Increased costs leave many people across our communities with additional cost burdens that may prove to be extremely challenging. Households may be faced with choices between eating healthily, turning the heating on or having to live in cold homes, leading to increased health and wellbeing issues.
South Staffordshire Council in partnership with the Midlands Partnership Foundation Trust (MPFT) and The Staffordshire Community Foundation have pooled a budget to facilitate this provision. It is not intended to cover the full costs, rather supplement other budgets and funding that existing organisations are already using for this type of provision.
The funding is to respond to increased pressures and the demand that is likely to arise from existing community support provision. The funding will be utilised for a variety of purposes including:
To support and promote the provision of a network of warm and welcoming spaces for any in our community / communities to go to on a regular basis.
Befriending and support for those most vulnerable in our communities including those who experience rural isolation.
Bespoke support packages offered by community groups to those most in need, providing a friendly welcome, someone to talk with and be listened to, whilst having a warm drink and food in venues that are equipped to offer this facility.
It is also anticipated that some Parish Councils / partners and local community groups may want to add additional funding to support the needs of their residents during these unprecedented times. This may grow the number of Warm Spaces, services offered or core service offering.
The funding application form is downloadable here.