Local people and businesses are being invited to contribute to a fund which will help vulnerable groups stay warm and healthy in their homes during cold weather.

Bradford Council, in a joint project with the NHS called Warm Homes Healthy People, has been awarded a one-off grant of £322,150 from the Department of Health. The project targets vulnerable people who are at risk of health problems or isolation during very cold weather and schemes must be delivered by the end of March, 2013.

A number of projects are being set up, including Bradford District Community Fund winter warmth pot.

People are being asked to donate to the Community Fund so that it can continue to provide a warm homes programme for future years.

Councillor Val Slater, executive member for housing, planning and transport, said: “No one should suffer during cold weather and through this project the Council, NHS and other organisations can help those most at risk.”