Welcome to Yorkshire
News • September 15th, 2026
|York is set to benefit from the launch of the Good Place, Warm Place Fund, which aims to support local organisations providing warm spaces for residents during the colder months. With a total of £40,000 available, community groups are encouraged to apply for grants of up to £5,000 to help create welcoming environments that can make a real difference this winter.
Funding Details
The application process for the Good Place, Warm Place Fund is now open and will remain available until midnight on Sunday 4 October 2026. This initiative by the City of York Council is designed to assist organisations that either currently run or plan to run Warm Places in the community.
Warm Places are essential for providing safe, inclusive environments where residents can keep warm, connect with others, and access practical support. As many individuals face challenges due to the rising cost of living or social isolation, these spaces can greatly enhance community well-being.
What Makes a Warm Place?
To qualify for funding, a Warm Place must be open for a minimum of two hours each week. These venues often do more than just provide warmth; they also offer:
Information and advice on managing household costs and maximising income.
Access to local support services.
Free or low-cost refreshments, including hot meals or community Pay-As-You-Feel cafés.
This kind of support helps residents access food and companionship without financial pressure, making a significant impact on their lives.
Community Impact
The importance of Warm Places was highlighted last winter when 28 organisations across 16 wards in York received grants to either establish new Warm Places or enhance existing ones. The funding helped cover essential costs like food supplies, kitchen equipment, and heating expenses, ensuring these spaces could operate effectively.
Feedback from residents who attended these Warm Places has been overwhelmingly positive. One resident from Micklegate Ward shared, “It gives you a safe place to chat and keep warm and help financially (food) also mentally. Thank you.” Another volunteer from Huntington and New Earswick Ward remarked, “It's so much more than just a warm building, this is where our community lives and grows.”
Official Support
Councillor Katie Lomas, who is the Executive Member for Finance, Performance, Major Projects, Human Rights, Equality, and Inclusion at the City of York Council, emphasised the broader role these Warm Places play:
“Warm Places provide much more than somewhere warm to sit during the winter months. They offer friendship, support, and a sense of belonging, helping people stay connected with their local community at a time when many may be feeling isolated or facing financial pressures.”
By collaborating with local voluntary and community organisations, the council aims to ensure that residents have access to these vital resources. This approach not only helps individuals feel supported but also fosters connections within the community.
How to Apply
Organisations that are planning to run a Warm Place or are considering starting one this winter can request an application form by emailing shapingneighbourhoods@york.gov.uk or by contacting their local ward Community Officer. The application deadline is fast approaching, so interested parties are encouraged to act quickly.
The Good Place, Warm Place Fund is a timely initiative that underscores the importance of community support during challenging times. As the colder months approach, the need for warm, welcoming spaces becomes even more crucial for residents who may be struggling. With the right support, these Warm Places can become hubs of connection and assistance, making York a more caring and resilient community.
