SOMERSET Community Foundation recently awarded over £150,000 in grants to 44 local community groups to help with the cost-of-living crisis.

In partnership with Somerset Council and NHS Somerset, the foundation has awarded a total of £350,000 of grants to date - in response to the cost-of-living crisis, connecting other trusts, businesses, and people.

Andy Ridgewell, Programmes Director at Somerset Community Foundation said: “These grants have been made possible thanks to the generous funding received from Somerset Council and NHS Somerset. And because we know this winter will be another difficult one for many people, we’re offering funding to groups running Warm Spaces once again, too.”

Cllr Federica Smith-Roberts, Executive Lead Member for Communities, Housing and Culture at Somerset Council, said: “The support Somerset Council and other funders provide is translated into making a real difference to people's lives. The grants awarded are supporting people of all ages and abilities across Somerset.

“The cost-of-living crisis has hit our residents hard, particularly the most vulnerable. The projects receiving support are helping those who are struggling and are worried about how they will cope in the coming winter.”

Paul von der Heyde, Chair of NHS Somerset added: “We are delighted to support the Somerset Cost-of-Living Fund to invest in local community projects at such a difficult time for Somerset residents who are likely to struggling with bills and other costs this winter.”

£3,500 of funding was awarded to help Reminiscence Learning, based in Wellington, provide a warm and welcoming space for people living with dementia.

Business Support Manger, Zoe Priestley, said: “Our charity has really felt the financial impact as a direct result of increasing prices from every avenue.

“However, the costs of our utility bills have proven to be a significant dent in our finances. 

"As an essential service, our Day Centre must remain safe and welcoming which includes providing a warm and bright premises.

"We have to keep the heating and lights on without fail, which is resulting in huge invoices for us and will only increase again in the winter months.”

A further £5,000 went to the In the Mix Youth Project, based in Wiveliscombe, which supports young people and families in need.

The grant will go towards helping families from low-income households to access different services, as well as helping to pay rising bills.

Director, Nick Harvey, explained: "Many families and young people who are using our service face hardship. 

"Young people are affected more than most, during this difficult phase of crisis and poverty, and this is having an impact on their mental wellbeing and future life chances."

Anyone who works or volunteers at a community venue in Somerset can apply for a grant of up to £1,000 from the Somerset Warm Spaces Fund.

To do so, find out more on the Somerset Community Foundation website, call on 01749 344949 and ask to speak to Peter or Kirsty in the Grants Team (Option 5), or email the team at info@somersetcf.org.uk.

Applications for funding from the Somerset Warm Spaces Fund must be made by 5pm, Friday 10 November.