The 'Friends of' Month

Summer is always a bit strange as council doesn't actually stop as such, but on the other hand it can mean less meetings.  Interestingly I still had quite a few including 3 hours slog of Audit training followed by the actual meeting - worthwhile but quite tiring! - and a number of other council related events.

I managed to attend the quarterly Financial Inclusion meeting.  Outside of the formal mandatory ones this is one I aim to get to, as I have always been concerned for the welfare of those who struggle through not having much money.  There are many who are quite rightly able to claim benefits but for whatever reason don't - maybe they aren't aware of them, have difficulty in filling in forms, not computer savvy, or even have access to a computer etc etc.  I feel that this group tries to do 'what it says on the tin' in looking for practical help & support so people are 'financially included'.

All three of us councillors met with the relevant officer to assess an traffic issue along the  residential part at the bottom end of a street.  The problem was that vehicles would speed past the houses to get to businesses and the sports club further up the road.  Some of these ward issues can take a long time to find the right solution - this one is in fact still ongoing - but better that than a quick fix that doesn't work.

It was also definitely the month for Friends of Groups.  First there was a public meeting to see if people living around the Phoenix Centre wanted to take on the kids play area, and maybe more of the surrounding area - very positive with many showing an interest in getting involved.  Then we celebrated getting the Green Flag Community Award at Mayhill pond, with press release and video (fame at last!)  Finally we had another open meeting to kick start a group to rejuvenate Mayhill Park, the green space remaining which is next to the new health centre on Mayhill Road.  It has been the aim of all three of us to use a chunk of our community budget to pay towards new play equipment.  This group taking off could finally see this happen as they would be able to apply for grants to help pay for it.  Should be positive times ahead, so watch this space!

Les