A message from Cllr Kevin Guy, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council
This week I am representing Bath & North East Somerset Council at the Local Government Association (LGA) Annual Conference in Bournemouth.
Councils continue to do incredible things every day to provide vital local services despite the huge financial pressures they face. The LGA represents us and the work we do and amplifies our voice to central government. So it was interesting to hear at the start of the conference from Michael Gove, Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities on government plans to reform and streamline local funding systems. This is something councils have been long calling for. Streamlining the long list of local funding pots reduces the need for costly funding competitions and we hope will make it easier to access vital funding for our communities.
I’ve been attending a wide range of sessions in addition to listening to speeches to find out what other councils are doing to see where we can learn from successes elsewhere. I have also been sharing our achievements - in particular the work we are doing to tackle the climate emergency. Many councils are keen to hear about how we became first council in England to adopt an energy-based net zero housing policy, and about our our future plans.
Tackling the climate and ecological emergency is core policy in our draft Corporate Strategy for 2023-2027, which will go before cabinet next week. This sets out our framework for how we will continue to improve people’s lives over the next four years. It builds on our achievements, prioritising things like securing the right homes in the right places, more travel choices, clean, safe and vibrant neighbourhoods and support for vulnerable people, There is also a renewed focus on addressing inequalities across our area and on access to good jobs and skills. I am also really clear that we need to celebrate our thriving local culture as well as our amazing heritage as we implement our plans, as well as providing support for our children and young people. You can find out more in our newsroom.
I would like to congratulate our team at Haycombe Cemetery & Crematorium which has been recognised by the Federation of Burial & Cremation Authorities (FBCA) for improvements to reduce carbon emissions and increase sustainability. Our Planning Services team has also been recognised with two prestigious awards at the Royal Town PIanning Institute South West Awards. Well done to both teams!
Finally, there are two anniversaries to mark. Like so many others I want to echo thanks, on the 75th anniversary of the NHS, to NHS colleagues past, present and future for the amazing work they do. I was proud that we lit up our Roman Baths to mark this. The other anniversary, which is directly linked to Bath is that of the School Crossing Patrol Service which turned 70 this week. It has helped children and adults across the country get to school safely and our patrols do a fantastic job in all weathers.
Have a good weekend.
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ASB Awareness Week
ASB Awareness Week takes place from 3 - 9 July.
The theme for 2023 is ‘Know Your Rights’.
To learn about Anti Social Behaviour and know your rights visit these sites:
Bath & North East Somerset Council Anti-social Behaviour page.
ASB Awareness week website
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See the Roman Baths in a new light with Summer Lates
Experience one of the country’s great historic sites after hours with late night opening of the Roman Baths in Bath throughout the summer. |
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30,000 people sign up for FREE Discovery Card in Bath
In the last year more than 30,000 local people have signed up to enjoy the benefits of Bath & North East Somerset Council’s FREE Residents’ Discovery Card. |
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Bath builder fined for unfair trading
A builder who took deposits for work that he failed to carry out has been fined following a prosecution by Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Trading Standards Service. |
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Council Planning Service wins prestigious planning award
Bath & North East Somerset Council Planning Service picked up two prestigious awards at the RTPI South West Awards for Planning Excellence ceremony in Taunton recently. |
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Strategy to improve people’s lives in Bath and North East Somerset goes before cabinet
The draft Corporate Strategy 2023-2027, to go before cabinet on July 13, retains the council’s core policy of tackling the climate and ecological emergency. |
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Council celebrates 70th Anniversary of School Crossing Patrol Service
Bath & North East Somerset Council is celebrating the 70th anniversary of the School Crossing Patrol service. |
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Sponsor a leaf at Bath’s Botanical Gardens
People wishing to honour the life of a loved one, celebrate a special occasion or simply support local parks can now sponsor a special heart-shaped leaf adorning a new fence at the Botanical Gardens in Bath. |
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Bath & North East Somerset Council strengthens Heritage Services leadership team
Bath & North East Somerset Council has appointed Charlotte Somers as its new Head of Marketing, Fundraising, and Supporter Development. The new role will help deliver the council’s plans to further develop its cultural and heritage sites. |
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Secretary of State visits Bath to see council progress on new homes
Council work to bring hundreds of new homes into the heart of Bath on a former gas works site was set out to the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities the RT Hon Michael Gove MP when he paid a visit to Bath Western Riverside. |
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Environmental award for upgrades at Haycombe Cemetery and Crematorium
Improvements to reduce carbon emissions and increase sustainability at Haycombe Cemetery & Crematorium in Bath has led to a new environmental award from a national body. |
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Somer Valley Links consultation: Help shape plans for transport
Residents living in and around Somer Valley are being encouraged to have their say on the future of public transport in their area in a consultation which launched on Monday (26 June). |
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Take care and stay safe near the water this summer
In the warmer temperatures and with the summer holidays on the horizon, Bath & North East Somerset Council is urging people to heed water safety advice. |
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Chew Stoke school recognised for success in encouraging sustainable travel
Pupils and staff at a Bath & North East Somerset school have been recognised for their exemplar achievements to encourage more active, safer and sustainable ways to travel. |
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Have your say at an Area Forum
There are three remaining Area Forums in the current series. Area Forums are open to all and bring together public services, local organisations and residents to help improve communities. There are five forums in Bath and North East Somerset which are supported by the council. The remaining forums are:
- Keynsham Area: 6 July 2023 6pm - Keynsham Community Space 5 Temple St, Keynsham BS31 1HA
- Chew Valley: 12 July 2023 6pm - Chew Valley School, Chew Magna BS40 8QB
- Bath Area: 18 July 2023 5.30pm - Bath City Farm Community Café, Kelston View, Bath BA2 1NW
You can find more information and meeting dates for all the forums on the council website.
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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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Are you thinking about starting
a tech-based business?
Check out the START programme, which provides the following:
- Intensive training.
- Mentorship from successful founders.
- The chance to pitch to award-winning incubators and accelerators for a six-month-funded space.
The START programmes range from two to four weeks long and cover various aspects of starting a business. You will learn to develop ideas, analyse risks and opportunities, create a marketing plan and a go-to-market strategy, and explore funding options. The programme is ideal for aspiring entrepreneurs.
START Programme Briefing Session: For aspiring Entrepreneurs Tickets, Thu 13 Jul 2023 at 13:00 | Eventbrite |
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The Library at Home service
Did you know that if you aren’t able to visit our libraries because of mobility or other issues, we can bring the library to you? Volunteers from our Home Library Service can visit you at home every few weeks to bring books and talking books. The service is available in any part of B&NES but we currently have new volunteers in the Keynsham area to pair with new readers, so if you’d like to register, email HomeLibraryService@bathnes.gov.uk or call 01225 39 40 41. |
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Sensory Spaces in our libraries
We have three Sensory Spaces in our libraries for children and young adults with sensory needs. The spaces at Bath, Keynsham and Midsomer Norton Libraries are open to everyone as a place to take a sensory break away from the lights and sounds of the main library. You can download a short guide to these spaces and our libraries before, or borrow a copy when you visit us.
Book a visit via Eventbrite - https://bit.ly/SensorySpaceBooking |
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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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We Work For Everyone – free employment support
We Work For Everyone is a free employment support programme for unemployed people age 16+ with a learning difficulty, learning disability or autism. No formal diagnosis is required.
To find out more call 0117 9223330, email weworkforeveryone@bristol.gov.uk or visit https://weworkforeveryone.org/.
The programme supports people in Bath and North East Somerset, North Somerset, Bristol and South Gloucestershire. |
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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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Plastic Free July
Plastic Free July is a global movement that helps millions of people be part of the solution to plastic pollution – so we can have cleaner streets, oceans, and beautiful communities. Will you be part of Plastic Free July by choosing to refuse single-use plastics? |
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