Agenda item

To receive an update on the development of the Warm Spaces Project.

By Means of a report by the Corporate Director - People (a copy of which was appended in the  Minute Book), the Panel heard about the Warm Spaces initiative.

The Panel heard that although the majority of locations so far were in bigger towns and villages, all facilities identifying as warm spaces could apply for funding from the Community Chest Fund. As more groups are established, gaps will become identified and work can then be undertaken to help support groups in those areas.

Following an enquiry from Councillor Criswell, the Panel heard that there would be support to empower volunteers and to assist existing groups in supporting local residents. The Panel were further assured that support for dealing with those in immediate crisis would be paramount alongside helping residents establish long term solutions.

The Panel were advised that a map of warm hubs across the district would be provided in answer to a query from Councillor Alban. Following a further enquiry from Councillor Alban, the Panel heard that the Community Chest grants were capped to ensure as many groups as possible could be supported across the district.

Councillor Lowe enquired how those in need would be encouraged to attend the spaces and observed that there may be some social stigma attached to the centres. The Panel were reassured that by working with volunteers in the local community some of the anticipated stigmas would be addressed. The Panel also heard that some of the warm spaces were adapted from existing social gatherings, such as coffee mornings, which would help encourage vulnerable residents to attend. Volunteers within the spaces would be trained and supported to help assist residents with unlocking long term support such as unclaimed benefits.

Following support for the scheme from Councillor Bywater, it was then enquired what barriers to employment were currently impacting residents. The Panel were assured that by working with Partner organisations such as the Department of Work and Pensions, the Council would assist residents into employment by clarifying support available to aid the transition into employment and alleviate concerns around the differences from any benefits and support currently received.

The Panel heard, following a question from Councillor Shaw, that by working closely with the County Council and other partnership organisations across the district, the Council would able to ensure that vulnerable residents were being supported. It was further elaborated that this partnership approach may involve signposting to hubs outside of the district area as they may be more accessible for those residents living on the fringes of the district.

Councillor McAdam observed that despite the unprecedented situation, partnerships with the volunteer sector would allow better communication with communities and enable barriers to be broken down with residents engaging with services. The Panel was assured that feedback would be obtained and fed back to establish progress and success of the project.

The Panel were further assured, following an enquiry by Councillor Welton, that the work being undertaken on the project was currently resourced and also utilised the Council’s apprenticeship scheme. However, long term options would be investigated with partners to ensure funding remained in place and residents would continue to be supported.