Creating Community Spaces for Stockton-on-Tees
There is a cost of living crisis in the UK resulting in unprecedented pressures on people already in poverty. The reality is that even with government aid, there are still thousands of individuals who will have to make tough decisions about when and what they eat and when they can afford to heat their home.
Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council wants to do more to help its residents during these difficult times and create a Community Spaces Directory, a register of places where Stockton-on-Tees residents can come together to stay reduce isolation, enjoy free activities and stay warm during winter months. Our goal is to create a directory of all the places available to our residents across the public, private, health and voluntary sectors and to ensure this information is clearly marketed so everyone who is feeling the cost of living knows where they can go to get support, and enjoy a little company and refreshments.
If you already do this, or feel that you would be able to support, please tell us about your facilities and services using this form, it should take you less than 5 minutes to do.
Funding
Funding sources and opportunities are available to support Community Spaces in developing what they can offer their local community. Email the Fairer Stockton-on-Tees Team at FSOT@stockton.gov.uk and a colleague will be in touch to explore options with you, or visit the Catalyst Stockton-on-Tees and the Tees Valley Community Foundation to view other funding opportunities.
If you would like to offer a Community Space, you will be asked to sign up to the Community Space Charter and further information will be sent to you in regards to the following:
- understanding the Community Space Charter (Section 2 of this form)
- things to consider in preparing your venue to receive visitors
- the importance of confidentiality in a Community Space and understanding the Cost of Living Crisis and how this affects people
- signposting or referring visitors to other services for advice, advocacy, and support
- communicating under different circumstances and managing difficult conversations
If you require any further information, please email us at FSOT@stockton.gov.uk and a member of the team will be in contact with you.