A message from Cllr Kevin Guy, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council

As we head into autumn and students return to our city I want to extend a warm welcome to our area, whether students are moving for the first time or returning for another year of studies.

We are very well supported by an effective Student Community Partnership (pictured here with the SCP and students earlier this summer) which works hard to promote and improve the relationship between residents and student residents living in Bath.

I am proud of the contribution students make to our area and have sent an annual letter welcoming them to our shared city.

As a council we work hard to make sure that every child and young person has the best possible start in life in order to achieve their goals and provide support where it is needed. So, I am really pleased with a new initiative we’ve launched in the Somer Valley supporting young people with special educational needs and disabilities.

The Somer Valley Skills Pathway Supported Internship helps young people aged between 16 and 24 to take their first step on the career ladder.

Our Children’s Services have worked with SEND Parent Carers in the Somer Valley to develop this opportunity which I hope will help young people gain confidence and skills and achieve meaningful employment. Young people who are interested in finding out more can telephone 0300 332 7997 or email enquiries@sslcourses.co.uk.

Looking ahead to the weekend there are some fantastic opportunities to get out and discover the city’s unique landscape from a new perspective thanks to the Bathscape Walking Festival programme. The festival runs from 6 September to 21 September.

Finally, I want to wish the England’s Women’s Rugby team success in the Rugby World Cup. Among the Red Roses is former University of Bath student Natasha Mo Hunt, a double Olympian, who is playing in her third world cup and is aiming to hoping to be in the winning team for a second time.

Have a great weekend.

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News

Make a difference to a child or young person in foster care

Would you like to make a difference to the life of a 5–18 year old child or young person living in foster care? Off the Record Bathnes is looking for Independent Visitors aged 21-years or older to take children and young people out once a month to do a fun activity for a few hours. No previous experience required. To learn more and request an application pack, visit the Off The Record website.

Notice of Election Bath & North East Somerset Council - Widcombe & Lyncombe ward

Details of the Notice of Election for the Widcombe & Lyncombe ward have been posted on the council website.

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Cost of living

Worried about the cost of living? Help is out there. There is a dedicated Cost of Living section on Live Well B&NES, including:

Cost of living support (benefits, energy, food, debt, childcare, & mental health)
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You can also get help from your supplier through the Priority Services Register. This is a free support service that makes sure extra help is available to people in vulnerable situations. Check the website to see if you’re eligible to register.

Energy at Home

Our Energy at Home website provides information about the latest funding and support available to help B&NES residents save money on their energy bills and improve the energy efficiency of their home.

Social tariffs

For people struggling to afford broadband or phone services, there are social tariffs available. Connecting Devon and Somerset (CDS) has a webpage with more information about social tariffs including eligibility requirements and how to apply Social tariffs - Connecting Devon and Somerset

Library services

Our Libraries offer a range of services, including the Library at Home service where we can bring the library to you and sensory spaces for children and young adults with sensory needs. You can also find out about events happening in our libraries.

Authors in the library

Join us at Midsomer Norton Library on Friday 19 September from 2pm to 3pm for our next brilliant bookish event with local author Annabelle Marx. Book your free tickets on Eventbrite https://bit.ly/AuthorsInTheLibraryAnnabelleMarx or speak to the Midsomer Norton Library team. Free tea, coffee and biscuits will be provided.

Employment support and skills

Fully funded Business Start-up Programme for B&NES residents

Got a business idea or a hobby that could become a business? This completely free Business Start-up Programme offers practical workshops to guide you through refining your idea, market research, marketing, financial planning, and more.

Achieve

Achieve in B&NES provides a job and course search service for anybody wishing to enter the workplace or progress their career. There are free and funded courses from local providers.

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Live Well B&NES

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Community Wellbeing Hub

The Community Wellbeing Hub opening hours are from Monday to Friday, 9am until 5pm. Call the Hub on 0300 247 0050 or visit the website.

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Annual Canvass 2025

Every year we check the electoral register is up to date so everyone who has the right to vote in upcoming elections can have their say. We’ll send emails and letters soon asking you to check your details. Just follow the steps. For more info go to bathnes.gov.uk/annual-household-canvass.