Community groups and organisations in Renfrewshire will soon be able to apply for Winter Connections cash – after the arrangements were approved by elected members.

The warm spaces initiative – a network of events for people to connect with others during the colder months – is entering its third year and will be backed by £75,000 in local authority funding.

Councillors approved the guidance for this year’s programme at this week’s leadership board and agreed authority should be delegated to the head of policy and partnerships to make awards in consultation with the leader.

Depute council leader Jacqueline Cameron, an SNP representative for Johnstone South and Elderslie, said at Wednesday’s meeting: “I just wanted to welcome the Winter Connections programme.

“It’s always really well-received and I’m sure we’re going to have a wide range of programmes.

“It’s always very creative and innovative, so I’m looking forward to seeing those projects forthcoming.

“But at the same time it’s sad that we have to have these projects at all.”

A report discussed at the board confirmed it is intended funding will go live for applications from next week, with awards being made from October.

The scheme has gone from strength to strength in recent years, with previous estimates suggesting at least 3,900 people benefitted last year – a figure more than double the 1,800 recorded in the year before that.

Speaking earlier this week, Councillor Cameron said a big part of its success was its focus on fostering connections between people.

“It’s primarily about people getting together – and being in the warm and getting a hot snack or drink is a by-product in some ways,” she said.

“I think the council officers who look at the applications are very careful to look for that sort of creativity and that sense of connection and addressing social isolation.

“Our programme has been creative and the feedback has shown that people have appreciated the chance to meet up with each other during the cold winter months.”

Councillor Audrey Doig, an SNP representative for Houston, Crosslee and Linwood, added at Wednesday’s meeting: “The Winter Connections programme – which helps with providing heat, warmth and socialisation during the winter – is such a positive thing that has run in Renfrewshire.”