Scarborough launches warm spaces database

A new warm spaces database has been launched to provide residents of Scarborough with information over the cost of living crisis. 

Serving as a signpost to events and advice, the website will be regularly updated to showcase warm space schemes for residents of the borough. 

Many of those featured will gain funding from the council’s £10,000 Warm Welcome Fund which provides grants of up to £300 to community groups to host events. 

The initiative is part of a partnership between Scarborough Borough Council, Beyond Housing, North Yorkshire County Council, and other local groups. It is being powered by local consultancy firm Sprouthouse and supported by Scarborough, Whitby and Ryedale Mind. 

Users of the database are able to narrow search results on the site by location, day of the week and time of day, meaning they can find the support best catered to their needs.

Many councils have launched warm spaces funds and connected databases in recent months as residents put off turning the heating on over fears of high energy bills. Similar initiatives have been launched in Essex and Stockport, which uses an interactive map to display different events. 

More than 20 facilities have accessed the warm fund offered by Scarborough council since it began funding events such as free supper clubs and coffee mornings. Those who attend events also gain access to housing, benefits and tax advice alongside general financial support. 

The council said: ‘We are keen to support areas that currently lack free warm space provision as well as warm spaces that will be available on evenings or weekends.’ 

Worries over heating provisions for elderly and vulnerable people have led to a trial that sees doctors prescribing payment for the heating bills of cold-sensitive patients in an effort to relieve pressure on the NHS. 

Scarborough’s database can be accessed at www.warmwelcome.info where people are also able to volunteer to help out with events.

Photo by Claudia Love