Purton Parish Council
Get all the details on what the new restrictions mean for you: Click Here
PURTON AREA - LATEST PROGRAMME OF WORKS Updated 18-11-2020
GIGACLEAR CONNECTING COMMUNITIES Updated 09-10-2020
Click here to view the Gigaclear brochure
NOTICE OF CONCLUSION OF AUDIT Updated 27-10-2020
ANNUAL GOVERNANCE & ACCOUNTABILITY RETURN FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31st MARCH 2020
Click Here to view the Notice of conclusion of Audit
Free meals for vulnerable children in Wiltshire during school holidays Updated 27-10-2020
Wiltshire’s vulnerable children will benefit from free meals during October half-term after Wiltshire Council agreed to ensure families struggling with food poverty in the county are supported.
Cllr Laura Mayes, Cabinet Member for Children, Education and Skills, said: “We know that many families are feeling the financial pressure during the COVID-19 pandemic, and we want to do all we can to support them.“We want to ensure that children do not go hungry during these school holidays and want to ensure that Wiltshire families know that they will be supported during these difficult times by putting these measures in place. Therefore the council will be funding free meals during the October half term. This will be reviewed throughout the pandemic and we will continue to make sure that any child and family who needs help gets it. As we have done throughout, we will continue to work with our partners in the community and voluntary sector to make sure the needs of our residents are met at this unprecedented time. The work of our community groups has been, and continues to be, amazing and I must thank them for their tremendous support throughout the pandemic.“If you are entitled to free school meals or universal credit and struggling to pay for food over half term, please contact the Wiltshire Wellbeing Hub for support.“Everyone in Wiltshire needs to play their part to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
"We ask that people regularly wash hands, maintain social distancing and wear face coverings where appropriate. This is the best way to keep us all safe as much as possible, and helps to prevent the spread of the virus."
For more information on how to claim, please contact the Wiltshire Wellbeing Hub Team on wellbeinghub@wiltshire.gov.uk or call 0300 003 4576. The team is available Monday to Friday between 9am-5pm.
Notes to editors:
For more information contact communications@wiltshire.gov.uk
For political comment:
Conservatives: Laura Mayes laura.mayes@wiltshire.gov.uk
Liberal Democrats: Ian Thorn ian.thorn@wiltshire.gov.uk
Labour: Ricky Rogers ricky.rogers@wiltshire.gov.uk
Independent: Ernie Clark ernie.clark@wiltshire.gov.uk
SERVICES TO THE COMMUNITY AWARD 2020
Due to COVID-19 we were unable to hold our planned event to recognise those within our community who work tirelessly behind the scenes to benefit others, often without notice or recognition.
Rather than wait another year, it was decided to present the 2020 Winner with their trophy following social distancing guidance.
We are honoured and delighted to share that the award was presented to Mr Allen Bevington who worked on keeping the Institute Clock operational. His weekly task involved crawling through a small opening in the roof void and negotiating beams to ensure the system was wound and heard by all those within the village. The Council mechanised the system late last year so this volunteering service was no longer required, however, the effort, time and patience shown by Allen was not to go unnoticed.
On behalf of the Parish Council and the community thank you.
Allen Bevington you are our inaugural winner of the "Services to the Community Award for 2020".
Other nominations included : Pat Suddaby, Sandra Horsnall, Sylvia Freemantle, Tony Price, Brenda Cook, Hazel Woodbridge, and David and Mary Nettleton - We thank you all for your continued service to the community.
Nominations for the 2021 awards will be accepted from December 2020 for presentation in April 2021. Forms are available from the Council office or from our website.
AWARDS SCHEME NOMINATION FORMS click here to download
Do you know someone who deserves recognition for their volunteering work within the community ?
Complete the above form, return to the Parish Council offices and attend the Annual Parish Meeting to be held in April. The Council will choose from the nominations and present to the winner on the night. Nominations to be received by January 2021
"Lets recognise these unsung heroes."
WE MUST ALL PLAY OUR PART
Message from Philip Whitehead, Leader of Wiltshire Council
“This is clearly still a difficult time for the country and we hope this new system will help slow the spread of COVID-19. Wiltshire’s alert level is ‘medium’ which means the current restrictions remain in place and we need people to continue to be vigilant. Our top priority remains the same – to continue to support Wiltshire residents and businesses through this pandemic so that the county emerges as strong as possible when we reach the other side. We have focussed our resources and way of working to give us the best possible opportunity of achieving this.
“Although local COVID-19 cases are rising, the spread of the virus locally is still comparatively low in Wiltshire, but we all must play our part and not be complacent as we’ve seen in other areas how quickly the situation can change for the worse. That means keeping washing hands, wearing face coverings where required and socially distancing. People must also self-isolate when told to so, and this is now a legal requirement. If we keep doing this and supporting one another, then we stand the best possible chance of keeping each other safe.”
Download the NHS COVID-19 app
You can download the COVID-19 app now which supports contact tracing. Use the app to scan QR codes in shops and restaurants so the app can let you know if you come into direct contact with someone who later tests positive. All your data is held locally on your phone.
You can download the COVID-19 app via the App Store or Google Play as long as your phone software is recent enough to support it - find out by visiting the apps download provider for your device.
Click Here to find out more or watch a short video from our Director of Public Health, Kate Blackburn:
Test and trace support payment
If you are on a lower income and are required to self-isolate because of COVID-19, you may be eligible for a support payment of £500, payable in a lump sum. If applicable, this can be backdated to 28 September.
This scheme has been introduced by Government and will be administrated locally by Wiltshire Council.
STONEY ALLOTMENTS - UPPER PAVENHILL
To rent an Allotment at Upper Pavenhill, contact Mr Patrick Blake-Kerry on pgkerry556@gmail.com, or call 07918 617992
Click Here www.stoneya.com to view Stoney Allotments website.
PERMANENT CLOSURE - VENTURE PLAY PARK Updated 16-09-2020
The Parish Council considered closure of its play park last month after repeated attempts to resolve access issues with Greensquare ongoing since September last year (2019). Unfortunately all attempts to resolve this issue have not been successful.
The land known as Venture Play Park will be handed back to Wiltshire Council as owners of the site with immediate effect and any equipment that can, will be removed.
The Parish Council are looking to alternative equipment within this and next years budgets at its existing play parks.
YOUTH PROVISION - THE RISE TRUST Updated 15-09-2020
We have now held 4 successful detached youth worker sessions in Purton with the Rise Trust.
55 young people have engaged with the Youth Workers and discussed several issues including return to school after COVID lockdown, antisocial behaviour and drug taking. The Rise Trust will work with MOTIV8 and the police to ensure we manage the issues relating to drug use and antisocial behaviour in the village. Schools will also be contacted regarding any concerns raised. The regular presence of the youth workers has had a positive impact on our youth community and we anticipate this will only strength as time passes.
This current youth worker process will continue until the end of October where we will review and re-engage. Due to COVID we cannot open or operate a youth club.
If anyone wishes to know more information please contact the offices direct.
COUNCIL OFFICE OPENING Updated 07-09-2020
If anyone wishes to speak to an officer of the Council during office hours, face to face, they can do so via appointment.
Please contact the office on 01793 771066 and we will arrange a suitable time.
Strict COVID-19 guidance will be followed including wearing of masks, social distancing and strict timings.
Emails are still operational for all staff.
RISE CHILDREN'S CENTRE
Rise Children’s Centres provide services for families in the North Wiltshire area with at least one child under the age of 5. Non-judgemental, impartial and friendly advice is offered.
Click Here to find out more information on the Rise Trust.
YOUTH PROVISION IN PURTON Updated 12th August 2020
Due to COVID-19 our youth club was closed in March 2020 and sadly the company providing the service has since disbanded.
The Parish Council has worked with the Community Engagement Manager at the Royal Wootton Bassett and Cricklade Area Board to source an alternative solution and we are delighted to advise that as from Thursday 13th August we will have two youth workers from 6.30-8.30pm, every Thursday, within Purton and its surrounding areas talking to the youth and sourcing valuable information, ideas and encouraging them to engage in life enriching activities and actions.
The two youth workers will be kitted out in "The Rise Trust" logo'd uniform so you will know who they are. They will be working primarily on the key areas of play parks and open spaces but will move around the village to any area that is highlighted as a concern.
If you have areas where the youth congregates and would benefit from youth workers, please contact our offices direct. The youth workers do not take away the enforcement responsibility from the police, so please any anti social behaviour please ring 101 and they will also advise the youth team.
Help be our eyes and ears to support the NHS and each other at this challenging time Updated 09-07-2020
Our job at Healthwatch Wiltshire is simple. We're here to help make health and social care work better for you. During this challenging time this role has never been more important.
Whether you are struggling to find the right health and care information, have an experience of care that services need to hear or if your care has been affected by the response to COVID-19 we want to hear from you.
The way health and social care services operate has been affected by coronavirus (COVID-19) with non-urgent treatment postponed, face-to-face appointments reduced and homes and services limiting public access.
You can help the NHS during these challenging times by letting us know how changes to services have affected health and social care in Wiltshire. By sharing your experiences of care – what’s working and what could be better - you can help nurses, doctors and care workers spot issues that are affecting care for you and your loved ones.
As our opportunity to engage with Wiltshire residents is currently limited, and it's been necessary for us to change the way we work, we would like to ask for the support of our community partners to understand the experiences of your customers, clients and members at this time.
Our request is for you to be our eyes and ears to help identify themes within the provision and delivery of health and social care services in Wiltshire.
This will help us to influence the development of services and make a positive difference for the residents you support and others.
Please share with us – either by phone or email – any insight or experiences that your members are talking about, or encourage them to contact us on 01225 434218 or info@healthwatchwiltshire.co.uk
For example:
Information that is confusing or contradictory
Services or initiatives that are working well
Any gaps or barriers to accessing support
In return, we will share back with you any changes that occur or information we get.
Please share this email with your colleagues and contacts to help pass our message on.
Finally, as a trusted source of information, we invite you to like and share our social media pages.
Facebook www.facebook.com/HealthwatchWiltshire Twitter twitter.com/HWWilts Instagram www.instagram.com/healthwatchwiltshire
For more information about us, please visit our website: www.healthwatchwiltshire.co.uk
Here you will also find advice and information about the outbreak and a dedicated page detailing local help and support available across Wiltshire.
Thank you for your support. Stay safe.
Best wishes
Jo Woodsford
Volunteer and Partnerships Lead
Mobile: 07977 221661
My working days are Monday to Friday 8am – 4pm
Joanne.Woodsford@healthwatchwiltshire.co.uk
www.healthwatchwiltshire.co.uk
Please note, due to Covid-19 precautions, we are currently not receiving visitors at our offices, attending face-to-face meetings or visiting people in the community. All contact will be by telephone, email or letter only, until further notice. Thank you for your understanding. Whilst these are challenging times, we will ensure we continue to support people and communities.
COMMUNITY FIRST Updated 08-07-2020
SKATE PARK Updated 18-6-2020
Skate Park information update
Our Skate park is now open. Please stick to the British Cycling and Skateboard England guidelines during the COVID-19 crisis. Enjoy this facility and stay safe.
Follow government guidance on riding/skating with others. Keep two metres apart at all times.
Keep well within your ability. Don’t try difficult skills or ride too fast.
Do not congregate with other people under any circumstances. Once you’ve finished your loop, or if you’re waiting – make sure you take a break away from the finish and start areas, to ensure social distancing and give others a chance.
Clean your equipment before & after. Try not to touch anything else.
No physical contact. No hugs, high-fives, hand shakes, etc. except with people in your own household.
Do not share. Mobile devices, equipment, food or drink.
Only use this outdoor facility if you are actively riding/skating. Leave as soon as possible after finishing.
Wash your hands regularly. Before leaving home and on returning home. Please bring hand sanitiser with you when visiting the facility.
Please leave plenty of space and be considerate of other users. Especially the younger or less experienced.
Spectating is discouraged. Where attendance of a parent/guardian(non-participant) or a carer for a rider with a disability is required, social distancing should be strictly observed while watching the activity.
If you are showing Coronavirus symptoms, or if you or any of your household are self-isolating, you should stay at home.
BUSINESS RE-OPENING PACK Updated 17th June 2020
This advice is for small and medium sized businesses across Wiltshire who operate premises open to the public, although larger businesses are welcome to use this if they find it helpful.
To view Wiltshire Council's business re-opening pack CLICK HERE.
MEDICAL HELP Updated 1st May 2020
Don’t delay seeking medical help because of coronavirus
People living in Wiltshire are being advised not to let worries about coronavirus stop them asking for medical help for themselves or their children if they become ill, have a serious accident or have a concern about their health.
They are also being warned that not seeking medical help for symptoms that could be the early warning signs of serious conditions such as cancer could be putting lives at risk.
The warning comes as new data shows a considerable drop in the number of people coming forward to ask their GP for help and advice during the coronavirus outbreak.
Recent statistics show that, in Bath alone, the total number of weekly referrals from GPs to the Royal United Hospital have fallen from around 2,000 at the beginning of March to 300 at the end of April.
In Swindon, the average number of patients being sent by their GP to the Great Western Hospital for further investigations into symptoms that suggest cancer each week has dropped by more than 200 to 80.
Dr Ruth Grabham, Medical Director at BaNES, Swindon and Wiltshire CCG, said the statistics made for worrying reading because the drop in numbers “is not because people are not experiencing symptoms.”
“While it may seem that coronavirus has put a stop to most aspects of everyday life, the one thing it hasn’t stopped is what’s going on inside our bodies,” she says. “Now more than ever, we need to pay attention to anything that isn’t normal and seek help early on.
“For example, if you notice blood when going to the toilet, or if you’ve found a lump that wasn’t there previously, or if you’ve just noticed something odd that is causing you to worry, you need to speak to your GP.
“Should the symptom be the early warning sign of something serious like cancer, that delay in seeking help could have serious implications for how successful possible treatments may be.”
Although GP practices across the region have adopted new ways of working, such as establishing isolated clinics for potential coronavirus patients, the practices themselves are still open to offer care, treatment, advice and peace-of-mind.
The same also goes for emergency departments at the three hospitals in Bath, Swindon and Salisbury, all of which continue to be open 24 hours a day for people with a genuine and life-threatening health concern.
Additionally, all healthcare facilities in the region, as well as those elsewhere in the country, have put in place stringent infection control measures to ensure that the risk of contracting coronavirus while visiting a hospital or GP surgery remains low.
Details of which services continue to open, as well as how to get in contact, can be found online by visiting www.bswccg.nhs.uk
For information about local hospital services visit https://www.ruh.nhs.uk/, www.gwh.nhs.uk or www.salisbury.nhs.uk
Further information on how to stay well throughout the coronavirus outbreak can be found at www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19.
ANNUAL PARISH MEETING REPORT
Due to the cancellation of all Parish meetings, the Council have produced their Annual Report for information. The Council will, when we are back to normal working, hold another event to recognise our unsung heroes and isssue the Community Volunteer Award which was planned for 6th April at the Annual Meeting.
If anyone wishes to ask the Council a question regarding the report or any matters moving foward under the Councils remit please send us a message via the website contact page or email deborah.lawrence@purtonparishcouncil.gov.uk
Click here to download your report.
COMMUNITY HELP
If you, a relative, friend or neighbour in the village (including Ridgeway Farm, Mouldon View, Bentham, Hayes Knoll and Purton Stoke) require help, please call (01793) 772954.
A network of community organisations including; Age Concern, Purton Parish Council, schools and Purton Surgery, along with a team of volunteers are mobilising to ensure that everyone in our community receives the help they need.
HELP WITHIN THE COMMUNITY
If you are required to, or need to self-isolate, please note there are people within our community who have signed up to help.
If you need help we can put you in touch with people/organisations who may be able to assist.
If anyone wishes to add their names to the list to help, please see the site below. We appreciate not all those within the Village will be on the computer, so please use your initiative to get the message out there.
BASIC COMMUNITY CHECKS :
- Has their milk been taken in
- Has the car moved for their weekly trips
- Are the curtains drawn
- Are their cats still going in and out the house
- Are visitors still coming to the home
NEIGHBOURLY ACTION :
Put a note through their door to say you are there if they need anything - even if you have never had the need to speak to them or help before - SHOW YOU CARE
Current guidance is as follows:-Click Here
PARKING IN PURTON
DO YOU HAVE A SPARE SPACE ON YOUR DRIVEWAY ?
WOULD YOU BE INTERESTED IN COMING TO A PRIVATE ARRANGEMENT WITH SOMEONE WHO NEEDS ADDITIONAL PARKING ?
As you are all aware the parking in Purton at the best of times is a strain on most premises. We cannot create car parks or purchase open space for parking, however we can act as a "go between" for those who have spaces for rent and those who might be interested.
If you have a space(s) and would like to offer its use, please contact the offices with your details as below.
If you are in need of a permanent or temporary work place for parking please put your name forward to the council and we will in turn give your details to anyone who has availability.
Working as a community we could help those who have a need to park for work or have no parking of their own and create a safer place to walk, drive and live. #saferparking #purtoncommunity
Disclaimer : Purton Parish Council will act as an intermediary ONLY and take no responsibility for allocation of spaces, hire, pricing, duration or any other associated matters.
deborah.lawrence@purtonparishcouncil.gov.uk
01793 771066
HERBERT PROTOCOL SAFE & FOUND Updated 6-12-19
Worried about an elderly vulnerable person going missing?
Does your loved one suffer with Alzheimer's?
The Herbert Protocol can help.
To download the Herbert Protocol Safe & Found booklet Click Here
GULLEY MANAGEMENT
In order to ease the flow of water during the wetter months, we would like to ask residents who have gullies near their properties to monitor them and advise when they need clearing.
As you can imagine we have 100s within Purton and to keep them monitored would be impossible, so any help by the community would be welcomed.
If you are unsure if there are any in your area, we can advise.
Without support for the community in monitoring and advising that they need clearing we cannot ensure the free flow and hopefully reduce flooding and help control water management.
Please contact the Parish Council Office if you would like to help. 01793 771066.
BONFIRES
Please be consider your neighbours when lighting Bonfires
For information about rules for Garden Bonfires click here www.wiltshire.gov.uk/env-health-smoke-nuisance
VICTIM SUPPORT Updated 16th April 2019
Victim Support is an independent charity offering free, confidential support to people of all ages affected by crime.
Our service is free and confidential and is delivered by our highly trained team including specialist caseworkers. We have built up good working relationships with a huge network of partner organisations to ensure we can also access any help that may be required outside our own expertise.
If appropriate we can work with the parents, carers, teachers, support workers and interpreters to ensure support is available to everyone regardless of any perceived disadvantages or personal difficulties.
Click Here for an Agency Refferal Form.
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF LOCAL COUNCILS AWARD SCHEME
Purton Parish Council are proud to announce it has been approved and awarded the Local Councils Award Scheme -Foundation for its procedural practices. The panel found the application to be impressive and felt it showed the Parish Council to be well organised and an excellent communicator in the community. The panel noted the ‘Have your say’ section of the website which shows that the Parish Council encourages two-way communication. As well as the up to date, vibrant Facebook and Twitter feeds and monthly newsletter packed with information. The extensive training record was also cited along with the thorough risk assessment scheme. The panel also mentioned the positive impacts of the Dementia Friendly Community work as well as the Neighbourhood Plan being approved at Referendum.
SUPPORT YOUR VILLAGE HALL Click Here
Purton Institute and Village Hall Charity have joined forces with “Give as you Live” which allows donations to be generated via online shopping. Free to join, thousands of retailers and easy to set up Take a look and find out more and support your local charity. https://www.giveasyoulive.com/join/purton-institute-and-village-hall
ROYAL WOOTTON BASSETT & CRICKLADE COMMUNITY AREA NEWS
Click this link ocm.wiltshire.gov.uk/rwb/ for the latest Royal Wootton Bassett & Cricklade Community area news.
ROYAL WOOTTON BASSETT AND CRICKLADE AREA BOARD GRANT Updated 3rd August 2018
The Council were successful in securing a grant of 50% towards the installation of CCTV at the Village Centre on Church Street (2017/18).
Due to anti social behaviour, damage and noise the only course of action open was to install CCTV to aid the efforts of the police, council and residents in keeping this area for the use it was intended; a safe open space for all the community. Thank you to the RWB&C Area Board for supporting this initiative.
Area Board Grant Updated 21st February 2018
Section 106
Safe access and safety gate for youth shelter, Village Centre, Purton
Purton Parish Council successfully secured funding from the Royal Wootton Bassett and Cricklade Area Board, and Section 106 for the above project.
Purton Parish Council is delighted that the youth shelter at the Village Centre recreation ground now has a safe access and safety gate forming a barrier to prevent children and young people running, cycling and scooting straight into the path of passing vehicles entering and leaving the Centre.
Grateful thanks to the Royal Wootton Bassett and Cricklade Area Board team, Section 106 co-ordinators, and all working on the project.
BRADIES CONNECT Updated 16th March 2017
Your bookable shared taxi service. For more information CLICK HERE.
NEW NUMBER TO REPORT A POWER CUT
AVAILABLE FROM SEPTEMBER 2016 – if you wish to report a power cut you can ring 105 which will take you direct to the relevant supplier for an update and to report.
BLACK BOX RECYCLING
If your Black Box needs replacing or if the lid has been damaged please call 0845 6032085 for a replacement. Delivery time for a new Black Box to be delivered is up to 2 weeks.
PURTON PARISH COUNCIL DONATION PROGRAMME.
The Parish Council makes small grant awards twice a year to support local clubs and organisations which provide services that help residents in the Parish of Purton. Applications are considered twice yearly, February and June. If you are involved with a group that could do more for local people with the help of an award from The Parish Council , please contact The Parish Clerk for an application form or CLICK HERE to download a form.
COMMUNITY SPEED WATCH
The CSW or Community Speed Watch began monitoring traffic along The Fox. More and more traffic now use The Fox as a through route from Purton into Swindon, and with this has come a noticeable increase in speed. The role of the CSW is to monitor traffic and report any speeding vehicles to the police who will then take appropriate action. On average there were over 118 vehicles per hour, of these 5.5% were travelling at a speed in excess of 36mph with the fastest travelling over 45mph. Over 13% were travelling between 31mph and 35mph. This means that nearly 1 vehicle in 5 was technically speeding. The role of the CSW is not to be vigilante but by our presence slow traffic down. If you would like to volunteer please telephone 01793 771066 or email deborah.lawrence@purtonparishcouncil.gov.uk.
CYBER BULLYING AND AWARNESS
Cyber bullying is one of those modern day risks affecting young people - a kind of electronic bullying. This website provides some support and guidance to help parents and families deal with this type of bullying. Click Here to see website.
PURTON COMMUNITY PHONE BOX
Have you tried using the Community Phone Box that stands outside Purton Library? In the last six months over 180 calls were made from it (an average of one per day), and it was used 500 times for the internet. The phone box can be used to make free local phone calls, and to view information on the screen about the community with details of events going on or useful information. You can access the internet within 100 metres of the phone box and this will be listed on your device as Purton WIFI. One phone call per day? Come on, I’m sure the community can make more use than this of the facility.
REPORTING OF ODOUR FROM THE HILLS RECYCLING CENTRE.
If you experience any unpleasant odour that you do not recognise and you think that it may be coming from Hills Waste Solutions along Mopes Lane, please contact Hills on 01793 714450 immediately, so that they can investigate and rectify the problem.
PARKING PROBLEMS
If you witness any inconsiderate parking on double yellow lines and overstaying in time restriction parking bays on a regular basis, you can report these to the Parking Enforcment Officer. The Enforcement Officer welcomesas much information as possible with photos and timings of parking. The main areas that are enforced is Pavenhill shops layby, double yellow line at the One Stop and Best One and College Road layby. The Officers can be contacted on 01249 706131 or email Parking@wiltshire.gov.uk
To contact the Police on non emergency matters call 101, for emergencies call 999