Is it just me that feels like the warm summer days and holidays seem like a long time ago? The nights are closing in and that distinct autumn chill is in the air, and I have to admit that I have resorted to putting the heating on some nights.
The summer months are a time for holidays to recharge and take some time out from work to reflect and plan ahead. I always enjoy and welcome this time as it allows you that real space that is so precious. The pace of council life is fast and change is inevitable as we adapt to the challenges and demands that we face. Autumn is the time to focus on the budget for next year and how we will address the increasing service pressures. It’s the time that we go out and talk to communities and all of you - at the staff forums - about the future and what we anticipate will be happening.
In my last blog I talked about devolution and how local councils like ours will need to move towards being self-sustaining in the future; particularly given the continuing reduction in government grant funding. Whilst this is a big ask, it’s what we had expected to happen and this summer Chancellor George Osborne called for local authorities to draw up their devolution ‘wish-lists’ and submit these by 4 September.
We submitted a draft which takes us from one council to one Wiltshire focusing on greater working with our partners; police, fire and health, to pool budgets and resources and agree the goals for the provision of public services. We all agree that the health and wellbeing of our residents and protecting those who are most vulnerable is a key priority, along with growing the local economy, delivering houses and supporting our local communities.
At next week’s full council meetings, members will consider the draft submission and what it aims to achieve. The bid could mean that by 2020 the county would have more vibrant town centres, a council that is independent of central government grant, increased volunteering levels and better use of public sector funding, resources and buildings.
Devolution isn’t just about saving money – it’s about how we can make a difference and improve the services and quality of life for people living in Wiltshire. It’s a real opportunity to make the best use of public service resources, funding and estates. I will keep you updated on the government’s response to our bid and the next steps – more about this at the staff forums.
Can you believe it’s almost October and it’s a busy month ahead. As well as working on next year’s budget and plans, we will be hosting this year’s sports awards to recognise the many volunteers who give their time and energy to support our rising sports stars and to provide opportunities for so many young people to participate in sport and activity.
The Wiltshire Assembly also takes place in October and the theme for this assembly is living in a rural county - the challenges and opportunities that this brings. Local communities will be encouraged and supported to look at what more they can do to tackle the issues they face and how they can make improvements in their place. This is devolution – working together – sharing skills, ideas and resources to deliver the services that people need.
I’m looking forward to a busy month ahead and one that will bring people together to celebrate, recognise and talk about what’s good about Wiltshire – and, what could be better.
Jane.
