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

Over the past week there have been moments of reflection, progress and celebration across Bath and North East Somerset, highlighting both the strength of our community and the opportunities ahead.

We were deeply saddened by the passing of Bath resident and war veteran Stan Ford, who survived the D-Day landings, and has died at the age of 100. Stan was an extraordinary member of our community. Only last year, I was proud to join him, his family and friends to celebrate his 100th birthday, marking not just a remarkable milestone in years, but a life defined by service, resilience and dedication to remembering those who did not return from war. Our thoughts are with his loved ones at this difficult time.

This week marks National Apprenticeship Week, an opportunity to celebrate the vital role apprenticeships play in opening doors for people of all ages. Across Bath and North East Somerset and within the council, apprenticeships are helping young people take their first steps into work, while also supporting adults to retrain or develop new skills. We continue to work with employers, schools and colleges to promote apprenticeships as a high‑quality route into rewarding careers.

Good transport links remain essential to everyday life, supporting jobs, education, health services and helping us reduce our environmental impact. I was pleased to join Helen Godwin, Mayor of the West of England, and other council leaders for the launch of the West of England Combined Authority’s Transport Vision. It sets out long‑term ambitions to improve public transport, encourage walking and cycling, and strengthen connections across the region. These plans matter for all of us and it is important that Bath and North East Somerset continues to play a strong role in shaping a transport network that is reliable, accessible and fit for the future.

This evening cabinet meets to discuss the council’s 2026-2027 budget proposals. Like councils across the country we face significant financial pressures, with rising costs and increasing demand particularly in adults’ and children’s services. Despite a £12.5 million reduction in funding from central government over the next three years, we’re proposing a balanced budget. It focuses on protecting the most vulnerable, as well as supporting other priorities that you tell us are important to you, including road maintenance, keeping streets clean and safe, and improving the local environment.

Finally, it was encouraging to see the launch yesterday of Bath Dragons, which encourages business growth in and around Bath – good luck to all those taking part.

Have a great weekend.

Achieve in B&NES - Volunteers Fair

Looking for a fresh way to give back this year? The Volunteers Fair 2026 brings together an inspiring mix of local charities, community groups, and social impact organisations, all ready to welcome new volunteers.

Drop into the Guildhall, Bath on Monday 23 February, 11am to 1pm, and explore roles that match your interests, your schedule, and your passion. Whether you’re after hands‑on action, behind‑the‑scenes support, or a chance to build new skills, you’ll find plenty of ways to get involved.

Expect friendly faces, real conversations, and opportunities that make a genuine difference. Free to attend. Open to everyone.

Find out more and register here.

News

Homes investment bid for B&NES foster families

Bath & North East Somerset Council is set to fund home alterations for foster carers to enable more children to be cared for in homes with local foster carers.

February Half Term at The Roman Baths and Victoria Art Gallery

There’s lots for families to enjoy at The Roman Baths and Victoria Art Gallery in Bath this February Half Term holiday. Whether your little ones prefer digging for ancient artefacts or unleashing their artistic flair, there’s plenty to spark imaginations, keep hands busy, and make memories that last long after the holidays end this February.

Respects paid to war veteran and much-respected Bath resident Stan Ford

Councillor Kevin Guy, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council, paid tribute to Bath war veteran Stan Ford, who survived the D-Day landings, and has died at the age of 100.

Council proposes two new School Streets

Bath & North East Somerset Council is proposing to launch two School Streets to create safer, healthier journeys for children.

Consultations will run until 26 February on proposals for School Streets outside Widcombe Infant & Junior Schools and St Stephen’s Primary Church School in Lansdown.

Have your say

Council meetings

Do you want to know about decisions being taken by the council and have your say? Please follow this link to the council’s calendar of meetings.

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Instagram and Bluesky; subscribe to us on YouTube and read the latest releases on our Newsroom. Visit our website.

View and take part in our consultations

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), support services and organisations and paying for care and support, planning for future care costs and the Warm Spaces directory.

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.

Support

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.

Employment support and skills

Achieve

Achieve in B&NES provides local residents with the latest updates, events and opportunities around employment, skills and learning in their local communities. Working with providers, employers and community groups, they support and run a variety of projects that help people access the guidance and support they need.

Health, wellbeing and support

Community Wellbeing Hub

The Community Wellbeing Hub provides many services that support your health and wellbeing needs. It works with partners to ensure you get the right support at the right time. One contact to the Hub can connect you to multiple services. 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.

Livewell B&NES

Live Well B&NES is a web-based resource providing information, signposting and support to families, adults needing care or support and parent carers with a child/young person with additional needs (SEND), living in B&NES.

Public health

To keep up to date with the latest public health news stories across Bath and North East Somerset, including upcoming events, consultations and other information, subscribe to the public health monthly newsletter. You can also browse previous editions of the public health newsletter.