York community groups urged to apply for winter Warm Places grants
Grants of up to £5,000 available for spaces providing warmth and support
Community organisations in York are invited to apply for grants of up to £5,000 to create Warm Places during the winter months, providing residents with welcoming spaces.
City of York Council’s Good Place, Warm Place Fund offers a total of £40,000 to support these initiatives, which can help those facing social isolation or financial pressures, as well as offering practical support.
Organisations interested in setting up or expanding Warm Places can apply for the funding until midnight on 4th October 2026.
The aim is to provide safe, inclusive environments, not just warmth but a place for residents to connect, seek advice, and access support services.
Successful applicants must ensure their Warm Place is open for a minimum of two hours each week.
Last year, similar grants were awarded to 28 organizations, enabling new Warm Places to establish and existing ones to improve facilities for residents, fostering health, wellbeing, and social inclusion.
Councillor Katie Lomas, Executive Member for Finance, Performance, Major Projects, Human Rights, Equality and Inclusion at City of York Council, said:
"Warm Places provide much more than somewhere warm to sit during the winter months. They offer friendship, support and a sense of belonging, helping people stay connected with their local community at a time when many may be feeling isolated or facing financial pressures.
"By working together with our local voluntary and community sector, we can ensure residents have access to welcoming spaces where they can feel supported, make connections and get help when they need it most."