Voters will need to show photo ID at polling stations in the May elections.
The deadline to register to vote for the May elections is Monday 17 April. You can check if you are on the electoral register by calling 01225 477333 or emailing elections@bathnes.gov.uk.
Voters who don’t have an accepted form of photo ID can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate online or by completing a paper form. They can also apply for the certificate in person at the Guildhall in Bath; Bath Housing, Welfare and Advice Services; Keynsham Library and Information Service; or Midsomer Norton Library and Information Service.
The deadline to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate for the May election is 5pm, Tuesday 25 April. |
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Cost of living crisis
Worried about the cost of living? Help is out there. There is a dedicated Cost of Living Crisis section on Live Well B&NES, including:
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. |
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Emergency Alerts system test
The new Emergency Alerts system will be tested nationally on April 23rd at 3pm. The system will warn people when their lives are in danger. An Emergency Alert is a loud, siren-like sound with a message on your mobile phone screen.
To find out more, visit gov.uk/alerts |
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Latest round of Covid-19 vaccinations for most vulnerable
People who are most at-risk of falling seriously ill from Covid-19 are to be offered a further booster vaccination. Those aged 75 and over, as well as anyone with a weakened immune system, will be contacted during April and invited to book an appointment to get vaccinated.
Some will be able to arrange their booster directly with their GP practice when invited to do so, while others will be asked to book an appointment at a community pharmacy or nearby pop-up clinic.
Thousands still become ill with Covid-19 each week, and although previous vaccination rounds have lessened the impact for most, those who are older or living with pre-existing conditions are still very much at-risk.
Find out more: https://bsw.icb.nhs.uk/latest-round-of-covid-19-vaccinations-to-begin-for-most-vulnerable-this-month/ |
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Residents reminded to register to vote before 17 April deadline
Residents wishing to vote are being reminded to check they are on the electoral register in time for the local elections on 4 May. |
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Opening date of Keynsham Reuse and Recycling Centre announced
The first phase of the Keynsham Recycling Hub has been completed and the new Reuse and Recycling Centre will open on Monday 17 April. |
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Business advice
Are you looking for an opportunity to get expert advice on your business? The West of England Combined Authority is supporting Be the Business with this year’s cohort of advisory boards. If you are an SME based in the West of England, you can get the opportunity to access a fully funded advisory board that can help you to develop and grow your business, completely free of charge.
Find out more and register your interest online. |
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WESTlink ‒ update from the West of England Combined Authority
WESTlink is a new type of bus service introduced by the West of England Combined Authority. It operates in the vast majority of the West of England, outside of Bristol and Bath city centres. It runs without a fixed timetable or route, which is booked 'on demand' by users through a mobile app, web app or by phone.
Passengers can get on or off at existing bus stops (more than 1,800) as well as at a number of virtual bus stops at easy to reach places, so that passengers can travel to their local towns or link to major bus and rail services for their onward journey.
For more information see here:
Webpage: westlink.app
Web App: WESTlink
Mobile App: search ‘WESTlink’ in iOS or google play app stores
Phone: 01174578561 |
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The Library at Home service
If you, or someone you know is unable to visit the library, why not try the Library at Home service. This is a great way to connect with new friends and volunteers through a love of reading. You can access books and audiobooks, regardless of your situation. To find out more visit here. Alternatively, you can email. |
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Public health newsletter
To keep up to date with the latest public health news stories across Bath and North East Somerset, including upcoming events and other information, subscribe to the public health monthly newsletter. You can also browse previous editions of the public health newsletter. |
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Employment & Skills Pod
Are you returning to work after a short or long break? Perhaps you are already in work and planning to change the direction of your career? The Employment & Skills Pod can help you find the right opportunities. Call now on 0300 247 0050 or you can email us. You can also find out more on the website. |
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Future Bright
Future Bright offers FREE career coaching, training and support to help you develop the skills and confidence you need to take your next step. Read some of the inspiring stories from those who have progressed with their careers with support from their Future Bright Careers Coach. Visit the Future Bright website to find out more or call 01225 395555. |
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Live Well B&NES: information for all
Live Well B&NES is a web-based resource providing information, signposting and support to Bath & North East Somerset residents. It provides useful information, signposting and resources for families, including Ofsted registered childcare, children and young people with additional needs (our SEND Local Offer) and adults needing care or support to live independently.
Information, services and groups are regularly added to Live Well B&NES. If you work with, support, provide services or run groups for children and young people or for adults needing care or support and haven’t already registered ‒ make sure you’re included. It’s free and takes less than five minutes to register. Find out more or email the LWB team. |
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Mental Health and Wellbeing Support
Bath Mind is here for everyone living in B&NES, offering wellbeing groups and courses, befriending, breathing space crisis support, safe space youth group, and affordable 1:1 counselling.
For more information, support resources and to self-refer, visit the website, or call our Access Community Mental Health Team who can help you access the most suitable support for your needs: Freephone 0808 175 1369 or you can email. |
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Specialised dementia groups in B&NES
Age UK Bath & North East Somerset run specialised Dementia Groups in the district. These groups are a safe, fun environment for people to come for activities and friendship. Find out more here or call 01225 466135.
The Alzheimer’s Society also runs a series of support services for people across Bath and North East Somerset. For more information, visit their website or you can email them. |
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Do you look after someone else?
If you support someone who has a disability, illness, mental health condition, addiction or who needs extra help as they grow older, Bath and North East Somerset Carers’ Centre is here for you. Their friendly team will listen to any concerns you have, offer practical advice and access to free wellbeing activities to ensure you’re happy and healthy in your caring role. Contact our freephone support line: 0800 038 8885 or email us. We’re available 9am-1pm, every weekday. |
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Support from Community Wellbeing Hub
Anybody who is a resident of Bath and North East Somerset can benefit from support from the Community Wellbeing Hub. The team offer a range of support services such as mental health, returning home from hospital, income, housing and benefits advice, emergency food, as well as lifestyle services for help with stopping smoking, getting active or losing weight. Opening hours are from Monday to Friday, 9am until 5pm. Call the Hub on 0300 247 0050 or text 07870 868368. You can also email or visit the website.
If you need to contact the council about its services please ring Council Connect on 01225 394041 or email us. |
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Domestic abuse
Southside provides help to people who live in Bath & North East Somerset who are at risk of domestic violence and abuse. The working hours are 9am-5pm Monday-Thursday, and 9am-4pm Fridays. Local support services can be found here. |
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Sight loss support
Sight Support West of England provides emotional and practical support to help people adjust to living with sight loss. To find out more, or make an appointment please call 0117 3224885 or email. For more information on the full range of services, visit the website. For more useful information visit the RNIB website. |
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