A total of £128,165 has been allocated by Fife Council’s Dunfermline Area Committee to support projects throughout 2025 and beyond.

A £30,000 contribution from the Local Community Planning Area Budget will fund the Warm and Welcoming Places project during the winter of 2025/26, providing safe spaces, hot meals, and activities to combat social isolation and the cost-of-living crisis.

This builds upon the success of the previous year, which supported nine food projects and three activity-based projects, helping numerous residents, including those with additional needs or mental health issues.

A further £78,338 will fund four crucial staff roles: a Welfare Support Worker (part-time), a Community Education Worker (part-time), an Anti-Poverty Support Officer, and a Community Food Tutor (part-time). These roles provide crisis support, income maximisation advice, community development (including the successful Baldridgeburn Garden Kitchen Café and Pantry), and education on cooking skills and energy efficiency.

Finally, £19,827 will support a part-time Link Officer for The Well, a vital service that has seen a 45% increase in demand, offering health and social care support. The Link Officer will also contribute to Dunfermline’s Cash First Pilot.

Councillors say these projects have collectively made a substantial impact on the community by:

• reducing social isolation and supporting mental health through the Warm and Welcoming Places initiative;
• maximising income and providing crisis prevention support via welfare services;
• promoting community engagement and volunteering through the development of community gardens, cafes, and pantries;
• increasing knowledge of cooking skills and energy efficiency to combat food insecurity; and
• enhancing awareness and support for health and social care needs through The Well and community hubs.

City of Dunfermline Area Committee convener, councillor James Calder, said: “We’re immensely proud of the success these projects have achieved in the community. The continued support from the City of Dunfermline Area Committee reflects our commitment to addressing poverty and promoting wellbeing across the city.

“These initiatives not only provide essential services and support but also foster a sense of community and resilience.”