Solihull ‘Warm Welcome Hubs’ Fund

Introduction to the Fund

In response to the increased cost of living, this grant scheme is designed to support clubs, charities, organisations or groups based in Solihull in setting up or maintaining ‘Warm Welcome Hubs’ in the borough.

Fund Aims

Although we welcome innovation and flexibility in the Warm Welcome Hub model, there are some standards which are important to attain.

Hubs should aim to provide a warm space to vulnerable people who may be at risk of fuel poverty, food poverty or may be feeling lonely or isolated over the winter period. The regular sessions must be easily accessible and open to the local community, and therefore could be set up in any safe, warm, and welcoming community facility.

Each Hub must include the following as part of their offer:

1. Food and hot drinks – It can be as simple as a piece of cake or light refreshments, or it might be a hot snack or cooked meal. Basic refreshments should be free to access and we anticipate projects to also work in partnership with local schools, shops and supermarkets for donations and reduced supplies.

2. Activity – Having an activity within the Hub will encourage people to attend. You can consider Wi-Fi, board games, arts and crafts or activities which encourage physical or social interaction. Some Hubs may have more of a specific focus such as on healthy cooking, exercise classes or activities for families and children.

3. Transport – Please demonstrate how you have considered people travelling to the Hub. This is particularly essential for Hubs in rural locations or who are targeted at those with reduced mobility.

4. Advice, Information and guidance – The Hub should provide users with additional information which can include energy efficiency, home safety, money matters etc. This can be delivered by partner VCSE organisations or statutory services.

There will be opportunities to network, share ideas and learning. Hubs may be asked to become food parcel collection points during opening hours for local residents to access emergency food supplies. Hubs will be promoted on the SMBC website for people to find out where they can access the support.

All hub activities must be delivered by 1 March 2024 and your final monitoring report must be returned by 25 March 2024.

Deadline: The application deadline is extended until 23 November 2023.

Applicants will be notified of panel decisions early December following the panel meeting on the 11 December 2023.  All hub activities must be delivered by 1 March 2024 and final monitoring report must be returned by 25 March 2024.

Available Funding – Grants of up to £5,000 are available.