Devon winter support grants to help with cost of living

The scheme supports projects that offer people a warm place during winter or alleviates food poverty

Devon County Council is inviting local groups and organisations to apply for its fund which aims to help communities cope with the cost of living.

So far, the Growing Communities Fund (GCF) has awarded more than £700,000 to 475 projects across Devon.

The council said the GCF was especially relevant as winter approached and food and drink prices remained high.

The scheme supports projects that offer people a warm place during winter or alleviates food poverty.

That can be by distributing surplus food and essentials or helping communities cook nutritious meals on a budget.

The GCF, which launched in 2022, also encourages projects that bring communities together, such as Broadwoodkelly Village Hall, which organised a coach trip and tea and talk afternoon to combat isolation and loneliness in their small community.

Councillor Roger Croad, cabinet member for public health, communities and equality, said: "We have seen how the Growing Communities Fund can provide vital support to local communities that make a genuine difference.

"We still have funding available, and we would particularly welcome applications for projects that support communities through this cost of living crisis, helping them to become more resilient."