As energy bills remain high, many people across Cumbria are struggling to afford their utility bills. The Warm Spots Fund is providing funding to charitable organisations to help them stay open for longer this winter and provide a warm place for people to shelter from the cold and to help mitigate the cost-of-living crisis and reduce social isolation.
A warm spot can be any community venue – a village hall, community centre, church, parish room – which provides a warm and friendly environment for people to meet over refreshments.
Donor
Cumberland Council, Westmorland & Furness Council and Cumbria Community Foundation
Who can apply?
• community groups that are establishing a warm spot to support the ongoing needs of people impacted by the cost-of-living crisis to ensure that their health and wellbeing is maintained.
What will the fund support?
• additional salary costs
• additional utility and rental costs
• small modifications to make the venue safer and more accessible (e.g., heater guards)
• infection control measures (hand gel, masks, additional cleaning costs)
• volunteer expenses
• Level 2 food and hygiene qualifications (to prepare and serve food)
• light refreshments (tea and biscuits)
• promotion – i.e., posters
• transport costs for people to attend
What the Fund cannot support in addition to our normal exclusions:
• existing activities unless provision is being extended and additional costs incurred (e.g. additional heating costs)
• individuals
• organisational core costs
• organisational administration costs
How much can you apply for?
• grants of up to £500 per venue will be considered.
Please complete the application form, available here. There is no closing date. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis. You should expect to hear the outcome within 5 working days of submitting your application.
Please note:
• the funding, if awarded, must be fully spent by 30th April 2024.
If you would like further information about this fund please contact:
Tracy Cheesbrough on 01900 825760 or email grants@cumbriafoundation.org