Funding now open to help Torbay groups keep residents warm this winter

Community organisations across Torbay are being invited to apply for funding to run warm, welcoming spaces this winter.

Torbay Council has set aside £32,000 to support local groups that can provide a safe and friendly place for residents to keep warm and connect with others during the colder months.

Groups can apply for grants of up to £2,500 each to help cover the additional costs of running a Warm Space, such as heating, refreshments, or activities. Applications can be made via the Torbay Council website.

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Warm Spaces are free for visitors and offer hot drinks, with some also providing food, activities, or signposting to further support.

Councillor Hayley Tranter, Cabinet Member for Adult and Community Services, Public Health and Inequalities, said: “We are pleased to once again launch the Warm Spaces funding for Torbay and look forward to hearing bids from local organisations.

“For whatever reason people may need to use a warm space, whether they are struggling to keep their homes warm or just need a bit of company, the scheme aims to support local people through the difficult winter months.”

Organisations applying for funding must be constituted groups within the Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector, including faith-based organisations.

All participating venues are asked to sign the Warm Spaces Charter, which ensures that visitors are welcomed, treated equally, kept safe, and not judged for using the space.

A full list of Torbay Warm Spaces will be published on the council’s website from December, including both funded and independently run venues.

Groups wishing to be added to the list can email Commissioning@torbay.gov.uk

 with ‘Warm Spaces’ in the subject line.

Information about the grants and how to apply can be found on the council’s Community Funding webpage.