Implementing universal kerbside collections for waste batteries and electricals across the UK could save £6bn over the next decade by increasing recycling and avoiding the costs associated with waste fires.

This was the key finding of independent research conducted by expert consultancy Eunomia for the Environmental Services Association (ESA), published today (29 April 2025), which investigated the costs and benefits of various options for collecting small waste electrical devices and batteries at the kerbside.

A major new pilot project, Step, Ride, Thrive, has launched across the Avalon and Poldens area, thanks to a £35,000 grant from the Somerset Association of Local Councils (SALC)’s Community Health and Wellbeing Fund.

Running through to March 2026, the initiative aims to transform access to the stunning Avalon Marshes nature reserves by promoting sustainable, active travel across 23 local parishes.

Somerset Council has issued a cross-party appeal to the Government following the findings of a report by NHS Somerset which calls for urgent reforms to the NHS dental contract in light of the worsening access to NHS dentistry across the county.

In a letter sent to the Rt Hon Wes Streeting MP, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, the Council outlines the mounting challenges facing Somerset residents, including lengthy waiting times, rising costs, and a shortage of NHS dental provision.

Somerset Council has launched a consultation to help assess the current and future needs of pharmaceutical provision in Somerset.

The Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment (PNA) is produced by Public Health Somerset. The main purpose of the PNA is to support NHS England, Somerset Integrated Care Board, and Somerset Council in their commissioning, and supporting decisions around encouraging or permitting new pharmacies to open.

A scheme designed to help residents struggling with pressures caused by the ongoing cost of living crisis has been extended until the end of March 2026.

Somerset Council has been allocated £6.74 million from the Government via the Household Support Fund, which will be directed towards providing critical support for families, older residents, and people facing financial challenges in Somerset.

The Somerset Libraries Winter Coat Exchange is celebrating even more success in providing essential support for those in need.

This year, the Somerset Council initiative saw an incredible 2,470 coats for both adults and children donated and 2,086 coats taken by people in need – more than double the figure received last year.

Somerset Council is relaunching its share of the Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF), with £1 million of funding available to support businesses and community projects across the county.

This initiative aims to bolster the rural economy and foster growth for micro and small businesses in Somerset.

Join Taunton Town Council in commemorating the 80^th anniversary of VE Day on 8 May 2025. Celebrate with a wreath-placing ceremony at Vivary Park at 5:30 pm, followed by a Service of Celebration and Thanksgiving at Taunton Minster at 6:30 pm.

Everyone is welcome to attend these events and honour this significant historical milestone.

This Melanoma Awareness Month, Melanoma Focus is urging everyone to be vigilant by regularly checking their skin for new or changing moles and lesions, and to protect their skin from the sun using SPF30+ sunscreen.

Early detection is key, as early-stage melanomas are generally curable. Join the campaign to spread awareness, support those affected, and promote sun safety.