Council reminds locals of £90k winter support scheme as cold snap approaches

Inverclyde Council said its Warm Hand of Friendship scheme has granted nearly £90,000 to 59 local organisations and the Met Office has issued a yellow warning for snow and ice for the coming weekend.

Inverclyde Council has reminded residents about available winter support as the area prepares for a cold spell. The Met Office issued a yellow warning for snow and ice covering Saturday night into Sunday morning. The council highlighted its Warm Hand of Friendship scheme, which runs through to March and offers heated community spaces, activities and advice. The council also noted a heating support programme that offers one-off grants of up to £200 for eligible residents. Key facts: - The Warm Hand of Friendship runs through to March and provides access to heated community spaces, activities and advice. - The project has distributed nearly £90,000 in single grants to 59 local organisations. - The council’s heating support programme offers one-off grants of up to £200 to eligible residents. - The Met Office issued a yellow warning for snow and ice from Saturday night to Sunday morning. - Since 2022 the council reports distributing nearly £375,000 through the scheme, reaching thousands of residents in winter months. - Participating groups mentioned include Inverclyde Leisure, Branchton Community Centre and Port Glasgow New Parish Church, and the council listed a helpline number, 0808 196 8660. Summary: The council says the scheme has helped local groups provide warm spaces, activities and occasional food or clothing parcels, reaching many residents over several winters. With the Met Office warning in place, the council highlighted services available through to March. Undetermined at this time.