Renfrewshire's Winter Connections praised for 'punching above weight' as thousands benefit
More than 2,500 people participated in the scheme which ran from approximately November until March.
Renfrewshire's Winter Connections initiative has been praised for "punching above its weight" after thousands of residents benefitted from a third year of the programme.
More than 2,500 people participated in the scheme – a network of sessions that allows people to enjoy the company of others in a welcoming environment – which ran from approximately November until March.
Backed by £75,000 in council funding, it facilitates grants of up to £2,000 for groups and organisations so they can provide free inclusive activities which offer warm drinks and food in the colder months.
An evaluation of the scheme for 2024/25 was completed and discussed by officers and elected members at the Fairer Renfrewshire sub-committee on Wednesday.
Annabelle Walter, the council's connected communities manager, said: "As in previous years, the evaluation is quite moving at points in terms of the impact that it can have for individuals from what can be seen to be fairly simple and low-key activities.
"I think we continue to see Winter Connections punching above its weight in terms of the impact for our local communities and I'm really pleased to see that."
Some of the key findings included the social aspect of bringing people together managing to create a sense of belonging and supportive environment, which was particularly important for people who felt isolated.
The activities provided opportunities to improve physical and mental health and wellbeing, learn new skills and boost confidence.
The programme enabled organisations to engage with new people, raising awareness of their venues and services and signposting to other services across Renfrewshire.
The provision of hot drinks in libraries encouraged visitors to stay longer and connect with others and library staff, while the offer of free food at venues meant the initiative could support families experiencing financial hardship.
Ms Walter added: "We're really pleased that the evaluation highlights that at least 2,500 people benefitted from the programme, so it continues to have that wide reach.
"In terms of the findings ... it's fairly similar to previous years in that both organisations and individuals continue to report the real benefit of opportunities for increased social connection over the winter period.
"That's really the focus of the programme and the opportunities to get involved in positive activities, to try something new, to do something creative, to connect with others, based around an activity.
"As would be expected for essentially part of our cost-of-living programme, I think there's a real recognition that the provision of hot drinks and food, delivered in a dignified and discreet way, is really beneficial."
It was confirmed preparations are under way for a fourth year of Winter Connections in 2025/26, with £75,000 already having been set aside.
SNP depute council leader Jacqueline Cameron, who is also chair of the sub-committee, said: "It's a brilliant report and, as I admitted at the pre-agenda, I had a wee tear in my eyes a few times, so it was very emotive and moving."
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