Twenty grants totalling just over £40,000 have been approved so far to a number of Ealing’s voluntary and community and faith organisations, to strengthen the borough’s provision of warm spaces over the winter.

Along with Ealing’s libraries and community centres, the additional funding is to support and expand any projects which are looking to provide safe and warm spaces residents can attend, helping minimise their household energy costs.

Ranging from churches to cultural groups, the projects being supported will help cover the organisation’s costs including heating costs, food and drinks, activities and games for residents during the winter months.

The scheme has now closed, but evaluation of some further applications is continuing.

Councillor Jasbir Anand, Ealing Council’s cabinet member of thriving communities, said: “The latest cold snap demonstrates what a challenging winter this is when it comes to energy prices, and just as importantly staying healthy. As a local authority we take supporting the vulnerable this winter very seriously. These warm spaces aim to support some of the most vulnerable in our communities, by providing heat, refreshments, activities and companionship.”

Details of local warm spaces available can be found in the warm space directory.

Advice on support available to help with finances or keeping warm is on the council’s website. Here are a few ideas that could help:

• Cold weather can have a serious impact on health, and it is therefore important to try and heat rooms to at least 18°C if possible, particularly if someone has reduced mobility, are 65 and over, or have a health condition such as heart or lung disease
• Overnight, people who are 65 and over or who have pre-existing health conditions, may find bedroom temperatures of at least 18°C are good for their health. This may be less important for healthy adults under 65 who have appropriate clothing and bedding
• If it’s not possible to heat all rooms, heat the living room during the day and bedrooms just before going to sleep
• Get heating systems and cooking appliances checked and keep your home well ventilated
  If using an electric blanket, use as instructed and get it tested every three years. Never use a hot water bottle with an electric blanket
• Don’t use a gas cooker or oven to heat your home – it is inefficient and there is a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.