Over 15 New Forest organisations have received grant funding from New Forest District Council (NFDC) to set up Warm Spaces for the community this winter.
In October 2022, NFDC announced their Warm Spaces grant for existing organisations to apply for one-off funding to offer a warm, welcoming space for residents.
New Forest District Council have received applications from various community groups, including in Totton, Milford, Lyndhurst, Fordingbridge, Blackfield and Dibden.
Each Warm Space has been allocated between £200 and £1,000 to contribute towards running costs and have committed to being open to the community for a minimum of four hours a week until March 2023.
Ryan Stevens, service manager for Revenues and Benefits, New Forest District Council, said: “It’s been uplifting to see so many organisations across the district wanting to open their doors to offer a safe and warm welcome to residents over these winter months.
"We’re delighted to have already supported 16 organisations, with grants totaling £13,220, but we still have funding available to help create more Warm Spaces. I’d encourage any community groups or charities who are considering opening as a Warm Space to get in touch.”
Applications for New Forest District Council’s Warm Space grant can be made at www.newforest.gov.uk/warmspacesgrant
Organisations or groups that can apply include places with facilities such as toilets, heating, Wi-Fi, tables and chairs and tea-making facilities. This could involve being open on days which they aren't usually, being open for longer or widening the offer to all in need of a Warm Space.
Applications will be assessed taking into account the community reach and impact and will also consider the spaces already identified to ensure a spread of Warm Spaces across the district.
Residents can find a full list of Warm Spaces across the district at https://www.newforest.gov.uk/article/3173/Find-a-Warm-Space