"if the building is being heated and part used, well why not. The warm hands funding will support the hefty gas bill"
The Warm Hand of Friendship funding, provided by Inverclyde Council and administered by CVS Inverclyde, has meant local groups can build on the support they already offer. The 32nd Greenock and District Scouts Group have added more amenities to crate their warm space.
We chatted to group leader David McCallum about what they’re offering and why you should join in.
“We have been up and running on a Monday evening for young people. I can report around 20 have been attending for 4 evenings and enjoying board games and a hot drink. We have now purchased around 20 board games including classic Monopoly. There are also 5 laptops available. These were already available, however we had them electronically tested (PAT) and obtained new cables etc.
“We are planning to extent our warm hands to a Tuesday 4.30 to 5.30 and Wednesday 6.30 to 9pm for carers and parents of our young people who walk to drop off and pick up. We have noticed that many take shelter for up to an hour. We are developing an area within the premises to act as a warm Café with tea/coffee dispensers and books. This service will be up and running for schools returning in January.
“You can find our warm space is the Scout Hub at 14 Bank street (PA15 4PH). Young people on Monday and carers/parents on Tuesday and Wednesday.
“People are benefiting from a safe warm place to chat, have a hot drink and share conversation, out of the wind and rain. Some Monday evenings young people have been doing homework. Those who have been using the facility have given a positive thumbs up.
“In the current financial climate, people are welcome to share in a warm space that is already being used for other activities.
“In other words, if the building is being heated and part used, well why not. The warm hands funding will support the hefty gas bill.
“Take part if you can, there are benefits of meeting others and sharing experiences.”
Read more about Inverclyde’s Warm Hand of Friendship and view the warm spaces and activities map: https://www.inverclyde.gov.uk/community-life-and-leisure/inverclyde-community-empowerment/poverty/inverclyde-s-warm-hand-of-friendship
Author:
Chris Park
Publish Date:
Feb 10, 2023