Inspire South Tyneside; who is working closely with the council, is administering the fund. The ambition of this collective is to seek support to make things fairer and Warm Spaces more welcoming for residents.

Two other firms, along with Colloide provided donations to this great cause. South Shields firm Dickson’s gave £4000, Colloide donated £2000 and Howard Civil Engineers gave £500. Each of the Warm Spaces that were open over Christmas received £100 thanks to the donations, which will have helped with supplying food and activities.

Marian Smyth Project Manager at Colloide Engineering Systems said: “Since March 2021 Colloide Engineering Systems has been working with South Tyneside Council on the Viking Energy Network Jarrow project. This is a pioneering renewable energy scheme extracting heat from river water from the River Tyne and exporting it to local council owned buildings throughout Jarrow. Colloide Engineering Systems are continually seeking different opportunities to give back to the local community, who have been supportive, patient and welcoming throughout the project.

“The Warm Spaces Fund is a fantastic initiative and one which is close to our hearts. With the dramatic rise in the cost of living, we understand that this winter will be more challenging than ever. We are very pleased to be a part of such a meaningful scheme that endeavours to create warm, safe, and welcoming spaces in which people have a sense of belonging and community support.”

Visit www.southtyneside.gov.uk/costofliving to find out more about Warm Spaces and what support is available to help with the cost of living.