Winter of Wellbeing Grant (WoW)

There is a cost-of-living crisis in the UK resulting in unprecedented pressures on people already in poverty, and this winter despite the support given by Government thousands of people in Herefordshire will be forced to make tough decisions about when and what they eat, what they can do in life, and when they can afford to heat their home.

Grant funding is available as part of the Household Support Fund,  to support community hubs and organisations across Herefordshire in creating a ‘Winter of Wellbeing’ for families, in greatest need.  We invite you to open up your facilities on either weekday evenings, weekends or school holidays to offer vulnerable families in the community with the opportunity to access somewhere that provides, a hot drink or a hot meal, engage in activities and receive information and guidance which can support them in getting through the winter months. Why not create the ‘WoW’ factor.

The grant funding is available is to support you in being able to open up your facilities at a time that is accessible for families.

We would like you to include either hot food, drinks or meals as part of the offer and activities that children of all ages can enjoy.  

You will be expected to signpost and support families in accessing information and give guidance on how to get financial support to help throughout the winter months.

Monthly reports will be required to show number of households attending, including number of dependants, the volume and the household composition.  

There is limit for the grant is £1500.00, we would like the HSF to be utilised by as many families as possible that are most in need and ‘value for money’ will need to be considered in your application.

Beneficiaries

All ‘Winter of Wellbeing’ events must be open to all families that are most in need in the community.

• Utility Bills, pay for energy efficient ways to keep the space warm.
• To open up your community venue more frequently and allow greater access for families.
• Staff or volunteer costs to open the facility
• Set up costs and marketing.
• Purchasing food supplies
• Purchasing catering equipment to enable you to provide food and refreshments
• Working with a partner organisation to deliver food

Activities suitable for children and families accessing ‘WoW’ to take part in at no or little cost

Timescales

All projects must be delivered by the 31 March 2024

Reporting

Monthly returns will need to be completed - reporting on the number of people accessing (adults and children) and the volume (number of times) and the household composition.

Application process

The application process will remain open until the allocated budget has been spent, the sessions must have taken place before 31 March 2024.

For questions/ support with the application form please contact householdsupportfund@herefordshire.gov.uk