Renfrewshire Council launches Winter Connections programme to connect communities this winter

Renfrewshire Council has launched a Winter Connections programme which will create a network of local places and spaces where people can connect and come together this winter.

Winter Connections will co-ordinate and promote a programme of free events and activities hosted by local community and voluntary organisations across Renfrewshire which are open to everyone and guarantee a warm welcome.

The programme is supported by the council’s new Winter Connections Fund, which will provide grants of up to £2,000 to community and voluntary organisations who want to host their own Winter Connections events or activities.

The fund is open to local groups and organisations who can offer a community venue, run an activity or would like to open up their existing activities as part of Winter Connections.

Grants can be used to cover costs including energy, providing food, staffing or cleaning costs.

However, the fund is not open to groups arranging one-off activities or events, or projects which charge people for taking part.

Councillor Jacqueline Cameron, Depute Leader of Renfrewshire Council, said: “Winter can be tough and with the cost of living crisis and increased energy bills, it’s going to be even tougher for people in our communities this year.

“Our Winter Connections programme will bring people together, giving them places where they can socialise, learn new skills and get advice and support if they need it in their own communities.

“Community and voluntary organisations played a vital role in supporting our communities during the pandemic and are continuing to do so during the cost of living crisis. This fund will help them continue their work and make a real difference to people in our communities during this difficult time.

“I would encourage any community and voluntary organisations who meet the criteria to apply.”

Projects applying to the fund should be:

• Open, free and easy to access
• Inclusive, welcoming, respectful and safe
• Able to offer warm drinks/snacks/food along with activities, where possible
• Able or willing to provide connections to other services and supports

Applicants must also have a written constitution, bank account and be able to demonstrate an understanding of what their local community currently needs.

Awards will be made from the beginning of November, and the fund will remain open until all available funding has been used. However, anyone applying for funding is encouraged to get their applications in as quickly as possible.

Any grant received from the fund must be spent by the end of March 2023.

To apply to the Winter Connections Fund or for more information, visit https://www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/article/12902/Winter-Connections-Fund