Last winter a surge of warm banks sprung up across the county to help support those impacted by the energy crisis.

More than 10,000 people visited venues across Norfolk, including libraries and community centres, that opened their doors to provide for those needing to escape the cold.

Created by Norfolk Community Foundation, the hot-spots programme helped local people get warm, receive support, and find a friendly face.  

This year, the Foundation plans to do the same again.   

Eastern Daily Press: (Left to right) Laura Wigby Head of Programmes at Norfolk Community Foundation and Julie Brociek-Coulton Manager of Sivler Road Community Centre at Silver Road Community Centre(Left to right) Laura Wigby Head of Programmes at Norfolk Community Foundation and Julie Brociek-Coulton Manager of Sivler Road Community Centre at Silver Road Community Centre (Image: Norfolk Community Foundation)

Head of programmes, Laura Wigby, said: “Last year, we thought that most people would come to a hot-spot to escape the cold. 

“Actually, people stayed because of the company or support on offer.  

“Many isolated people found friendship and those who needed extra help could find it in a place nearby from people they could trust.” 

Eastern Daily Press: Rollesby Village Hall hot-spot Rollesby Village Hall hot-spot (Image: Norfolk Community Foundation)

This winter, the Foundation is once again offering community groups the opportunity to apply for hot-spot funding.  

Last year, more than 160 community groups successfully applied, which enabled them to knit a network of support across the county. The Foundation gave each group £2,000. 

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In support of the scheme, many across Norfolk donate some or all of their winter fuel allowance to the Foundation’s Surviving Winter Appeal.  

The annual appeal, supported by the EDP, helps ensure the most vulnerable are cared for in the cold months. 

Eastern Daily Press: Claire Cullens, chief executive of Norfolk Community FoundationClaire Cullens, chief executive of Norfolk Community Foundation (Image: Brittany Woodman)

Claire Cullens, its chief executive, said, “Last year, we provided support for the whole winter at just £30 per person.  

“A donation of a winter fuel allowance can transform the lives of dozens of people made vulnerable by the current cost of living, isolation or loneliness.” 

Alongside donations, the Foundation aims to work with local authorities and funders to help even more communities create hot-spots. 

To find out more about the Hot-Spot Fund visit norfolkfoundation.com/winter or ring 01603 623 958. 

Eastern Daily Press: Community Hot-Spot at Star Throwers in Wymondham, with Operations & Fundraising Manager Victoria Pigg and Lauren Birch from Norfolk Community FoundationCommunity Hot-Spot at Star Throwers in Wymondham, with Operations & Fundraising Manager Victoria Pigg and Lauren Birch from Norfolk Community Foundation (Image: Norfolk Community Foundation)