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News roundup
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Somerset Council has voted through plans to set a balanced budget for the coming financial year, but received a stark warning of significant challenges in the years ahead.
Described as a “budget to avoid a S114 notice”, Members agreed to a range of measures to bridge a funding gap of £100m for 2024/25, including significant savings, increasing Council Tax by 5%, and using reserves (a council’s equivalent of savings).
Somerset Council and First Bus South which operates Buses of Somerset have reached an agreement to ensure four routes in the county can continue to run for another year.
The four services, 58, 54, 28, and 25 were at risk of being stopped or reduced due to low passenger numbers. Last autumn, Somerset Council stepped in with Government money to keep the routes running and launched a campaign to drive up passenger numbers.
 Leading a healthy life in Somerset has just got a little easier – thanks to a new website launched by Somerset Council’s Public Health Team.
The new site – healthysomerset.co.uk – is easy to use and features health and wellbeing resources tailored to all age ranges – making it even easier for users to find the information and support they are looking for.
Free resources include everything from nutrition tips to mental health support and information on maintaining good health.
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The NHS App is a simple and secure way to access a range of NHS services and information on your smartphone or tablet. Millions of people are already using the NHS App to manage their health the easy way from the comfort of their homes.
Whether viewing your GP health record, ordering repeat prescriptions, or nominating your preferred pharmacy – the NHS App hosts a range of features that make it easier to access NHS services and information.
Start using the App today. For more information, including how to download the NHS App, visit nhs.uk/nhsapp.
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Image courtesy of NHS
Struggling with feelings of depression, excessive worry, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress or obsessions and compulsions?
NHS Talking Therapies can help. The service is effective, confidential and free.
Your GP can refer you or refer yourself at nhs.uk/talk.
Did you know support with your childcare costs might be available for your family?
You can use your entitlements flexibly with a range of childcare providers, including nurseries and childminders.
Spend less on childcare and see what government support you could be eligible for at childcarechoices.gov.uk.
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 Nobody is immune from fraud. The criminals behind it target people online and in their homes, often emotionally manipulating their victims before they steal money or personal data.
The Government’s new ‘Stop! Think Fraud’ campaign aims to raise awareness to spot the signs of fraud before it is too late. By staying vigilant and always taking a moment to stop, think and check whenever we’re approached, we can help to protect ourselves and each other from fraud.
Credit: Matilda Temperley
‘Under the Surface’ is an exhibition of photographs by renowned Somerset-based photographer Matilda Temperley, reflecting on 10 years since the devastating floods of 2013-14.
It is on display at Somerset Rural Life Museum, Glastonbury from Saturday 2 March to Sunday 19 May.
The exhibition will feature photographs from her sold out publication ‘Under the Surface: Somerset Floods’, alongside previously unpublished colour photographs taken during that winter.
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Somerset Council’s Severe Weather Emergency Provision (SWEP) is active in some areas of Somerset.
During this period of severe weather, the Council is seeking to provide emergency accommodation for rough sleepers to prevent harm or death due to the severe weather.
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Somerset Libraries are being cited as examples of excellence nationally in an independent review of English Public Libraries carried out by Baroness Sanderson.
This review features six examples and case studies from Somerset, covering community libraries, health initiatives, digital innovation, thermal camera loans and comment from customers and frontline staff alike.
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To make visitors and residents trips’ to Burnham-on-Sea, Brean and Berrow beaches and Apex Park even more enjoyable, Somerset Council is calling for businesses to trade on or near the beach or park.
The Council is in the process of inviting offers for a range of beach and park concessions for the forthcoming season.
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