your

“This must not happen again.” Prime Minister, David Cameron, January 2014

Flood Special

‘ The flood in photos ‘ Page 11 Spring 2014 Mendip Your Council Tax Fostering explained Pages 4-5 Page 13 your somerset

Somerset County Council arrived in the flood-hit areas and brought with them much needed help and support. Without this, and their co-ordinated approach, we could not have continued to help as many people as we have. FLAG is grateful for the continuing support provided by the Council’s dedicated staff who have worked tirelessly alongside us. – Heather Venn, Chair Flooding on the Levels Action Group FLAG.

The clean up continues... Photo courtesy of Laura Zaky he big clean-up is well to help and give up so much of their time, got our roads repaired and open – done underway – and Somerset effort and donations. It has been everything we can to help residents. inspirational,” said Council Leader, County Council wants to thank “Next we want to look after those who have T John Osman. been hit so hard. That’s why Somerset was all those who have helped out in ‘ “It is also a time to look forward and not lose first to announce a Council Tax rebate, the unprecedented flooding‘ across any of that dedication and commitment, recognised and backed by the Prime large parts of the county. which is why we have made it our priority to Minister himself. help our residents. We have been overwhelmed by the support “We were there on day one of the flooding, “First we wanted to help people get back into setting up boat transport for flood-hit and generosity of individuals, families, their flood-hit homes as soon as possible. communities and working directly with businesses and communities from across That’s why we worked with our partners to volunteers on the ground. I can promise the country – and in some cases across provide free skips and made sure our fantastic that we will be the last to leave as the the globe. staff and volunteers had the supplies, clean-up continues – helping individuals, So, in this ‘ Your Somerset Flood Special’, equipment and transport – basically helping vulnerable people get the care we want to thank you all. everything they needed to get the job done. they need, helping wherever help is “It has been a remarkable effort, truly We’ve cleared up 1,000 tonnes of needed. That’s your Council’s commitment amazing to see how many people were willing sandbags, cleaned out more than 200 ditches, to Somerset.”

Look inside for your free Adult Learning Mini Guide. Page 10 02 News n Editor’s column Welcome to the e Celebrating our volunteers

Spring edition w of Your Somerset .

What a crazy couple of months! For s most of this winter Somerset has been in emergency mode, as more than 150 households dealt with the devastating j

effects of Mother Nature at her worst. u Although I was lucky not to be on the receiving end of some of the worst weather he recent flooding is just another example of the remarkable in a century (unless you count a leaky roof s resilience of Somerset’s residents. We’ve witnessed first-hand just that blew my electrics for a couple of days), how much of a difference the amazing work of volunteers can I did witness, first-hand, the tireless hard work t T of all the volunteers, councils and agencies make. So, with the 30th annual National Volunteers Week starting on involved. Sunday 1 June, what better time to celebrate the continued hard work i In the office where I work, a mini hub was and dedication of all of Somerset’s volunteers. set-up, which consisted of teams from n highways, civil contingencies, district council To celebrate National Volunteers Week and the fantastic contributions that volunteers staff and volunteers, who worked around the make across the county in a variety of ways, there will be a series of events taking clock for weeks, co-ordinating efforts to help . place in Somerset. To find out more, visit http://volunteersweek.org . people who were either stuck or evacuated . If you’ve ever thought about becoming a volunteer, here’s your chance! The Council

from their homes. . works with a number of charities and organisations who offer a variety of So, as the water recedes and the clear up opportunities. continues, it’s important to remember that it will be a long time before some residents get So, if you are unsure where to start and want to find out more about what’s going on any sort of normality back in their lives. Our in your area, or you are an organisation looking to promote volunteering centre spread gives a summary of the 20-year opportunities, why not contact your local volunteer centre? plan, and we’re looking for your feedback and insight into what needs to be done to try and • Engage : www.engagews.org.uk or phone (01643) 707123 . stop this from happening again in the future. • South Somerset Voluntary Sector Support: ssvca.org.uk or On a personal note, I’ve been overwhelmed phone (01935) 475914 . to see the lengths people have gone to help, and the generosity of the donations that are • Mendip and Sedgemoor Volunteer Centre: still coming in - it makes me feel very lucky www.mendipcommunitysupport.org.uk or phone (01749) 346830 to live here. or (01278) 457685 . Enjoy our flood special, which is dedicated to the all hard work of everyone involved. If you are interested in youth volunteering opportunities, visit the Somerset Volunteering Network website at www.somersetyouth.org.uk or phone Lauren Fellingham 0808 189 0888 . For volunteering opportunities in social care, Editor – Your Somerset visit www.somersetyoucando.it or phone (01278) 664180 . Psst... Your Somerset costs just 5p For information about volunteering opportunities with , visit per copy. www.somerset.gov.uk/volunteering or phone 0845 345 9166 . Or, to find out about more general volunteering opportunities in your area, visit www.do-it.org.uk . Editor’s Info To get in contact with Your Somerset or Flood Volunteer Workshops to advertise in this publication, contact Lauren Fellingham on (01823) 356722 , Somerset County Council is Open to any volunteers, the half-day email [email protected] offering help to the fantastic sessions will take place locally on or write to us at Your Somerset , Tuesday 8 and Tuesday 15 April. volunteers who have helped Somerset County Council, our communities through the “Our volunteers have helped us so FREEPOST NAT 9109, floods crisis. much, I really wanted to give County Hall, , TA1 4DY. something back and look forward to We gratefully acknowledge the support The Council’s Director of HR, Richard meeting as many volunteers as of organisations that advertise in Crouch, is hosting two half-day possible,” said Richard. Your Somerset , but Somerset County workshops to help volunteers use Council can accept no responsibility for the their experience of helping out to If you are interested and would like to products or services advertised. We advise improve their CVs and boost their job know more, phone (01823) 355777 or readers to make their own enquires before and career prospects. email [email protected]. purchasing products or services. News 03 First Adoption Activity Day news ollowing the success of a bold in brief... new scheme to improve Fadoption rates, Somerset Changes to County Council recently held its first Adoption Activity Day. the website Approved adopters had the opportunity to meet children who Somerset County are waiting to be adopted as they had fun and enjoyed a pirate- Council’s website has themed party. These activity days aim to improve the chance of a brand new look. finding a forever family for the children who have been waiting It’s now simpler to use for a long time to find parents, mainly children over five years and easier for you to old, siblings groups, twins, and children with disabilities. find just what you’re Adoption Activity Days have been successful in the US for looking for - especially many years. The first pilot project in Britain, run by the British if you’re using a mobile Association for Adoption and Fostering (BAAF), carried out five phone or tablet. activity days and helped nearly a fifth of the children, who have been in care the longest, to find a family. Our next job is to improve the information we offer Somerset has been working with BAAF to organise its first about our services, and to Adoption Activity Day, in partnership with Bristol, Bath and North increase the number of East Somerset, Gloucestershire, South Gloucestershire and North things you can do online. Somerset Councils, and in collaboration with local voluntary If you have feedback about adoption agencies. any part of our website, To find out more about Adoption in Somerset, visit then please let us know. www.adoptioninsomerset.org.uk or phone 0800 587 9900 . You can do this by using the feedback buttons on each page of the website.

Not for profit future Making life easier ollowing a major back into the service. This allows You can already pay it to make improvements and invoices issued by consultation into gives it more control over its Somerset County Fthe future of the future. Council through our ‘in-house’ Learning website or by phoning One of the main messages us during office hours. Disability Provider coming from the consultation, Service, plans are being which gathered views from the We’ve listened to those people who use and work in the of you who don’t have made to turn the service service, their carers and families, internet access and into a social enterprise is that they want a big say in what improved the service. partnership. happens next. This includes Now, with the introduction setting out exactly what the new of an automated organisation will look like and This is great news for the service telephone facility, you can as it will mean that it will be run in help to choose a partner. make payments over the partnership with a company that The Council is committed to specialises in this area. But unlike telephone at any time, day making this happen, and a launch a profit-making business, where or night, by following a event is planned for early May. the priority is to make money for few automated prompts. shareholders, social enterprises For more information, please visit (All payment options are re-invest all their profits directly www.somerset.gov.uk/LDInfo. displayed on invoices.) 04 Your Council Your Council Tax explained We’re all under pressure to make ends meet. Residents are struggling with high electricity, gas and water bills. Motorists face high fuel costs. And of course, our communities across Somerset have been hard hit by the flooding crisis.

ce Your Council understands this Pri – eze and that’s why your Council will freeze its Council Tax bill for a fifth year in a row. fre

Account Refere nce: 1234567890

m Char £42 geable Dwelling: £326m The Crescent ion 500 Tau Here’s truct nton Budget Cons Somerset Children in care TA1 1DY what you pay Property We have a budget of £326m to spend this Valuation Band: D year providing vital services to Somerset. Council T On top of that, we will also invest another ax Bill 2 014/15 £42m in building and construction projects % Change from previou to improve our county. Somerse s year t County Council £1,027.30 0% We build bridges, new roads, new schools, we look after more *Dis trict Council cont ribution £142.54 than 500 children in care, we repair roads and provide street Devon & 1% Somerset Fire lights, and give the most vulnerable people in society the best & £76.89 Rescue Authority 2% life we can. We do a huge amount of good work in Somerset. Police and Crime Com missioner: £171.37 *Paris 2% s you can see, the h Council £53.99 Council spends 3% more money on * Base A d on an average c ost Adult Services than any for District an d Parish Councils Here’s other area. This money in Somerset. Total £14 goes towards looking 72.09 after hundreds of elderly, w (Average ban h d D hous ere vulnerable and disabled ehold)

people, some with really the complex needs. Our help Adult and support in this area Services 40% is vital. m o C n ey

We spend over £100m every Children’s Services goe year supporting vulnerable Highwa ys, s 20% Transport and elderly people to live Oth e r and Waste a independently in their own Servic es Debt 16% 15% homes and helping people finaning

9% who can’t afford their own care. We spend over £60m every year helping adults with a variety of problems and disabilities. Your Council 05

We can give you the figures, but it’s the personal Heather* t ad acciden accounts of people living ved in a ro jury, r was invol a head in Heathe d sustained he here, in our county, which ars ago an abilities. S eight ye manent dis t r with per her doesn’ leaving he own. Heat really tell the story. es on her worker s 35 and liv so a care i ily nearby, , and a

ave any fam e morning h ready in th s her ps her get ularly, help hel its her reg d, who vis ndry.

frien ng and lau her shoppi with uch m to have m Mabel* r didn’t see worker athe are “ ced that He rned, the c and lives alone, orker noti an. Conce ind out Mabel, who is 86 , the care w en’t very cle she could f n Recently lothes wer et so that ped recently received a visit from a that her c and they m worker hel food in and cial worker her’s social lls occupational therapist and a care eather’s so onth, Heat that her bi contacted H r the next m account, so worker. Mabel wasn’t eating ing on. Ove pen a bank r to have hat was go chine and o for Heathe roperly, had taken a tumble w ashing ma arranged erself. p to buy a w it. She also online for h ling to get her direct deb groceries a coffee. and was strugg be paid by now order gularly for could so she can meet up re around the house, so they er lessons, d they now is much comput r friend, an d, Heather ut an assessment of her home and made a till sees he n her frien carried o Heather s so heavily o . of relying few simple changes But instead endent. more indep nged for her daughter to do her shopping online ed her to They arra orker help y meals to deliver. Her kitchen r’s social w n a and sorted out communit Heathe ne and ope ing was within ing machi was re-arranged, to make sure that everyth buy a wash tlery and a nt. easy reach, and they provided easy grip cu bank accou ation microwave. She was also forgetting to take her medic at the right times, so they provided an automatic pill dispenser, which her daughter would check and refill when needed. ds, They made sure her house was clear of any trip hazar Mr and ain Mrs Day* and arranged for a personal alarm, so if she did fall ag to her reduced Mr and Mr she could easily call for assistance. Due s Day have been m p and near arried for mobility, she was also having problems getting u ly 60 years and ha “ ve lived in the sam g. A personal care package was house for e dressed in the mornin the last 40 years. er first thing in the 89 Mrs Day, who is arranged for care workers to visit h , has been sufferi and ready. ng from some ph morning, at an agreed time, to help her get up health probl ysical ems and dementi

Mr Da a. y, 87, has been kee steps at the front of her house, which were n to look after his

The two large wife himself and, , were replaced with narrower despite their son’

stopping her getting out efforts, ha s best r in touch with the s refused any offe steps and a hand rail. They also put he rs of outside help.

inky Bus, so that she could get out to her local garden When Mrs Day fe Sl ll and broke her arm regularly go for a coffee and “ abou , hospital sta centre, where she used to t her poor physical ff were concerned state and contacte with friends. worker d a socia “ meet up realised that Mr Da l worker. The socia i y was struggling to l ncreasing needs an cope with his wife real difference to d carried out an ’s These small changes have made a hospital sta assessment. With t ndent ff and family mem he help of Mabel’s quality of life. Mabel is now safe, indepe from bers, Mr Day agree a care agency, and d to accept daily vi and able to go out without worrying, which is so regular respite st sits care home. Mrs ays were arranged , and stopped her from becoming isolated. Day was then safe in a nearby important some of to return home to the pressure was ta her husband and ken off him to prov ide all of her care.

They arranged for her daughter to do When Mrs her shopping online and sorted out Day fell and broke her arm, hospital community meals to deliver. staff were concerned. “ “(*Names have been changed to protect identities.) The budget special 2014/15

Mendip District Council YOUR

Running P LICING ([SHQVHV £52.5m POUNDS 3ROLFHDQG&ULPH&RPPLVVLRQHU6XH 0RXQWVWHYHQVKDVVHWDEDODQFHGEXGJHWIRU 3&62V £2012/13276m HQVXULQJWKHIURQWOLQHLVSURWHFWHGDQG £10.3m Police 2014/15£283m 2IÀFHUV LQFUHDVHVWRWKHSROLFLQJSDUWRIWKHFRXQFLOWD[DUH TotalTotal netnet £142.2m Police bbudgetudget PLQLPDO$EDQG'KRXVHZLOOSD\DQH[WUDS Staff SHUZHHNRU D\HDUIRUSROLFLQJ £56m Police Pensions £7m Community Safety Fund £2.6m Capital Funding Costs £4.2m 2IÀFHRIWKH3&& P

AandSPCC @AandSPCC visit www.avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk

Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Authority Mendip District Council’s share of has agreed a 1.99 per cent increase in its Council council tax is being frozen for the fifth Tax precept for 2014/15. The increase represents an increase of £1.50 for the year for a Band D year running. property, bringing the total charge to £76.89.

The Service is anticipating that it will have to make savings of more It is important to note that your council tax bill is than £10m over four years because of reductions in funding from made up of a number of different elements, including central Government. Somerset County Council, Police, Fire and Rescue and, where applicable, Parish, Town and City councils. Chairman of the Fire Authority, Cllr Mark Healey, said: “We have had the third worst settlement from Government of all the fire and rescue authorities in . We do not believe that the Help with your Council Tax Payments – Council Tax Support Government adequately takes into account the rural nature of our area when funding is allocated and we shall continue to challenge Mendip Councillors have kept the features of the scheme unchanged them on this issue.” for 2014-15. Chief Fire Officer, Lee Howell, said: “Despite the large geographical Council Tax Support is a means tested benefit to help people on a area we cover with a sparse population, we are among the most low income, whether they are working or not, to pay their Council cost effective fire and rescue services in the country, protecting Tax. more than 1.8m people.” Any benefit awarded will be credited to your Council Tax account, reducing the amount you owe. Unless you are in receipt of a Guarantee Pension Credit you cannot Somerset Waste get Council Tax Support if you have savings of £16,000 or more. Partnership Under the council's scheme the maximum help that working-age is a single team managing people can receive is 80 per cent of your liability, which means that recycling and waste services you have to pay at least 20 per cent yourself. for all Somerset local authorities, and reports to a joint board of councillors. Your district Changes in your Circumstance council funds kerbside recycling and refuse collections. The County Council funds recycling centres and waste disposal. In If you have applied or been awarded Council Tax Support and/or 2014, a new anaerobic digestion facility is taking all the household Housing Benefit you must tell us about any changes immediately. food waste collected in Somerset to generate clean green energy. Through partnership working, high recycling rates and campaigns For more information and advice, please look at the Council Tax to encourage waste prevention, costs for waste services are kept Support pages on the council’s website at www.mendip.gov.uk , low. For information on all services, advice on avoiding waste and phone 0300 303 8588 or visit your local Council Access Point. to sign up for a monthly e-newsletter, please visit www.somersetwaste.gov.uk. Important information about Council Tax Benefit (OHFWULF+HDWLQJIURP6XQÀRZ

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We can alter power ratings and sizing to requirement - whether you require one heater or suit virtually any room. want to examine options for the whole house. For your FREE brochure call our 24hr Brochure Line on: 0800 158 8270 Questions? Call Suzanne on 0800 158 8272 Reg. No.528940 Flooding – planning for the f# uture Cut out and return A welcome £22m is now Your Somerset breaks down the Plan into easily One thing is clear – the Plan is understood sections – starting with: agreed by government, by local authorities, by agencies in the pot to deliver How will the Plan work? Tell us what Secretary of State, Owen and by local groups and comprehensive flood Paterson, called for an urgent organisations – it has a huge action plan after visiting the backing. That backing will be Who asked for the Plan? prevention action Somerset Levels at the end of important in the future as you think... January. He wanted to see investigations are carried out Let us know what you think across Somerset. many different groups take into which bits of the Plan need part, and importantly he to be developed first and what about the Flood Action Plan wanted the public and will work best. There is a clear A 20-year plan, setting out what can be voluntary groups to have their commitment to keep the public by completing the following done in the short, medium and long- say too – and he wanted all of – and in particular those local term was co-ordinated by the County this within a challenging six- people who know and few questions. week deadline. understand the area best – Council and submitted to the Secretary involved and informed. of State, Owen Paterson, last month. 1. Do you live in an area in Somerset that is at risk of flooding? At the time, Council Leader, John Osman The Plan is not about stopping We are all grateful for the Yes / No said it was a hugely important Plan, all flooding. Instead it puts investment we have already seen forward proposals that will What about the money What’s the aim of the Plan? and been promised. Government agreed by agencies, local authorities reduce the frequency, the depth to make the Plan work? has pledged a total of £20.5m so 2. Would you be prepared to pay more to reduce and communities and voluntary groups: and the duration of flooding. It far – a significant chunk of the the risk of flooding in the area where you live? also gives ideas on how to stop money needed. Somerset “A big step forward, offering hope to our communities becoming cut-off – County Council has contributed a Yes / No like Muchelney and Thorney and flood hit communities,” he said. “There is further £1m – and there is more others. And it will work to help money from other agencies and much work to be done and in particular we residents and businesses groups – such as the Royal Bath 3. Would you be prepared to pay more to reduce need to work hard to ensure the necessary protect themselves in future. and West Society. It all adds up the risk of flooding elsewhere in the county? funding is in place over many years.” to more than £22m already – a tremendous start and money Yes / No that can start to be used straight away to try to ensure we don’t have the same levels of flooding 4. What do you think of the Flood Action Plan? in the future. ______

There are 12 key You can not only see it – ______elements including: www.somersetnewsroom.com/ flood-action-plan - you can also ______What’s in the Plan? Can I see the Plan? • A commitment to dredging take part and help to deliver stretches of the Rivers Parrett the Plan – more information ______and Tone. will be coming in the near ______future. • Building a barrage or sluice ______at Bridgwater.

• Setting up a local Please return this feedback form, free of charge, to Please use the feedback form Flood Plan Feedback, Communications, Somerset organisation to take once you have read the Plan County Council, Freepost NAT9109, County Hall, responsibility for – it is free to reply. We really maintenance and water want your help to make this Taunton, TA1 4DY. management. Plan work for Somerset. To find out more about the Flood Plan, visit www.somersetnewsroom.com/flood-action-plan. www.learnsomerset.co.uk When was the last time you did something for the first time? It’s Adult Learners’ Week from the 14 to the 20 June, but you don’t have to across the whole of Somerset, or call 0845 688 0488 and talk to one of our wait until then to get involved. Somerset Skills & Learning has got a summer advisors. Make this summer extra special. programme of courses and workshops to help you get on with your career, take up a hobby, improve yourself or get fit. Below are the opportunities We also have a wide selection of programmes for young people, aged 16 to available in your area. 18. See our latest 16 – 18 Prospectus for the range of opportunities as an Go to www.learnsomerset.co.uk/im-looking-for-a-course to get a more alternative to staying at school, or email [email protected] to detailed information sheet and find out what opportunities are available find out more.

Day Time Start Cost Conc. Weeks Venue Code Acrylics Workshop - First Steps Sat 10:00 - 16:30 14-Jun-14 £33.00 £33.00 1 Frome - Bath Road NAB13FRF14 Discovering Acrylics Mon 10:00 - 13:00 16-Jun-14 £15.00 £15.00 1 Wells - Portway NAB13WLA38 Discovering Pastels Mon 10:00 - 13:00 14-Jul-14 £15.00 £15.00 1 Wells - Portway NAB13WLA40 Drawing Animals Thu 10:00 - 13:00 10-Jul-14 £15.00 £15.00 1 Wells - Portway NAB13WLD27 Drawing Dragons Tue 18:00 - 21:00 20-May-14 £15.00 £15.00 1 Wells - Portway NAB13WLB31 Drawing For Beginners Mon 10:00 - 13:00 12-May-14 £15.00 £15.00 1 Wells - Portway NAB13WLA37 Felt Making Sat 10:00 - 16:30 17-May-14 £33.00 £33.00 1 Frome - Bath Road NAB13FRF10 How To Create And Draw Humour Tue 18:30 - 20:30 3-Jun-14 £20.00 £20.00 2 Wells - Portway NAB13WLB32 Arts & Crafts Oil Painting For All Abilities Various days and times available, contact us for details Frome - Bath Road Painting And Drawing Mon 10:00 - 12:00 12-May-14 £58.00 £31.00 6 Doulting - Village Hall NAB13FRA11 Painting Watercolour Portraits Thu 10:00 - 15:00 12-Jun-14 £25.00 £25.00 1 Wells - Portway NAB13WLD22 Piano For All Abilities Tue 19:00 - 21:00 29-Apr-14 £97.00 £51.00 10 Wells - The Blue School NAB13WLB10 Screen Printing For Beginners Tue 19:00 - 21:00 22-Apr-14 £53.00 £30.00 5 Frome - Bath Road NAB13FRB15 Spinning, Weaving And Dyeing Fri Various 25-Apr-14 £49.00 £26.00 5 Wells - Portway The Somerset Art Project Various days and times available £61.00 £32.00 5 Glastonbury, Wells Watercolour For All Abilities Thu 13:30 - 15:30 5-Jun-14 £49.00 £26.00 5 Frome - Bath Road NAB13FRD14 Computer Skills to Manage Your Life Friday 13:00 - 15:00 25-Apr-14 FREE FREE 2 Wells - Portway NAL13WLE14 Computing for the Curious and Terrified Friday 13:00 - 15:00 09-May-14 £30.00 £15.00 3 Wells - Portway NAL13WLE15 Computing & ECDL Essentials (QCF) Thu 09:30 - 12:30 24-Apr-14 £262.00 £0.00 12 Frome - Bath Road NFL13FRD16 IAB Level 1 Award In Bookkeeping Tue 12:00 - 15:00 22-Apr-14 £226.00 £0.00 13 Frome - Bath Road NFL13FRB14 Business Skills IAB Level 1 Award In Fri 10:00 - 12:30 25-Apr-14 £175.00 £0.00 12 Frome - Bath Road NFL13FRE07 Computerised Bookkeeping Introduction to Computers Friday 13:00 - 15:00 06-Jun-14 £50.00 £25.00 5 Wells - Portway NAL13WLE16 English & Maths Functional Skills - English Various days and times available FREE FREE 23 Frome, Wells Functional Skills - Maths Various days and times available FREE FREE 34 Frome - Bath Road Fitness Pilates The Gentle Way Wed 18:00 - 19:00 23-Apr-14 £56.00 £28.00 12 Frome - Bath Road NAQ13FRC03 Pilates - All Abilities Various days and times available £52.00 £26.00 11 Frome, Glastonbury, Wells Exercise, Health Tai Chi Qigong - Beginners Tue 11:15 - 12:15 22-Apr-14 £56.00 £28.00 12 Wells - Portway NAQ13WLB07 & Wellbeing Tai Chi Qigong - Experienced Tue 09:30 - 10:45 22-Apr-14 £70.00 £35.00 12 Wells - Portway NAQ13WLB04 Yoga - Iyengar Thu 09:30 - 11:00 24-Apr-14 £84.00 £42.00 12 Wells - Portway NAQ13WLD03 Yoga For Health And Wellbeing - Improvers Tue 10:00 - 11:30 22-Apr-14 £84.00 £42.00 12 Frome - Bath Road NAQ13FRB07 Exercise to Music - Thu 18:30 - 21:00 24-Apr-14 £550.00 £0.00 32 Frome - Bath Road NFQ13FRD01 Fitness, Exercise & Instructor Certificate Level 2 Leisure Qualifications Fitness Gym - Instructor Certificate Level 2 Thu 18:30 - 21:00 24-Apr-14 £550.00 £0.00 32 Frome - Bath Road NFQ13FRD02 Plus a range of online fitness and exercise qualifications and CPD modules, enquire for details. Children & Young People's Workforce - Level 2 Certificate and Level 3 Diploma Dental Care Diploma Level 3 Health & Social Care (Adults) - Level 2 and 3 Diploma CHS13HOC15 Start anytime, various venues Health Social Care Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care - Level 1 and 2 Certificate Leadership for Children & Young People's Workforce (Early Years) - Level 5 Diploma across Somerset. CHS13HOC63 & Childcare Learning & Development - Level 3 Certificate and Level 4 Diploma Specialist Support for Teaching in Schools - Level 3 Diploma Call 0845 688 0488 for details CHS13HOC68 Supervisory Management - Level 3 CHS13HOC20 Support Work in Schools - SWIS - Level 2 Award CHS13HOC66

Hospitality & Catering Principles - Level 1, 2 and 3 Hospitality & Supervision Leadership Principles Level 3 Start anytime, various venues Hospitality & Catering Hospitality Services QCF Level 2 Principles of Hospitality Management Level 4 across Somerset. Call 0845 688 0488 for details Professional Cookery QCF Level 2 and 3 Business Improvement Techniques - Level 2 Certificate CHS13HOC55 Engineering and Manufacture - Level 1 Certificate Start anytime, various venues CHS13HOC57 Industry Industrial Environment Awareness - Level 2 Award CHS13HOC54 Public Services Operational Delivery - Level 2 Diploma across Somerset. Call 0845 688 0488 for details CHS13HOC09 British Sign Language Sat 10:00 - 16:00 14-Jun-14 £30.00 £30.00 1 Wells - Portway NAM13WLF06 Taster Workshop Italian - Holiday Italian Mon 13:00 - 15:00 30-Jun-14 £37.00 £19.00 4 Wells - Portway NAM13WLA36 Italian Conversation Revision Mon 18:30 - 20:30 28-Apr-14 £60.00 £30.00 5 Wells - Portway NAM13WLA35 Languages, Literature Spanish Taster Course Sat 09:00 - 12:00 17-May-14 £30.00 £30.00 2 Wells - Portway NAM13WLF05 & Communication The Flood 11 The story in photos With no reprieve from the constant onslaught of winter storms, on Friday 24 January Somerset County Council called a major incident in Somerset.

The ba ttle wi to p th the e rotect f lemen The s urther ts begi torms h the e commu ns lea it Some ffects o nities ving wh rset, f the ri from ole com sing tid munities es. cut off.

Environ ment A gency pumps. The b T oat to M he Prime Minis uchelne ter, David Came y organ meets with S ron ised by omerset Coun and locSomerse ty Council al agencty C loeuadnet yrs C aonudn pciromise that ‘mone l. s y is no object’. ous d a gener al visit an f A roy e Prince o n from th donatio Fund. untryside Wales Co

arles to Prince Ch cil invited efore unty Coun lunteers b merset Co o meet vo So eception t ies. a special r communit David Cam attend flood-hit eron at Gold Com siting the mand in Taunton. vi

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P Local agencies, volunteer groups and the military The big clean up begins… rally to help the residents in the flood-hit areas.

If you would like to make a donation to the relief fund, administered by the Somerset Community Foundation, visit www.somersetcf.org.uk or phone (01749) 344949. ?? Road Saftey 12 Fostering 13

In it for the long-term

Some children come into foster care when they are a bit older and may need to

remain in care for the rest of their childhood. This may be because adoption is not a possibility and they cannot return to their birth family. This is when long- term foster carers are needed. ‘ Long-term f ‘ oster carers differen can make a ce to a child lasting fami ’s life by gi ly home the ving them t t y need. Th he stable raining and e carers rece support an ive ongoin “We cho cover th d a fosterin g se long-ter e costs of lo g allowanc want m foster c oking after e to the placem are as we d a child. d ents to be idn’t idn’t want too short too much d and we the time isruption a . We now h nd change Heat ave a nine all her living w -year-old g ad ith us, and irl called dition to o she is a wo ur family. I t nderful with us un is likely tha til she is 18 t she will st Althou and ready t ay gh this was o leave hom sta n’t what we e. rted, we ar envisioned e very happ when we y to have he “There r in our live are challeng s. kind es, and it is of parentin definitely a r g – the Con different eally helped scious Pare me to adj nting traini Sarah, w different ust my mind ng ith the h ly. The chan set to pare t elp of h bee ge I have s nt eenage er husba n amazing. een in Hea children nd and When she f ther has , is a long she could b irst came to -term fo arely read a live with us “ ster care down to nd now she We had t r. play on the can – she s hought ab the s Wii and re its adoptio out foster creen – it’s ads instruct n for a wh ing and d an amazing ions off year ile and ab evelop. Wh feeling to s s ago we out two en she first ee her decided th very ner came to li right. Our at the tim vous and ca ve with us s children w e was push utious, but he was had a s ere a bit o the bound now she is pare room lder, we aries and s starting to off and we f how her tru er a child l elt we cou “I would e persona ove and s ld recommen lity. taken a fe tability. We anyo d fostering w young p had ne who has to wing in eople und t space, tim the last f er our o give to a e and love a d ew years a child. But I ifference a nd seen w whole fa do believe bit of sup hat mily needs the stability c port and has to be invol an make t changed al ved as it We fe o their live l our lives. T lt we could s. own childre hankfully m to do more n have bee y apply to fo and decid support n very ster. ed ive and enjo youn y having a ger sister.”

National Foster Care Fortnight is coming up in May (12-25). Check our website to find out what we are planning for the fortnight, how you can get involved and local information events.

Find out more about this type of fostering and other opportunities, visit www.fosteringinsomerset.org.uk or phone Follow ‘Fostering in Somerset’ on facebook and twitter. ‘‘ 0800 587 9900. ?? 14 SWP

Award w inning pr oducts

Proudly supporting

Reuse Shop success Hammond’s County Hampers The Reuse Shop at Taunton's Priorswood A True Taste of Somerset Recycling Centre is proving a big hit. A hamper is the perfect gift for any occasion. All our products are made in Somerset by award-winning producers and our willow People dropping off recycling and refuse have popped in to baskets are from the Somerset Levels. We are proud to support pick up thousands of bargains since the start of its trial last Somerset Wildlife Trust, including their membership information year. in every hamper sold or donated. Tailor your hamper By diverting discarded items from landfill or recycling, the to suit by choosing the items you wish to include. Order online, Reuse Shop is finding a second life for books, bikes, toys and by email or by phone. Corporate deals available. games, sports equipment, crockery, cutlery, CDs and DVDs, www.hammondscountyhampers.co.uk Tel: 01935 410352 musical instruments, furniture and much more. E-mail: [email protected] And, on special promotional days, many shoppers have also enjoyed a free book, complimentary picture frame or even a bicycle for £2 with other purchases.

Among the latest family fun bargains have been roller blades, golf clubs, bowling balls, angling equipment and squash, tennis and badminton rackets.

If you’re visiting Taunton Recycling Centre, stop on the lower level before you leave and have a quick browse among the bargains at the Reuse Shop.

Check Somerset Waste Partnership's Facebook page or website for pictures of great items ready for reuse, as well as useful advice on how to reduce waste through reuse at www.somersetwaste.gov.uk.

Somerset Waste Partnership is a single team managing recycling and waste services for all Somerset local authorities, and reports to a joint board of councillors. Your district council funds kerbside recycling and refuse collections. The County Council funds recycling centres and waste disposal. In 2014, a new anaerobic digestion facility is taking all the household food waste collected in Somerset to generate clean green energy. Through partnership working, high recycling rates and campaigns to encourage waste prevention, costs for waste services are kept low. For information on all services, advice on avoiding waste and to sign up for a monthly e-newsletter, visit www.somersetwaste.gov.uk. Public Notice 15 Public Notice Contact us Spring 2014 Important information for parents and carers about school Somerset County Council, County Hall, Taunton, Somerset TA1 4DY and academy admission arrangements from September 2015. School admissions policy, governing the arrangements for all General Enquiries Service 0845 345 9166 Council Information and Enquiries. children who are due to start, transfer or move schools for the 2015-16 school year, will be set from 15 April. The admission You can find many of our services on our website at www.somerset.gov.uk arrangements apply to all local authority schools and include or you can email us at [email protected] the arrangements for some academies, voluntary aided and foundation schools. Adult Social Care 0845 345 9133 Social care assessments for older people, people with disabilities and other For a copy of the admission arrangements, visit adults with care needs, promoting independence, self-directed care and support, www.somerset.gov.uk/admissions or phone (01823) 356146 . carer support, mobility, benefits, Blue Badge, housing related support. Any objections to this policy must be made to the Schools Children & Learning 0845 345 9122 Adjudicator by 30 June. For more information about how to raise Support and social care for children, education, including preschool, playgroups an objection, visit www.education.gov.uk/schoolsadjudicator and nurseries, support for children with special educational needs, youth service, or phone (01325) 735303 . Youth Offending Team, families and children looked after.

Culture & Heritage 0845 345 9144 Architecture and historic heritage, museums, arts, archives and records.

Economy & Community 0845 345 9188 Biodiversity, Quantock and Mendip AONB, sustainable development, economic development, household waste recycling centres, minerals and waste planning, emergency planning, Trading Standards, farm animal health and welfare, scientific services, gypsy and traveller service.

S Fostering & Adoption Enquiries 0800 587 9900 chool Te rm D Library Service 0845 345 9177 2013-1 ate 4 acad s Libraries general information, renewal and requesting of library items, mobile emic library service. Term 5 year 22 A Term pril - 2 6 2 3 May Registration Services 0845 345 9144 June 2014 - 22 Ju Registration of births and deaths, civil ceremonies, marriage and partnership, ly 2014 2014- citizenship, baby naming, renewal of vows, copy certificates. 15 aca demic year Roads & Transport 0845 345 9155 Term 1 1 Sep Walking, riding and cycling. Report a problem on the highway, roadworks, local Term tembe 2 3 N r - 24 transport planning, rights of way, bus timetables, school travel, student travel, Term ovem Octob 3 5 ber - 1 er 201 Te Janua 9 Dece 4 concessionary bus pass, community/social care transport, existing school travel rm 4 ry - 13 mber 23 Fe Febru 2014 arrangements. Term 5 bruary ary 201 13 A - 27 M 5 Term pril - 2 arch 20 6 1 2 May 15 Somerset Road Safety (01823) 423430 June - 2015 20 July 2015 Somerset Skills & Learning 0845 688 0488

Other useful numbers Talons & Tiaras: Street light faults 0845 601 0939 (Lines are open Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm. New Costume Exhibition For emergency out-of-hours 07920 138778) Saturday 15 March – Student Finance Direct (Higher Education Students only) 0845 607 7577 Saturday 10 May, 10am-5pm Citizens Advice Bureau Consumer Helpline 08454 04 05 06 Designer and textile artist, Kate Plumtree, is currently exhibiting her latest collection of dresses, District Council contacts p e

inspired by British birds and e k Sedgemoor 0845 408 2540 Taunton Deane (01823) 356356 d

vintage glamour. ‘Talons & Tiaras’ n

www.sedgemoor.gov.uk www.tauntondeane.gov.uk a

is a sequel collection of couture t [email protected] [email protected] u o

evening wear consisting of t u 14 contemporary couture evening West Somerset (01643) 703704 Mendip (0300) 303 8588 C www.westsomersetonline.gov.uk www.mendip.gov.uk # dresses with headdresses. [email protected] [email protected] Location: Museum of Somerset, Taunton. Cost: Free . South Somerset (01935) 462462 www.southsomerset.gov.uk For more information, WWW.SOMERSET.GOV.UK [email protected] phone (01823) 255088 or visit www.somerset.gov.uk/museums . ?1? 6 Events Events at the Museum Events on the Quantocks

Easter Egg Hunt Quantock Hike Saturday 5 April – Saturday 26 April Saturday 3 May – 10am (4-5hrs) Get down to the Museum of Somerset for some A day’s walk across the hills taking in Easter fun. Cost: £1 per child . some of the beautiful landscape, hill forts and learning a bit about how this Talk and Tea area of outstanding natural beauty is Friday 11 April – 2.30pm-3.30pm managed. Dogs on leads are welcome. Enjoy a talk by Steve Minnitt on Roman Please bring a lunch and refreshments. Treasures in the Museum of Somerset, Booking is essential. Location: TBC. followed by tea and cake. Cost: £5. To book, visit www.quantockhills.com. Fantastic Flowers Wildlife Safari Wednesday 16 April, 10.30am & 1.30pm (1.5hrs) Tuesday 27 May – 10am (4hrs) Learn about pollination, dissect a real flower Join AONB Rangers, Owen and and make a paper one to take home. Rebekah, in the woods and spend a few For children aged 7-12. Booking is essential. hours learning how to track animals, identify their droppings and maybe Toddler Explorers - Funky Footprints! even spot a woodmouse. Enjoy a spud Friday 2 May, 10.30-11.30 & 1.30pm (1hrs) for lunch cooked over the fire. Location: Discover through play and active exploring for children aged 1-3. Hill. All children must be Booking is advisable. Cost: £2. accompanied by an adult. Booking is Talk and Tea essential. To book, visit Friday 9 May – 2.30pm-3.30pm www.quantockhills.com. Enjoy a talk by Richard Brunning on ‘Lost Islands of Somerset’, Butterfly and Moth Hunt followed by tea and cake. Cost: £5 . June (Date to be confirmed) (2hrs) Spend a few hours hunting for All events take place at the Museum of Somerset in Taunton. butterflies, learning how to safely catch For more information, phone (01823) 255088 or visit them and try and identify them. www.somerset.gov.uk/museums . Location: Fyne Court. To book, visit www.quantockhills.com . Nightjar walk June/July (Date to be confirmed) (2-3hrs) An evening walk in Great Wood, listening for the distinctive churring call of the Nightjar. Ranger, Andy Harris, explains about the mythology and superstition that surrounds this mysterious bird. Bring warm / waterproof clothing, sturdy footwear, refreshments and a torch. Location: Cockercombe Forest Office. To book, visit www.quantockhills.com . Wildflower Wander Scooters to suit all July (Date to be confirmed) requirements Enjoy a summer walk and to learn to identify wildflowers. Location: “a family run business” Durborough Farm. To book, visit www.quantockhills.com . CALL IN AND SEE MOBILITY THE FULL RANGE ... Jurassic Coast Fossil Walk Full after sales service for AIDS July (Date to be confirmed) (3hrs) your peace of mind 146 High Street Second-Hand & Hire Scooters Available STREET, BA16 0ER Join Geology expert Dr Andy King and find out more about our SALES · SERVICE · REPAIRS 01458 448355 own really special bit of Jurassic coast. Bring sturdy footwear and Unit 5 Palace Courtyard refreshment as its a lovely place for a picnic. Location: Kilve Car Stairlifts Priory Road Park (Pay and display). To book, visit www.quantockhills.com . STAY MOBILE IN WELLS, BA5 1SY YOUR OWN HOME 01458 675599 Full range of Bath Aids , Rise & 20 Westway Shopping Recline Chairs, Grab Rails, Centre Please check the website for all and Walking Sticks FROME, BA11 1BS the latest information. Call in and discuss your personal requirements 01373 464373 with our friendley and professional team www.mendipmobility.co.uk

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