Oakham & Rutland News: September 2024

The Carers Centre Leicestershire and Rutland: Together We Care

Caring for a loved one can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also be challenging. You're not alone. The Carers Centre Leicestershire and Rutland is here to support you with their "Together We Care" group specifically for Rutland carers.

Are You a Rutland Carer?

If you provide unpaid care for a partner, family member, child, or friend who relies on your help, this group is for you. Whether you're caring for someone with a physical disability, a mental health condition, or an age-related illness, The Carers Centre understands the unique challenges you face.

Find Support and Knowledge

Join their friendly and relaxed group sessions on Wednesdays from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM at St. Joseph's Church in Oakham. These sessions offer a valuable opportunity to:

Learn coping mechanisms: Discover strategies to manage stress and effectively navigate your caring role.
Access essential services: Gain information about available resources and support services tailored to your specific needs.
Understand your rights: Learn about your rights and entitlements as an unpaid carer, ensuring you receive the support you deserve.

Connect with Others

The "Together We Care" group fosters a sense of community. You'll have the chance to connect with other Rutland carers, share experiences, and offer support to one another.

Refreshments Provided

Enjoy a light refreshment break during the session, providing a chance to relax and socialise with fellow carers.

Get in Touch

Don't hesitate to reach out to The Carers Centre Leicestershire and Rutland. They are here to help you on your caring journey.

Phone: 0116 251 0999
Email: enquiries@thecarecentre.org.uk

Remember, together we care.

This support group is funded by the National Lottery Community Fund, making valuable resources available to Rutland carers. Take advantage of this opportunity to build resilience and find a supportive network.

Find Friendship and Support at Dove Rutland Wellbeing Group

Living with a life-limiting illness can be isolating. But you don't have to face it alone. The Dove Rutland Wellbeing and Support Group offers a warm and welcoming space for Rutland residents living with such conditions, along with their carers.

Held monthly on Tuesdays from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Empingham Cricket Club, these sessions provide a chance to:

Build friendships and share experiences with people who understand what you're going through.

Nurses are on hand to answer your questions and offer valuable support.

Carers play a vital role, and the group provides resources and a chance to connect with others in similar situations.

Enjoy a light lunch and refreshments: Share a meal and conversation in a friendly atmosphere.

Open Arms and a Listening Ear

Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been living with a life-limiting illness for some time, the Dove Rutland Wellbeing Group is here for you. It's a space to share your concerns, find encouragement, and build meaningful connections.

For more information or to book your spot, call 01572 722630 or email Rutland@dovecottage.org. Don't hesitate to reach out – you'll be warmly welcomed.

Remember, you are not alone. Take this step towards a supportive community and a brighter day.

Unearth Your Roots: Free Family History Sessions at Oakham Library

Have you ever wondered about your ancestors? Where did they come from? What stories did they live? Unveiling your family history can be a fascinating journey, and Oakham Library is here to help you embark on it!

Free Family History Sessions

Join their knowledgeable volunteers every Tuesday from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM and Thursday from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM for free family history sessions. These sessions are perfect for anyone interested in tracing their lineage, whether you're a seasoned genealogist or just starting out.

Unlocking the Past: Resources at Your Fingertips

During the sessions, you'll gain access to a wealth of resources, including:

Ancestry.com - Explore this leading genealogy platform with billions of historical records, including census data, birth, marriage, and death certificates, military records, and immigration documents.

FindMyPast - Delve into another comprehensive resource offering historical records like wills, school records, and electoral registers.

The British Newspaper Archive - Journey back in time through digitised newspapers, uncovering articles about your ancestors' lives and communities.

Pre-booking Essential

While these sessions are free, pre-booking is required to ensure a spot. Simply email ancestryoakham@gmail.com to secure your place.

Start your family history adventure today at Oakham Library! With the guidance of their experts and access to these powerful online resources, you might just be surprised by the stories you uncover.

New Pharmacy First Scheme Makes Getting Help for Common Conditions Easier

Great news for those seeking quick and convenient healthcare! NHS England launched the Pharmacy First scheme, allowing patients to receive assistance from their local pharmacist for seven common conditions. This builds upon existing pharmacy consultation services, further expanding the support available at your local pharmacy.

What can pharmacists help with?

Pharmacists can now help you manage seven specific conditions following established clinical pathways. These conditions include:

Acute otitis media (earache) in children aged 1 to 17
Impetigo (skin infection) for those aged 1 year and over
Infected insect bites for people 1 year and older
Shingles in adults 18 and over
Sinusitis for those aged 12 and upwards
Sore throat for individuals 5 years old and over
Uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women aged 16 to 64

Benefits of Pharmacy First:

Faster access to care: No need to wait for a GP appointment, receive treatment for these conditions directly from your pharmacist.
Convenience: Get help closer to home, saving you time and travel.
Frees up GP appointments: By managing these common conditions, pharmacies allow GPs to focus on more complex cases.

How does it work?

You can be referred by your GP, urgent care settings, or NHS 111.
OR for these specific seven conditions, you can walk-in or contact your pharmacy directly without a referral.
Pharmacists have private consultation rooms to discuss your condition.
If appropriate, pharmacists can provide prescription-only medication, eliminating the need for a separate GP visit.
After your consultation, the pharmacy will update your GP with a notification.

Quality and Safety:

NHS England assures patients that the "clinical pathways" pharmacists follow were developed by experts, including GPs, pharmacists, and specialists. These pathways ensure care aligns with what you would receive at a GP practice and follows the latest national guidelines.

Overall, the Pharmacy First scheme is a positive step towards making healthcare more accessible and efficient. By empowering pharmacists to manage common conditions, patients can receive quicker treatment while freeing up valuable GP resources.

Rutland County Council Warns Motorists of Text Scam Regarding Parking Charges

Rutland County Council is urging motorists to be vigilant against a scam involving text messages claiming unpaid parking charges.

The council has confirmed they are "aware of what appears to be scam text messages circulating in regards to parking charges." They have further clarified that Rutland County Council does not use text messages to contact people regarding parking charges.

How to Stay Safe:

Ignore the text message: Do not respond or click on any links included in the message. Responding or clicking links can confirm your phone number to scammers and potentially lead to further harassment or attempts to steal your personal information.

Report the scam: Rutland County Council does not provide details on reporting scams directly, so here are two recommended options:

Action Fraud: Report the scam online at https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/ or by calling 0300 123 2040.

Forward the message: In the UK, you can also forward scam text messages to the number 7726 to report them to your network provider.

How to Check for Legitimate Parking Charges:

If you are unsure about a parking charge, do not rely on the information in the text message. Instead, follow these steps:

Check your vehicle: Look for a physical parking ticket on your car. This will contain all the relevant information, including the charge amount, due date, and instructions for payment or appeal.

Contact Rutland County Council directly: You can find information about parking charges and fines on the Rutland County Council website or by contacting them directly. Their contact details can be found on their website: www.rutland.gov.uk/roads-transport-parking/parking/penalty-charge-notices

Stay Informed:

Rutland County Council encourages motorists to stay informed about current scams and to be cautious of any unsolicited communication regarding parking charges. They recommend checking the official council website or contacting them directly for any parking-related inquiries.

By following these tips, motorists in Rutland can avoid falling victim to this scam and ensure they are dealing with legitimate parking charges.

Uppingham Rutland's Late Night Shopping: A Festive Evening of Offers and Entertainment, News Flash: Uppingham first, Financial Dispute Resolved

Uppingham Rutland's Late Night Shopping: A Festive Evening of Offers and Entertainment

Get ready for a magical evening of Christmas shopping in Uppingham Rutland! On Thursday, 5th December, from 5:30pm to 9:00pm, the town will come alive with festive cheer as shops open their doors for a special Late Night Shopping event.

Discover exciting offers, discounts, and unique finds as you explore the charming streets of Uppingham. From stylish boutiques to traditional shops, there's something for everyone. Enjoy the festive atmosphere, listen to live music, and indulge in delicious treats.

Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to get your holiday shopping done while supporting local businesses and enjoying a memorable evening with friends and family.

News Flash: Financial Dispute Resolved

In a recent development, a financial dispute between Uppingham's late night shopping organisers and a company linked to the town council has been settled. Christmas in Uppingham Community Interest Company had taken the matter to court after Uppingham First refused to pay over funds belonging to the late night shopping event.

Following a conditional offer from Uppingham First, the dispute has now been resolved, and the Community Enterprise Company has received the owed funds. This positive outcome ensures that the Late Night Shopping event can proceed without any further complications.

A Community-Focused Event

The Late Night Shopping event is a tradition in Uppingham, bringing together the community and celebrating the spirit of the season. As you shop and explore, take a moment to appreciate the town's unique charm and the hard work of the organisers and local businesses in making this event a success.

The Railway Pub & Steam Bar Restored and Open in Oakham, Halloween Disco, Abba tribute band, Children's Halloween Party.

The Railway Pub & Steam Bar Restored and Open in Oakham

Oakham, Rutland – The historic Railway Pub & Steam Bar in Oakham has undergone a complete restoration and is now open for business. The pub, located at Station Road, has been transformed into a vibrant and welcoming space, offering delicious food, a wide range of drinks, and a calendar of exciting events.

After extensive renovations, the Railway has reopened its doors and is ready to welcome customers back. The pub's new menu features a variety of dishes to suit all tastes, from classic pub fare to more contemporary options. The bar also offers a selection of local and international beers, wines, and spirits.

The Railway has planned a series of events throughout October. On Friday, October 26th, the pub will host a Halloween Disco for adults starting at 7pm. Later that evening, at 8pm, guests can enjoy a live performance from an Abba tribute band.

For families, the Railway will be hosting a Children's Halloween Party on Sunday, October 27th at 4pm.

The restoration of the Railway Pub & Steam Bar is a significant milestone for the Oakham community. The pub has been a local landmark for many years, and its reopening is sure to be welcomed by residents and visitors alike.

Weekend Sports Roundup

Local Football

A thrilling weekend of local football saw some dramatic results and league table changes.

Leicester City's comeback hopes were dashed as they fell 4-2 to Arsenal, despite a brace from James Justin. Peterborough United also suffered a late defeat, losing 3-2 at Birmingham City.

Oakham United continued their struggles with a 2-1 home loss to Chatteris Town, while Uppingham Town climbed to 4th with a 3-0 win over Moulton Harrox. Stamford Belvedere extended their winning streak to ten games with a 2-1 victory over Warboys Town Reserves.

In the United Counties Premier North, Bourne Town moved up to 3rd with a 4-0 win over Ashby Ivanhoe, while Deeping Rangers remained bottom after a 2-0 defeat to Eastwood. In Division 1, Blackstones returned to league action with a 2-0 win over Staveley Miners Welfare.

Cottesmore secured a vital 2-0 win over Friar Lane and Epworth in a bottom-of-the-table clash, thanks to a brace from Leon Kavanagh on his debut. Stamford AFC defeated Sheffield FC 1-0 in the East Midlands Women's Premier League, while Oakham United's women's team enjoyed a 9-3 victory over East Goscote.

Local Rugby

Stamford continued their good form with a 18-6 win over Stewart & Lloyds, while Bourne suffered a heavy defeat at Bugbrooke. Oakham also returned to winning ways with a 45-31 victory over Rugby St Andrews.

Stamford College Old Boys lost to Sileby Town in a physical encounter, while Deepings were comprehensively beaten by Leighton Buzzard. Stamford Women produced a stunning performance to defeat Boston Ladies 54-12 in the Papa John's Community Cup.

Leicester Tigers

Leicester Tigers suffered a setback in their Premiership campaign, losing 20-15 to Bath.

Rutland Morris Seeks New Recruits

Rutland Morris is inviting new members to join their ranks as they prepare for the upcoming season. The group, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, offers a fun and social way to get involved in traditional English dancing.

Practice sessions take place on Monday evenings at Ashwell Village Hall starting at 7:30pm. These sessions provide an opportunity for both new and experienced dancers to learn new routines and improve their skills.

Rutland Morris welcomes dancers of all ages and abilities. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or have never tried Morris before, there's a place for you in the group.

For more information or to join, please contact Rutland Morris

www.morrismen.org.uk/join-us

www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064382423457

Rutland County Council Approves New Bus Project (Video)

Rutland County Council Approves New Bus Project

Rutland County Council has approved a refreshed Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) to improve public transportation in the county.

Funding: The council secured £739,560 from the Department for Transport (DfT) to implement the plan.

Vision: To create a county where buses are a realistic transport option by building a convenient, seamless, and environmentally friendly network.

Challenges: Rutland's rural nature, low passenger numbers, and dispersed trip attractors make it difficult to provide frequent and reliable bus services.

Resident Feedback: Residents want more frequent services, reaching more places, operating on more days and for longer hours. They also desire better information, improved waiting facilities, cleaner buses, and more environmentally friendly options.

Proposed Improvements:

Countywide Digital Demand Responsive Transport (DDRT): This service will cater to residents with limited access to scheduled buses.

Decarbonization efforts: Piloting electric town centre "hopper" services and exploring community transport electric minibuses.

Travel incentives: Free or discounted travel periods to encourage ridership.

Improved information and marketing: Enhanced promotion, clearer timetables, and real-time bus information.

Simplifying ticketing and fares: Exploring youth travel ID cards and potentially simplifying ticketing options.

Upgrading bus stops and shelters: Improving comfort, accessibility, and safety for waiting passengers.

On-board enhancements: Audio-visual announcements, USB charging, and potentially Wi-Fi on buses.

Reviewing parking policies: Exploring ways to reduce car dependency and encourage bus use.

Monitoring Progress: The council will track performance against set targets, including journey times, reliability, passenger growth, and customer satisfaction.

This BSIP aims to transform Rutland's bus network, making it a more attractive and viable alternative to private cars. By addressing resident concerns and focusing on environmental sustainability, the council hopes to encourage a shift towards public transportation in the county.

At the meeting concerns were raised about reliability and it was confirmed Rutland County Council will be terminating the use of Call Connect, The council also had to be reminded that resident who travel to work often start work before 9.30am

Rutland County Council received a comprehensive reports at its recent meeting from Cllr Christine Wise, outlining her activities as a representative on various community safety boards and organisations. (Video)

Rutland County Council received a comprehensive reports at its recent meeting from Cllr Christine Wise, outlining her activities as a representative on various community safety boards and organisations.

highlights from the reports included:

Safer Rutland Partnership Strategy Board: The board reviewed its new strategy, which prioritises road safety, protecting the vulnerable, serious organised crime, serious violence, and domestic violence.

Her reports mention proposed CCTV Strategy for Oakham and Uppingham, Probation Reset, AutoSpeedWatch, and the work of the Violence Reduction Network.

Cllr Wise attended an event showcasing Leicestershire Police's intercultural and diversity work, including demonstrations of various police units and the Lowland Search and Rescue volunteers.

Regarding the issue of the local beat bobby for Oakham, Cllr Wise was probably not aware of the Chief Constable's recent statement regarding the replacement beat officer for Oakham. This is a crucial development for the community and will provide reassurance to residents.

Overall, the report provided a valuable overview of the ongoing efforts to enhance community safety in Rutland.

Heidelburg Materials: A Positive Update on Environmental Performance and Community Engagement (Video)

Heidelburg Materials: A Positive Update on Environmental Performance and Community Engagement

Rutland County Council received a positive report at its recent meeting from its representative, Cllr Payne on the Heidelburg Materials (Ketton) Liaison Committee. The report highlighted the company's commitment to environmental sustainability, community engagement, and ongoing investments in its operations.

Key points from the report included:

Increased cement demand: The growing demand for housing and infrastructure is expected to drive an increase in cement production.

Reduced emissions: Heidelburg has significantly reduced emissions through the use of synthetic fuels and is investing in further measures to eliminate coal use completely by 2025.

Operational efficiency: The company has experienced minimal production downtime and continues to generate solar power on-site.

Community engagement: Heidelburg has supported community initiatives in Tinwell and Ketton, including CCTV installation and the Green Festival.

Environmental compliance: The Environment Agency confirmed the company's strong environmental performance and low emissions.

Carbon capture progress: The carbon capture trial is ongoing, with initial results showing promise.

Planning application update: The report provided an update on the status of Heidelburg's planning application.

Overall, the report painted a positive picture of Heidelburg Materials' operations and its commitment to environmental sustainability and community engagement. The company's ongoing investments and efforts to reduce its environmental impact are expected to benefit both the local community and the wider region.

Tackling Flood Risk in Rutland: Anglian (Northern) Region Flood & Coastal Committee, A Comprehensive Approach (Video)

Tackling Flood Risk in Rutland: A Comprehensive Approach

Rutland County Council received a detailed report at its latest meeting from it representative who attends meeting of Anglian (Northern) Region Flood & Coastal Committee outlining strategies to address flood risk in the region.

Key points from the report included:

Funding for flood repairs: The committee is seeking a meeting with the new government to advocate for increased funding for flood repairs and maintenance.

Local levy increase: A proposed increase in the local levy to fund small-scale flood prevention works was recommended.

Establishment of an Emergency Response Committee: A new committee is planned to coordinate emergency response efforts.

Review of landowner contributions: The committee will review the current contribution levels of landowners and farmers to Local Drainage Boards.

Environment Agency updates: The report discussed the Environment Agency's business plan, flood risk management initiatives, and future capital schemes.

Anglian Water investments: Anglian Water is investing in storm overflow reduction, wastewater treatment plant capacity, and new reservoirs to improve flood resilience.

Natural flood management: The committee emphasised the importance of managing flood risk through natural methods.

Flood Risk Resilience Certificates: New homes and rental properties will be required to have these certificates starting in 2026 and 2028, respectively.

Water Friendly Farming: The report highlighted the findings of the Allerton Project, which investigated the benefits of nature-based solutions for flood risk management and water quality improvement.

The report emphasised the need for a comprehensive approach to flood risk management, combining infrastructure improvements, natural solutions, and community engagement. The committee's recommendations will play a crucial role in ensuring the resilience of Rutland's communities to flooding.

Improving Access to Healthcare in Rutland, A Progress Report was presented to Rutland County Council (Video)

Improving Access to Healthcare in Rutland

Rutland County Council received an encouraging update at its recent meeting from the Leicestershire, Leicester & Rutland Health Scrutiny Committee representative on the progress being made to enhance healthcare services in the region.

Key improvements highlighted in the report included:

Increased GP appointments: The number of appointments available has grown by 17.4% in the past year, thanks to initiatives like Pharmacy First which has expanded prescribing capacity.

Enhanced GP services: Phase 2 improvements for 2024/25 focus on increased recruitment, workforce retention, training, IT systems, and service commissioning.

Improved GP website access: Standardisation across LLR has led to increased website usability.

Expanding Pharmacy First: Prescribing powers and pharmacist training are being expanded to further enhance service capacity.

Improved dental access: Access to NHS dental services across LLR is improving, with a new NHS contract for Rutland expected to be finalised soon.

Targeted dental care: Initiatives are underway to improve access for children, particularly those in deprived areas, through more flexible services, preventative work, and cross-border referrals.

While progress has been made, the report also acknowledged ongoing challenges such as:

Shortage of dentists: The availability of trained dentists remains a significant issue.

Under-utilisation of out-of-hours dental care: Efforts are underway to address this.

Limited NHS contract terms: The willingness of dentists to work in the NHS on current contract terms remains a concern.

Overall, the report provided a positive outlook on the future of healthcare in Rutland. The ongoing efforts to improve access to GP and dental services are expected to have a significant impact on the well-being of residents.

Rutland County Council Reviews Conduct Complaints Procedure for Rutland County Councillors and Town and Parish Councillors.

Rutland County Council has revised its arrangements for dealing with complaints of misconduct against councillors. The revised policy outlines the process for making a complaint and how the council will handle such allegations.

Anyone can make a complaint about a councillor's conduct, but it must be about named members.

Complaints can be submitted online at the council's website.

https://www.rutland.gov.uk/council-councillors/councillors/complain-about-councillor

Complaints should include as much detail as possible and any supporting documents.

Anonymous complaints may be rejected.

The Monitoring Officer will assess the complaint within 21 days to determine if it's a valid member conduct complaint.

In some cases, the Monitoring Officer may attempt an informal resolution with the councillor involved.

If informal resolution fails, a fact-finding exercise or full investigation may be conducted.

The Conduct Committee will review the findings and decide if there has been a breach of the Code of Conduct.

If a breach is found, the Conduct Committee may impose sanctions such as a formal letter, censure, or removal from committees.

There is no internal right of appeal against the Conduct Committee's decision.

This revised policy helps ensure a clearer and more efficient process for handling complaints about councillor conduct in Rutland County.

Rutland County Council Moves Forward with Local Plan 2021-2041 (Video)

Rutland County Council Moves Forward with Local Plan 2021-2041

Rutland County Council has taken a significant step forward in the development of its Local Plan 2021-2041. The council has approved the publication of the Pre-Submission Local Plan for a six-week consultation period, paving the way for its submission to the government for examination.

The Local Plan will set out the planning policies for Rutland County and will guide future development decisions over the next 15 years. It is essential for ensuring sustainable growth and protecting the county's environment.

The council has considered two options for the Local Plan: proceeding with the publication and submission process, or delaying the process. The recommended option is to proceed, as it will allow the council to make timely progress and reduce the risk of government intervention.

The Local Plan has been informed by extensive consultation with residents, businesses, and other stakeholders. It includes a vision for Rutland's future, strategic objectives, and policies to address housing, employment, and environmental needs.

Once adopted, the Local Plan will be used to determine planning applications and ensure that development is appropriate and sustainable. It will also help to protect Rutland's green spaces, biodiversity, and heritage assets.

The council is now seeking feedback from the public on the Local Plan. Residents and businesses can submit their comments during the six-week consultation period. The Local Plan will then be submitted to the government for examination by an independent planning inspector.

The adoption of the Local Plan is expected to take place in 2026.

Rutland Council Launches Initiative to Help Residents Claim Unclaimed Benefits

Cllr Lucy Stephenson raised a question at this weeks council meeting, this enabled the following.

Rutland County Council has announced a new initiative aimed at helping low-income households claim benefits they may be eligible for. The Low-Income Family Tracker (LIFT) is an online tool that will proactively identify and contact residents who are not claiming benefits they are entitled to.

The initiative was approved by the cabinet on September 10th and is part of the council's commitment to supporting the most vulnerable residents in the community. It is estimated that residents in Rutland are missing out on approximately £5 million in unclaimed benefits.

The LIFT tool will be used in conjunction with an enhanced online benefits calculator to identify households that may be eligible for benefits such as pension credit. The council will then reach out to these households and offer them support in completing the application process.

Councillor A Johnson, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Governance and Resources, emphasised the importance of this initiative, particularly in light of the recent announcement that approximately 20,800 people in the Rutland and Stamford constituency will be losing their winter fuel payments.

"This is a timely initiative that will help ensure that our most vulnerable residents are able to access the support they need," said Councillor Johnson. "We are committed to providing the necessary resources to help people claim the benefits they are entitled to."

The council has arranged a kick-off meeting for the LIFT project next week and will begin sending letters to households that are eligible for pension credit but not claiming it in November. The deadline for applying for the winter fuel payment is December 21st.

Cllr Stephenson's Question:

I note on 10th September Cabinet approved the funding of the Low – Income Family
Tracker (LIFT), an online benefits calculator and an additional resource to target support to
low – income households. With approximately 20,800 people across the Rutland and
Stamford constituency losing their winter fuel payments, can the Portfolio Holder for
Governance and Resources assure Council our impacted pensioners will be supported to
access this online tool?

Rutland Councillors Clash Over Communication and Transparency (Video)

Rutland Councillors Clash Over Communication and Transparency

Questions have been raised at Rutland County Council meeting over concerns about a lack of information sharing between the council and its elected members. Councillor Hemsley raised concerns about the lack of transparency surrounding key initiatives, such as the Transformation program and the recruitment of a Flooding Officer.

Hemsley argued that ward residents often seem to be better informed about council activities than the councillors themselves. He cited several examples, including the merging of jobs and potential staff redundancies within the Transformation program, and the lack of updates on the recruitment process for the Flooding Officer.

Councillor Waller, the leader of the council, responded by acknowledging the challenges of the Transformation program and the importance of confidentiality during redundancy procedures. She also provided updates on the recruitment of the Flooding Officer and the target response time for member queries.

However, Hemsley's said his concerns echoed those of other councillors who expressed frustration with the council's communication and transparency. He said elected representatives should be treated as part of the organisation and provided with timely and detailed information.

Councillor Hemsley's Question:

We are all working for the best outcome for Rutland but I have again found that ward
residents are more informed about Council activities than I am. If we are to be effective we
need to address this failure in information sharing.
There are many many examples of this I am just going to mention three.
• Firstly, the Transformation work. I am finding out jobs are being merged and
departments then needing to shed staff. Whilst I understand the complications with
when to share but a high level view would be useful as I find it discourteous and a
potential embarrassment when looking blankly at said employee.
• Secondly, we have a budget for a Flooding Officer which was fiercely protected at
our Budget meeting, could we please have an update on this recruitment.
• And finally Members Queries. I have never been a supporter of this however I do
understand why we have it. I have spoken with other members as well just to check it
was not me, the efficiency of it is the issue we have concerns as an elected
representative of our residents we should be treated as part of the organisation as
we are here to help promote the Council in our communities.
So when will we have robust and open communications with elected members and the
Executive, led by the Leadership from the top?

Rutland Council Defends Early Parking Charge Increase

Rutland County Council faced questions at its recent meeting regarding an unexpected increase in parking charges. Councillor Powell challenged the administration's decision to raise charges this summer, despite a previous agreement to review them every three years.

Councillor Johnson, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Governance and Resources, responded that the council's parking policy allows for annual reviews. While the intention was to maintain the three-year cycle, the administration deemed it necessary to increase charges earlier to address budget pressures and maximise revenue.

Councillor Powell argued that the decision to increase charges should have been presented to the full council for approval, as per the agreed-upon budget strategy. However, Councillor Johnson defended the administration's actions, stating that frequent council approval for operational budget changes would be impractical.

The exchange highlighted the complexities of balancing budgetary needs with adherence to established policies and procedures. While the council's decision to increase parking charges may have surprised some, it appears to be within the scope of its existing authority.

At the Full Council meeting on 26th February, this council approved the budget for 2024/25
and a number of other recommendations which included the Fees and Charges strategy at
Appendix E. This strategy states that all fees and charges should be reviewed annually
unless agreed otherwise (such as parking fees that are set three yearly). I was therefore
surprised to see that car parking charges were increased this summer with effect from 3
June 2024, when the last increase agreed by this council was in 2022. Please can the
Portfolio Holder explain why the fees and charges strategy decision made in good faith by
this council was not actually implemented as it was presented to us in the papers.

Rutland County Council faced scrutiny from Cllr Corby at its recent meeting regarding the ongoing delays in completing Education, Health, and Care Plans (EHCPs). (Video)

Rutland Council Addresses EHCP Delays

Rutland County Council Leader Gale Waller Responding

Rutland County Council faced scrutiny from Cllr Corby at its recent meeting regarding the ongoing delays in completing Education, Health, and Care Plans (EHCPs). Councillor Corby raised concerns about the low completion rate within the 20-week target, emphasising the impact on parents and carers.

In response, the council's leader, Councillor Waller, acknowledged the challenges faced in meeting the target, citing factors such as staff shortages, school holiday periods, and limited capacity among educational psychologists. She highlighted the steps taken to address these issues, including increased staffing, agency support, and a triage system for remote assessments.

While acknowledging the delays, Councillor Waller emphasised the council's efforts to improve efficiency and ensure that assessments are completed comprehensively. She also mentioned a recent parent collaboration group where parents expressed a preference for complete assessments, even if it meant longer wait times.

Councillor Corby's supplementary question regarding placement delays further highlighted the complexities involved in the process. Councillor Waller explained that these delays often arise from matching the child's needs with suitable placements, and that school holidays can contribute to the timeframe.

Cllr Corby's Question:

The recent performance report for Quarter 1 2024/25 highlighted that only 6 of 33 Education
Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) had been completed within the 20-week timeframe
equating to 18% of a 90% Target. This is of concern to us as councillors, but most
importantly to the parents and carers of those children waiting for an assessment. Can you
please confirm that the remedial measures put in place have had the desired effect, and
what are the current figures relating to EHCP completion?