York organisations invited to apply for Good Place, Warm Place Fund
Community organisations across York are being encouraged to apply for grants of up to £5,000 to help provide warm, welcoming spaces for residents this winter.
City of York Council’s Good Place, Warm Place Fund has £40,000 available to support organisations that run, or are planning to run, Warm Places during the colder months. Applications are now open and will close at midnight on Sunday 4 October 2026.
The fund helps community venues create safe, inclusive and welcoming spaces where residents can keep warm, connect with others and access practical support. Warm Places can play an important role in supporting people who may be struggling with the cost of living, experiencing social isolation, or simply looking for a friendly place to spend time.
To be eligible for funding, Warm Places must be open for at least two hours each week.
Many Warm Places offer more than just a warm environment, providing information and advice on managing household costs, maximising income and accessing local support services. Some also offer free or low-cost refreshments, hot meals, or community Pay-As-You-Feel cafés, helping residents access food and companionship without financial pressure.
The fund recognises the important contribution Warm Places make to communities across York, helping to improve health and wellbeing, reduce loneliness, strengthen community connections and increase awareness of support services available to residents.
Last year, grants were awarded to 28 organisations across 16 wards in York. Funding enabled groups to establish new Warm Places, expand existing provision and improve facilities for local residents. Grants were used to support food supplies, kitchen equipment and venue running costs, including heating.
Residents who attended Warm Places during the winter highlighted the positive impact they had on their lives.
One resident from Micklegate Ward said: “It gives you a safe place to chat and keep warm and help financially (food) also mentally. Thank you.”
A volunteer from Huntington and New Earswick Ward said: “It’s so much more than just a warm building, this is where our community lives and grows.”
Councillor Katie Lomas, Executive Member for Finance, Performance, Major Projects, Human Rights, Equality and Inclusion at City of York Council, said:
“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 working together with our local voluntary and community sector, we can ensure residents have access to welcoming spaces where they can feel supported, make connections and get help when they need it most.”
Organisations planning to run a Warm Place, or considering offering one this winter, can request an application form by emailing shapingneighbourhoods@york.gov.uk or by contacting their local ward Community Officer.
Applications close at midnight on Sunday 4 October 2026.
Picture caption – Volunteers at the Foxwood Community Hub ‘pay as you feel’ lunch.