More than 30 community organisations in Swansea have now been added to a directory highlighting safe, warm and welcoming places where people can go to during the winter.
Council services such as libraries and community hubs are also included in the list of Swansea Spaces where people can be assured they will be welcomed and treated with dignity and respect.
Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Well-being Alyson Pugh said: “It is just over a week since the Swansea Spaces Directory went live and there has been a huge response from community groups, charities and other organisations who are providing spaces.
“More are being added daily and I would urge any organisations that has yet to contact us so to do so that they can be considered for inclusion.
“Many of the listings include activities and opportunities to socialise so this is not just about offering a warm place for people to go to but also to get out of the house, be active and meet new people if that’s what they wish to do.
“I’m not surprised at the response as I know there are so many charities and groups doing such valuable work in Swansea.”
The council is also making more than £80,000 of Welsh Government funding available to provide grants to organisations to help them with the additional costs of their Swansea Space.
Funding could potentially be used to provide refreshments, snacks and if relevant to the location more substantive meals, additional expenses associated with extending the opening hours of existing facilities or contributions to heat and light if facilities are opened specifically.
Grants could potentially be used to fund additional cleaning costs, equipment to support adaptation of spaces, chairs, tables, contribution to internet costs or charge points for mobile phones or IT equipment, small items such as kettles, cups or plates, transport costs, volunteer costs or promotion of the Swansea Space.
Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Support, Hayley Gwilliam, said: “The council is doing all it can to support residents during the cost of living crisis that is affecting us all.
“Our Swansea Spaces Directory and the grant programme are just one of the ways we are doing this.”
Because of expected demand it is suggest applications for grants are limited to no more than £2,200.
The closing date for applications is Monday November 28 and each application will be assessed on its merits.
To view the Swansea Spaces directory and add a space visit: www.swansea.gov.uk/swanseaspaces
To apply for grant to support a Swansea Space visit: www.swansea.gov.uk/swanseaspacesfund
