It's hoped there will be a warm welcome for the latest campaign to help keep people connected and cosy during the winter months.
East Dunbartonshire Council has launched Winter Connections – a programme offering funding, support and information.
It is co-ordinating and supporting a network of local places and spaces where people can attend events, try activities and meet up with others as the nights grow long and the wind turns icy.
Funding applications are being invited from not-for-profit, voluntary and community organisations – and venues – with grants of up to £1,500 available to help cover additional costs associated with individual projects.
Applications will be accepted until all the available funding has been allocated.
To apply or find out more information, including guidance and eligibility, visit the Winter Connections page.
Councillor Gordan Low, Leader of East Dunbartonshire Council, said, "Living costs continue to be a challenge for everyone so it is vital that we do all we can, working with our partners, to ease the burden as much as possible.
"That's why the Council is providing an additional package of support worth over £1.9 million, following the £2.1 million which was allocated in 2022.
"We want Winter Connections activities and venues to be available in every community in East Dunbartonshire, at a range of times and for residents of all ages. We would particularly welcome applications for projects which will be available during the festive period.
"As well as funding, we aim to provide the latest information on what is taking place in local areas via our website and social media channels."
Support from the Winter Connections Fund can be used to cover a range of project/activity costs, such as associated equipment, food, energy bills, venue hire, cleaning and staffing.
Potential examples include:
- A cooking class where ingredients are provided
- Projects which bring people from a variety of backgrounds together, such as different cultures or age groups
- Electronic tablet/device classes for older people
- Lunch clubs
- Crafting or ‘making’ activities
- Classes with a focus on physical activity
- Sessions which promote simple energy efficiency measures.
The Council can help to connect venues with groups who can offer activities and vice-versa. Grant funding must be spent by the end of March 2024.
Please note, the Winter Connections Fund is not open to applications to support individuals or events to raise funds for other charities. It also cannot be used to cover costs of activities that have already taken place.
Applications will be reviewed – on a rolling basis – by representatives from the Council, East Dunbartonshire Health and Social Care Partnership and East Dunbartonshire Voluntary Action.
Visit the Winter Connections page for more information and a link to the online application form.
For details of cost-of-living support, visit the Cost of Living support page.