Facing the challenges together

This week I had a once in a lifetime experience when I was formally welcomed into the House of Lords – it was the most memorable day and it was also a real joy to have my friends and family with me to see my introduction.

I was asked by the media, as I have been many times, if I will continue as council leader now that I need to attend meetings in London.

My answer is a resounding yes.

I have no intention of stepping down as leader and my priority remains the council and the people of Wiltshire. I intend to manage both roles and I can do this because I have an amazing team supporting me – not just my cabinet colleagues and corporate directors, but all of you that do such a great job to make Wiltshire a success.

My new role in the House of Lords is an opportunity for me to be a strong voice for both local government and Wiltshire at a national level, particularly on legislative changes that will impact on our services and residents. I see this as my personal challenge and one which I really look forward to.

Recently, the corporate directors and I have been talking to staff and the public about the challenges the council is facing. One of the great responsibilities that falls to local authorities is being able to identify both challenges and opportunities. Very often understanding the latter can go a long way to addressing the former.

As I have said many times previously, these are tough times for the public sector. We are living through significant austerity and we are seeing a massive rise in the demand for some services.  These are challenges we face with our local communities. That’s why our emphasis is to continue to focus on empowering communities to help them become stronger and able to cope.

Wiltshire residents were recently invited to hear about and discuss the challenges facing the county in 2016. These meetings are a great opportunity for us to speak face to face to residents about our future plans and to hear their views on what we could do differently. These are dynamic meetings, with great questions and some good debate. I was very pleased to see so many people attending.

Yesterday (5 Nov) the first of our annual staff forums took place. These forums are always incredibly useful for me and the corporate directors – not only to recognise the excellent work we have delivered, but to also talk to everyone about what we face in the coming year, and, most importantly to have feedback on how you think we are doing.

I look forward to balancing my commitments in London and Wiltshire, and while our county may be defined by its rural geography, it is also defined by its diverse and vibrant communities. It is these communities that make us strong and able to manage the challenges ahead - together. Like other years we will manage the challenges and seize the opportunities. That’s what makes Wiltshire so special and the place that I am so proud to represent.

Jane.