Somerset Council is continuing to upgrade its system for Council Tax, Benefits and Business Rates. It is merging its legacy district services into one system for the whole of Somerset.

The current ‘Revenues and Welfare’ systems, previously known as ‘Benefits’, will be unavailable for several weeks from 5pm on 25 June. The exact duration is subject to progress, and the Council will share updates as soon as there is more certainty.

Somerset Council is reopening Bridgwater Library next week following the completion of major roof repairs.

The building in Binford Place had to be closed in October after ongoing external roof problems led to ceiling damage inside.

Temporary library provision in the town was set up in Bridgwater House while the work was done.

Primary schools enjoyed a day celebrating pupil voice and action in schools at this year’s Somerset Children’s Parliament competition organised by ITT and Training (part of Somerset Council) and Somerset Youth Parliament.

Once again judges were impressed with the quality of presentations and the impassioned speeches from the children, who spoke confidently on a range of issues in their school and the many ways they are making a difference in their communities.

Somerset Council wants to raise awareness of gambling harms during this summer’s international football tournament.

During major sporting tournaments, gambling companies increase their marketing activity, with many adverts promoting free bets or financial incentives designed to encourage participation.

The “Odds Are They Win” campaign aims to help people understand how gambling products and marketing can contribute to harm and encourage anyone affected to seek support.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has de-escalated its ongoing heat health alert for the South West, South East, London, East of England, West Midlands and East Midlands regions from red to amber.

From 9pm on Friday 26 June until 9am on Sunday 28 June, an amber heat health alert will be in place across all regions of England.

For the latest advice to stay safe in hot weather, visit our Heat health alert information page.

National Highways is urging drivers to take extra care during extreme heat by planning journeys in advance, checking vehicles are roadworthy and carrying essentials such as drinking water, snacks and a phone charger.

Travellers are advised to allow extra time, take regular breaks and, where possible, avoid driving during the hottest parts of the day.

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has issued updated advice urging people to take extra care during extreme heat, when the risk of wildfires can increase.

Please avoid single-use barbecues and campfires, dispose of smoking materials safely, take litter home and follow the latest NFCC fire safety advice.

The Food Standards Agency is advising people to take extra care with food hygiene during warm weather and outdoor cooking, when the risk of food poisoning can increase.

It recommends washing hands, keeping raw and ready-to-eat foods separate, defrosting food fully, storing food safely, keeping it chilled until needed and making sure meat is cooked thoroughly before serving.