September 13, 2024

 

Welcome to this week's blog. As always, thank you for sparing the time to have a read..

This week. Donna and Val had CDC’s Planning on Wednesday then Val was joined by Ian, Mick, Ali and Gareth for STC’s Planning. This coming Monday our Green colleague, Tim Young has CDC’s Environment Panel. The same day there is WSCC’s Communities, Highways and Environment Panel which Donna’s Green and Independent Group has a seat on. On Wednesday I have to race back from school to join Donna, Ian and Andrew for our next Liaison Meeting with STC’s Senior Officers. Also on Wednesday, Donna has WSCC’s Health and Social Care Committee. Watch CDC’s public meetings here, and Full WSCC here. 

We have recently been reminded that newer residents may not know our electoral backstory and not appreciate the continued trust Selsey and Sidlesham have demonstrated in us through the ballot box.  If you wish clarification of this, or any electoral matter, please email CDC’s Electoral Services team. 

Last week we mentioned that groups of Over-60s are piloting a later in life driving test. If you found that of interest, you might also like to read about a council that intends to charge Blue Badge holders for parking. Something we first shared a while ago is back in the news: AI speed cameras that also detect mobile phone usage and failure to wear your seatbelt are now in use in Sussex. 

If you are looking to cut down on food waste, WSCC’s latest video, created in partnership with UKHarvest, shines the spotlight on bread. Did you know it ranks as the third most wasted food item in the UK? According to research by the Waste & Resources Action Programme, far too many loaves end up in the bin. But with a few simple tips and tricks, you can make the most of every slice and help reduce food waste in your home.

A couple of reminders: applications for secondary school places in West Sussex for September 2025 close next month. The easiest way to apply is online; the Government has created a: Pension Credit calculator where people can see if they are eligible and find out how much they could get without giving any personal details. You may be eligible even if you may have modest savings, retirement income or own your own home. The scheme can also provide access to a range of other benefits.

CDC has launched its enabling grant to help independent businesses - learn more here. They also have the Vegan Market returning to the City for a second time this year on Sunday 22 September between 10am and 4pm. It will feature a range of stallholders offering a variety of products including vegan street food vendors; craft brewers; sustainable chandler; ethical clothing and jewellery; arts and crafts items; and more.  Having organised their first event in 2016, Vegan Market Co. now cover more than 50 locations throughout the UK. They will be using their expertise to bring together a variety of artisan producers, making their vegan products more accessible to people in the Chichester area.

Ali posted about something we drew attention to last year: once again, free electric blanket testing is being offered by West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service. Faulty electric blankets are a common cause of fire in the home. Last year 36% of the blankets tested by the service were defective and posed a serious risk of starting a fire. Regular testing is recommended for blankets over two years old to ensure they are still safe to use. Blankets over ten years old should be replaced.

“I truly cannot recommend this highly enough. I took our electric blanket to be checked last year and, as it was older than 10 years, it was written off and destroyed by them. I'd no idea it was dated 2009 and potentially dangerous. Please get yours checked too.”

We have a family member with IBD, as do several of my work colleagues, so we know that people living with Crohn’s and Colitis are experiencing long delays across diagnosis, treatment, and care. This can cost lives and money. Many people with Crohn’s and Colitis are putting their lives on hold, with repeat visits to A&E, long stays in hospital and even emergency surgery. Chrohn’s and Colitis UK is calling on the UK Government to better support people with IBD. They have an open letter here.

The West Sussex Care Guide 2024/25 is designed to provide essential information to help adults and their families make informed decisions about care options. The guide supports a wide range of needs, including older adults requiring immediate care or planning for future needs, those considering long-term care options, and individuals looking to take proactive steps to maintain health and independence. It also offers guidance for adults with learning disabilities and their families seeking specialised services, as well as family members and caregivers navigating the complexities of adult social care. The guide is a comprehensive resource covering a wide range of services, including Home Care, Day Services, Extra Care (housing & supported living), and Residential Care.

Finally: - 

• Report potholes to WSCC

• Housing Health & Safety

• Warmer Homes UK

• Suicide in Sussex

• Domestic Abuse

• Supporting You

• WSCC Meetings

• CDC Meetings

As always, from the whole Team, stay safe.

Tim