Winter weather fund

ISLES MP Alistair Carmichael is encouraging local charities and community groups to apply for a new fund that is designed to help vulnerable people during periods of winter weather emergencies.

On Monday, electricity network operator Scottish Hydro Electric Power Distribution (SHEPD) said they had set up a £300,000 resilient communities fund to help those living in the north of Scotland coping with emergency weather events.

Non-profit making organisations, community groups and charities have until the 31 July to apply for a slice of the money. Applications for up to £20,000 will be accepted.

The fund supports projects that

• protect the welfare of vulnerable customers during a significant power outage or emergency weather event;
• enhance community facilities and services that may be used or instigated in the event of a significant power outage or emergency weather event;
• improve communication during an emergency situation to keep communities informed or aid contact between local groups and response services.

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Mo Bates of SHEPD, said: “It may be summertime now, but it’s always worth thinking ahead and getting ready for the more difficult seasons ahead.

“Whether it’s installing an alternative cooking source for the village hall, purchasing hand held radios or providing cold-weather kits for elderly residents, making a few sensible preparations can make a big difference in strengthening local community resilience during extreme weather.”

Carmichael added that this fund could help to make community facilities more resilient.
“Extreme weather that results in long power outages is a constant problem for the northern isles and significantly affect the most vulnerable residents.

“Those in remote areas who find themselves at the mercy of the elements often have to deal with the problems with no support and are reliant on the assistance of their neighbours.

“I would strongly encourage local groups to look at the funding that is provided by SHEPD and consider making an application before the deadline at the end of July.”

An application form can be downloaded from www.ssepd.co.uk/resiliencefund