Friday 29 August 2025
 Devon launches new wave of funded training to power the region’s future
We have officially launched the sixth year of our flagship Train4Tomorrow Skills Bootcamps programme, offering over 2,000 adults in the region a unique opportunity to upskill or retrain for in-demand jobs.
 Photo: Terry Whittaker/Devon Wildlife Trust
As part of the Two Moors Pine Marten Project, 15 pine martens were released into eastern Dartmoor last September, with the reintroduced animals dispersing across South Devon, including the Haldon Forest area.
 Join the conversation about Devon's future
We've been to Bideford and Axminster this week talking to members of the public about the government's plans to reorganise local government structures.
The government wants to abolish County and District Councils, and instead have single unitary councils, some of them led by Mayors.
People we’ve spoken to this week have been concerned that local government reorganisation could weaken democracy and leave communities feeling unheard. In Bideford, there was a feeling that Northern Devon is underfunded compared to Exeter and South Devon. People said that they want to be properly represented in decision-making.
We're asking the opinions of people right across Devon to help inform the proposal that we will submit to government in November. Ultimately, it will be the government's choice about what local government structure it sees fit.
Next week we're in Sidmouth Library on Wednesday 3 September, 12pm until 2pm; and in Exmouth Library on Thursday 4 September, 12pm until 2pm.
Come along to learn more about what the changes could mean for your community, share your views in our quick survey and meet your local representatives and ask questions.
Devon County Councillors will be discussing a new strategic plan for the council next week - a draft plan that sets out its vision and intended priorities between now and 2029. Foremost among them is ensuring that children are safe from harm and neglect; amplifying the voice of children and young people; reducing inequality in education outcomes; improving school readiness and early years development; and reducing child poverty.
Councillors will also be considering a number of Notices of Motion presented by councillors for debate.
 Back to school guide!
With August fast disappearing, many will be thinking ahead to the start of the new school term. We have published a special edition of the Connect Me newsletter with tips and advice about the return to school, packed with useful information and practical advice, from school transport options to support with childcare costs, to help you get ready for the term ahead.
We also published the August edition of the SEND Partnership newsletter earlier this week, with information and news of interest to parents and carers of children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities.
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