Avon and Somerset Neighbourhood Policing
Somerton and Wincanton Update May 202215th May 2022
News Updates from North Cadbury and Yarlington Parish Council
INDEPENDENT EXAMINATION OF THE NORTH CADBURY AND YARLINGTON NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN
PC Response to the questions raised by the Independent Examiner on the North Cadbury and Yarlington Neighbourhood Plan.PC Response to Independent Examiner Questions
19th April 2022
INDEPENDENT EXAMINATION OF THE NORTH CADBURY AND YARLINGTON NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN
INDEPENDENT EXAMINATION OF THE NORTH CADBURY AND YARLINGTON NEIGHBOURHOOD PLANEXAMINER: Andrew Mead BSc (Hons) MRTPI MIQ
5th April 2022
Somerset Bus Patnership
Dear All,Over the past month, supporters of Somerset Bus Partnership have sent some 80 letters to the Department for Transport calling for the Bus Recovery Grant to be extended beyond April. We therefore welcome the news that the Government has finally announced the continuation of the Bus Recovery Grant through to October 2022. There has been a huge nation-wide campaign demanding the Government should continue to support bus services. Thanks to the many of you who joined with us and successfully lobbied the Government over this issue.
But our bus services in Somerset remain under very real threat. The return of passengers to buses here in Somerset has been slower than in many other parts of the country and bus operators are facing huge cost pressures with escalating fuel prices coupled with a continuing driver shortage.
Hence, we are organising a Somerset Bus Partnership meeting via Zoom for Thursday March 24 at 730pm.
The main aim of the meeting is to explore with you ideas to increase bus usage.
The meeting would also cover the following points:
An update on bus funding including the latest feedback we're hearing on Bus Service Improvement Plans and Somerset's £163 million BSIP bid.
A Bus Manifesto that we will invite for Unitary council candidates of all parties to support
(Please note Somerset Bus Partnership has been working with all Somerset's main political parties to improve bus services and is politically neutral)
Update on Somerset Bus Partnership's activities
If you would like any items added to the agenda then please do let us know.
We very much hope that you will be able to join this meeting. Zoom details below:
Time: Mar 24, 2022 07:30 PM London
Additionally, it is just a reminder that we will also share your name, email address and Parish you represent with all our representatives. If you don't want your email address shared please provide an email address you are happy to be shared or let us know.
With very best wishes
The Somerset Bus Partnership Team
17th March 2022
Somerset Bus Patnership
Please find attached the March SWP Briefing, with the latest on collections, recycle sites, Eco-School grants and what 1500+ people chose as the name of our new repair project van.Regards
Somerset Waste Partnership
14th March 2022
Thermal imaging camera trial
We have a great opportunity for the communities of Area East in South Somerset to have access to x2 thermal imaging cameras to help identify whether insulation and draught-proofing could be required for homes to help reduce energy bills and improve thermal comfort. These cameras are very user friendly as they directly attach to a smartphone/tablet. One camera is compatible for use with iOS (Apple iPhone or iPad) and the other for use with an Android smart phone or tablet.Follow the link below for more details regarding booking etc.
4th March 2022
Important notice
Urgent / emergency Road Closure: – ttro190966 - Sandbrook Lane, North CadburyPlease be aware that we have received a notification of a TTRN (urgent / emergency) road closure at Sandbrook Lane, North Cadbury will commence on 1st March 2022 and is expected to last until 2nd March 2022.
The contractor has indicated that access for Emergency Services through the site is permitted on this occasion.
For any further information about this closure please contact Sunbelt Rentals Ltd on 03700 500 792, quoting reference: ttro190966 - Sandbrook Lane, North Cadbury
28th February 2022
Somerset Health and Wellbeing Advisory Network
Helping you to help othersThe legal requirement to self-isolate has been removed in England and replaced with guidance for living safely with the virus.
Trudi Grant, Director of Public Health for Somerset has emphasised that we should continue to be respectful of other people's concerns and personal situations. The public health advice is that anyone who tests positive for coronavirus, or who shows symptoms of having it, including a high temperature or cough, should stay at home and avoid contact with others. The same can be said for any other infectious illness, such a flu, or vomiting and diarrhoea.
The SCC Public Health team still advise basic infection control measures should be followed, as these will help slow the transmission of many seasonal illnesses and have a positive impact on reducing sickness levels and improving business continuity. These include regularly washing your hands, maintaining appropriate cleaning regimes and keeping occupied spaces well ventilated.
The vaccination remains the best form of defence that we have against Covid-19. Anyone who has not already booked their jab can do so quickly and easily at COVID-19 vaccinations in Somerset - Somerset CCG.
28th February 2022
Neighbourhood Policing team
Hello everyone,Please find attached a copy of our Somerton / Wincanton Neighbourhood Policing Team News Letter for March 2022.
Kind regards,
Mike
Mike Bell
PCSO 7954
Somerton Neighbourhood Policing Team | Avon and Somerset Police
28th February 2022
Somerset waste
Please find the latest Somerset Waste Partnership Briefing attached, with information on the Queen's Platinum Jubilee, naming the repair van for our new project, taking action on food waste, and Recycle More reaching its finishing line.Regards
Somerset Waste Partnership
Somerset County Council uses Microsoft Office 365 Message Encryption to protect emails. Learn more here: https://www.somerset.gov.uk/our-information/email-security/.
25th February 2022
Buses in Somerset
OUR BUSES ARE UNDER THREATApril 2022 was meant to augur in a new era for our buses. It was the month when the £3 billion as part of Bus Back Better, National Strategy for Buses for England, could be used to improve bus services. People could be invited to abandon their cars and opt for the ‘greener’ option of going by bus on journeys to nearby towns and villages.
To improve buses across the county, Somerset had put in a bid for £163 million of Bus Back Better money. That was the sum of money Somerset needed because Somerset bus services currently are the worst rated of any county in England. But the Bus Back Better fund has been over subscribed 8 times by all the bids from across England and so it’s unknown how much money Somerset might get. But it’s unlikely to get anything like what Somerset needs.
The 2 years of Covid with endless warnings not to use buses has seen bus passenger numbers down 40% on pre Covid levels. This has meant the Government has had to step in and subsidise bus services in order to keep them running. To fund this the Government has diverted more than half of the £3 billion pot allocated for transforming our bus services to just maintain our current bus services.
Worse still, the Government has still not said whether it will keep funding our existing bus services from April.
If it doesn’t, then without this subsidy, bus services across the county (including here in Somerset) could “fall off the side of the cliff” (as said by Wera Hobhouse, Bath MP). It’s been estimated 30% of bus services would go. Some bus services could even disappear completely.
Without this Covid Bus Recovery Grant, a leading bus operator has said, “The bus sector is hurtling towards disaster.”
So what can we do?
Could you please ... today ... send an email (doesn’t need to be long) to the Government Buses Minister demanding that the Covid-19 Bus Recovery Grant funding is continued beyond April. Send it to BARONESS VERE OF NORBITON (Buses Minister) - email verec@parliament.uk. Also copy your email to your MP:
DAVID WARBURTON (Somerton and Frome) - email david.warburton.mp@parliament.uk Please also copy in Somerset Bus Partnership to any emails too. Our email address:
somersetbuspartnership@gmail.com .
Additionally, if you should speak to any of the candidates for the Somerset Unitary Council May 5th elections, please ask them what their plans are to protect and improve our bus services here in Somerset. There’s never been a time when our bus services in Somerset have been at so much risk.
Somerset Bus Partnership Team
https://www.somersetbuspartnership.co.uk
18th February 2022
Local Heritage List
I am writing to inform local councils about the Local Heritage List: a new project to record heritage assets in Somerset and Exmoor. This is managed by the South West Heritage Trust with input from partners in local government and heritage, including Somerset County Council, each district council, and Exmoor National Park Authority.The scheme will give special, ‘locally listed’ status to distinctive and noteworthy buildings, sites, and monuments across Somerset and Exmoor. It is a chance to recognise places with cultural value in our area, and help preserve our diverse local heritage.
I would be most grateful if you inform your South Somerset council about this initiative. The South West Heritage Trust is seeking nominations from the public, as well as community organisations, and welcomes assistance in publicising this opportunity for engagement.
Later in the year you will receive a formal consultation from your local planning authority regarding the Local Heritage List technical handbook. This will provide the planning support, but in the meantime the project is open to nominations.
Please find attached a press release, poster, and ‘Q&A’ document which explains the Local Heritage List in more detail.
Best wishes,
Dr Hattie Induni
Digital and Community Engagement Officer
Somerset Local Heritage List Project
https://swheritage.org.uk/local-heritage-list
18th February 2022
SWP Members Brief
New mobile repair and reuse projectSummary
• Launching later this year, the project aims to move repair and reuse from ‘niche to norm’.
• Based around a mobile repair and reuse vehicle, it will work with existing groups and engage new audiences.
• The first year will be dedicated to electrical items and electronics – anything with a plug or battery.
• This is a grant-funded project that SWP is running in partnership with Resource Futures and Donate-IT.
• We are currently advertising for a Community Repair Coordinator and asking the public to suggest names for the new service/vehicle.
Background
SWP commissioned Resource Futures (RF) to look at how we can increase reuse and repair, taking into account the work of existing groups across Somerset. One of three potential solutions was for a mobile repair vehicle (working title Somerset Repair Bus) to travel the county bringing repair and reuse to new audiences, tackling barriers around travel and access to repair facilities/groups, and helping groups to collaborate and share skills.
RF and SWP have secured grant funding from Ecosurety Exploration Fund for the project which in its first year will be dedicated to electricals and electronics - from toasters to tablets, record players to remote controls – anything that has a plug or takes batteries.
We have also partnered with local company Donate-IT CIC which collects, refurbishes and distributes tech like laptops and smart phones to people, schools and groups who need them. We are now working hard to get the project up and running as soon as possible.
Project overview
Its aim is to support existing groups, engage new audiences and take repair and reuse from ‘niche to norm’ through four key areas of activity:
• Educate and raise awareness of repair, reuse and sustainable consumption, targeting
schools, community groups, individuals, businesses.
• Amplify existing repair activities – supporting all local repair groups, helping them to
extend their reach into wider audiences and promoting their current activities.
• Support group expansion – facilitating skills and knowledge sharing, increasing resource
sharing and accessibility, and providing advice and practical input.
• Address digital poverty – collecting used smart tech from businesses and residents,
refurbishing, and diverting it back into the community, reducing waste and keeping items in use.
If it proves a success, SWP will consider continuing the project and expanding it to cover the repair and reuse of any item. This will, of course, be subject to a business case and the availability of budget or new sources of grant-funding.
More detail
The vehicle will be second-hand and probably a ‘transit-style’ van with eye-catching branding and livery. We have explored electric options, but cost and logistics make an electric vehicle impractical for this project at this time.
We are now working with the local repair café groups to establish how it can best support existing activities. We expect this will include providing tools and equipment that support their work and make ‘pop-up’ repair events possible.
The vehicle will operate in all districts seeking to:
• Increase consumer confidence in repair and reuse.
• Encourage people to view sustainable electronics consumption and repair as ‘the norm’.
• Collecting donated electronics for repurposing/recycling, and enhancing knowledge of
existing local activities around repair, reuse and recycling.
The vehicle’s itinerary will be a balance between visiting existing groups, attending events, hosting ‘pop-up’ sessions and visiting schools and workplaces.
We are asking the public to suggest a name for the new service/vehicle.
Suggestions can be made through this online form and the deadline for ideas is 9am on Monday 21 February. SWP will shortlist suggestions and put them to an online public vote.
The vehicle will be driven by a Community Repair Coordinator and this role is being advertised now. The successful candidate will travel the county promoting repair and sustainable consumption and working with SWP, Resource Futures and a wide range of Somerset-based audiences.
Closing date for applications is 9am Tuesday 22 February. Please share this advert widely.
We anticipate that the Repair Bus will be attending events between May and December this year, depending on recruitment and fitting out the vehicle going smoothly.
We understand that data security is a concern and can stop people offering devices for repair, reuse or recycling. Through our partnership with Donate-IT we can offer a collection point for unwanted tech items and ensure that these are securely data wiped before being refurbished and donated to those in need.
Further information
For questions about the project, or if you would like to suggest an event that might be suitable (subject to availability), please contact: Julie Searle julie.searle@somersetwaste.gov.uk, and Beth Prince beth.prince@somersetwaste.gov.uk
• Resource Futures is an environmental consultancy specialising in the waste sector
• Donate-IT is a Community Interest Company
• For details about Ecosurety and the Ecosurety Exploration Fund visit www.ecosurety.com
16th February 2022
Notice of Casual Vacancy on North Cadbury and Yarlington Parish Council
Are you interested in contributing, representing and making a change in your community? Would you like to help improve the quality of life in the Parish? The Parish council needs your experience, energy and enthusiasm!!If you would like to know more please contact the Clerk, Chairman or speak to a local councillor. Applications to be received in writing, or by email, to the Clerk.
31st January 2022
Covid Update
Good afternoon.Please find attached this week’s Covid-19 update for Somerset on behalf of the Engagement Board. From next week, this update will be in a different format – in the form of a digital newsletter. If you still wish to receive it as a PDF you will be able to.
This week the PM announced a return to Plan A regulations – full details can be found within the update.
Although Covid-19 case numbers have decreased this week, they do remain high in Somerset and so we need to make sure we remain cautious and keep ourselves and each other safe. To do this we should continue to wear a face-covering in crowded and enclosed spaces, make sure there is good ventilation if we meet indoors, wash our hands, continue to take regular lateral flow tests, and take a PCR test if we have any symptoms.
Everyone who is eligible should also accept the offer of a vaccination or booster, if they have not already done so.
Finally, in our weekly Covid catch-up film we cover the topic of vaccinations for pregnant woman. The film can be viewed here.
I wish you a pleasant weekend.
George Haslock
Communications Officer
Public Health
Somerset County Council
Mobile: 07765043226
Email: ghaslock@somerset.gov.uk
21st January 2022
The Anne Robson trust
I am writing to ask for your help to let people living in your local community know about the services we offer.The Anne Robson Trust is a pre-bereavement charity that passionately believes that “no one deserves to die alone”. Liz Pryor, our founder and Chief Executive has recently been awarded the Member of the British Empire Medal (MBE) in the Queens 2022 New Year’s Honour’s list, for services to end-of-life care.
We work alongside NHS hospitals to train volunteers, who sit with patients in the last days and hours of their life to provide company and companionship, so they know they are not alone. However, due to COVID restrictions the volunteers were unable to visit hospitals, and in response to this, we set up a free, National Helpline so that we could continue to offer comfort and support where needed. As restrictions have lifted the volunteers are gradually starting to return to hospitals and in addition the introduction of the helpline is showing to be a valuable resource for anyone in the community to access support from the comfort of their own home.
The helpline is for anyone who is struggling to cope with a terminal diagnosis or the imminent death of someone they care about. Whether they are family members, friends, neighbours, work colleagues, or even a member of the care staff who may just need someone to talk to; we understand the pressures of working and caring for people who are end of life. We are fully committed to ensuring that people facing end of life and their families have access to as many layers of support as possible.
I have taken the liberty of attaching a short article which I hope you can send to the editor of your local parish newsletter or magazine for inclusion in the February or March publication. Alternatively, I would be extremely grateful if you could send me the contact details of the editor, so that we can explore spreading the word of our service with them. I would also be very grateful for any suggestions you can offer of contacts in your area, who may be in a position to help us to spread the word.
I hope that this information will be of interest to you and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Kind regards
Suzanne Brown
No One Deserves To Die Alone – We are here to support you.
Call our Helpline: 0808 801 0688
21st January 2022
South Somerset District Council Regulation 16 Public Consultation on NC&Y Neighbourhood Plan
North Cadbury and Yarlington Parish Council as the Qualifying Body has prepared a Neighbourhood Development Plan, entitled the North Cadbury and Yarlington Parish Neighbourhood Plan for the period 2018 to 2033.The Plan sets out a vision for the future and planning policies which will be used in the determination of planning applications.
Copies of the Neighbourhood Development Plan, supporting documentation and response forms are available on South Somerset District Council's (SSDC) website: https://www.southsomerset.gov.uk/your-council/your-council-plan-and-strategies/planning-policy/neighbourhood-planning/ under the North Cadbury and Yarlington drop down area.
If you are unable to access the documents online, hard copies will be available for inspection at North Cadbury Village Stores and Galhampton Country Store from 20th January 2022.
If you would like to see hard copies of the submitted documents at the District Council offices in Yeovil, this can be arranged if you contact planningpolicy@southsomerset.gov.uk; or by ringing 01935 462462.
If you would like to make a representation on this Neighbourhood Plan the relevant response form is attached.
Please download the form and email your comments back to SSDC at planningpolicy@southsomerset.gov.uk or in writing to the Strategic Planning Team, South Somerset District Council, Brympton Way, Yeovil, Somerset BA20 2HT
The consultation runs from 20th January 2022 until midnight on 4th March 2022.
Any representations may include a request to be notified regarding South Somerset District Council's decision under Regulation 19 whether to make the Neighbourhood Plan for North Cadbury and Yarlington.
Please be aware that a summary of all representations received by the Authority will be publicly available.
Reg 16 Response Form January 2022
Copies of Neighbourhood Development Plan, Support Documentation & Response Forms
20th January 2022
SWP service update
Collections: Covid-related absence remains a concern, but collection services are currently stable. With more than 350,000 collection a week, some delayed collections can and do happen as part of business as usual for a variety of issues, such as access issues and vehicle breakdowns.Any collections – recycling or rubbish - missed should be returned for within two working days and we encourage residents to report any missed collections online using the My Waste Service feature on the SWP homepage.
Crews are working extremely hard at what remains a difficult time and we continue to ask for everyone's patience and support.
This will be the last of these daily updates. They will be reinstated if there is any future substantial disruption to collections.
18th January 2022
SSDC Press release
Please see a press release attached issued on behalf of the Somerset Community Resilience Partnership regarding how Somerset will use £3.8m from the Government's Household Support Grant to support Somerset residents who are struggling to pay the bills this winter.10th January 2022
Somerset MAS Newsletter
Please find attached the Somerset MAS newsletter for January, with dates of advice session for the MAS service, Lip reading classes dates, venues and Tutors, new activity groups in the Somerset, article on Rose winning Strictly Come Dancing 2021. Next month we will have the result of campaign to make BSL an official language in England and Wales. Please feel free to share.Hope you all enjoy the festivities and come back in the new year refreshed and ready for the new challenges that we will face. See you all again in 2022.
Kind Regards,
Stewart Weston
Somerset Mobile Advisory Service
Somerset MAS Information Advice Officer
deafPLUS / visionPLUS
2, Queens Parade
Bath
BA1 2NJ
Email: stewart.weston@deafplus.org
Tel: 07762 848226/01225 446555
30th December 2021
Covid-19 Update
Good afternoon.Please find attached this week’s Covid-19 update for Somerset on behalf of the Engagement Board.
This week the spread of the Omicron variant has led to the government moving England to Plan B of the Covid-19 response. Full details can be found within the update.
We are very aware this a busy time for everyone and many events are happening in the run up to Christmas. Keeping in mind the new laws and regulations, we want people to enjoy the festive season in Somerset but to do so carefully. This can be done by washing hands regularly, wearing face coverings when required, taking lateral flow tests before visiting family or attending an event, getting both doses of the vaccine, and booking a booster when you are invited to do so. If you plan to meet up with others, it is important to ensure this occurs in well ventilated spaces, or outdoors if possible, and you should consider doing a LFD test to ensure you are not spreading Covid-19 without knowing. If you have any symptoms of Covid-19, you should self-isolate immediately and book a PCR test.
The NHS are working hard to ensure everyone can easily access their vaccination and it is best to wait until you are contacted by NHS to get your next, or first, jab – please do not approach your GP, and keep an eye on the NHS website for updates.
I wish you a pleasant weekend
George Haslock
Communications Officer
Public Health
Somerset County Council
Mobile: 07765043226
Email: ghaslock@somerset.gov.uk
10th December 2021
Government Grant
Residents on low income encouraged to apply for Government Green Homes GrantsTo help people save on their heating bills and reduce carbon emissions, the Government are funding retrofit improvements to homes with low-income householders. In the South Somerset District Council area, procured by the SW Energy Hub, Happy Energy are delivering this work in partnership with E.ON Energy.
Endorsed by SSDC, under the Green Homes Grants Scheme, owner-occupiers will benefit from energy efficiency installations up to the value of £10,000 with nothing for them to pay towards the costs of works. Tenants of rented properties can also access grants of up to £5,000 for energy efficiency upgrades, but the landlord will be expected to contribute at least one third towards the cost of works.
Who is eligible?
To be eligible for the grants the residents of the property must have a low income (receive benefits or have the household income below £30,000 per annum) and the EPC for the property must be rated D, E, F or G. If there is no EPC for your property, you can still apply and it does not matter who your energy supplier is. To find out if your property has an EPC see https://find-energy-certificate.digital.communities.gov.uk/
What do I do if I think I qualify?
If you are struggling to keep your home warm and you think you might be eligible for some help, you can submit an application at the following website https://www.heatsomerset.co.uk/
How long is the scheme running for?
The scheme is expected to run until March 2022, but will operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
What will happen if I do qualify?
If you qualify, Happy Energy Solutions will survey your home to assess which energy efficiency measures could be installed.
The options will then be discussed with you for a final decision to be reached.
Case Study
78 year old Mr K was the first to benefit from the scheme. In receipt of Pension Credits and with health problems made worse by the cold, he lived in a well-insulated bungalow, but the only form of heating was electric panel heaters that were very expensive to run. Mr K's energy bills were £126 per month, despite only heating one room in his home. Paying his energy bills had become totally unaffordable.
Happy Energy Solutions, managers of HEAT Project, arranged for the installation of an Air Source Heat Pump central heating system and Solar PV, all of which were covered by the grants! The heat pump was grant funded under the Government's Green Homes Grants Local Authority Delivery programme and the Solar PV was funded with a grant through the Energy Company Obligation (ECO).
The EPC rating of the property has now improved from an F to a B to reflect the significant reduction in the household energy bills. Mr K's energy bills have reduced by an estimated £472 per year and a total of 3.1 tonnes of CO2 have been saved each year.
25th November 2021
Covid-19
Please find attached this week’s Covid-19 update for Somerset on behalf of the Engagement Board.Covid-19 cases are still high in Somerset and, with the media focussing elsewhere and the fact the majority of adults have now been vaccinated, it would be easy to forget we are still in the middle of the Covid pandemic.
With this in mind, and particularly with a lot of Christmas events starting to take place, we need to make sure we keep ourselves and each other safe. Simple ways to do this include wearing a face-covering in crowded and enclosed spaces, washing our hands and continuing to take regular lateral flow tests. Also, if people are unwell they should not mix with others and book a PCR test.
It is also very important to take up the offer of a vaccination – it is preferable to book these prior to attending a vaccination centre via this website. Slots are released into the national booking system as they become available, so you do have to refresh the system if the site you want does not appear.
Finally, in our Covid Catch-up film this week we highlight the excellent work undertaken through the Vaccination Buddy programme in Somerset. The team of trained 'Buddies' speak directly to those people across our many diverse communities who may have questions or concerns regarding the Covid-19 vaccine. We also emphasise the importance of first, second and third doses of the vaccine.
The film can be viewed here.
I wish you a pleasant weekend
George Haslock
Communications Officer
Public Health
Somerset County Council
Mobile: 07765043226
Email: ghaslock@somerset.gov.uk
22nd November 2021
Get Digital
South Somerset District Council is inviting residents to Get DigitalSouth Somerset District Council is delighted to invite residents and businesses to join us on Zoom for our 'Get Digital' event on Thursday 2 December at 2.30pm.
You can book your space on Eventbrite at www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/south-somerset-get-digital-tickets-208454552177.
It will be a chance to explore a range of topics from what connectivity is available now and in the future, how digital technology can have a positive impact on an individual's wellbeing and what free support is available to people looking to improve their digital skills. The event will be presented by some excellent speakers including Connecting Devon and Somerset, Wessex Internet, Jurassic Fibre, Konnect Europe, Yeovil College and Spark Somerset.
Cllr John Clark, Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, said: "Digital connectivity and the associated skills are becoming increasingly important for both businesses and individuals. Throughout the past 18 months, we have all adapted and found ourselves using technology more frequently. We are committed to supporting South Somerset communities and businesses to get online. We work closely with infrastructure providers but understand that this is only one piece of the digital puzzle and that digital skills are equally as important."
South Somerset District Council and all of our speakers look forward to meeting you online on 2 December.
If you have any questions please get in touch by emailing us at econdev@southsomerset.gov.uk.
19th November 2021
Rights of way report November 21
Please find below a copy of the Rights of Way which will be discussed at next weeks Parish Council meeting.19th November 2021
Press Release
Please find attached a press release that I would be grateful if you could circulate to your councillors and residents and to help them to become more involved in the shaping of the new Unitary council for SomersetBest regards
Mike Lewis
17th November 2021
Covid-19 Update
Please find attached this week’s Covid-19 update for Somerset on behalf of the Engagement Board.Although we have seen a reduction in Covid-19 cases in Somerset this week, they are still high so we need to remain vigilant and do what we can to keep each other safe. Simple ways to do this include wearing a face-covering in crowded and enclosed spaces, regularly wash hands and continuing to take regular lateral flow tests. Also, if people feel unwell or have any symptoms they should self-isolate and book a PCR test. It is also very important to take up the offer of a first, second or third (booster) vaccination.
Finally, in our Covid Catch-up film this week we discuss the importance for us all to accept the offer of a third, or booster, vaccination when we receive it.
The film can be viewed here.
I wish you a pleasant weekend
George Haslock
Communications Officer
Public Health
Somerset County Council
Mobile: 07765043226
Email: ghaslock@somerset.gov.uk
12th November 2021
Free Trees
Hi there,We work with lots of wildlife trusts, community woodlands and community farms around the UK, supplying them with free trees for their nature reserves, rewilding projects, etc.
Would you like free trees from us for any of your tree planting projects? We generally supply a minimum of 150 trees for projects but we can be fairly flexible.
Or do you know of any tree planting projects in Somerset, or nearby regions, that would like free trees from us in 2021/2022?
We're happy to provide free trees for many years beyond that too.
The trees are all UK native species, grown from UK seed and can be supplied with free shelters, stakes, weed mats, etc.
You'll find lots more info, our criteria and our tree request form below
https://eforests.co.uk/freetrees
While we prefer to work with nature reserves / community woodlands / community farms, we can possibly supply trees for private landowners that you work with that have public access to their land.
Many thanks,
Andrew
Andrew Haining
1st November 2021
Update on Highway Works in South Somerset Area, Week Commencing the 01st November 2021.
I am writing to update you on the latest progress of SCC highway works in the South Somerset Area, for the week commencing the 01st of November 2021.For your information, I attach the planned programme of works. Works highlighted in red indicate that this is a new scheme introduced into the works programme. Dates highlighted in red indicate a change to the original dates that have previously been detailed.
Additional 'live' information can be found on our webpage by following the link, www.travelsomerset.co.uk.
Should you wish to discuss any particular scheme in more detail, please contact this office at your earliest convenience.
You may not be aware, but the recognised platform to view planned works on the highway is via One.Network. This website gives users a visual overview of present and future works, including road closures taking place within Somerset. The system also shows the advertised diversion route for road closures.
Users can search by town, road and date. It also provides other useful driver information. Automatic email alerts can be set up by users so you can receive daily or weekly alerts of new works in a user defined area. One.Network can be found at https://one.network/public and users accounts are free to create.
The weekly report I distribute focuses solely on SCC and SRA works. The One.Network platform provides a complete overview of all planned works, including those undertaken by third parties and utility companies.
Regards
Neil McWilliams
Highway Service Manager
Somerset County Council
South Somerset Area Highways Office
Mead Avenue
Houndstone Business Park
Yeovil
Somerset
BA22 8RT
1st November 2021
Briefing note from David Fothergill
Please find attached the briefing note for November from David Fothergill, Leader of Somerset County Council for sharing with your councillors and residents.Kind regards,
Mike Lewis
1st November 2021
Cimate Change
The National Association of Local Councils (NALC) has published its new report on what can local councils do on climate change (Attached).The What can local councils do on climate change report aimed to paint an accurate picture of how climate change is being tackled by local (parish and town) councils and identify the challenges they face. In doing so, NALC can better understand how to support local councils in creating more sustainable communities.
The research found that 38% of participating councils had already declared a climate emergency and a further 8% were pending declaration. An identifiable trend of the report found that councils who had made such declarations were more likely to take positive action on climate change.
However, local councils overwhelming challenge is that they feel too small to affect change due to a lack of expertise, finance, and power to act. 69% of councils needed guidance to apply for grants and subsidies, and a further 58% reported a need for improved skills and training.
NALC is committed to guiding and supporting local councils in accessing funding, expertise and power to influence to tackle climate change within their communities.
NALC collected data from local councils across England over four months through an online survey of 211 respondents.
Find out more about NALC's climate change work
PS: What an amazing response from Somerset Clerks and Councillors !
All the best
Simon
Simon Pritchard
Assistant CEO
Somerset Association of Local Councils Limited
Company Address: Edgar Hall, Somerton Business Park, Somerton, Somerset, TA11 6SB
Company number 11942896 registered in England and Wales
My Normal Working Days are: Monday & Friday
Email: simon@somerset-alc.org.uk
Website: www.somerset-alc.org.uk
Training: www.somerset-alc.org.uk/training/
Members Area: www.somerset-alc.org.uk/members-area/
Covid Advice: Coronavirus (nalc.gov.uk)
1st November 2021
Somerset Mobile Advisory Service
Hi AllPlease find attached our latest monthly newsletter with dates of drop in session for the MAS service, locations, dates and venues of our lip reading classes, Breaking news re Channel Four subtitle issues and article on protecting your hearing . Please feel free to share.
Kind Regards,
Stewart Weston
Somerset Mobile Advisory Service
Somerset MAS Information Advice Officer
deafPLUS / visionPLUS
2, Queens Parade
Bath
BA1 2NJ
Email: stewart.weston@deafplus.org
Tel: 07762 848226/01225 446555
29th October 2021
Neighbourhood Plan Working Group report to the Parish Council 27th October 2021
Work done so far.Pre-submission Consultation with Residents and Stakeholders.
This started as planned on 16th July and closed on 31st Aug.
Just over a hundred comments forms were received back in addition to other letters and emails, all of which have now been considered.
In the light of these the Pre-submission Plan is being updated and modified where appropriate.
When this is completed, it will be presented to the Parish Council for approval.
Following that it will be submitted to SSDC Planning Authority for their consideration.
Andy Keys-Toyer
25th October 2021
Update on Highway Works in South Somerset Area, Week Commencing the 25th of October 2021.
Good afternoon all.I am writing to update you on the latest progress of SCC highway works in the South Somerset Area, for the week commencing the 25th of October 2021.
For your information, I attach the planned programme of works. Works highlighted in red indicate that this is a new scheme introduced into the works programme. Dates highlighted in red indicate a change to the original dates that have previously been detailed.
Additional 'live' information can be found on our webpage by following the link, www.travelsomerset.co.uk.
Should you wish to discuss any particular scheme in more detail, please contact this office at your earliest convenience.
You may not be aware, but the recognised platform to view planned works on the highway is via One.Network. This website gives users a visual overview of present and future works, including road closures taking place within Somerset. The system also shows the advertised diversion route for road closures.
Users can search by town, road and date. It also provides other useful driver information. Automatic email alerts can be set up by users so you can receive daily or weekly alerts of new works in a user defined area. One.Network can be found at https://one.network/public and users accounts are free to create.
The weekly report I distribute focuses solely on SCC and SRA works. The One.Network platform provides a complete overview of all planned works, including those undertaken by third parties and utility companies.
Regards
Neil McWilliams
Highway Service Manager
Somerset County Council
South Somerset Area Highways Office
Mead Avenue
Houndstone Business Park
Yeovil
Somerset
BA22 8RT
23rd October 2021
Right of Ways Report October 21
Please find attached a copy of the latest Right of Ways report which will be discussed at the next Parish Council meeting.23rd October 2021
Making our streets safer for women and girls
Funding to help tackle violence against women and girls has been awarded to North Somerset Council and Somerset County Council.The neighbouring councils have made a successful joint bid to the Home Office Safer Streets Fund for £324,449.
The bid is an innovative and collaborative proposal by the two councils covering the whole Somerset policing area. It presents an opportunity to work together and achieve positive outcomes in tackling Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) crimes across the area.
The plan sets out a two-tiered approach involving:
Prevent - to change behaviour and stop incidents occurring such as VAWG education and awareness in schools, communications campaigns, research and engagement within communities, and
Protect - to strengthen the response where these incidents are prevalent, such as a safe haven scheme and enhancing the CCTV camera network and street lighting.
In assessing the joint bid the Safer Streets Fund Team commented: "We were impressed this bid effectively demonstrated analysis and drivers of the problems in your target area and identified a suitable response to tackling the issues, deliverable within the 2021/22 financial year.
"We look forward to working with you on this round of funding and believe it can make a real difference in tackling crime and helping individuals and communities to feel safe in public spaces."
"I believe the funding and work proposed will have a massively positive impact across the area and is a much-needed injection of cash in an area that has been long neglected and needs even more investment to make women and girls feel safer and better protected on our streets," said Cllr Mike Solomon, North Somerset Council's executive member for neighbourhoods and community services.
"This is predominantly about stopping these crimes happening at all through education in schools, multi-media communication campaigns and engaging with local communities, as well as making our public areas safer for women and girls by providing safe havens and improving street lighting."
Somerset County Council's cabinet member with responsibility for community safety, Cllr Clare Paul, said: "I would like to congratulate North Somerset Council and Somerset County Council on successfully securing round three of the joint bid and hope that the outcome from this work will help reduce VAWG and increase women and girls' safety in public places.
"With this work we want to understand and address the root causes of why women may not feel safe on the streets. We look forward to building an evidence base for what works on reducing VAWG crimes and improve local data on such crimes."
Avon and Somerset Police and Crime Commissioner Mark Shelford added: "Additional support to tackle Violence Against Women and Girls has never been so important. I am delighted to see Somerset and North Somerset being awarded Home Office Safer Streets funding.
"Collaboration and partnership working at local level is key as are clear steps and measurable actions for our organisations so transformation can happen. I am extremely supportive of the preventative programmes being undertaken within local schools, which seek to promote healthy relationships between young people.
"This preventative work is supported by increased surveillance in public spaces to make them safer for women and girls. Statutory agencies and organisations need to take responsibility to make public spaces safer for women and girls by implementing such preventative and protective strategies. I look forward to supporting the local authorities' work."
18th October 2021
Latest testing advice for Somerset residents
Somerset's Public Health leaders are advising people to retest if they are still displaying Covid-19 symptoms after receiving a negative PCR test result. The advice follows today's national announcement regarding the suspension of a laboratory processing Covid-19 PCR tests.In recent weeks there have been concerns around a number of people receiving negative PCR test results after they have previously tested positive on a Lateral Flow Device (LFD).
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), formerly Public Health England, today released a statement to announce that testing of PCR samples at Immensa Health Clinic Ltd in Wolverhampton has been suspended following NHS Test and Trace investigation.
UKHSA say that while investigations are underway into the precise cause, NHS Test and Trace estimate that around 400,000 samples have been processed through the lab since September. The vast majority of which will have been negative results, but an estimated 43,000 people may have been given incorrect negative PCR test results between 8 September and 12 October, mostly in the South West of England.
For those cases that were some time ago there is no need for further action.
NHS Test and Trace is however contacting the people who were tested more recently and could still be infectious to advise them to take another PCR test. Close contacts who are symptomatic will also be advised to take a PCR test in line with normal practice. Anyone with Covid-19 symptoms should book a PCR test. Those with a positive LFD test should also get a follow up PCR test to confirm they have Covid-19.
This has been confirmed as an isolated incident attributed to one laboratory and all samples taken after 12 October are now being redirected to other laboratories.
Professor Trudi Grant, Director of Public Health for Somerset County Council, said: "This is an unfortunate incident that will have affected a significant number of PCR test results across the South West. At present, we are being advised that NHS Test and Trace will be in touch with people that could still be infectious to advise them to take another test.
"However, if you are in any doubt at all about yourself or a loved one still displaying symptoms and tested before 13 October, please retest using either a home PCR testing kit or by getting a PCR test at one of the local testing sites."
Councillor Clare Paul, Cabinet Member for Education and Public Health, said: "People should feel reassured that there are no technical issues with the LFD or PCR test kits themselves and no issues at any testing sites; people should continue to test as normal. All other labs are working normally.
"Our advice remains, if you are showing any symptoms of Covid-19 or have a positive LFD test please stay at home and self-isolate for ten days to avoid infecting others and get a confirmatory PCR test within 48 hours."
If you will lose income by completing the self-isolation process or staying at home looking after a child who is self-isolating, you can apply for a support payment by visiting: Claiming financial support under the Test and Trace Support Payment scheme - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
UKHSA's full Statement can be viewed here: Testing at private lab suspended following NHS Test and Trace investigation - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
If you are concerned about how this might affect you or your family, please call the Somerset County Council Covid-19 support line on 0300 790 6275 or visit Get help (somerset.gov.uk).
18th October 2021
Highways Update Jan 21
Update on Highway Works in South Somerset Area, Week Commencing the 11th of October 2021.I am writing to update you on the latest progress of SCC highway works in the South Somerset Area, for the week commencing the 11th of October 2021.
For your information, I attach the planned programme of works. Works highlighted in red indicate that this is a new scheme introduced into the works programme. Dates highlighted in red indicate a change to the original dates that have previously been detailed.
Additional 'live' information can be found on our webpage by following the link, www.travelsomerset.co.uk.
Should you wish to discuss any particular scheme in more detail, please contact this office at your earliest convenience.
You may not be aware, but the recognised platform to view planned works on the highway is via One.Network. This website gives users a visual overview of present and future works, including road closures taking place within Somerset. The system also shows the advertised diversion route for road closures.
Users can search by town, road and date. It also provides other useful driver information. Automatic email alerts can be set up by users so you can receive daily or weekly alerts of new works in a user defined area. One.Network can be found at https://one.network/public and users accounts are free to create.
The weekly report I distribute focuses solely on SCC and SRA works. The One.Network platform provides a complete overview of all planned works, including those undertaken by third parties and utility companies.
Regards
Neil McWilliams
Highway Service Manager
Somerset County Council
South Somerset Area Highways Office
Mead Avenue
Houndstone Business Park
Yeovil
Somerset
BA22 8RT
11th October 2021
Bus Service
Somerset County Council has now published their Bus Service Improvement Plan for Somerset (the Somerset BSIP).It is still described as a draft but for it to have been made public, it must have the backing of both the officers at SCC Highways and Cllr John Woodman. the Cabinet Member for Transport at Somerset County Council.
It's a tough 100+ page read. It's certainly packed with lots of useful statistics and interesting analyses, but the important thing is whether it delivers an ambitious and practical improvement plan for our buses in Somerset. You can access it below
Very much welcome your thoughts.
It is being considered by the SCC Scrutiny Board on Tuesday October 12th at 10am - 2pm. You can join the meeting via Teams. Link on this page: https://www.somerset.gov.uk/how-the-council-works/joining-an-online-meeting/
Regards
Peter Travis
6th October 2021
Recycle More
Please find attached the sixth and final edition of the Recycle More Messenger, the regular briefings keeping you up to date with the roll-out of Recycle More which launched in South Somerset four months ago.Collections services have, thankfully, been getting back on track in recent weeks which has helped the service bed-in after the difficult initial weeks.
We now have some estimates of the difference Recycle More is making in your district – around 130 extra tonnes of recycling each week – a great achievement to be built on in the months to come.
We hope you have found these updates useful. Please make use of the SWP website for information and advice about waste reduction and recycling – practical steps we can all take to protect our environment and help tackle climate change.
Last year Somerset recycled and reused more than 137,000 tonnes of waste, saving 123,000 tonnes of carbon – the equivalent of taking 47,321 cars off the road for a year or planting 738,216 trees.
Nearly 98% of recycling stayed in the UK, including 99.4% of plastics we collected.
Best wishes,
Somerset Waste Partnership
4th October 2021
Vaccination Buddies
Vaccination Buddies are still here to help people to make informed decisions about their COVID-19 vaccination; they can even help Portuguese and Polish speakers!In Somerset, the majority of adults have now had both their Covid-19 jabs, but there are some people who don’t feel comfortable with the vaccination. Have you encountered people who have questions and concerns about the Covid-19 vaccine that you haven’t had the time or knowledge to answer? Or maybe you have some questions yourself? We can help!
Our team of Vaccination Buddy volunteers can offer 1-2-1 advice over the phone to anybody in Somerset who is worried about having the vaccine, or maybe their second jab.
Vaccination Buddies come from all walks of life and can speak a range of languages including Dutch, Portuguese, German, Polish, Italian and French. They have undergone full training from Public Health at Somerset County Council. They cannot however, offer medical advice.
You can request a phone call with a Vaccination Buddy VIA THIS FORM. (Referral forms also available in Polish and Portuguese. )We will then get in touch to arrange a suitable time.
Please print and share the attached posters in English, Portuguese and Polish. The further they go, the better!
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Best wishes,
Helen
Helen Fielden
Vaccination Buddy and Covid Community Champion Coordinator
T: 07535 800944
27th September 2021
Joint message from the Chief Executives of all five councils in Somerset
The five councils in Somerset have jointly responded today to the Government regarding their views on potential electoral arrangements for the proposed unitary council for Somerset.In July, the Secretary of State announced that the five existing councils in Somerset would be replaced by a single unitary council. As part of that process, he is reviewing the number of elected members and wards/divisions for the unitary council.
The approved business case proposed that, subject to involvement from the Local Government Boundary Commission for England (LGBCE), the unitary council would have 100 elected members in 100 single member wards/divisions, with a clear requirement that the Boundary Commission undertake a review in the first term of the unitary council to determine the future number of councillors.
The Secretary of State has subsequently asked the five councils to review the proposal and has asked for views regarding a lower number of members – potentially around 85 in total.
This is not a formal LGBCE Electoral Review, but in response to the Government's request, the Chief Executives of all five councils have been given an opportunity to provide views on potential electoral arrangements for the unitary council. They have assessed five options and provided opinions on them as can be seen here. Elected members of all of the existing five councils in Somerset have also had the opportunity to submit their views.
This is the Government's process and the Secretary of State will decide which proposal for the unitary council's electoral arrangements will be laid before Parliament in early 2022.
20th September 2021
THE QUEEN'S PLATINUM JUBILEE BEACONS - 2ND JUNE 2022
Due to the fact that this is likely to be the last chain of Beacons to be lit in the reign of Her Majesty The Queen, we would like to make it the largest and the most dramatic the world has ever seen, so your valuable assistance throughout Somerset in helping us achieve this would be extremely appreciated.I would be grateful therefore if you would kindly distribute the above at your earliest convenience please, to ensure those wishing to take part have plenty of time to make their plans.
My day to day liaison at Buckingham Palace for this aspect of the Jubilee is Caroline Creer. Please feel free to call her on 0207 930 4832 should feel it necessary, or call me at any time on 07737 262 913 from 8am through to 8pm Monday through to Saturday evening.
We do hope that you will be able to assist us with the above.
My warmest regards,
28th June 2021
Temporary road closure
Date Change - Temporary Road Closure: Coopers Ash Lane, Castle CaryPlease be aware that we have received notification of a date change to a temporary road closure at Coopers Ash Lane, Castle Cary for approximately 500 metres.
The new date for the works to commence is 7th April 2022 and is expected to last until 7th April 2022 between the hours of 09:30 - 15:30.
These works are for BT Openreach to carry out poling and tree cutting works, their works reference is ttro473906
The contractor has indicated that access for Emergency Services through the site is permitted on this occasion.
The link to view the new Notice is as follows: https://api-gb.one.network/downloads/tm/1111/06-notice-3-road-closures_127826632_3415859_818831a891.pdf
For any further information about this closure please contact Sunbelt Rentals on 0370 050 0792 quoting the above works reference number.
With regards,
Julie Bryant
The Road Closure Team
Contact Centre Tel: 0300 123 2224
Email: ttro@somerset.gov.uk
Traffic Management, Road Safety and Parking Services
Somerset County Council
County Hall
Taunton
Somerset
TA1 4DY
3rd March 2021
Police Neighbourhood Newsletter
Please find attached a copy of the March Newsletter from the Police Neighbourhood Team3rd March 2021
Thermal Imaging Camera
We have a great opportunity for the communities of Area East in South Somerset to have access to x2 thermal imaging cameras to help identify whether insulation and draught-proofing could be required for homes to help reduce energy bills and improve thermal comfort. These cameras are very user friendly as they directly attach to a smartphone/tablet. One camera is compatible for use with iOS (Apple iPhone or iPad) and the other for use with an Android smart phone or tablet.If you are interested then please contact
Alan on 07854480212
Karen on 07780 844485
3rd March 2021
Briefing Note
Please find attached the March Brief Note for March for you your councillors and residents.Kind regards,
Mike Lewis
1st March 2021
Local Government Association Model Member Code of Conduct
Code of Conduct21st June 2020