LOOKING FORWARD, LEARNING LESSONS FROM THE PAST

There are few who would disagree that the past 18 months have been challenging for all of us, not least our local authorities. I think that in Somerset, apart from a few blips, we can hold our heads high for the way in which have handled the situation. 

Adjusting to the ‘new reality’ post-Covid, and post-Brexit, has been difficult at times and in addition to the difficulties posed by the pandemic, we have all been heavily involved in discussions and debate relating to the future of local government in Somerset.  

Resident concerns over the provision of social services, health, education, highways and planning continue to occupy much of my time; not always achieving the outcomes I would desire. Moving forward, I am optimistic that many of the reasons for high levels of dissatisfaction will be resolved. 

The decision for all five local councils to become a single unitary authority was not met with universal approval, but in my capacity as a long-standing district and county councillor within South Somerset, it is a decision I welcome wholeheartedly, if for no other reason than that in future there will be a single point of contact for all services.  

In terms of future service provision, I am optimistic that, with the leaders of all councils working well together thus far, we will see much needed improvement across the board.  

Adjusting to new ways of working have played a key a part in the way services have been delivered, and in how residents are able to communicate with their local council. Overall, this has garnered a good deal of criticism. It is elected members who have taken up the slack, playing a vital part in keeping channels of communication open at a time when levels of anxiety have been high. My monthly reports, which are distributed widely across the division, have been the cornerstone to maintaining regular contact and keeping residents informed. 

The move to a unitary authority is a once in a generation opportunity for all of us to embrace change. In order to do so, we must all be willing to engage with the process to ensure that we influence future service provision positively.   

I continue to have reservations about the relentless push towards digitalisation, and the potential impact this can have on the essential relationship between local councils and taxpayers, who after all foot the bill.  

In the coming weeks and months, I will be continuing to do my utmost to ensure that the views of ALL residents, especially those who are vulnerable or isolated, are heard, and that they have equal access to the services they need, where they need them, and when they need them. 

Whilst it is easy to criticise, it is much more productive for us all to aim to work together to seek solutions to the challenges that lay ahead, to ensure that Somerset is considered a desirable place; one that people aspire to live, work and play in.