Funding for Warm Hubs is now available to maintain community warmth into 2026
- Dan Coast
- Jul 24
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 7
Through funding secured from Newport City Council, GAVO are inviting community groups and charities to apply for up to £5000 to help deliver community driven activities and hubs that supports people during the winter months through Warm Hub Sessions.
Last year funding supported over 450 Warm Space sessions and, incredibly, more than 12945 attendances through the coldest period of the year, Newport City Council and GAVO are keen to see funding applications from more constituted community organisations with the capacity to provide sessions for the community from September until the 31st March 2026.
What is a Warm Hub?
Warm Hubs—also known as Warm Banks, Warm Spaces, or Cosy Corners—are safe, welcoming places within local communities where people can go to stay warm during the colder months. With rising energy costs, many individuals—particularly older adults, vulnerable people, and those at home during the day—may struggle to keep their homes at a healthy temperature.
To support this need, funding will be available across Wales for 2025–26 to help establish or re-establish these spaces, or to enhance existing ones. The aim is to support the economic, social, and well-being needs of citizens by providing more than just warmth.
What Makes a Warm Hub Special?
Warm Hubs are intended to be inclusive, accessible, and inviting spaces for everyone in the community. They should respond to local needs and offer a welcoming environment where people feel safe, supported, and connected.
Organisations applying for funding are encouraged to think beyond simply providing warmth. The panel will be looking for “added value”—extra services or activities that enrich the experience for attendees.
These might include:
✅ Basic refreshments and snacks (at a minimum), with the potential for more substantial meals where possible
✅ Advice and support services, such as help with financial matters, health and well-being, or digital accessibility
✅ Enrichment activities, including arts and crafts, gentle exercise, or cultural events (depending on location and availability)
How will GAVO support?
GAVO staff are available to meet and discuss your plans before making an application, this approach will help to ensure your application meets the needs and objectives of the grant, you can also download an example fictitious application form to help provide you an example of how to make an application.
If your will group is funded then GAVO will help to promote funded Warm Hub sessions through our website and social media, ensuring that communities are aware of the support available and can easily access it, Groups are required to complete an online monthly monitoring form which will be provided by the GAVO team.
Details of all of this will be covered during a booked 1-2-1 appointment with our Community Development Officer via the button below
How do we apply?
Full guidance and criteria are available within the example contract below, GAVO is more than happy to discuss project ideas before committing time and resources to writing an application. An informal chat or support in making an application please email our Community Development Officer.
To make an application please start by filling in the Microsoft Form below or open in a new browser here
Application Opens | Application form closes | Decision date by |
August 1st 2025 | August 31st (23;55) | 7th September 2025 |
The form will appear in this space on the 1st August 2025 when applications open
