Renfrewshire residents have been encouraged to attend Winter Connections events as the programme is praised for “spreading some light” in the darker months.
The warm spaces initiative – a network of sessions that allows people to enjoy the company of others in a welcoming environment – is in its third year, having been backed by £75,000 in council funding.
Activities, which range from bingo and table-top games to lunch clubs and gentle exercise, are free and run by different community groups and organisations.
Depute council leader Jacqueline Cameron, who is also chair of the Fairer Renfrewshire sub-committee, emphasised the importance of the scheme at a time of year that can be difficult for a number of people.
The SNP representative for Johnstone South and Elderslie told the Paisley Daily Express: “A programme like Winter Connections is crucial in tackling social isolation and loneliness.
“The various activities bring people together in a warm and welcoming environment and we know from feedback from previous programmes that a Winter Connections event can be the highlight of the week for some people.
“I am so pleased that we are funding this invaluable programme again and hopefully spreading some light throughout the dark winter months. I would urge anyone who is feeling the need for some company to get along to an event near them.”
The programme has gone from strength to strength in recent years, with previous estimates suggesting at least 3,900 people benefited last year – a figure more than double the 1,800 recorded in the year before that.
This week, an update from the local authority stressed “everyone is welcome” at the spaces, including families with children, young people, adults, over 60s and everyone in between.
It added: “They are all about bringing people together through fun and engaging activities, like cooking, quizzes, soup sessions and more, to support wellbeing and connectedness to your local community.”
More information about specific events and when they are held – including arrangements over the festive period – can be accessed by visiting renfrewshire.gov.uk/article/13008/Find-your-nearest-Winter-Connections-space
Don’t miss the latest Renfrewshire headlines –sign up to our free daily newsletter here