 We are on the lookout for local heroes so we can celebrate their achievements in our annual South Hams Community Awards.
For the third year running, the awards will celebrate organisations and people who go above and beyond to help those living in the South Hams every day.
Do you know someone doing wonderful things for your community? Is there an organisation who is making a real difference to local people? You can now shine a spotlight on their hard work by nominating them for a South Hams Community Award.
The Chairman of the Council along with a panel of judges, are looking for nominations in the following categories:
- Young Persons Award (for under 18s)
- Community Champion Award (for over 18s)
- Community Organisation Award
- Climate and Biodiversity Champion Award
Nominations for the South Hams Community Awards close at 11:59 p.m. on Saturday 31 January.
Find out more and nominate at www.southhams.gov.uk/community-awards
 We're pleased to announce that BIP will be running the South Hams Employment Fair again this year, helping match locals job seekers and employers.
The South Hams Employment Fair will take place on 24 February from noon to 3 p.m. at Totnes Civic Hall.
Fully-funded by South Hams District Council, there is no cost to exhibit at either event, and is an ideal opportunity to showcase your business and connect with local job seekers in the new year.
Finding the right people to join your business can be a challenge. Employment fairs can be a very cost effective way in general of meetings number of potential candidates in one place. As this is a funded event, there’s no cost for taking a stand (though spaces are limited) so if you are looking at recruiting in 2025, don’t miss out on these opportunities.
As well as the chance to interact directly with potential candidates and increase your local presence, it also offers the perfect place to meet and network with other local businesses. Plus for local job seekers whether you're leaving education, currently unemployed, or already in employment and seeking new opportunities, these employment fairs are the perfect place to find new opportunities in the New Year.
You can find more info about the events on the BIP website.
If you would like to secure a free stand at the employment fair please follow the link: South Hams Employment Fair Stand Form
 Damp and mould aren’t just inconvenient — they can cause serious health problems for tenants and damage your property if left untreated. As a landlord, you have a legal responsibility to provide a safe and healthy home.
Why It Matters
- Damp and mould can lead to respiratory issues, allergies, and other health concerns.
- Properties with persistent damp can suffer structural damage, reducing their value and increasing repair costs.
- Government guidance now places greater emphasis on tackling these issues promptly.
Your Responsibilities
- Ensure your property is free from hazards under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).
- Respond quickly to reports of damp and mould from tenants.
- Take proactive steps to prevent problems before they start.
Practical Prevention Tips
- Ventilation: Install and maintain extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms
- Heating: Provide adequate heating systems to reduce condensation
- Insulation: Improve insulation to keep homes warm and reduce moisture build-up
- Regular Checks: Inspect properties for signs of leaks, condensation, or mould growth.
Need Guidance?
We’ve created a dedicated webpage with:
✔ Legal responsibilities explained ✔ Best practice advice for landlords ✔ Practical tips to prevent damp and mould
Visit our webpage here for full guidance and resources.
Working together, we can keep homes safe, warm, and healthy this winter.
 We have completed the first phase of a project to improve public toilets in Totnes – with more improvements coming in the weeks ahead.
We've completed our refurbishment of the public toilets on Coronation Road. Works have now begun on the Steamer Quay Car Park toilets, which are expected to be completed around Friday 30 January.
The toilets under the Civic Hall will have their own refurbishment works between Monday 19 January and Saturday 31 March. The toilet refurbishment works are part of the council’s wider commitment to invest in its communities.
Find out more here.
 The Totnes Household Waste Recycling Centre run by Devon County Council will be closed from the end of January to the middle of March as it undergoes maintenance and engineering works.
The site, which is over 20 years old, on Babbage Road Industrial Estate, will be closed from Saturday 31 January until Sunday 15 March (inclusive). The site will re-open to the public on Monday 16 March.
The work involves extensive resurfacing and drainage works and is being carried out outside of the busy summer period to try to minimise disruption to the public as much as possible.
Find out more here.
 Are you looking for a flexible role in a supportive and open culture? Join the Council! We have a number of exciting roles available for the right person.
Click the button below to see our current vacancies.
|