Friday 13 February 2026
Some good news this week. The Government has announced that it will fund 90 per cent of local authorities’ historic Special Educational Needs and Disabilities deficits. We say that it's a significant step forward for children, young people and families, and will help stabilise SEND finances, allowing more of Devon’s own resources to be directed into improving support and outcomes for children.
The government also announced its final local government funding settlement this week, which continues a long-term shift away from national funding to place increasing reliance on Council Tax to pay for essential local services.
“This settlement leans heavily on Council Tax, particularly for counties like Devon," said Councillor James Buczkowski, Cabinet Member for Finance.
Education leaders and national experts have brought renewed focus to strengthening inclusion and improving support for children and young people across Devon. The Building Belonging: Devon Inclusion Conference 2026 convened school and trust leaders, practitioners, local services and national partners to shape shared approaches to inclusive practice.
It's been Children’s Mental Health Week this week, which is an annual campaign to shine a spotlight on the importance of supporting children and young people’s mental wellbeing. Here's a reminder of some of the help and support available to young people in Devon.
Residents are being called on to make their voices heard as the major public consultation on the future of the county’s 50 libraries enters its final week. The consultation, which closes on Sunday, 22 February 2026, has so far received more than 17,000 responses – and every view will be reviewed, considered, and will help shape the future of local library services.
In a powerful demonstration of regional collaboration, Council Leaders and Directors of Public Health from every local authority in the South West have united to demand the immediate passage of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill.
 Cabinet asked to consider daily pressures facing rural Devon communities
Our Cabinet is being asked to consider the growing range of pressures that people in rural and coastal communities face every day. Next week, our Cabinet will be looking at a report that highlights the impact that rising living costs and declining local services are having on rural communities.
A major home‑improvement scheme has helped hundreds of Devon residents cut their energy bills and make their homes warmer, greener and more efficient.
Show your heart some love this Valentine’s Day by taking a moment to check your blood pressure. Blood pressure is an important measure of how well your heart is working to pump blood around your body. If it stays too high for too long, it can lead to health problems - but the good news is that it’s easy to keep an eye on.
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