Grants of up to £750 are available to local charities, voluntary organisations, community groups, and venues. These funds can be used to set up new warm hubs or contribute to the running costs of existing spaces. The initiative aims to provide a welcoming environment for socialising, enjoying hot drinks, and participating in activities during the colder months.
The Chesterfield Health and Wellbeing Partnership, funded by Public Health at Derbyshire County Council, is providing additional financial support for this winter. This funding will help establish new locations across Chesterfield and ensure existing spaces can continue to operate.
Councillor Judy Staton, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for governance, highlighted the importance of the community network. "We’re lucky to have a strong and supportive community network in Chesterfield that will once again be working together this winter to ensure all our communities are supported," she stated. "Thanks to funding from the Chesterfield Health and Wellbeing Partnership we are once again able to reach out to local charities, community groups and community venues and invite them to apply for funding that will either help with the cost of existing groups, or to set up a new space in the borough. These spaces are so valuable in our communities as they also create new ways for people to connect with one another, and access support and advice."
Eligible voluntary and community sector (VCS) organisations and community-led groups in Chesterfield borough can use the grants for various project costs. These include additional energy and staffing costs, furniture and facility improvements, enhanced cleaning to meet health protection guidance, and costs for activities and refreshments.
The deadline for applications is Friday 30 October. The grant is coordinated locally by Chesterfield Borough Council. A separate Derbyshire County Council’s Warm and Welcoming Spaces Grant, administered by Derbyshire Voluntary Action, is also running concurrently. Organisations are encouraged to apply to both programmes where appropriate, with teams working to avoid duplication of funding.
For more information on eligibility or to request an application form, please contact Wendy Blunt at Chesterfield Borough Council on wendy.blunt@chesterfield.gov.uk or call 01246 959657, or Helen Marples at Derbyshire County Council on helen.marples@derbyshire.gov.uk.
