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e-connect 26 October 2023
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A message from Cllr Kevin Guy, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council
I am very passionate about improving the quality of the air we all breathe, that is why this week we were pleased to receive the latest monitoring report from the government confirming that air quality in Bath has improved since the launch of the Clean Air Zone in 2021. Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) concentrations have fallen on average by 22% between 2019 and 2021.
Of course, the reduction in traffic during Covid restrictions and the closure of Bath’s Cleveland Bridge will have impacted those figures, but our latest data suggests that air quality is continuing to improve - so it’s good news for the health of residents and visitors alike.
We have also been recognised this week for leading the way on climate action, achieving a score of 57% and ranking seventh overall on Climate Emergency UK’s annual Council Climate Action Scorecard. It is particularly impressive as only 41 of the UK’s 388 local and combined authorities scored above 50%. It’s also a great reflection of the challenging work we’ve been doing as a council and acknowledges that we’re at the forefront nationally with many of our policies related to the climate and ecological emergencies.
This week bookings opened for the Green Open Homes B&NES event where people can find out first-hand about having solar panels and other energy efficient features installed in their property. It takes place on 4 and 5 November and, with the rising cost of living and energy, is a great opportunity for people to see first-hand how they can make changes to their homes to save on bills and reduce carbon emissions.
It's Care Leavers’ Week and we are delighted to have been able to help organise a host of local events to give young people, council staff and partner agencies a chance to celebrate together. Our young adults who have experienced being in care have launched a powerful photography exhibition at The Egg Theatre in Bath, featuring images they have taken alongside an explanation of their significance.
The council has also signed up to the Care Leaver Covenant to become a Care Leaver Friendly Employer and support care leavers throughout their career, right from the initial application. Care Leavers’ Week is an opportunity for us all to learn more about young people’s experiences and I’d encourage everyone to drop into the exhibition before it ends on 3 November.
Finally, now we have reached the end of October with cold weather possibly not too far away, our Highways team have been busy stocking up on gritting salt, refilling grit bins and making sure our fleet of gritting lorries are ready. We are prepared to keep our road network safe and running so you can get to where you need to be.
Have a good weekend. |
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Flu and Covid-19 vaccinations
If you're eligible for a flu and Covid-19 vaccination you can now book at www.nhs.uk/wintervaccinations or call 119. At-risk groups include people aged 65 and over, those with a weakened immune system and pregnant women. |
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Manor Road Community Woodland set to benefit from raft of improvements
Better pathways, new seating and improved accessibility for people with mobility and sensory impairments are among the improvements planned for Manor Road Community Woodland in Keynsham following a public consultation. |
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Temporary weight limit at Cleveland Bridge extended
A temporary 18-tonne weight limit in place at Cleveland Bridge in Bath will be extended for another year as the council continues to monitor the historic structure. |
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New reuse shop opens at Keynsham recycling centre
Gardening tools, a unicycle, golf clubs and skis were some of the unusual, preloved items that went on sale when the reuse and recycling shop opened on the ground floor of the Keynsham Recycling Hub. |
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Council’s Highways team ready for winter
The Highways team at Bath & North East Somerset Council have begun their preparations for winter by stocking up on gritting salt, refilling grit bins and making sure its fleet of gritting lorries are ready. |
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Bath and North East Somerset passes Government Air Quality assessment
Air quality in Bath improved following the launch of the Clean Air Zone in 2021, according to the latest monitoring report from the government. |
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Photography exhibition to celebrate Care Leavers’ Week 2023
Images captured by young adults in Bath and North East Somerset who have experienced being in care will be exhibited in Bath and Keynsham to mark this year’s Care Leavers’ Week. |
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Event supports suppliers hoping to sell to the public sector
Businesses in Bath and North East Somerset are being invited to find out how best to supply their goods and services to public sector organisations across the West of England at an annual showcase event. |
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Westlink Survey
People who have used the West of England Combined Authority Westlink service are being asked to fill in this survey https://travelwest.info/westlink/#rider_survey. |
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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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| 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 |
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Employment support and skills
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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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We Work For Everyone
Looking for work and have a learning difficulty or learning disability, or you are autistic, we can help. Visit weworkforeveryone.org. |
Future Bright
Future Bright offers FREE career coaching, training and support. Visit the Future Bright website to find out more or call 01225 395555. |
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Employment & Skills Pod
The Employment & Skills Pod provides information, advice and guidance for residents who are unemployed, 18+ and would like support around employment. You can find out more on the achieve website. |
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Health, wellbeing and support
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Live Well B&NES
Live Well B&NES is a web-based resource providing information, signposting and support to Bath & North East Somerset residents. |
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 text 07870 868368 or visit the website. |
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Bath Mind
Bath Mind is here for everyone living in B&NES. For more information, support resources and to self-refer, visit the website, or call our Access Community Mental Health Team: Freephone 0808 175 1369 or you can email. |
Age UK
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. You can also find out about digital support for people aged 55 and over. Email digital@ageukbanes.co.uk or visit bit.ly/AgeUKBANESDigital |
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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. |
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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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. Contact our freephone support line: 0800 038 8885 or email us. We’re available 9am-1pm, every weekday. |
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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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