News-Welcome Spaces return to County Durham for third year

We are working alongside Point North to offer funding to the voluntary and community sector to create a network of places where people feel safe, warm, and included.

Alongside community groups and organisations, the local authority's Family Hubs and 39 library buildings will once again join the scheme.

Both the council and Point North are contributing to the funding, with a combined pot of £330,000 available, including £250,000 from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, to support organisations with grants of up to £3,000.

Last year, 83 groups received funding and an evaluation of the programme suggested the initial aim of helping people to stay well and warm was not the only benefit to come from the scheme. Feedback highlighted that a range of additional support was provided on matters ranging from finance, housing, mental health and wellbeing to drugs and alcohol.

A safe, warm and welcoming environment

Cllr Alan Shield, our Cabinet member for equality and inclusion, said: "The energy price cap increases earlier this month, combined with the ongoing cost of living crisis, means that many residents, including pensioners affected by the loss of the winter fuel allowance are more concerned about the cost of heating their homes this winter.

"We also know that feelings of isolation can increase during winter, with cold temperatures and dark nights discouraging people from leaving the house. Welcome Spaces aim to help to relieve these concerns by offering them a safe, warm and welcoming environment where people can catch up with old friends, make new ones, seek advice and feel more connected to their communities.

"This funding will help to ensure as many residents as possible can benefit from the Welcome Spaces programme. We would encourage groups to apply for a grant so we can work together for the benefit of our communities."

Community spirit

Cllr Mark Wilkes, our Cabinet for neighbourhoods and climate change, said: "There's a strong sense of community spirit in towns and villages across County Durham. It's what makes our county so special and is something we as a council are keen to support as much as possible. These grants will help groups to build upon the excellent work they are already doing, allowing them to offer even more support at the heart of their communities."

Jane Dennison, fund manager at Point North, said: "We're delighted to be working with Durham County Council again to deliver this year's Welcome Spaces Fund.

"Winter is incredibly tough, with many in our community facing the difficult choice between staying warm, clean, or fed. This fund is designed to help community spaces stay open and provide much-needed relief during these challenging months - from offering hot meals and arts and crafts activities to providing a place where people can access the internet, charge their phones and access advice.

"We encourage local groups to apply for the fund so they can continue providing these essential services and meet the immediate needs of their communities."

Support and training

Participants in the Welcome Spaces scheme will be asked to sign up to a simple charter, setting out standards for the scheme, and to display a window poster highlighting their involvement.

Community groups and organisations that receive support will also be offered training on a range of topics, including basic mental health, food safety and safeguarding, with grants able to cover a range of expenses such as utility bills, volunteer expenses or staff time, equipment and furniture.

Once community Welcome Spaces are confirmed, they will be added to Locate, an online directory allowing residents to connect with local services in their community. Key information including opening times, accessibility and any other facilities available, such as the offer of hot drinks or wi-fi, will be highlighted to ensure people can access their nearest space.