Bedford Borough Council is offering grants of up to £250 to support local partners with costs associated with opening a Cool Space.
Grant funding for cool spaces that are welcoming, accessible, non-judgemental and inclusive can cover any of the associated costs listed below:
- utility bills, including gas and electricity
- staff time
- volunteer expenses
- venue hire
- equipment or furniture (for example extra chairs) for the cool space
- the provision of drinks and food for those accessing the cool space
Application criteria
You do not have to represent a registered charity but you do need:
- a bank account or a partner organisation willing to hold the money for you
- a safeguarding policy, public liability insurance, and a hygiene certificate, if relevant
- to offer access to the cool space free of charge and any charges for activities, including refreshments, must be communicated when describing what is available
- to ensure the venue is cool and well ventilated
- to spend the grant by 31 September 2023
- to agree to include the Cool Space on the Bedford Borough Council website
- to provide the total number of residents that have accessed your Cool Space by 6 October 2023
How to apply for a Cool Spaces grant
Please complete the Cool Spaces Grant application form (Word) and return by email to public.health@bedford.gov.uk.
Deadline for applications is 15 September 2023.