Written question WQ86170

Thank you for your written question to the Minister for Finance and Local Government. This has been passed to me to respond as I have the portfolio lead on this matter.

On 20th September the First Minister announced £1m to support Warm Hubs as safe and warm places within the local community that people can go to keep warm during the Winter.

Many organisations including local authorities, community councils, faith groups, sports clubs, community centres are already setting up, or looking to set up, Warm Hubs within the local communities. These are places in local communities where people can find a safe and warm environment to spend time and eat with others during the day to help reduce the cost of heating their own homes.

The Minister for Finance and Local Government and I met with Local Authority leaders on the 22 September to discuss Warm Hubs and how the funding can be best utilised to support the work that is already underway in this area. I also met with the WCVA on the same day to discuss the important role the third sector can play in providing and supporting these Warm Hubs.

We will be working with our stakeholders to ensure the funding is made available as quickly as possible and delivers to local needs.