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An annual project to help keep Tendring people warm during the winter months is gearing up for the coming cold season.
Winter Warmth, from Community Voluntary Services Tendring (CVST) and supported by a number of other organisations, has again received funding from the North East Essex Clinical Commissioning Group to carry out its work.
The project aims to work flexibly and innovatively to prevent illness, increase people's ability to keep warm during the winter and improve access to information and services that will support the community to be more resilient. This includes ensuring people are warm and well-fed, supporting with access to resources and products, severe weather response, and training for staff and volunteers within community organisations to give practical support to keep people well.
Tendring District Council’s Careline is once again running an emergency helpline, and will respond out-of-hours to support vulnerable people in the community who are suffering due to issues caused by bad weather – such as their heating failing. As in previous years packs will be given to vulnerable people containing warm clothing, a hot water bottle and electric heaters.
The project is aimed at older people, those on low incomes and benefits, anyone with a life-limiting illness or disability, carers, people who are homeless, and a key aim is to ensure that children and young people are supported.
Sharon Alexander, CVST Chief Officer, said: “This project brings the community together to support those who need it, and we know it is always well received.
“To ensure the project reaches those who need it, representatives will take part in door knocks across Tendring, and there will also be a programme of events and roadshows – which we encourage people to come along to.”
The project launches on 16 October at Sams Hall, Rosemary Road, Clacton, from 1.30-4.30pm for the public to access information and support. A Harwich launch takes place at the CVST Harwich Hub on 22 October from 10am-1pm.
Joy Broderick, Tendring District Council Cabinet Member for Independent Living, said she was pleased the authority was able to support the project again.
“The Winter Warmth initiative offers a lifeline for people in our community,” Cllr Broderick said. “It is now well-established, continuing to go from strength to strength, and not only supports residents but also colleagues in the NHS by providing early support which can help to prevent hospital admissions. I would urge anyone who thinks they may be eligible, or who knows someone who needs help, to call the CVST number and make a referral.”
People who need assistance, or who want to refer others for help, should contact CVST on 01255 425692.
Careline can be contacted out of hours – for severe situations only – on 01255 222022.
Pictured: Volunteers from a number of organisations at the launch of last year’s project. Picture: Will Lodge/TDC |
