This winter, Sedgemoor Community Connector CIC is delivering a small Warm Bags project to support local residents who are struggling to keep warm in their homes due to fuel poverty.

The project is funded by the National Grid Community Fund and is based on a simple principle:
“Warm the human, not just the home.”

Rather than focusing on heating costs alone, the Warm Bags provide practical items that help people stay warm and comfortable day-to-day.

What is in a Warm Bag?

Each Warm Bag contains a carefully chosen selection of items, including:

• A fleece blanket

• Hot water bottle

• Insulated travel cup

• Warm socks and gloves

• Torch and batteries

• Digital room thermometer

• Draught-proofing strips

• Hot chocolate, tea, coffee, soup and porridge

These items are designed to support people to manage warmth more effectively at home during the coldest months.

Who are the Warm Bags for?

Warm Bags are intended for people living in settled accommodation who are experiencing fuel poverty and finding it difficult to keep warm at home.

This project is particularly suited to:

• Individuals or households on a low income

• People affected by rising energy costs

• Those who are cutting back on heating due to affordability concerns

Due to the nature of the funding and the items included, Warm Bags are not suitable for people who are currently homeless or without access to settled accommodation. We encourage referrals into specialist homelessness services where appropriate.

How are Warm Bags accessed?

Warm Bags are not available as a drop-in or giveaway.

All bags are distributed via a referral system so that we can:

• ensure the support reaches those most affected by fuel poverty

• distribute bags fairly and consistently

• monitor impact and report responsibly to the funder

Referrals can be made by professionals, organisations, or community partners who are supporting someone they believe would benefit.

Please note:
We ask that people do not attend sessions expecting to collect a Warm Bag unless a referral has been submitted and confirmed.

Wider support

Alongside the Warm Bags, we also offer welcoming community spaces where people can:

• enjoy a hot meal

• have a chat in a warm, friendly environment

• receive signposting to energy advice, wellbeing support and other local services

These conversations often help identify what support might be most helpful for someone over time.

A careful, targeted project

Warm Bags are a limited, targeted resource. By keeping the project referral-led, we aim to make sure the support reaches the right households and can be delivered responsibly throughout the winter period.

If you are a professional or organisation who would like to know more about making a referral, please get in touch.