Councils relieve residents’ winter pressures

The grant is available to organisations that have an idea for a project that supports residents during the winter months, this may be a warm space, Christmas hamper appeal, or a new initiative.

Broadland District Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing, Cllr Natasha Harpley, said:

“The cost of living is continuing to have a detrimental impact on local families, with more and more people relying on food banks to top up their weekly shop. With energy prices rising yet again in January, there will be even more pressure on people who are already struggling. “This grant will go some way to helping those most in need and supporting them throughout the colder, leaner months.”

South Norfolk Council’s Cabinet Member for Supporting People, Cllr Graham Minshull, said:

“There are some fantastic community groups who we work alongside to support some of our most vulnerable residents. At this time of year, and with the additional pressure of Christmas, there are many residents who need that extra support and rely on the kindness and generosity of local community groups. This funding will be used to supplement their provisions and help those most in need.”

So far, twenty groups have successfully applied to the fund, including the Chet Valley Community Larder, who used the funding to host a Christmas Bag event. People in need were able to fill a bag with essential items, as well as a few seasonal treats they would not have otherwise been able to afford.

Acle Parish Council also used the money to supplement their food bank, creating 20 Christmas parcels of seasonal food and gifts for the elderly and families who are in need in the local area.

Community groups can apply for up to £1,500 each, projects should:

• support individuals and families during the colder months
• provide safe non-judgmental spaces for people to come together
• support our communities to support themselves and each other
• provide essential items (food and toiletries) for vulnerable families and individuals

Each Council was awarded £15,000 through the UKSPF Pride in Place Fund to provide the Winter Pressures Grant.

For more information and how to apply, visit our Winter Pressures Grant page.