an existing activity or fund activities and entertainment in warm spaces.
Cllr Mary McLaren, Babergh District Council cabinet member for communities and wellbeing, said: “As community groups in our towns and villages rose to the challenges of the pandemic, again we have organisations and volunteers who are offering their facilities and time to support those in need.
“I am very proud to be part of this initiative, and these grants will encourage people who want to give practical help to their neighbours and residents.”
However, the ten-day time period for submitting these applications was questioned by Cllr Sarah Mansel from Mid Suffolk District Council at a meeting yesterday, who believed this was short.
Cllr Julie Flatman, Mid Suffolk District Council cabinet member for communities, health and wellbeing, responded to say there have been lots of applications already.
Cllr Flatman said: “As we all prepare for harder times on the horizon, we will make sure our cost-of-living support puts people and businesses first.
“We know people need somewhere warm, safe and familiar they can go to see friends and access the support they may need.
“Our communities are already filled with groups providing this. We are very proud to support them and enable them to do more of what they’re already doing so well.
“I strongly encourage groups to think about the huge impact they have on the lives of people they support and to let us help them do more.”
Earlier this month, Ipswich Borough Council pledged to introduce warm spaces at the council’s sports centres and other council-owned buildings, to open when daytime temperatures are expected to fall below 15 degrees centigrade.
These are to be operated by council staff as well as volunteer hosts.
To find out more about eligibility or apply for the grants, go to: https://www.midsuffolk.gov.uk/communities/grants-and-funding/winter-warmth-support-grant/.