Agenda Document Pack - Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-committee - 03/06/2026
Renfrewshire Council · 3 June 2026
Back to Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-committee — 3 June 2026 and its agenda
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26/05/2026 Notice of Meeting and Agenda Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-committee Date Time Venue Wednesday, 03 June 2026 10:00 Remote by MS Teams, Membership Councillor Jacqueline Cameron (Convener): Councillor Graeme Clark (Depute Convener): Councillor Neill Graham: Councillor Anne Hannigan: Councillor Marie McGurk: Councillor Iain Nicolson: Councillor Andy Steel: Further Information - online meetings only This meeting is on-line only but is a meeting which is open to members of the public by prior arrangement. A copy of the agenda and reports for this meeting will be available for inspection prior to the meeting at the Customer Service Centre, Renfrewshire House, Cotton Street, Paisley and online at http://renfrewshire.cmis.uk.com/renfrewshire/CouncilandBoards.aspx For further information, please email democratic-services@renfrewshire.gov.uk Webcasting of Meeting This meeting will be filmed for live or subsequent broadcast via the Council’s internet site – at the start of the meeting the Convener will confirm if all or part of the meeting is being filmed. To find the webcast please navigate to https://renfrewshire.public-i.tv/core/portal/home MARK CONAGHAN Head of Corporate Governance
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26/05/2026 Items of business Apologies Apologies from members. Declarations of Interest and Transparency Statements Members are asked to declare an interest or make a transparency statement in any item(s) on the agenda and to provide a brief explanation of the nature of the interest or the transparency statement. 1(a) Cost of Living Update Report by Chief Executive. 1 - 14 1(b) Cost of Living Dashboard Report by Chief Executive. 15 - 32 2 Fairer Renfrewshire Programme Update Report by Chief Executive. 33 - 42 3 Winter Connections Evaluation 2025/26 Report by Chief Executive. 43 - 82 4 Deep dive – Child Poverty Statistics Presentation by B Jardine, Senior Policy Officer, Chief Executive's. 5 Digital Inclusion Update Presentation by J McKee, Digital Strategy Delivery Manager, Chief Executive's.
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1 PUBLIC ________________________________________________________________________ To: Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee On: 3 June 2026 _____________________________________________________________________ Report by: Chief Executive _____________________________________________________________________ Heading: Cost-of-living Update ________________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 At each of the Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee meetings, an overview of key context and evidence around current pressures on household finances, both in terms of household income and expenditure has been provided to members. 1.2 Since the last meeting of the Sub-Committee on 25 March 2026, there have been a number of changes in economic factors including a decrease of 7% in the Energy Price Cap from 1 April 2026, meaning households are currently paying less for their energy use, although this is expected to rise on 1 July, while inflation decreased to 2.8% in the 12 months to April, down from 3.3% in March, with food inflation also decreasing to 3% from the 3.7% rate in March. Elected members are asked to note that: • The rate of inflation is standing at 2.8% in April, down from 3.3% the previous month and has been above the target rate of 2% set by the UK Government for the Bank of England since October 2024, when it reached 2.3%. • The inflation rate for food has decreased to 3% in April, down from 3.7% in March. It remains higher than overall inflation and is forecast to rise further. • The Bank of England interest rate was held at 3.75% in April due to the conflict in the Middle East and associated inflation rises. The next announcement is due on 18 June. • The Energy Price Cap, originally introduced by Ofgem in January 2019 to set limits on the underlying rates energy suppliers, is currently set at £1,641 from 1 April, although this is forecast to increase to approximately £1,830 on 1 July. 1.3 This paper provides an overview of information collated by officers in relation at both a national and local level where available. Item 1(a) Page 1 of 82
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2 PUBLIC 2. Recommendations 2.1 It is recommended that members of the Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee note the content of the report. 3. Background 3.1. At the Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee meeting on 25 March 2026 an overview of key context and evidence around current pressures on household finances, both in terms of household income and expenditure, was examined. Increasing fuel costs and food inflation rates and rents mean that many families are still struggling with costs of living. 3.2. UK inflation, as measured by the consumer prices index (CPI), rose to 3.3% in the year to March - up from 3% in the 12 months to February - after the conflict in the Middle East caused the largest jump in petrol and diesel prices in more than three years. It then fell to 2.8% in April due to the lower gas and energy bills under the UK Government’s energy bill support package. Inflation and energy prices are expected to rise however, and inflation could peak about 3.5% to 4% this year, economists have predicted, with food inflation potentially reaching 9%. 3.3. Both Office for National Statistics and Scottish Government figures show that costs of living are still very high on people’s agenda. The Scottish Government Public Insight Monitor for February 2026 (a survey by YouGov of 1210 Scottish Adults) found that 33% were worried about household finances and 39% about the cost of groceries, while 29% were worried about energy/fuel prices. 64% agreed either strongly (18%) or generally 46% that the cost of living would have a long term negative impact on their family. Only 9% agreed that the cost of living crisis is easing, with only 1% strongly agreeing this. It should be noted that these figures were collected prior to the conflict in the middle East and associated price increases. 3.4. Households are struggling to pay bills and pay off debts and the Citizens Advice Scotland Energy Brief of February 2026 reports an increase in demand for energy advice over autumn and winter. From October to December 2025, 9,300 people approached Renfrewshire CAB in need of energy support. Of those, 1,200 came for energy debt support and the level of energy debt seen by advisers across the Scottish Citizens Advice network during that quarter remains high at over £2,300, rising to £2,800 in rural areas. Of the people who needed support with an energy debt, 68% were disabled. 3.5. Increased fuel and energy prices are expected to be joined by rising food costs later this year, as the disruption to shipping routes and the flow of fuel around the world spreads through to the wider economy. These rising energy and fuel costs, driven by geopolitical tensions, are likely to further constrain living standards. Research by the Resolution Foundation highlights a worsening outlook for living standards among low-income groups. Page 2 of 82
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3 PUBLIC 3.6. Living standards in the UK were expected to rise in 2026–27, with typical working-age families gaining about 0.9% (£300) and lower-income households rising 3.9% (£800) due to benefit increases and the removal of the two-child limit. In a Resolution Foundation analysis on the impact of the Middle East conflict, it was suggested that a related energy price shock could increase inflation and add about £500 to annual energy bills, hitting poorer families hardest. 3.7. The cost of essentials; food, fuel and housing remain high, and with uncertainty over the Middle East and the potential for these to costs to increase further cost of living remains a significant worry for many families in Renfrewshire. 4. Impacts of cost-of-living crisis Living costs 4.1. The latest insights into the cost of living from the Office of National Statistics for the period 4th March to 29th March found that 89% of those surveyed reported the cost of living as the most important issue facing the UK today, an increase of 1% on the January figure last reported to the Sub-Committee and around two-thirds (67%) of adults reported that their cost of living had increased compared with a month ago, which is up from 56% in February 2026. 4.2. Among those reporting that their cost of living had increased compared with a month ago, the price of food shopping remained the most commonly reported reason (91%); the proportion reporting the price of fuel (75%) as a reason for increased living costs increased from February 2026, when it was 38%. The proportion reporting energy bills as a reason for increased cost of living was 63%, a decrease from the 68% last reported. The price of food shopping has been the most commonly reported reason given by adults for a rise in their cost of living since ONS first asked the question in November 2021. 4.3. Further ONS figures show: • Around 1 in 3 (35%) adults who pay energy bills reported finding it very or somewhat difficult to afford these bills. This was more common among adults who are unemployed (59%), compared with those who are employed (34%). • Around 1 in 5 (20%) adults reported that they had borrowed more money or used more credit than usual in the past month compared with a year ago. • In the period 7 January 2026 to 29 March 2026, among adults currently paying rent or mortgage payments, around 3 in 10 (30%) reported finding it very or somewhat difficult to afford these payments. • Around 1 in 20 (5%) adults reported they had been unable to pay a direct debit, standing order, or bill in the past month, which is the same as this time last year. Page 3 of 82
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4 PUBLIC 4.4. The ONS also publishes statistics for the UK on Direct Debit failure. The most recent statistics for March 2026 show a default rate on loans of 5.41%. This is the highest rate since records began in January 2019 and is higher than the last reported rate for November 2025, when it was 5.36% 4.5. With regard to Electricity and Gas Direct Debits, the default rate is 2.92%, a reduction from the 3.42% last reported. 4.6. Within Scotland, according to the Scottish Government Public Insight Monitor, 81% took some form of action to help manage their household finances over the last 6 months. 49% of people spent less on non-essential items or activities, 35 % used savings and 17% cut back on essential items such as food. 11% borrowed or used credit and 40% took steps to use less energy in the home, for example less heating, lighting or hot water. 21% got rid of an expense such as internet, a mobile or television package. 3% got items from a foodbank. Energy Price Cap and Standing Charges 4.7. The energy price cap is the maximum amount energy suppliers can charge customers for each unit of energy and standing charge if they’re on a standard variable tariff. Between 1 April 26 and 30 June 2026, the energy price cap is set at £1,641 per year for a typical household who use electricity and gas and pay by Direct Debit. This figure, however, is expected to rise from 1 July. Cornwall Insight, an energy consultancy, predicts the cap will increase to £1,843 a year for a typical household - up by more than 12%, or roughly £200. 4.8. One of the reasons diesel and energy costs are being affected so much is because of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Although the UK gets very little of its gas from the region, the squeeze on supply has pushed up the international price of both oil and gas, and the higher wholesale gas prices faced by energy suppliers ultimately feed through to gas and electricity bills in UK homes. 4.9. The table below shows the average unit rates per kilowatt hour (kWh) and standing charges per day under the Price Cap from 1 April and estimated Price Cap (Cornwall Insight) from 1 July for a dual fuel, direct debit customer: 1 April 2026 1 July 2026 Electricity Unit Rate 24.67p/kWh 26.22p/kWh Elec Standing Charge 57.21p/day 59p/day Gas unit rates 5.74p/kWh 7.04p kWh Gas Standing Charge 29.09p/day 30p/day Page 4 of 82
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5 PUBLIC 4.10. The Citizens Advice Scotland Energy Brief of February 2026 reports an increase in demand for energy advice over autumn and winter. From October to December, 9,300 people came to local CAB in need of energy support. Of those 1,200 came for energy debt support and the level of energy debt seen by advisers across the Scottish Citizens Advice network during that quarter remains high at over £2,300, rising to £2,800 in rural areas. Of the people who needed support with an energy debt, 68% were disabled and almost 3,200 people needed support with fuel vouchers. 4.11. Renfrewshire’s Energy Management Unit also provide fuel vouchers. For 2026 so far, 136 vouchers have been issued, helping 158 adults and 61 children. They have found that most of their clients are struggling with high costs of living, which leave them unable to fully meet energy costs. 4.12. They have found that the biggest issue for clients is that the annual cost for heating and lighting a typical 2-bedroom home in the UK is approximately £1,200–£1,400 per year, which breaks down to roughly £100–£117 per month. While those with pre-payment meters can get help through vouchers, the EMU team are finding that clients who pay for their fuel by direct debit are not budgeting enough for the cost of their fuel, which then leads to debt. They too have found that clients can have significant levels of debt, and as was reported to elected members by RCAB at the last Sub-Committee meeting, issues are becoming more complex. 5. Fuel Costs 5.1. Fuel prices have surged since the conflict in the Middle East began. Although as announcements have been made, such as those around ceasefires, prices have fluctuated, they have been consistently at a higher level since 28 February 2026. 5.2. According to the Uk Government’s Weekly Road Fuel Prices statistics, the cost of diesel has risen 35% in nearly 2 months and the cost of petrol by 19%. In real terms the cost of filling a typical family car with petrol has gone up by about £14. A tank of diesel is about £27 more expensive. On 19 May, the average price of unleaded petrol has risen to 158.52p a litre, its highest level since the start of the Iran conflict, according to the RAC. 5.3. The RAC chart below shows how prices have changed. Page 5 of 82
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6 PUBLIC 5.4. These rising fuel costs directly contribute to higher costs for families who have a petrol or diesel vehicle. These households face reduced disposable income as a greater percentage of budget is spent on fuel. Fuel costs also affect food supply chains, as transportation and distribution costs increase, ultimately causing higher food prices, which again have a knock-on effect on households. 6. Employment and Wages 6.1. According to the ONS, the Claimant Count in March 2026, which is taken from JobcentrePlus administration systems, for those claiming unemployment-related benefits in Renfrewshire is 3445 people – 2075 men and 1370 women aged between 16 and 64. This is an increase from 3,210 last reported. The Renfrewshire unemployment rate of 2.9% is less than the Scotland rate (3.1%). 6.2. The chart below shows the claimant count by age, showing that for those aged 18 – 24 the percentage of those claiming out of work benefits is slightly higher than the Scottish average, although less than that of Great Britain. 6.3. Nationally, the UK's unemployment rate reduced slightly from the near five-year high of 5.2% to 4.9% to February 2026. For those aged 16-24, the unemployment figure was 15.8%, also slightly reduced according to the ONS. 6.4. Average weekly earnings were estimated at £745 for total earnings and £692 (excluding bonuses) for regular earnings in February 2026. The annual growth in employees' average regular earnings (excluding bonuses) was 3.6% in December 25 to February 26. This continues the reduction seen in annual growth rates over the last year. Annual growth in total earnings (including bonuses) was 3.8% in December 25 to February 26. Again this continued the general reduction seen in annual growth rates over the last year. 6.5. Over the long term, average weekly earnings for both total and regular pay show a steady increase, with some minor dips. Page 6 of 82
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7 PUBLIC 6.6. These increases are just above the rate of inflation and ONS figures for the UK show that from the period from December 25 to February 2026, annual growth in real terms, adjusted for inflation using the Consumer Prices Index including owner occupiers’ housing costs (CPIH), was 0.2% for regular pay and 0.4% for total pay. 6.7. Annual average regular earnings growth was 5.2% for the public sector in December 25 to February 26 and 3.2% for the private sector. Within the private sector wholesaling, retailing, hotels and restaurants sector remained the strongest in terms of annual growth. 7. Inflation, Food Costs and Foodbank use 7.1. Inflation increased to 3.3% in the year to March. This was up from 3% in February. The main upward driver for inflation has been the rise in cost of fuel due to the war in the Middle East, with food costs and travel fares also expected to increase. The figure for April, however, showed a reduction to 2.8%, due to lower gas and electricity bills because of the energy bill support from the UK government. 7.2. The conflict in the Middle East, however, is expected to lead to higher UK inflation and analysts expect inflation to rise and reach about 4% by the end of the year, as the conflict continues to add pressure on global prices. Prior to the conflict the CPI annual inflation rate was expected to fall to around 2% from April and remain around 2% for the rest of 2026. On 19 March 2026, the Bank of England said, based on preliminary estimates, that CPI is now likely to be between 3% and 3.5% in second and third quarters of 2026, due to higher energy prices. 7.3. Food inflation was 3.7% in March, up from 3.3% in February, then reduced to 3% in April. A slower rate of price increases for food - particularly chocolate and meat products - added to the downward pressure on inflation for April. The food industry and supermarkets, however, are Page 7 of 82
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8 PUBLIC energy-intensive industries, which mean that they face risk from higher energy costs, which are expected to push the price of food up. The chart below from the Food Foundation shows food the relationship between food and general inflation since 2021. 7.4. The conflict in the Middle East and the associated rise in energy prices is expected to lead to higher UK inflation. Prior to the conflict the CPI annual inflation rate was expected to fall to around 2% from April and remain around 2% for the rest of 2026. On 19 March 2026, the Bank of England said, based on preliminary estimates, that CPI is now likely to be between 3% and 3.5% in second and third quarters of 2026, due to higher energy prices. 7.5. Food inflation was 3.7% in March, up from 3.3% in February. The food industry and supermarkets are energy-intensive industries, which mean that they face risk from higher energy costs, pushing the price of food up. The chart below from the Food Foundation shows food the relationship between food and general inflation since 2021. 7.6. These inflationary changes are continuing to impact on people’s ability to afford the food they need each week. The Food Foundation’s Basic Basket tracking the cost of a weekly shop at Tesco has seen the woman’s basket of food now costing £52.98 per week, with the male basket costing £59.38 per week, an increase since April 2022 of 29.2% and 36.4% respectively. 7.7. While it is too early to attribute any specific price movement to the current conflict in the Middle East, the Food Foundation states that historical data suggests this geopolitical instability is expected to translate into food prices. 7.8. The UN’s Food and Agriculture Organisation reported a 2.4% rise in its global commodity index in March 2026, with vegetable oil and sugar seeing the sharpest rises. The conflict has pushed up Page 8 of 82
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9 PUBLIC energy prices that feed directly into the cost of moving, processing and producing food, with around a third of global fertiliser production travelling through the Strait of Hormuz, UN projections indicate that global prices could average 15% to 20% higher in the first half of 2026 if crisis persists. 7.9. In the UK, the Food and Drink Federation, has revised its food inflation forecast in light of recent geopolitical events. Previously, the FDF forecast that the rate of food inflation would gradually ease in 2026, ending the year on around 3%. However, given the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and impact on oil and gas facilities in the Middle East, they now anticipate that food inflation will reach 9% by the end of the year. Renfrewshire Foodbank 7.10. Foodbank statistics for the year have now been received, with 7399 vouchers fulfilled within 25/26. This is a slight decrease of 5.91% on the number of vouchers last year. The rising cost of essentials was cited in 2053 cases as the reason for voucher issue, with other unexpected expense accounting for 731 vouchers and non-priority debt for 601. It should be noted that more than one reason can be provided. Benefit delays were cited in 496 cases. 7.11. Paisley Northwest accounted for 1706 vouchers, with Renfrew South and Gallowhill, accounting for 596. Lowest demand for vouchers came from Bishopton, Bridge of Weir and Langbank at 62. The only ward to show an increase in vouchers this year was Erskine and Inchinnan, with 75 in comparison to 66 last year. All other Wards have shown a decrease in vouchers issued. Single adult households accounted for 2811 vouchers, and those for whom benefits was their only income accounted for 4199. 7.12. This reflects recent discussions with Renfrewshire Foodbank, who recognised that single people, especially single males who have only benefits for income, made up the vast majority of Foodbank users. It is suggested that this may be because recent changes in policy around benefits, including, for example, Scottish Child payments and removal of the 2 child cap, benefit families only. 7.13. Some comparisons between this year’s figures and last are in the tables below. 2024/25 2025/26 % change Number of vouchers fulfilled 5411 5091 -5.91 Number of adults receiving assistance 7075 6662 -5.83 Number of children receiving assistance 3409 3381 -0.82 Single adult with no children receiving voucher 2988 2811 -5.92 Reason for voucher ‘rising costs of essentials’ 2510 2053 -18.2% Source of Income ‘benefits only’ 4405 4199 -4.67% Top 3 Wards for Vouchers 24/25 No of vouchers 25/26 No of vouchers Paisley Northwest 1706 Paisley Northwest 1592 Page 9 of 82
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10 PUBLIC Renfrew South and Gallowhill 596 Renfrew South and Gallowhill 587 Renfrew North and Braehead 485 Paisley Southwest 457 Top 3 reasons for voucher issue 25/25 25/26 Rising Cost of essentials 2510 Rising Cost of essentials 2053 Debt (priority and non priority) 1115 Debt (priority and non priority) 1055 Ongoing impact of physical or mental health condition 697 Other unexpected expense 731 8. Interest and Mortgage Rates 8.1. On the 30 April, the Bank of England held its base interest rate at 3.75%. The bank stated that due to the war in the Middle East disrupting the transportation and supply of energy and raising its price, households’ fuel and utility prices, and companies’ costs, will be pushed up. Because of this inflation will be higher than expected, at least in the short term and it considers that the impact will be greater the longer the conflict and its effect on the global energy supply goes on. The Governor of the Bank stated "Inflation is bad for everybody, but it's particularly bad for the least well off. Things like energy and food are a much bigger proportion of spending by those on lower incomes... so this is a difficult situation." 8.2. The Bank is monitoring the situation closely and must still consider what changes can be made to interest rates that achieve the 2% inflation target sustainably. With the situation within the Middle East so volatile, forecasts are difficult to make, however there is no expectation that interest rates will fall in the near future, keeping mortgage interest rates too at a higher level for those borrowing with. Indeed, the Bank of England indicated they would ‘act forcefully’ should oil prices hit a peak of $130 a barrel and remain high (the current price is $126 a barrel). 8.3. This outlook is different from that previously reported to elected members, where prior to the war, inflation and interest rates were falling, and mortgage rate predictions for 2026 broadly expected mortgage rates would gently trend down over the year. Instead, mortgage rates have risen, with the average 5 year fixed rate now 5.75%, up from 4.95% before the conflict started, and the average 2 year fixed rate is now 5.84%, up from 4.83%, according to finance site Moneyfacts. 8.4. As previously reported, about 800,000 fixed-rate mortgages, currently with an interest rate of 3% or below, are expected to expire every year, on average, until the end of 2027, so higher mortgage rates mean a, in some cases, significant increase in housing costs for those householders. 9. Housing costs Page 10 of 82
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11 PUBLIC Rental Costs 9.1. Private rent prices in Renfrewshire were an average £826 in March 2026, down from an average of £ 828 in January 2026, however an increase of 3.2% from the £802 in March 2025. This was higher than the Scottish figure of 2.1% over the year. 9.2. By how many bedrooms there are in a property, average rents as of January 2026 in Renfrewshire/Inverclyde have shown a slight reduction from the previous report, apart from for larger homes and were: • One bedroom: £527 (from £528 in January 26) • Two bedrooms: £694 (from £695 in January 25) • Three bedrooms: £894 (from £896 in January 25) • Four or more bedrooms: £1,567 (from £1,565 in January 25) 9.3. Taking the data instead by property type, average rents, again slightly reduced in all types, were: • Flats and maisonettes: £647 • Terraced properties: £826 • Semi-detached properties: £871 • Detached properties: £1,304 9.4. Many private renters are on below-average household incomes. Almost a third rely on housing benefit to support rental costs, where the allowance has not kept pace with rental increases. While rents have reduced very slightly to March 2026, the rate compared to the same time the previous year has increased. This means affordability is a growing constraint for renters. Home ownership Page 11 of 82
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12 PUBLIC 9.5. In general, house prices have continued to rise, and ONS figures show that the average cost of a home in Renfrewshire is now £159,000 as of February 2026 up 6.9% from February 2025, with the average price for a home bought with a mortgage also increasing 6.9% to £173,000. 9.6. For each property type, average prices as of February 2026 in Renfrewshire were: • Detached properties: £353,000 (down from £361,000 last reported) • Semi-detached properties: £219,000 (the same as £219,000 last reported) • Terraced properties: £163,000 (the same as £163,000 last reported) • Flats and maisonettes: £103,000 (the same as £103,000 last reported) 9.7. The average price paid by first-time buyers was £130,000, which was 7.2% higher than the previous year’s figure of £122,000. 9.8. According to the UK House Price Index, typical payments on a 5 year fixed mortgage for an average flat in Renfrewshire is £388 with a deposit of £30,000 and a 25 year mortgage. The average price for a flat property in Renfrewshire is £103,000 in Feb 2026. This has increased by 25% since Feb 2021. The average price for a terraced property in Renfrewshire is £163,000 in February 2026, having increased 35% since February 2021. Typical payments on a 5 year fixed mortgage for an average terraced property in Renfrewshire are £727 with a deposit of £30,000 and a 25 year mortgage. Semi detached home prices have also increased 35% since 2021, up to £219,000 and mortgage payments up to £1029 a month. Detached homes have risen by 30% to £353,000. 9.9. According to Adzuna, a recruitment agency, the average salary for jobs advertised in Renfrewshire in April 2026 was £36,564. Salaries in Renfrewshire have gone down 1.9% year-on-year, while the average national change is 3.7%, although salaries have fluctuated throughout the year. Page 12 of 82
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13 PUBLIC Implications of the Report 1. Financial – There are no financial implications associated with this report, which provides an overview of the position and is for noting. 2. HR & Organisational Development – none 3. Community/Council Planning – This report provides a detailed summary of the current evidence relating to household income and expenditure. Wider poverty related issues are a key element of both the Council and Community Plan and the information included within this report is part of the wider Strategic Needs Assessment for these plans. 4. Legal - none 5. Property/Assets - none 6. Information Technology - none 7. Equality and Human Rights – The report provides an overview of the position around household income and expenditure, and is for noting. As such there are no impacts arising from the recommendation of this paper. It is however important to note that impacts on households explored within this paper are likely to be disproportionately felt by equality groups. 8. Health and Safety - none 9. Procurement – none 10. Risk – none 11. Privacy Impact – none 12. Climate Risk - none 13. Children’s rights – the articles within UNCRC underpin the work that is being progressed in Renfrewshire through the Fairer Renfrewshire programme, particularly in relation to rights in relation to aspects such as life, survival and development, food, clothing and a safe home and supporting the best interests of the child and their families. Child poverty and family wellbeing are key local partnership priorities. 14. COSLA Policy Position – none Author: Diane Dunn, Fairer Renfrewshire Manager, diane.dunn@renfrewshire.gov.uk Page 13 of 82
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Prepared by: Policy and Partnerships tacklingpoverty@renfrewshire.gov.uk Cost of Living Dashboard May 2026 Fairer Renfrewshire Item 1(b) Page 15 of 82
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Cost of Living Dashboard FAIRER RENFREWSHIRE This dashboard has been developed to provide a summary of key indicators relating to how local households might be impacted by the cost-of-living crisis It has four key sections: economy, social security, financial insecurity and housing Each section has an overview with key indicators and their movement from the last period, supported by additional information and graphs showing further analysis and longer-term trends The dashboard is still in development, and feedback is welcome on the information included and its presentation to ensure it is a useful tool Page 16 of 82
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Key statistics - economy OVERVIEW 3.75% 2.8% £20.73 156.99p 3.0% £1,641 • CPI Inflation and food inflation are likely to increase again primarily due to Middle Eastern conflict. • Interest Rates held at 3.75%. • Energy price cap decreased from April, with prepayment meters comparatively cheaper than direct debit. Likely to increase in July. Page 17 of 82
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Inflation The CPI inflation rate inApril 2026 is 2.8%, a decrease from the 3.3% rate in March. The increase is not consistent across all categories and there are fluctuations. The decrease in the CPI Rate for April 2026, was largely because of a decrease in the price of electricity and gas prices. Food prices rose at a rate of 3.0% with small downward effects from 5 of the detailed 11 classes, namely chocolate and confectionary, meat, oils, coffee and soft drinks. Analysts are predicting that food price inflation is expected to rise to 4.6% by September 2026, and possibly to 6%-7% by the end of the year. CPI inflation is expected to rise this year. The amount of the increase will depend on the scale and duration of the conflict in the Middle East. Interest Rates The Bank of England’s base rate was held at 3.75% in April 2026. Interest rates are difficult to predict. The Bank of England has signalled that interest rates could rise this year as it attempts to curb inflation following a “significant energy price shock” for the conflict in the Middle East. The Bank of England has modelled 3 scenarios, with the worst case potentially seeing as many as six interest rate rises to 5.5%. This scenario is linked to the price of oil remaining above $120 a barrel for the rest of the year. 0.00 1.00 2.00 3.00 4.00 5.00 6.00 Bank of England Base Rate Changes -5.0 0.0 5.0 10.0 15.0 20.0 25.0 Jan-19 May-19 Sep-19 Jan-20 May-20 Sep-20 Jan-21 May-21 Sep-21 Jan-22 May-22 Sep-22 Jan-23 May-23 Sep-23 Jan-24 May-24 Sep-24 Jan-25 May-25 Sep-25 Jan-26 CPI Inflation Rates Food Inflation CPI Page 18 of 82
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Earnings Based on the ONS annual survey of hours and earnings, in 2025 the median hourly pay (excluding overtime) for workers in Renfrewshire is higher compared to that for workers in Scotland, and the rest of Great Britain. It should be noted that the median hourly wage for both males and females in Renfrewshire is higher than the corresponding rates in Scotland and the UK. Employment Rate The ONS Labour Force Survey shows the Claimant Count for those claiming benefits 'principally for the reason of being unemployed', which now stands at 3,445 in March 2026. This is based on numbers claiming JSA and Universal Credit. These numbers are based on those aged 16 and over and are not seasonally adjusted. The Renfrewshire unemployment rate is 2.9% and is less than the Scotland rate (3.1%) and the Great Britain rate (4.0%). £20.73 £20.23 £19.74 £21.54 £20.50 £20.39 £19.98 £19.76 £18.94 £17.50 £18.00 £18.50 £19.00 £19.50 £20.00 £20.50 £21.00 £21.50 £22.00 Renfrewshire Scotland Great Britain Hourly pay excluding overtime Full-time Workers Male Full-time workers Female Full-time workers 0 500 1,000 1,500 2,000 2,500 3,000 3,500 4,000 4,500 Apr-23 Jun-23 Aug-23 Oct-23 Dec-23 Feb-24 Apr-24 Jun-24 Aug-24 Oct-24 Dec-24 Feb-25 Apr-25 Jun-25 Aug-25 Oct-25 Dec-25 Feb-26 Renfrewshire Claimant Count Page 19 of 82
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Economic Inactivity The ONS Labour Force Survey also provides details on those aged 16+ that are economically inactive and not seeking work. Between January 2025 to December 2025, of the 28,600 people aged 16-64 that are classed as economically inactive, 86% are not looking for employment (either in the long-term or short/medium term). The percentage of economically inactive people aged 16- 64 that want to gain employment (either in long-term or short/medium term) in Renfrewshire (14%) is lower than that of the rates in Scotland (18.3%) and Great Britain (21%). The Renfrewshire figure could be underestimated due to the sample size. Please note that due to the sample size within Renfrewshire, some categories do not have a reliable estimate (e.g. looking after family/home, temporary sick or other). Student 21% Other 12% Long-Term Sick 36% Retired 18% Looking after family/home 13% Economically Inactive, not looking for work Page 20 of 82
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Fuel Prices From the UK Government’s weekly fuel price publication, the average UK pump price on 27 April 2026 is 156.99 pence per litre for petrol, and 189.81 pence per litre for diesel. The conflict in the Middle East has led to significant increases in fuel prices, with price volatility to continue during the conflict and after the conflict until production and supply returns to normal levels. Energy Price Cap The Energy Price Cap sets a limit on the maximum amount suppliers can charge for each unit of gas and electricity used and sets a maximum daily standing charge. That means there is no upper limit to what a user pays, if more energy is used, more is paid. The Energy Price Cap now changes every three months mainly based on average energy wholesale prices in the months leading up to each change. From April 2026 the Energy Price Cap decreased to £1,641 per year for those on a monthly direct debit, and to £1,597 per year for those with a prepayment meter. £0 £500 £1,000 £1,500 £2,000 £2,500 £3,000 £3,500 £4,000 £4,500 2020 Winter 2021 Summer 2021 Winter 2022 Summer 2022 Autumn 2023 Winter 2023 Spring 2023 Summer 2023 Autumn 2024 Winter 2024 Spring 2024 Summer 2024 Autumn 2025 Winter 2025 Spring 2025 Summer 2025 Autumn 2026 Winter 2026 Spring Direct Debit Prepayment Page 21 of 82
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Key statistics - social security OVERVIEW 21,043 10,410 5,026 4,613 • Households claiming Universal Credit increasing, this includes new cases and managed migration from tax credits and legacy benefits. • Slight decrease in number of children receiving Scottish Child Payment compared to September 2025. Page 22 of 82
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Universal Credit Households on Universal Credit (UC) continue to rise with 21,043 households in Renfrewshire receiving UC as of November 2025 (provisional figures). Starting in August 2023, the managed migration from tax credits to UC contributed to the rises in the UC caseload, with the legacy tax credit system closing for payments in April 2025. From April 2024, the managed migration process commenced for those claimants still on Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance, Housing Benefit and Employment and Support Allowance and should be complete by June 2026. The next UC statistical update from the Department for Work and Pensions is due on 12 May 2026. 0 5000 10000 15000 20000 25000 Number of Renfrewshire Households on UC Page 23 of 82
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Free School Meals and Clothing Grants The 2025/26 Free School Meals and Clothing Grant application process commenced at the start of June 2025. The number of applications received between June 2025, and March 2026 (4,115) is down compared to the corresponding period as last year (4,318). The award rate at the end of March 2026 (81.3%) is higher than at the same point last year (77.8%). This drop could be down to fluctuations in school rolls and eligibility and there could also be less repeat or duplicate applications. Large numbers of Child Tax Credit claimants did not move to UC and therefore could have lost eligibility. 0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26 Number of FSM/CG Applications Received up to end of March Page 24 of 82
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Key statistics - financial insecurity OVERVIEW 1,038 £1.143m 5,851 2,667 • Foodbank vouchers issued down slightly compared to last quarter, and a decrease compared to the same period last year. • Number of Crisis Grants applications awarded is up compared to the same period last year and spend is up. • Number of people approaching local advice agencies up this period, mirroring the wider trend. Page 25 of 82
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More than 3 vouchers needed in the last 6 months In terms of more than 3 vouchers needed in the last 6 months there has been a steady decrease in overall cases. There has been an increase in Benefit Delays/Sanctions, Homelessness and Domestic Abuse being a specified reason in 2025/26 comparing the same period in 2024/25. Foodbank Vouchers Foodbank vouchers issued in Q4 2025/26 (1,038) assisted 681 children and 1,334 adults. 0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 1600 1800 Year, by quarter 21/22 Q1 21/22 Q2 21/22 Q3 21/22 Q4 22/23 Q1 22/23 Q2 22/23 Q3 22/23 Q4 23/24 Q1 23/24 Q2 23/24 Q3 23/24 Q4 24/25 Q1 24/25 Q2 24/25 Q3 24/25 Q4 25/26 Q1 25/26 Q2 25/26 Q3 25/26 Q4 Foodbank Vouchers Issued by Quarter 0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 Awaiting first benefit payment Benefit delay or sanction Debt Domestic abuse Drug or alcohol dependency Homelessness Long term health condition Long term unemployment No access to financial support due to… Other - low income Other Reason for needing more than 3 vouchers in the last 6 months comparison Apr-Mar 2024/25 2025/26Page 26 of 82
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Advice Advice Works and Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau (RCAB) both continue to support a high level of new clients. The number of clients who received appointment support during Q4 2025/26 is 101 less compared to the same period in 2024/25. N.B. These figures do not include the number of calls/emails from people looking for signposting information. Debt Under Management Advice Works and Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau continue to deal with a high level of enquiries regarding debt. The combined level of new debt cases under management is shown below, by quarter over the last 5 years. The levels reported in Q1 for 2024/25 look to be outlier figures with Q1 figures for 2025/26 returning to figures closer to 2023/24 and the remainder of 2024/25 figures. - 500 1,000 1,500 2,000 2,500 3,000 3,500 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Combined Advice New Client Cases 2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26 £0.00 £500,000.00 £1,000,000.00 £1,500,000.00 £2,000,000.00 £2,500,000.00 £3,000,000.00 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 New Debt Under Management 2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26 Page 27 of 82
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Scottish Welfare Fund There have been 9,156 applications for Crisis Grants between April 2025 and March 2026 with £693,120 awarded. This is an average award rate of 63.9%. Nationwide, the main reasons for a CG not being awarded are “reasons for application do not meet the conditions of award” and “excluded as a result of previous applications”. Generally, awards are restricted to 3 within a 12-month rolling period however discretion can be used. In Renfrewshire, discretion isfrequently exercised. Cost-of-living pressures will for many households result in immediate financial crises more often with less flexibility to manage budgets. Nationwide 52% of Crisis Grant awards are made to single persons, with 22% made to single parents. This suggests single people and single parents, who rely on one income within the household, are financially struggling in terms of income and disproportionately by expenditure due to housing, energy, fuel, and food costs. 0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 July '22 September '22 November '22 January '23 March '23 May '23 July '23 September '23 November '23 January '24 March '24 May '24 July '24 September '24 November '24 January'25 March'25 May'25 July'25 September'25 November'25 January'26 March'26 Crisis Grant Applications by month Page 28 of 82
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Key statistics - housing OVERVIEW 16,7815,425 285 2,742 • New homeless cases up in Q4 compared to Q3, and the wider trend is upward. • No real change in the proportions of people reporting why they became homeless or where they are from. • A slight increase in the value of arrears compared to same period last year. Page 29 of 82
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Council Tenants in arrears As at the end of March 2026, 2,742 current tenants were in rent arrears totaling £1.80m. This figure includes all levels of arrears, some of which are caused by Universal Credit payment processes. Staff within Housing Services continue to work with tenants to address rent arrears and provide advice/signpost tenants to support services and agencies where financial difficulties are identified. For the period 1 April 2025 – 31 March 2026, 151 tenants have qualified for Tenant Support Fund assistance with £41,386 awarded. Homeless Cases The Housing and Homeless Advice Service had 1,112 new cases within 2025/26 compared to 1,015 for the same period in 2024/25. The main reasons for presenting as homeless remains relationship breakdowns (family or partner). There is an unprecedented demand for the homeless service with the current caseload the highest on record which puts the service under significant and concerted pressure. The key challenge is the number of homeless cases at any one time, and this puts pressure on the temporary accommodation team who need to find more temporary properties to accommodate families. The amount of temporary accommodation has increased approximately by 30%. £0 £500,000 £1,000,000 £1,500,000 £2,000,000 £2,500,000 £3,000,000 £3,500,000 £4,000,000 Current Tenant Arrears 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26 221 247 214 250264 261 227 274 244 283 242 246 317 264 246 285 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 New Homeless Cases 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 2025/26Page 30 of 82
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Housing CostsAverage Monthly Rent Costs From the Office for National Statistics’ local housing statistics publication for April 2026, figures show average rent changes. These statistics are based predominantly on advertised rents, so do not represent rent changes for existing tenants. Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rates are the maximum amount that can be paid for Housing Benefit and Universal Credit (Housing Costs) for those renting from a private landlord. Any shortfall between charged rent and the amount of HB/UC Housing Costs awarded would have to be made up by the tenant, although Discretionary Housing Payments can be awarded to provide support. The 2026/27 rates remain frozen at the January 2024 rate. Property Prices and Mortgage Affordability The average price of a home in Renfrewshire was £159,000 in February 2026, which was higher than the average of £149,000 in February 2025. The average price paid by first-time buyers was £130,000 up from £122,000 the previous year. Across Scotland, the average house price in February 2026 was £187,000, which was more than a year earlier (£182,000). Average house prices for all property types continue to rise. The house prices combined with recent higher rates have driven up the average monthly mortgage repayment amounts. Whilst the Bank of England base interest rate fell in December 2025, it is expected that future rates could increase in the short to medium term, to ensure inflation rates remain at levels consistent with the 2% target. Renfrewshire Monthly LHA Rates 2026/27 LHA Rate 1 Bedroom Shared £360 1 Bedroom £400 2 Bedroom £525 3 Bedroom £600 4 Bedroom £1,100 Type of Property Average Price Average Monthly Mortgage Repayment (Assuming 25 year repayment, 4.5% interest rate and 10% deposit) Flat £103,000 £515.26 Terraced £163,000 £815.41 Semi-detached £219,000 £1,095.55 Detached £353,000 £1,765.88 Average Monthly Rents in Renfrewshire Mar-26 Annual Change in Average Rents 1 Bedroom £527 4.6% 2 Bedroom £694 3.7% 3 Bedroom £894 3.2% 4 or more Bedrooms £1,567 2.2% Page 31 of 82
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1 PUBLIC ___________________________________________________________________ To: Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee On: 3 June 2026 ___________________________________________________________________ Report by: Chief Executive ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Fairer Renfrewshire Programme Update ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1. The Council and partners have a key focus on tackling inequality and improving wellbeing and have longstanding programmes of work and partnership arrangements in place such as the Tackling Poverty Programme and the change programme established in response to the findings of the Renfrewshire Drug and Alcohol Commission. 1.2. At Council on 2 March 2023 members reaffirmed their commitment to the Fairer Renfrewshire programme and outlined several investments including bringing together the current Fairer Renfrewshire funding alongside the Tackling Poverty and Social Renewal reserve funds into a single resource. 1.3. At Council on 26th February 2026, members further reaffirmed their commitment to the Fairer Renfrewshire programme with continued investments in a number of targeted interventions including the £50 winter school clothing payment, the Winter Connections programme, funding to Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau to support their welfare rights advocacy service and schools advice as well as an allocation of further funding to supplement both Discretionary Housing Payments and Scottish Welfare Fund. 1.4. At Leadership Board on 3 December 2025, a Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan detailing the priorities and programme of work to be undertaken over the next 18-24 months was approved. This plan refreshes and sharpens focus on the priorities for the Fairer Renfrewshire Programme. 1.5. Over the next two years, we will concentrate on four strategic priorities: • Improving Financial Security - Helping households maximise income, reduce costs, and access early help to prevent crisis. Item 2 Page 33 of 82
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2 PUBLIC • Strengthening Health, Wellbeing and Community - Supporting families and communities through sustainable models of care, food security, and place-based approaches. • Embedding Equality and Inclusion - Ensuring services are accessible, inclusive, and shaped by the voices of those who are often unheard. • Using Insight and Evidence for Impact - Harnessing data, feedback, and lived experience to drive better decisions and deliver measurable change. 1.6. In line with this plan, key priorities for the Fairer Renfrewshire Programme for March to June 2026 were as follows: • Finalise our Equality Outcomes Action Plan • Finalise the re-commissioning of the external advice contract • Evaluate this year’s Winter Connections programme • Commence this year’s Summer of Fun Programme • Prepare the Local Child Poverty Action Report for 25/26 1.7. Progress updates are contained in Section 4 and 5 of this report. 2. Recommendations 2.1 It is recommended that members of the Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee note the report. 3. Background 3.1 As highlighted in Section 1, the Fairer Renfrewshire Programme brings together a number of existing programmes of work focussed on achieving fairness and equity. After a refresh approved by Leadership Board, the programme currently works to deliver against 4 key themes: · Improving financial security · Strengthening Health, Wellbeing and Community · Embedding Equality and Inclusion · Using Insight and Evidence for Impact 3.2 On 29 April, Leadership Board approved £0.562 to support the Fairer Renfrewshire Programme. This amount is in addition to the budget commitments made for a number of targeted interventions including the £50 winter school clothing payment, the Winter Connections programme, funding to Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau to support their welfare rights advocacy service and schools advice. 4. Fairer Renfrewshire Programme Update Strategic Priority One: Improving Financial Security Page 34 of 82
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3 PUBLIC Advice statistics for quarter 4 4.1. During quarter 4, Renfrewshire Council’s Advice Works Service assisted 958 new clients, bringing their total for the year to 3,711 clients. Within the quarter, they resolved 4,283 benefit cases, bringing the annual total to 16,729. Total Client Financial Gain for the quarter was £2,597, 868, bringing the total financial gain for the year to £10,731,774. 4.2. For Family Advice, 107 new referrals were received this quarter, 50 of these being from the 6 Child Poverty Priority Groups. Family Advice this year has secured £85,000 in financial gain for 441 families. 4.3. For RCAB’s School Support Service for 25/26, a total of 128 clients made a combined 322 contacts. 70 of these clients gained financially from the advice, with a total of £301,700 gained, including £142,000 in Universal Credit and £24,754 in Child Disability Payment. 123 of the families receiving advice were within the 6 Child Poverty Priority Groups. 4.4. For RCAB’s general service in quarter 4, 2,219 individuals sought advice, with 1,709 being seen and financial gain of £638,300. This brings the total clients seen for the year to 6332 and financial gain for RCAB for 25/26 to £2,640,705. Family Advice Pathway 4.5. As elected members are aware, a pathway to family advice was developed to support increased referrals to both Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau (RCAB) and the Council’s Advice Works service. 4.6. On 26 March a presentation was made to head teachers across schools introducing the pathway and asking them to support families who may be struggling with money and costs of living to access the relevant advice service. 4.7. Further to this, in April officers from the Connected Communities team met with the Family Wellbeing Manager to introduce the pathway, which will now be cascaded to the Family Wellbeing teams, both community and especially schools. Scottish Emergency Heating Oil Scheme 4.8. The Scottish Emergency Heating Oil Scheme opened on 1 April 2026 and will close by 30 September or when the fund runs out if sooner. Delivered by Advice Direct Scotland on behalf of the Scottish Government, it is for those who use LPG or oil to heat their homes and who may be in need of extra support. Page 35 of 82
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4 PUBLIC 4.9. Successful applications will receive £300 and applicants can receive one payment every three calendar months, although will need to apply each time. The payments go direct to the fuel supplier. 4.10. The scheme is for those who are in receipt of a means-tested benefit or who are in financial hardship and have additional vulnerabilities. The support will normally be applied for online, although there is also a telephone number to call. 4.11. There are around 270 households in Renfrewshire that use oil for their central heating and 639 households that use other gas central heating which includes both LPG and biogas (although the support is only offered for LPG). Officers from the Fairer Renfrewshire Team have been working with colleagues in Communications and Marketing to inform Renfrewshire residents who may be eligible about this extra support and how to apply for it. Strategic Priority Two: Strengthening Health, Wellbeing and Community Summer of Fun 4.12. Funding has been allocated as part of the Fairer Renfrewshire 2026/2027 programme to deliver another ‘Summer of Fun’ programme in 2026. This will support a small grants programme as well as summer camps provided by Community Learning and Development and ensure that families, especially low income families, can access free, fun activities over the summer holidays. As in previous years, the CLD summer camps will be targeted to families in receipt of school clothing grant, with spaces kept aside for referrals, such as from social work and schools. 4.13. The Summer of Fun small grants programme opened on 5 May to applications from community groups. Grants of up to £3,000 are available for community organisations for projects to deliver activities over the summer holidays which reach communities that might be underserved by mainstream activities. As in previous years, funding can cover costs such as venues, activity costs, sessional staff or volunteer expenses, food, or items to reduce costs for families such as transport. 4.14. Applications can be designed for whole families or for children and young people of a range of ages and funding can cover the total cost of a project, or additional costs to make existing activities more accessible for low-income families. 4.15. Working with partners across the Council and beyond, all free activities will be promoted on one page within the Council website. This will include Whole Family Wellbeing’s offer of summer camps for children with Additional Support Needs and One Ren’s summer programme. Links will also be fully established with the wider Summer of Sprot programme funded by the Scottish Government to support the legacy of the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow this summer. Page 36 of 82
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5 PUBLIC 4.16. Summer of Fun will be evaluated and a report brought to elected members later in the year. Community Development – Gallowhill 4.17. Progress has been made on the community development work in Gallowhill, with the Community Development Worker now being hosted by the Family Wellbeing Team in Gallowhill Primary. In addition to the weekly Friday lunch, which attracts 25-30 people each week, a new Men’s drop-in started on 24th March in Glencairn Court. This drop-in, funded through the Community Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund administered by Engage Renfrewshire, was started in response to the high number of male deaths by suicide in Gallowhill. Although supported by Active Communities at present, the aim is for this group to become self -managed with volunteer input, and it is hoped to have this in place by June. 4.18. The weekly litter pick continues to grow, and has become community led, with minimal input from Active Communities and Team Up to Clean Up Gallowhill community members also took part in the Team Up to Clean Up ‘Big Spring Clean’ campaign and did a fantastic job representing their work in the campaign video. In April, a silent disco litter pick took place, which attracted 4 new local people who it is hoped will start attending the Friday lunch. 4.19. Active Communities are also running a weekly exercise class at Gallowhill Community Centre on Friday mornings, ahead of the Community Lunch. The aim is to encourage physical activity for people with a range of fitness levels and abilities. The first class took place on Friday 24th April, with 16 people attending and 20 people booked in for the following week. The class is also funded through the Engage Community Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund. 4.20. Looking forward to May, plans are in hand for a walking group, again with the aim of being community led, and activities in the social space in Glencairn Court. In June and July a weekly kids group will be offered with Create Paisley using funding from the National Lottery Young Start Fund. 4.21. Active Communities are hoping that through these new opportunities for engagement relationships across the wider Gallowhill community will be strengthened and they will be well placed to bring together a group of engaged residents. This would allow them to begin developing a formal residents’ group, with the longer-term aim of progressing towards a Community Council. Good Food Nation 4.22. Members will be aware that in December, the Scottish Government published the first national Good Food Nation Plan and formally laid it before the Scottish Parliament. It outlines six over- arching Outcomes, Scottish Government food-related policies in place to achieve these Page 37 of 82
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6 PUBLIC Outcomes and the measures they will use to assess progress. Section 10 of The Good Food Nation (Scotland) Act 2022, which is not yet in force, requires each local authority and health board, to publish a local Good Food Nation Plan within a period of 12 months, starting from the date upon which Section 10 is commenced. The Scottish Government gave notice in March, that Section 10 will be commenced on 1 April 2027 (subject to Cabinet Secretary approval post- election), meaning that the first local Good Food Nation plan for Renfrewshire will have to be published by 1 April 2028. 4.23. Officers have continued to attend relevant events to support the work of Fair Food Renfrewshire and around the Good Food Nation (Scotland) Act 2022. A recent workshop organised by the Living Good Food Nation Lab allowed local authorities and health boards to hear from the Scottish Government Good Food Nation team and gain an insight on their experience and learnings from developing good food nation plans. 4.24. Whilst the work of Fair Food Renfrewshire is distinct and independent from the statutory duty placed upon the Council, there are opportunities to work in partnership. The latest Food Support Forum meeting which took place on 14 May, allowed organisations to discuss issues around community and emergency food provision and provide their thoughts on the development and consultation of the local Good Food Nation Plan. Work is also underway to establish a communication channel for community and emergency food providers to share availability of excess food supplies that can be re-distributed. The new Renfrewshire Foodbank CEO attended the forum meeting for the first time, met the members and updated the group on Renfrewshire Foodbank plans. Winter Connections 4.25. This year’s Winter Connections programme has concluded, with 37 applications being successful in gaining funding, and a wide range of activities taking place across Renfrewshire. An evaluation report is presented to Sub-Committee as a separate agenda item. Strategic priority three: Embedding Equality and Inclusion Equality Outcomes Action Plan and equality actions 4.26. The Equality Outcomes Action Plan was approved at Leadership Board on 29 April and work continues on actions to support the Plan. This includes a new ilearn module on Equality Impact Assessments with an associated RenTalk which took place on 22 April, and was well attended by colleagues from across Council services. 4.27. A further RenTalk has been delivered with the Equalities Development Officer and Engage Renfrewshire’s IN-Ren Network Facilitator around inclusive and intercultural communications. Page 38 of 82
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7 PUBLIC This session will support staff to meet the needs of any service user who is not a native English speaker or who needs a different kind of communication style. New Scots Welcome Pack 4.28. Officers have been working to develop a New Scots Welcome pack. This pack is designed to provide useful information for anyone coming into Renfrewshire with an ethnic minority background and will provide information on a variety of topics which make life easier for those coming to live in Renfrewshire, including housing, work, libraries, shopping, travel, schools and learning English. Utilising the existing Refugee Resettlement Unit’s pack as a basis, the new Welcome Pack will provide information also suited to non-refugees and asylum seekers. 4.29. Once developed, the pack will be tested with the IN-Ren Network, and the Fairer Renfrewshire Panel, who were keen to see the pack introduced and all such information held in one place for ease of use. Once testing is done, the pack will be produced later in the year. Youth Provision Review 4.30. A review of youth provision across Renfrewshire is currently underway. The information collected is now being analysed and will be used to support the design and delivery of youth services locally as part of the CLD Partnership Plan. Strategic Priority four: Using Insight and Evidence for Impact Child Poverty Accelerator Fund 4.31. Work continues on the Child Poverty Accelerator Fund project, which will create a locally governed 'Insight Partnership' that uses existing data to identify families showing early signs of child poverty risk. The partnership will then connect these families quickly to the right support, including income maximisation, employability help, cost of living advice and family wellbeing services. 4.32. The initial stage of this project is examining the type of data that is held across Council services to decide what could be useful to the project. A steering group has also been set up to oversee the project. Lived Experience Panel 4.33. Elected Members have been given a number of updates relating to work of the Fairer Renfrewshire Panel. Since the last Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee meeting, the panel have met with the Community Justice Lead Officer and with Research Resource as part of the residents’ research to discuss budget priorities and place and neighbourhood. Page 39 of 82
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8 PUBLIC 4.34. In April, the Panel also met the Convener of the Communities and Housing Policy Board for a session regarding housing. 4.35. Going forward, the Panel will meet with the Senior Policy Officer (Migration, Asylum and Population Change) along with the Equalities Development Officer, in part to hear about the role of the Migration, Asylum and Population Change officer as well as to discuss the New Scots Welcome Pack being developed. Renfrewshire HSCP have also asked for engagement around their Food Education Pilot and around the Health and Wellbeing Survey. 5. Next Steps 5.1. Further to the approval of the 2026/2027 Fairer Renfrewshire programme at Leadership Board in April, officers are working on arrangements for the delivery of key projects over the coming year. 5.2. In addition to the delivery of the actions within both the Fairer Renfrewshire Action Plan and Equality Outcomes Action Plan, officers are also working on the Local Child Poverty Action Report for 2026/27, which will be presented to Leadership Board later in June for approval. Implications of the Report 1. Financial – There are no financial implications associated with this report. 2. HR & Organisational Development – none 3. Community/Council Planning – The Fairer Renfrewshire Programme is a key driver in achieving the ‘Fair’ strategic outcome and theme within the Council Plan, and covers a number of the key actions identified in the plan. It also represents a significant partnership programme of work which supports the ‘Fair’ theme within the Community Plan, with dedicated partnership governance being established to ensure alignment between these areas of work. 4. Legal - none 5. Property/Assets - none 6. Information Technology - none 7. Equality and Human Rights – Equality and human rights are a key pillar of this plan, and it is anticipated that the programme will likely advance equality of opportunity. 8. Health and Safety - none 9. Procurement – none Page 40 of 82
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9 PUBLIC 10. Risk – none 11. Privacy Impact – none 12. Climate risk – none 13. Children’s rights - the articles within UNCRC underpin the work that is being progressed in Renfrewshire through the Fairer Renfrewshire programme, particularly in relation to rights in relation to aspects such as life, survival and development, food, clothing and a safe home and supporting the best interests of the child and their families. Child poverty and family wellbeing are key local partnership priorities. 14. COSLA Policy Position – none Author: Annabelle Walter, Connected Communities Manager Page 41 of 82
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1 PUBLIC ________________________________________________________________________ To: Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee On: 3 June 2026 _____________________________________________________________________ Report by: Chief Executive _____________________________________________________________________ Heading: Winter Connections Evaluation 2025/26 ________________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1. At Leadership Board on 14 September 2022, elected members agreed that officers should develop a Winter Connections Programme which would provide a network of local places and spaces where people can connect to others in their community throughout winter. £50,000 of grant funding was allocated by the Board in September 2022, to support local groups and organisations to participate in the programme and to contribute some of the costs of delivery where this was required. 1.2. The Winter Connections programme has now completed its fourth year, having been running during the winter months since November 2022, and continues to be delivered in partnership with local organisations and aiming to encourage people to connect and participate in activities in warm and welcoming spaces across communities in Renfrewshire. 1.3. The programme continues to attract new organisations bidding for funding, with this year’s programme being delivered by a mix of organisations that have received funding before, and those new to Winter Connections. 1.4. An evaluation for the 25/26 Programme has now been carried out, and the key messages of the evaluation include: • Over 1,300 people benefited from the programme, demonstrating a continued need for access to free activities and company throughout the winter months. • The social aspect of bringing people together created reduced isolation by creating opportunities to build new connections and friendships. Item 3 Page 43 of 82
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2 PUBLIC • Activities provided opportunities to improve physical and mental health and wellbeing, learn new skills, increase confidence and be creative. • The programme enabled organisations to engage with new people, raising awareness of their venues and services and signposting to other services across Renfrewshire. • Providing hot drinks in libraries encouraged visitors to stay for longer and participate in activities • Provision of hot food and drinks encouraged continued attendance, helping to sustain relationships, particularly for those at risk of isolation over the winter. • Providing free food alongside activities ensured that the programme discretely supported families who are continuing to experience financial hardship, reducing financial and social exclusion. • The programme continues to be an important element of the Council’s approach to tackling the cost-of-living crisis. 1.5. The programme has been evaluated each of the previous years and has been found to positively contribute to Renfrewshire Council’s continued wider response to the continued high cost-of- living. In addition to the key messages, the evaluation report also provides a series of recommendations to be considered as part of any future programme. A copy of the full evaluation is attached at Appendix 1. 1.6. At the Council’s budget meeting in February 2026, £75,000 of funding was allocated to support the delivery of a fifth year of Winter Connections for 2026/27. 2. Recommendations 2.1 It is recommended that members of the Fairer Renfrewshire Sub-Committee: • Note the content of the report 3. Background 3.1 The development of the Winter Connections Programme has been a key focus for officers with £75,000 of funding allocated from the Fairer Renfrewshire Programme to support the delivery of Winter Connections activities for the third Winter. The Winter Connections programme attracted 47 applications for funding from a mix of organisations that had received funding before and some organisations that were new to the Winter Connections programme, with 37 applications approved. Page 44 of 82
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3 PUBLIC 3.2 The programme offers an extensive and varied programme of activities across Renfrewshire, hosted by community groups, including OneRen libraries. The programme included line-dancing, cooking classes and mindfulness. Some activities were open to everyone and aimed to attract families and multiple generations, however some organisations focussed specifically on delivering sessions for children and younger people, activities for older people or adults with learning disabilities. Activities largely ran until March 2026. 3.3 Hosts are asked to sign up to Winter Connections principles, and support was provided to all host organisations including a Winter Connections toolkit, printed materials, information sharing, access to other services such as advice, period products provided for locations. 1.7. There is a continued focus on the promotion of the programme and linked activities across the partnership, with a clear and recognisable Winter Connection identity developed. Information on Winter Connections is available on the Council website, which includes a searchable map function displaying all venues, activities and facilities. Activities were widely promoted through social media, and printed materials have been widely distributed across all towns and villages across Renfrewshire. 1.8. The funding was fully exhausted by December 2025, and the programme has drawn to a close. A number of projects have secured alternative funding to continue their projects moving forward. Implications of the Report 1. Financial – There are no financial implications associated with this report, which provides an overview of the evaluation for Winter Connections. Any recommendations taken forward in future years will be met within the agreed Winter Connections budget. 2. HR & Organisational Development – none 3. Community/Council Planning – The Winter Connections programme supports a number of the key priorities within the Council and Community Plan. 4. Legal - none 5. Property/Assets - none 6. Information Technology - none 7. Equality and Human Rights – The Winter Connections programme is considered to have a positive impact on a wide range of equalities groups. The evaluation considers in detail the effectiveness of the programme in reaching a number of equalities groups. 8. Health and Safety - none Page 45 of 82
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4 PUBLIC 9. Procurement – none 10. Risk – none 11. Privacy Impact – none 12. COSLA Policy Position – none 13. Climate Risk – none 14. Children’s Rights – The Winter Connections programme is considered to have a positive impact on Children’s Rights, with a number of activities targeted at families and providing a range of free and accessible opportunities for children to participate. Author: Annabelle Walter, Connected Communities Manager Page 46 of 82
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1 PUBLIC An evaluation of the Winter Connections Programme 2025/26 Importantly, it created a sense of belonging. People weren’t just attending an activity — they felt part of a space where they were accepted and supported. That’s the real difference this programme made: not just what people did, but how they felt while they were there — and afterwards. Just Dive In Page 47 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 2 PUBLIC Contents 1. Executive Summary ........................................................................... 3 2. About Winter Connections ................................................................. 4 3. Programme Delivery .......................................................................... 8 4. Impact of the Programme ................................................................ 17 5. Conclusions ..................................................................................... 32 6. Appendix 1 ....................................................................................... 33 Page 48 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 3 PUBLIC 1. Executive Summary The Winter Connections programme has been running during the winter months since November 2022. The programme, which has been delivered in partnership with local organisations, aims to encourage people to connect and participate in activities in warm and welcoming spaces across communities in Renfrewshire. Local community and voluntary organisations can apply for small grants of up to £2,000 to support with the additional costs of making venues, activities and sessions open as part of the programme. Items eligible for funding include equipment, food, energy costs, and rent. The programme has been evaluated each year and been found to have positively contributed to Renfrewshire Council’s continued wider response to the cost-of-living crisis. As a result, in February 2025, £75,000 of funding was allocated from the Fairer Renfrewshire programme to support the delivery of a fourth year of Winter Connections for 2025/26. The programme continues to attract new organisations bidding for funding, with this year’s programme being delivered by a mix of organisation that have received funding before, and those new to Winter Connections. Organisations look forward to delivering the programme and attendance at activities remains consistently high. Key findings: • Over 1,300 people benefited from the programme, demonstrating a continued need for access to free activities and company throughout the winter months. • The social aspect of bringing people together reduced isolation by creating opportunities to build new connections and friendships. • Activities provided opportunities to improve physical and mental health and wellbeing, learn new skills, increase confidence and be creative. • The programme enabled organisations to engage with new people, raising awareness of their services and signposting to other services across Renfrewshire. • Providing hot drinks in libraries facilitated engagement with library users and encouraged visitors to stay for longer and participate in activities. • Provision of hot food and drinks encouraged continued attendance, helping to sustain relationships, particulary for those at risk of isolation over the winter. Page 49 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 4 PUBLIC • Providing free food alongside activities ensured that the programme discretely supported families who are continuing to experience financial hardship, reducing financial and social exclusion. • The programme continues to be an important element of the Council’s approach to tackling the cost-of-living crisis. 2. About Winter Connections 2.1. Background Following a successful Winter Connections programme over the winter of 2024/25, £75,000 of funding was again allocated from the Fairer Renfrewshire programme to run the programme during winter 2025/26. Once again, the funding provided small grants to local organisations to support delivery of a programme that would encourage people to connect and participate in activities in warm and welcoming spaces across communities in Renfrewshire. Local community and voluntary organisations could apply for small grants of up to £2,000 to support with the additional costs of making venues, activities and sessions open as part of the programme. Items eligible for funding included equipment, food, energy costs, and rent. Funded activities needed to fit the criteria of Winter Connections and be: • open, free and easy to access • inclusive, welcoming, respectful, and safe • able or willing to provide connections to other services and supports • able to offer warm drinks/snacks/food along with activities, where possible There were 47 applications to the programme which were assessed by officers from Renfrewshire Council, Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Partnership and Engage Renfrewshire. This process ensured a transparent cross-sector approach that enabled partners to evaluate Winter Connections applications based on knowledge of other available funding and support across Renfrewshire. Page 50 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 5 PUBLIC Applications came from a mix of organisations that had received funding before and some organisations that were new to the Winter Connections programme. Of the 47 applications, 37 were successful. The remaining applications were unsuccessful and were signposted to alternative sources of funding where appropriate. An allocation of £4,208 of this funding was made to One Ren to support the programme and to provide hot drinks, soup, and snacks in all Renfrewshire libraries and a selection of games and jigsaws to support extra play sessions in Ralston and Bishopton libraries. A dedicated Winter Connections webpage was set up on the Council’s website with details of all venues, activities, and facilities. To understand the impact of the Winter Connections programme, a feedback form was sent to organisations to assess the difference that the programme had made. 33 organisations returned feedback which has been analysed in the sections below. 2.2. The Winter Connections Programme This year’s programme delivered a wide range of free, fun activities, including line dancing, cooking classes, and mindfulness. Some activities were open to everyone and aimed to attract families and multiple generations, however some organisations focussed specifically on delivering sessions for children and younger people, activities for older people or adults with learning disabilities. A few organisations designed their programmes flexibly with input from participants to ensure that there were activities that appealed to everyone. Several organisations have been running activities for the past few years and have a tried and tested formula for what works. Foxbar Community Gardens and Environmental Project delivered two swap shops where people from the local community attended the workshop and could take home clothing and toys. They also provided workshops focussing on mental health and wellbeing, including a session on mindfulness delivered by a Buddhist monk. Other workshops related to yoga, gut health and meditation as well as visits from a nurse practitioner and an addictions specialist. KLAS Care delivered seasonal activities including arts and crafts related to Easter, Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day. As well as board games, bingo and an Easter egg hunt, families enjoyed fun outdoors in the mud kitchen, playing football and tennis, and planting in the garden. Page 51 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 6 PUBLIC Your Community Your Space Warm hosted sessions at a local community centre, providing board games and tournaments, hot drinks and biscuits to create a cosy atmosphere. They also had an end-of-project community celebration with shared games and awards for participants. Figure Intense Board Games at Your community Your Space Local Energy Action Plan (LEAP) delivered a series of six indoor cooking classes over a number of weeks in a local venue, where attendees cooked a meal and then sat and ate their creations together. Johnstone Castle Learning Centre provided activities for young people aged 8-16 as well as sessions for adults. Young people enjoyed basic cooking skills, baking, pool, arts and crafts, games and outdoor activities, while adults benefited from IT support, cooking sessions and social and recreational classes. They also worked on a joint initiative with local community police from Police Scotland and a local football team providing football sessions on a Friday evening. Page 52 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 7 PUBLIC Young people enjoying games at Johnstone Castle Learning Centre The programme is not just about the activities and food provision, but also about the wider support that is available from connecting with services and community members. Create Paisley delivered 28 creative drop-in sessions in total across Paisley and Johnstone with snacks and drinks as well as advice and support and signposting to other services for their young participants. Across these sessions, families also benefited from trusted, familiar staff and volunteers who helped them engage with wider support. Through our established partnerships—including RAMH, Citizens Advice, The Wise Group and Jubilee House—families were connected to financial advice, mental health support, training and volunteering opportunities. For many parents, attending a group also increases confidence to engage in our evidence-based parenting and wellbeing programmes such as Circle of Security, Peep Antenatal, Equip for Life and NVR. Home-Start Renfrewshire & Inverclyde The table below demonstrates the wide range of activities that were on offer across Renfrewshire. Page 53 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 8 PUBLIC Creative activities Health and Wellbeing Social activities Practical support Arts & Crafts including seasonal crafts Sewing Mindfulness, sound bath and meditation Outdoor activities including football and gardening Exercise activities for young mums Swimming/flotation sessions Chair yoga and mobility exercises Line dancing Beauty and wellbeing activities Movie afternoon Coffee mornings Quizzes Bingo Carpet bowls Lunch Club Board games Music Signposting to sources of advice Food provision Access to charge devices Basic first aid Toy and clothes swap shops Provision of laptops and Ipads for people to use Cooking classes IT support A list of the funded host organisations delivering Winter Connections activities can be found in Appendix 1. 3. Programme Delivery 3.1. Promoting Activities As with previous years the main source of information for residents about the programme has been through social media and word of mouth, with Erskine Arts commenting that the Page 54 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 9 PUBLIC latter still proves to be the best and most effective form of communicating what they do with local groups. Just under half of all organisations that responded produce their own posters (see examples below) and just over a quarter provide information about their activities to members of existing groups that they deliver. Foxbar Community Gardens and Houston Community Council both benefited from generous local business owners who allowed them to put up posters in their premises to advertise their activities. Just over a fifth of organisations received referrals to their activities, mainly from social work, families of current members, support workers, schools and housing associations. We received referrals through partner organisations such as local wellbeing groups and community networks, who signposted individuals and families they knew would benefit — particularly those experiencing isolation, financial pressure, or additional support needs. Just Dive In For most organisations a combination of all of the methods of promotion enabled them to reach people already aware of the organisation and those who hadn’t accessed anything before. We shared information on social media, which helped reach people in the village as well as nearby towns. Posters in local spots also helped spread the word to those who might not be online and we sent out mailers to our Larder membership on email. Word of mouth played a big part too, with participants recommending the classes to others. In addition, members of our Larder were already aware of what we offer, so many of them joined and helped share information within their own networks. Local Energy Action Plan (LEAP) How did people find out about your Winter Connections project? Method of information Number* % Social media 25 76 Word of mouth 23 70 Posters / flyers 15 45 Page 55 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 10 PUBLIC Contact database/people attending other activities/Whatsapp groups 9 27 Referral from another organisation 7 21 Other organisations including schools, Council, Engage Renfrewshire 5 15 * out of a total of 33 responses. Note: All respondents provided more than one answer to this question Bridge of Weir Scout Group would like to have increased advertising further and Sewing2gether All Nations reported that, in future, they would ask other organisations to advertise their project more in order to reach more people, or would promote activities via the libraries and other public spaces. Create Paisley found that outreach sessions in local schools helped to raise awareness of their creative drop-in sessions. KLAS Care provide a free food pantry on a Sunday morning and the families who attend went along to the Winter Connections activities after they had accessed the pantry, increasing their numbers by 40%. Posters created by organisations to promote their Winter Connections activities Page 56 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 11 PUBLIC 3.2. What worked well? The provision of free activities and food are key to the ongoing success of the Winter Connections programme. With the cost of living crisis continuing to put pressure on household budgets, being able to access activites and hot drinks and snacks free of charge is helpful and can be accessed in a way that does not create stigma. The free access was a big part of it working. Families didn’t have to think twice about whether they could afford to come. That removed a huge barrier straight away and meant we reached people who wouldn’t normally access this kind of space. Just Dive In The variety of activities available ensured that there was something for everyone to enjoy and many participants were attracted by the opportunity to learn a new skill. In LEAP’s case this educational element combined with the welcoming environment attracted individuals who would not normally participate in social activities. They “developed new skills in energy efficient, healthy, food preparation too which helps them to plan meals using the type of produce they find at the Larder.” LEAP reported that their Community Chef, Rona played a key role in fostering an inclusive and supportive atmosphere. The inclusive and welcoming environment provided by organisations is highlighted a lot in feedback and helped to create conditions for connections and friendships to grow. What also worked well was the way the team delivered it. We kept things relaxed, welcoming and non-judgemental. No pressure, no expectations — just support if it was needed. That created trust very quickly. And honestly, one of the biggest indicators that it worked was this: people returned, and they brought others with them. Just Dive In The Preshal Trust provided a similar environment through their flexible drop-in sessions. Individuals could attend simply to have something to eat or choose to take part in activities, without feeling any pressure to do so. The line dancing was especially popular and became a favourite among attendees. Overall, the activities played an important role in helping people connect and develop new friendships especially with those already attending the drop-in. Page 57 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 12 PUBLIC Creation Corner provided an environment that catered to neurodivergence, and activities were led by the children participating, who decided which crafts they wanted to make. The offer of free activities and a place to go for a hot drink encouraged people to come together, helping to reduce isolation for many people during the winter months. Our activity created a real sense of togetherness in our community where community and music meet. It was a good way to bring people from different walks of life into the same space to find out more about what we do as a charity and meet other individuals who share similair interests. Erskine Arts Figure Musical entertainmnent at Erskine Arts Soup Sessions Just Dive In found that sitting together with a hot drink naturally encouraged conversation without forcing it. “People stayed longer, talked more, and started to recognise each other week to week.” For members of Dates-n-Mates the activities gave members something to look forward to and the chance to get out of the house for a few hours. It gives them the opportunity to meet new people and make new friends. It is really important to them to get that level of social interaction, as many of our members have poor support networks, are often lonely and say they don't feel part of their community. Dates-n-Mates Page 58 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 13 PUBLIC Friends of Howwood Park have been running their Winter Connections project for two years and attendees have become good friends and enjoy the format of an activity followed by hot food and drinks. The provision of hot food was important for the families supported by Home-Start Renfrewshire and Inverclyde. Their partnership with Food at Underwood offered high quality, affordable food with an easy ordering and collection process, and the organisation also supported them through contributions to fundraising activities. Families consistently told us that knowing a warm meal would be available made it easier to attend, reduced the stress of providing breakfast on tight budgets and created a relaxed, sociable start to each session. As a result, we saw strong and consistent attendance across all groups, with some sessions requiring waiting lists. Home-Start Renfrewshire and Inverclyde The way in which the Winter Connections programme is delivered is key to its continued success. Activites are free, accessible, delivered in local communities and are inclusive. The programme offers a universal approach, all are welcome and this means that individuals and families who would not usually participate are often engaged and able to receive further support if it is needed. What this programme showed very clearly is that small, well-placed support can make a big difference. People didn’t have to think about cost, confidence, or whether they would fit in — they could just come along. That shift alone changes who walks through the door. It also highlighted how important it is to have spaces that don’t feel clinical or formal. People connected because it felt natural — a swim, a chat, a hot drink — not because they were being “referred into something.” That matters, especially for those who are already overwhelmed or hesitant to engage. Just Dive In 3.3. What would you change? When asked if there was anything they would change, 13 of the 33 projects that responded stated that they would not change anything. Of those who would make changes, over half of the responses related to additional activites, either by increasing the activities available or running activities for longer to meet demand. Page 59 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 14 PUBLIC The sessions filled quickly, and we had more demand than we could meet. We would look to increase the number of sessions or extend delivery slightly to reach more people, particularly those who joined the waiting list but couldn’t get a space. Just Dive In Following feedback positive from those who attended their cooking classes, LEAP felt that running classes over a longer period of time would be beneficial to participants. Demand and engagement were consistently strong, and both participants and the Community Chef expressed how much they would miss the classes when they came to an end, reflecting the programme’s meaningful impact. LEAP Although the Winter Connections programme is well attended, organisations are conscious of demand and keen to reach more people. Many are now considering the best way to do this, whether through earlier promotion of their programme or targeting specific groups earlier. Johnstone Castle Learning Centre is considering running new sessions for the older generation and Just Dive In want to work even more closely with partners to prioritise people most at risk of isolation into the earliest sessions. There is still a large demographic we would like to reach, individuals who are maybe less physically able or have carers or are just more isolated from the wider community. We would love to reach these people more in the future through different projects and ways of getting the word out there. Erskine Arts Organisations would also like to provide more hot food and snacks, and, if more funding was available, the Tannahill Centre would provide evening meals. Re: Hope Next Generation Bible Church would introduce more sensory play and music time to allow children to experience and explore more. Sewing2gether All Nations would recruit volunteers to support the consistently high numbers of attendees. Create Paisley raised awareness of the break in activities over Christmas and New Year, with a lack of contact with the young people. To address this they are developing a new website so that young people can easily access sources of advice and support and resources on the new site, in case they need help during that interim period. Page 60 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 15 PUBLIC And Just Dive In would like to strengthen how they capture the impact of their activities. A lot of what we saw was in conversations, body language, and people returning — which is powerful, but not always formally recorded. Next time, we would build in simple, light-touch ways to capture feedback without disrupting the feel of the sessions. Just Dive In 3.4. How many people attended? Organisations were asked about the number of people who attended their activities. We did not ask organisations to keep track of numbers while delivering activities, but some did, and others provided an estimate. The average number of people attending each individual session was 22. Just over a quarter of projects averaged between 31 and 40 people per session. These tended to be activities for children or for older people. Houston Community Council’s film showings hosted an average of 50 people at their weekly events, Johnstone Burgh Community Club regularly had between 40 and 50 participants, while The Thursday Club in Glenburn attracted around 88 participants each week. From the 33 responses received, it is estimated that around 1,317 different people benefited from the Winter Connections programme. Given that there were 37 projects participating in the programme this year, this number will be considerably higher. Of the 33 projects who provided feedback for this question, almost three quarters stated that it was mainly women who attended activities, while 61% of all projects appealed to older people. Most of the people who attended were older women who live alone. However, we did have some young families and some of the ladies brought grandchildren. I feel our project was valuable to all who attended regardless of age. Paisley West Church Who attended your Winter Connections project? Number of projects* % Women 24 73 Older People 20 61 Page 61 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 16 PUBLIC Men 16 48 Young people / teenagers 12 36 People with additional support needs 11 33 Families 11 33 People from ethnically diverse communities 10 30 Children 10 30 People from other geographical areas in Renfrewshire 5 15 *out of a total of 33 responses. Note: All respondents provided more than one answer to this question Some activities were specifically aimed at particular groups, for example, Dates-n-Mates project was for individuals over the age of 18 with a learning disability, and Jones & Us Mom and Baby Fitness classes were attended by young mums with newborn babies and toddlers. The Preshal Trust drop in was open to anyone over the age of 25+ particularly targeting those who experience the effects of poverty, addiction, physical disability and mental health illness. A third of projects stated that they had supported people with additional needs including physical or mental health issues, disability, addictions and neurodivergence. A busy afternoon at Erskine Arts Soup Sessions Figure 1A re 2 Page 62 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 17 PUBLIC Over a third of projects (36%) attracted young people / teenagers compared with 26% in 2024/25, while 30% of projects reported attendance from people from ethnically diverse communities compared with 22% in 2025/25. Home-Start Renfrewshire and Inverlcyde provided a breakdown of those who benefited from their Winter Connections project and found that 40% were Lone Parents, 54% were Families with Disabilities, 30% were Ethnic Minority Families and 19% were Families with 3 or more children. Just Dive In felt that the mix of people attending contributed to the success of the programme in reducing isolation. What worked well was that it didn’t feel like a programme for one specific group — it felt like a shared space. Older adults, families, and individuals were all able to be part of the same environment, which helped reduce isolation in a more natural, less clinical way. Just Dive In KLAS Care’s Sunday morning activities attracted families from all areas of Renfrewshire, including people from ethnic minority groups, single parents and older adults. Families from Erskine and Gallowhill who usually access KLAS Care’s pantry during the week also attended, supporting each other with car sharing. 4. Impact of the Programme 4.1. What difference did the Winter Connections Programme make to participants? Organisations were asked whether they thought that the activities they had delivered as part of the programme had provided any benefits for those attending. As in previous years, feedback was overwhelmingly positive with organisations highlighting several impacts from the programme. All of those organisations who completed feedback forms agreed that the programme activities had supported participants by connecting them to each other, with 100% of organisations reporting this benefit. Page 63 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 18 PUBLIC These nights weren’t just about the activities — they gave people a reason to leave the house, talk to others, and feel part of something. For many, it was one of the only social things they had on. Just Dive In According to 97% of organisations the programme also contributed to reducing social isolation, while 91% stated that the programme had benefited people by creating a sense of belonging to the local community and provided fun activities. Encouraging new people to engage with their organisation was considered beneficial for participants by 88% of organisations. Other perceived benefits were reducing financial costs (76% of respondents) and providing the opportunity to learn something new (67%). Just over half of organisations thought that the programme benefited participants by providing access to information/advice and helping people to learn about a new service in their local area. Benefit to people attending activities Number of projects* % Connecting people to each other 33 100 Reducing social isolation 32 97 Creating a sense of belonging to the local community/neighbourhood? 30 91 Providing fun activities 30 91 Encouraging new people to engage with the project/organisation 29 88 Reducing financial costs 25 76 Providing the opportunity to learn something new 22 67 Providing access to information/advice 17 51 Helping people to learn about a new service in their local area 17 51 Providing entertainment for children 13 39 * out of a total of 33 responses Reducing Social Isolation One of the most important benefits of the programme is that it provided welcoming spaces and opportunities for people to meet. The programme encouraged people to get out and Page 64 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 19 PUBLIC meet up with others in their local community, helping to reduce social isolation and creating opportunities to build new friendships and connections. Feedback indicates that, for some, the programme has been a lifeline and without it they would not have left the house. Robertson Housing Social Activities Group found that, because many of their residents cannot get out of their developments to go to activities, being able to provide social activities on their site helped to encourage residents to socialise with each other. The Preshal Trust emphasised the importance of coming together with others in similar circumstances without feeling judged, while Just Dive In found that for older adults and individuals attending on their own, the programme activities provided social contact and routine. The biggest impact has been giving people a place to go where they feel welcome, safe, and not alone during the winter months. We saw people who would otherwise have stayed at home come out, take part, and start to connect with others. Over time, familiar faces appeared, conversations became easier, and people began to feel part of something rather than separate from it. Overall, it created a space where people felt welcome, included, and part of something — and that sense of belonging is what stayed with them. Just Dive In Figure Participants at the Preshal Trust drop-in sessions Page 65 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 20 PUBLIC The opportunity to connect was also important for parents of neurodiverse children as evidenced by feedback from Creation Corner. For children who participated in activities with Creation Corner the activities allowed them to gain a sense of belonging and friendship with other children and an acceptance that they have struggled to find in school and other areas. I think we all feel less alone too and are proud of how far this family group has come. For myself, as one of the leaders and parent of a child attending, we feel a sense of community that we haven’t found elsewhere and some weeks it is all that keeps us going. Creation Corner The Preshal Trust found that being able to participate in enjoyable activities helped to create a positive atmosphere which had a postivite impact on participants’ health and well- being. And for young parents who participated in Jones & Us fitness activities, the project helped them to gain a positive mindset and improve their well-being. Community members participating have shown excitement to meet each other and connect with other moms. It has helped build community and create a positive space for local mums. Especially being able to bring their babies and toddlers, its has relieved the moms that came of the stress of finding childcare. Jones & Us All generations enjoying activites at Paisley West church Page 66 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 21 PUBLIC Create Paisley noticed that attendance at their drop-in sessions boosted young people’s mental health and wellbeing by making them feel more connected to other young people and their wider community and by developing their creative and social skills. Foxbar Community Gardens and Environmental Project also felt they were promoting health and wellbeing in a positive way through their mindfulness and yoga workshops. LEAP reported that the welcoming, supportive space was particularly helpful for those who don’t usually take part in group activities or miss out due to financial constraints. The social nature of the classes encouraged conversation and connection, helping to form new friendships and strengthen existing community ties. Overall, the classes helped create a more connected, confident, and resilient community, with people feeling more supported and more likely to engage in other local activities. LEAP Through their free family swims, Just Dive In provided an inclusive, relaxed environment for families to spend time together without worrying about cost. Their staff ensured that people felt comfortable from the moment they walked through the door. At Ralston OSC art club children enjoyed socialising and creating works of art. We really loved running this programme. The children had the best time and it was great to see so much creativity and for them to be engrossed in the activities. It was great to see them socialise and spend time with friends or making new friends. Ralston OSC Learning a new skill The programme also provided opportunities to try out new activities and learn new skills, for example in cooking or swimming. Participants at LEAP’s cooking classes were able to build confidence and independence while learning to prepare healthy, affordable meals. Just Dive In saw people becoming more confident in the water and Sewing2gether All Nations blend of English language learning and crafting was so enjoyable that participants are keen for the organisation to find funding to continue the classes. We also saw an impact on confidence, particularly in the water and in social settings. Some participants who were initially anxious became more relaxed over time, which is a big step for many of the people we support. Page 67 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 22 PUBLIC Just Dive In This is the first service an older adult with limited English language skills has engaged with. She is attending with her daughter. It has also encouraged integration with local residents who attended. It has encouraged many young mums to go out and mix with others. Sewing2gether All Nations Parents of children attending the Ralston OSC Art Club were delighted with the creative activities on offer, allowing children to try different styles of art with friends after school, including self portraits and mosaics. The club provides my child and others in this community with opportunities that they would not have without the club. The children have fun and they also learn while at the club. My child often participates in some kind of art and craft, cooking/baking and various sports/active play. It allows her to make and strengthen friendships in a safe place with the excellent support and guidance from the staff. Parent feedback from Ralston OSC The Tannahill Centre provided opportunities for people to volunteer, serving the tea and toast, making the soup, learning to volunteer in the kitchen and gaining a food hygiene qualification which has resulted in some moving on to employment. Page 68 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 23 PUBLIC Figure Young people learning a new skill at Johnstone Castle Learning Centre Raising awareness of what organisations deliver and signposting Providing information and advice on services and how they can support people is a key component of the Winter Connections programme. Many organisations were able to use their links with partner organisations to signpost people to other support without it feeling formal or overwhelming. For example, some of the young mums attending Youth Inspired’s physical and creative activities were able to access counselling and other services that Youth Inspired provide and attendees at the Preshal Trust’s drop-in were able to benefit from one- to-one support if needed. Our support staff were available throughout the programme to offer one-to-one support to individuals who may have needed additional help. This included listening to people’s concerns, offering guidance, and signposting them to other relevant services and support within the community. For some participants, this provided an opportunity to discuss personal challenges in a safe and supportive environment and helped them access further assistance they may not have been aware of previously. The Preshal Trust Page 69 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 24 PUBLIC Just Dive In signposted people to other organisations that they have links with and Friends of Howwood Park invited speakers in to provide information to participants, for example around finances and avoiding scams. Reducing costs for individuals and families Feedback from Winter Connections projects highlights the continued importance of the programme in helping to reduce financial barriers to participating in community life. As in previous years the programme helped to reduce the financial burden on individuals and families and did so in a dignified manner. KLAS Care commented that the opportunity to participate without any financial cost allowed engagement with families that otherwise would not be part of anything, helping to reduce the financial and social exclusion and isolation caused by the cost of living crisis. Just Dive In also found that this removed a barrier to participation. Because everything was free, it removed a real barrier. People didn’t have to choose between attending and covering other costs, which made a big difference, especially over winter. Just Dive In Providing food and free activities helped to ease some of the financial pressure many families experience over the holidays. Re:Hope Next Generation Bible Church reported that parents found this helped to alleviate pressure on them and helped them not to feel isolated. Johnstone Castle Learning Centre found that the majority of the families they supported could not have afforded such luxuries if the project had not taken place and that their services also helped to offer respite to the parents and guardians of the young people who attended. Both Just Dive In and Stronger Communities Glenburn reported that the programme enabled families to spend meaningful time together and share positive experiences without worrying about cost which helped reduce stress. Families were able to enjoy quality time together in a safe and supportive environment without the added stress of financial strain. Overall, the programme supported both the emotional wellbeing and the financial resilience of local families during what can often be a challenging time of year. Stronger Communities Glenburn Page 70 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 25 PUBLIC Children enjoying activies and snacks at a Home-Start group The Preshal Trust and the Thursday Club reported on the impact of having access to free food and drinks, with some members of the Thursday Club stating that they did not usually have a hot meal at lunchtime and that they saved leftover tea from breakfast in a flask to use at lunchtime. The free lunch and activities provided by the club had a big impact on members who were struggling to heat their homes and eat and having a hot meal and a warm place to go to every week resulted in an attendance rate of 88% every week. Home-start Renfrewshire and Inverclyde Home-Start Renfrewshire and Inverclyde were able to provide hot food for their weekly support groups for families with young children. They run six different peer support groups across Renfrewshire, including a newly established group for families with children who have additional support needs. Winter Connections funding was used specifically to provide hot food at every group session throughout the winter period, for example hot rolls and soup. This ensured that every adult and child attending could access a warm, nutritious meal at no cost. The offer of hot food made groups more accessible for families facing financial pressures and contributed to steady attendance across 76 sessions, with 1,160 attendances and an average of 15 people per session. Page 71 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 26 PUBLIC Families described the provision of food as removing a barrier to attending, particularly on rushed or financially difficult mornings. It reduced financial stress for families with parents consistently reporting that the hot food made a meaningful difference to their weekly budget during the most financially challenging months of the year. For families facing multiple poverty risk factors, this practical support felt both relieving and dignifying. It contributed significantly to their wellbeing, reducing the stress of providing breakfast or lunch on already stretched budgets. Together with referral partnerships and hardship funding, Winter Connections is a key part of providing additional support to help families experiencing financial hardship. Feedback from parents attending Home-Start groups about the hot food provision: Hot rolls are a massive benefit. It’s something warm that fills us up without me having to stress about the financial side of it. As a single mum I don’t often think of myself in the mornings, I get my daughter up and organised and make sure she has a breakfast before nursery but having the rolls at group helps me remember to make sure I have a breakfast also. It also helps create more of a social feeling within the groups to have a roll and drinks. The hot rolls are definitely a benefit to me and my family.They help reduce the stress of preparing food, especially on busy mornings and ensure my child has something warm and filling to enjoy. It’s a thoughtful and practical support that we truly appreciate. Feedback from Renfrewshire Libraries One Ren received funding to provide hot drinks and cup-a-soups in all libraries throughout Renfrewshire. They also received funding to purchase a selection of games and jigsaws for family play sessions. Library staff feel that the Winter Connections funding helps to enhance the library service and build a warm and welcoming community within the library. Feedback suggests that the hot drinks were popular with children and adults. The simple offer of a free tea or coffee made a big difference, helping people to feel comfortable and encouraging people to stay longer in the library and benefit from the wide and varied programme of free activities provided. Very happy to have the hot drinks available again. It has been sorely missed. It helps to brighten up my day as I read the morning newspapers. Page 72 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 27 PUBLIC Feedback from Erskine library Staff also commented on the value of a hot drink in enabling them to connect with visitors. The librarian at Erskine Library found that some of the less confident library users were encouraged to engage in conversation with staff while having a hot drink. Having the tea and coffee gives an opportunity for us to engage with customers, which is a really important role for the library. There was similar feedback from the librarian at Ferguslie Library. Having the refreshments is almost an ice breaker for those wishing to engage but finding it difficult to find common ground. The Ferguslie Library knitting group meet weekly on Tuesday afternoons and enjoy having access to the Winter Connections refreshments. Their knitting is not interrupted by having to go out somewhere to get a hot drink and it has become an integral part of the activity. It’s become crucial to the group. It’s almost like a comfort in itself, as well as the chat and friendships. Member of the Ferguslie Library Knitting Group Page 73 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 28 PUBLIC Ferguslie Library Knitting Group Libraries play an important role in the Winter Connections programme, offering a safe space for community members to spend time and connect with others. This is especially evident from feedback from the knitting group at Lochwinnoch Library. Last year I had major knee surgery and knowing I had the group to return to when I had recovered, I’m sure aided my recovery. Chatting over a tea and coffee lifts my spirits and is an essential part of my week. I couldn’t live without the Monday knitting group. I have an autistic son at home so I really look forward to being social in a safe setting. The friendship is everything to me. It is great to sit and have a coffee with friends. I am disabled and the knitting group is my one regular activity outside the home and offers me a vital social life and contact with other people. Feedback from Foxbar Library described the hot drinks as a “god send” for library users who attend the library daily to use the computers and read the newspapers. Glenburn library also found that most people tend to have a tea or coffee while reading the newspapers. One customer comes in most mornings, this is part of his routine, and when the milk ran out previously, he would bring his own milk with him so he could have a coffee while reading the paper. Page 74 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 29 PUBLIC Library staff have also noticed that some visitors are making use of the hot water flasks to fill up instant noodles or warm a baby bottle. Johnstone Library found that the hot drinks appealed to children and adults alike. We have a group of 6 boys who come into the library most days after school to play chess and enjoy a hot chocolate. One couple do their daily walk of 1 mile, come into the library, read the newspapers and have a tea/coffee and then head back home. A comment from one visitor to Paisley Library, where an average of 30 cups a day were consumed, clearly demonstrated the value of the hot drinks to library users and the desire to continue this service. It’s great that tea and coffee is back. A great service for people with not much money and nowhere to go. Perhaps a voluntary collection box could be provided so that people like me who can afford to can contribute to costs so service can be provided for longer. One Ren was also able to offer three Gaelic Play sessons in Bishopton Library and in Ralston Library, accommodating 10 adults and their children. These sessions were extremely popular, particularly with young families, and feedback has been very positive, with many people asking for them to continue. One Ren is now exploring further funding options to help make this possible. We had a lovely morning! Really well organised and was great to meet lots of other mums and babes! Great to see more Gaelic classes being introduced. Parent feedback Ralston and Bishopton Libraries both received additional funding for a few board games and jigsaws. These were added to the existing collection, freely available to be enjoyed at any time the library is open. Page 75 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 30 PUBLIC The snakes and ladders game has been extremely popular and the Dargavel and Early Learning Centre children enjoy it very much when their visit the library. All the games are well received including games received in past Winter/Summer connections like the marble run. Feedback from librarian 4.2. Areas for improvement Of the 32 projects that responded to a question about where the Winter Connections programme could be improved, 43% felt that the programme did not need any improvements. The remaining projects suggested the following: Promotion of the programme Along with more advertising in local papers and more Winter Connections leaflets to hand out, Erskine Arts suggested having a poster or 'map' of all the services that displays a weekly timetable of what is on. These options would be helpful for participants who are not “tech savvy” and for whom visiting a website or using Google might be a barrier compared to a poster or flyer with different options across the week. Just Dive In continued this theme with a suggestion of wider council-led promotion across Renfrewshire to help reach people who may not already be connected to community groups or online channels. Other suggestions for improved promotion included the creation of a Winter Connections app and sharing social media posts about each funded activity that is open to the general public, so that organisations can encourage people they know to attend. Additional Funding As in previous years, demand to participate in programme was high and often organisations were unable to accommodate the number of people wanting to attend. In addition, rising operational costs are adding pressure to Third Sector staff and services. Organisations would like support that reflects these rising costs. Page 76 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 31 PUBLIC An increase in funding would also enable organisations to extend the life of the programme and reach more people without compromising on delivery. Securing additional funding would allow us to expand and strengthen the programme’s impact. With more resources, we could increase the number of sessions, provide a wider range of activities, and offer enhanced food provision to support more families facing cost- of-living pressures. Ultimately, increased financial support would help us reach more members of the community and provide deeper, more sustainable support during the holiday period. Stronger Communities Glenburn Additional funding could support organisations with food and activity resources, and specialist facilitators. It would also enable organisations to improve accessibility, invest in staffing and volunteers, and build stronger monitoring and evaluation processes to demonstrate long-term outcomes. It was also suggested that the Council could offer a discount for the hire of community buildings and village halls. Many organisations, including Just Dive In, would like to be able to deliver the programme all-year round. One of the most valuable things would be continued support beyond a single winter period. The need doesn’t stop when the funding ends, so having opportunities for longer-term or repeat funding would allow organisations to build on what’s already working rather than starting again each year. Just Dive In We will ensure that organisations are aware of other potential funding sources, such as Local Partnership funding and of support through Engage Renfrewshire to find information about alternative funding. Timescales Although the application window was opened earlier this year, feedback from participating organisations shows that they would like the application process to start even earlier, allowing projects to start from mid-October. This would provide more time to plan activities and ensure that staff and volunteers are in place to deliver the activities. This year, due to new payment processes within the Council, some organisations experienced delays in receiving their funding, although this should be a one-off with the new process now bedded in. In addition, organisations in the main need to await receipt of the funding prior to starting activities, so quick turnaround in decision-making on the grants is Page 77 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 32 PUBLIC appreciated and would prevent any delays in the programme activities being available to communities. Direct links to other services Most of the organisations delivering activities work closely with local partners but would like to strengthen the connection between organisations and council services, particulary around referral pathways from council teams to ensure that the people most in need are consistently reached. Networking and collaboration Organisations hosting Winter Connections activities are keen to meet and share learning about what has worked well for them in delivering their programme. Some suggested an information day so that organisations can link up with each other, while others would like to have a celebration event for participating organisations to showcase the fantastic work that the funding helps to support. I also think it might be a good idea to meet with other organisations who receive funding, so we can share learning, find out what works for them, how they communicate with their service users, how they plan events etc. Dates-n-Mates 5. Conclusions The Winter Connections programme aimed to encourage people to connect and participate in activities in warm and welcoming spaces across communities in Renfrewshire. Feedback suggests that the programme continues to be successful in benefitting attendees by offering opportunities to connect and sustain relationships over the winter months. There is also evidence that the programme provides an inclusive and supportive environment for people to engage with services, helping to reduce financial and social isolation, reduce financial costs and provide access to information, advice and support. The wide range of activities on offer provided something for everyone and allowed access to new experiences, increasing confidence and enabling participants to learn new skills. Page 78 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 33 PUBLIC Supporting organisations to continue doing what they know works in their communities is important and the programme continues to be a significant part of the Council’s approach to addressing the cost-of-living crisis. Whilst the programme continues to be successful, the areas for improvement around promotion, timescales, networking, links to other services and additional funding should be noted. 6. Appendix 1 Organisations which hosted Winter Connections activity Bridge of Weir Scout Group Loud n Proud CREATE Paisley Our Place Our Families Renfrew Creation Corner Paisley Methodist Church Dates-n-Mates Pastoral Committee Paisley West Church Erskine Arts Ralston Primary Out of School Care Foxbar Community Gardens and Environmental Group Rays of Hope Foxbar Elderly Forum RE: Hope Next Generation Bible Church Friends of Howwood Park Renfrew YMCA SCIO Home-Start Renfrewshire & Inverclyde Robertson Housing Social Activities Group Houston Community Council Sewing2gether All Nations Howwood Community Council STAR Project Johnstone Burgh Community Club Stronger Communities Glenburn Johnstone Castle Learning Centre St Vincent’s Hospice Jones & Us Community Interest Company The Preshal Trust Just Dive In CIC The Tannahill Centre Page 79 of 82
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Winter Connections Evaluation Report 2026 34 PUBLIC KLAS Care CIC The Thursday Club Linwood Community Council Williamsburgh Housing Association Local Energy Action Plan (LEAP) SCIO Your Community Your Space Youth Inspired Page 80 of 82
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35 PUBLIC Chief Executive’s Service Renfrewshire Council Renfrewshire House Cotton Street Paisley PA1 1BR A big thank you to all of the organisations who provided feedback, quotes and photographs for this report. Page 81 of 82
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