The Chairman will give an update on outcomes and actions arising from previous meetings of the Area Board.
Minutes:
The Chairman gave the following updates:
Cost of living
Wiltshire Council continued to provide support to struggling households in response to the cost-of-living challenges. Despite a drop in inflation and energy costs, prices continue to rise and remained a cause for concern for many residents. The Household Support Fund administered by the council would be used to provide support to the most in need to combat food and energy poverty.
Charities and community groups would also continue to play a key role and had been successful in bidding for funds from the scheme, enabling them to deliver support to the homeless, older people and those facing domestic violence. Council libraries would again provide a focal point for guidance and support, as well as a warm space and free warm packs. Local support was available through Wiltshire Councils interactive guide accessible through the council website.
The Area Board continued to provide local guidance and support in collaboration with its community partners. There were seven warm spaces operating in the area, and the Longhedge Community Pantry, supported by Area Board funding, was thriving and providing much needed support, helping to reduce food waste and help with climate change.
Following challenges over the summer, the councils FUEL scheme would again be running over the festive period, offering fun activities, healthy meals and education for eligible children.
All Together Website
Wiltshire Council, along with health partners, police, and community groups, had recently launched the All Together website, a comprehensive resource hub for children, young people, and families. This initiative precedes the Family Hubs model, set to roll out in April, providing support for children up to 18 years old and up to 25 years old for those with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities.
Dementia Support
Following discussions from previous meetings, the Area Board was seeking to strengthen dementia support across southern Wiltshire by exploring the adoption of the neighbourhood collaboratives model, bringing health, care and other community partners together and provide a more strategic approach. A meeting with Claire Scudamore from the ICB had provided insights. Plans were underway for a readiness review meeting in the new year.
Climate Emergency
The council had also recently published a Climate Emergency Update outlining progress toward becoming carbon neutral by 2030. Initiatives included energy-efficient measures in homes, increased funding for cycle and footpaths, and upgrades to the EV charging network. The council would engage with the Area Board to offer guidance and support for local initiatives.
Highways Matters Event
The next Area Board meeting on 22 February 2024 will be a "Highways Matters" event. This would be an opportunity to meet with the highways team, community road safety team, and others to ask questions and raise concerns. Written questions before the event were encouraged to ensure appropriate responses.
Area Board Volunteer Event
Additionally, the Area Board was planning a volunteer event next spring to showcase the work of community partners and encourage volunteering. More details to follow.
Celebration of Culture Event
A finally, Longford and Alderbury primary schools will be holding a celebration of culture event on the 11 June.
Area Board Facebook Page
For updates on all Area Board matters, please check out the new, dedicated Area Board page on Facebook for the latest news on events and highlights.