BOROUGH NEWS Winter 2020
eastleigh.gov.uk
@eastleighbc
Recycling pilot begins We are trialling a new way of collecting recycling that will see residents in pilot areas receive fortnightly glass collections and food waste recycling becoming available to people living in flats for the first time. The Council is looking to change the way it collects waste to make it easier for residents as well as making it more reliable, efficient and environmentally friendly. To do this, we are carrying out a pilot taking place from 9 November 2020 to 29 January 2021. If successful, it will continue beyond this date and be rolled out across the Borough. People living in houses within the pilot areas will have their black glass and battery recycling box collected every fortnight on the same day as their green recycling bin collection.
Food waste recycling returns Service back for Borough from 9 November After being suspended due to health and safety, the Council’s popular food waste recycling service will be returning from 9 November. In a change to the previous service, food waste will now be collected by smaller, lower emission vehicles, as part of our ongoing commitment to the climate and environmental emergency. The new vehicles will also enable staff to socially distance. As food waste will be collected by a separate vehicle on the same day as your usual bin collection, your brown bin may not be collected at the same time as your wheeled bin.
Additionally, if the recycling pilot (see article to the right) is successful, the new vehicles will allow us to expand our recycling service to include fortnightly glass collections and food waste recycling for flats. Cabinet Lead for Environment, Cllr Rupert Kyrle, said: “As the only council in Hampshire to operate a regular food waste recycling service, we are very happy to see the service returning. “The coronavirus pandemic presented the Council with several logistical barriers to getting the
service back up and running. However, by investing in the new vehicles, we are also opening up exciting recycling opportunities for the future. Eastleigh residents are among the best recyclers in Hampshire and I’m sure they will welcome the opportunity to be able to recycle more.”
Find out more about food waste recycling visit eastleigh.gov.uk/foodwaste Picture credit: WRAP
Food waste will also be made available to people living in some flat blocks. Residents in these blocks will receive a kitchen caddy and a roll of liners, so they have everything they need to start turning their food waste into clean energy. All properties taking part in the pilot should already have received a letter through their door providing more information. Some properties in a road may not be included in the pilot, meaning you may put your bin out for collection on a different day to your neighbour.
To see if your road or flat block is included in the pilot visit eastleigh.gov.uk/recycling-pilot
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GREENER BOROUGH
eastleigh.gov.uk
Our focus
Des Mahon, a volunteer with the Scouts, said: “The Scouts in Chandler’s Ford are always looking at ways to help our local community and this is just another step towards how we prepare young people with the skills to help other people and have a positive impact on those around them.
As a Council, we are focused on improving the quality of life of everyone living and working in the Borough, both now and in the future. The stories in this issue are themed around the key areas where we are making a positive difference to people’s lives.
Green Borough 2
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Maintaining an attractive and sustainable environment that residents value, and which can allow residents, businesses and nature to thrive.
Health and Wellbeing Improving health and wellbeing, and supporting and creating sustainable communities. We want all our residents and people working in the Borough to live long, healthy and happy lives.
Housing and Development 10
Creating homes and communities to meet residents’ needs. To help support a buoyant housing market, it is essential that there is a sufficient supply of suitable, high-quality homes that can meet the diverse needs of residents. Building new homes and communities provides opportunities for people looking for affordable rent, or a new home to meet their changing needs.
Economy 13
Securing sustainable economic growth, high yet stable employment and a shared prosperity for residents. It is about ensuring every one of us has a good standard of living in strong, safe, sustainable communities.
Green shoots at new tree nursery Work is underway at the new Council-run tree nursery in Horton Heath. The ground has now been prepared at the site and poly tunnels are due to go in over the next few weeks. Three new apprentices have also been employed to work at the nursery.
Residents of all ages join litter picking effort Armed with litter sacks and pickers provided by the Council, groups and individuals took a stand against litter in their area by organising local picks. Large amounts of rubbish were gathered by local litter heroes across the Borough before being collected and disposed of by the Council’s StreetScene team. Seven groups and a number of individuals took part in the litter pick; members of the 3rd Chandler’s Ford Scouts Group took on litter in two areas of Chandler’s Ford, while members of the Hamble Valley Rotary Club collected four sack loads during a two-hour pick in Hedge End.
Eastleigh Lions picked around the Poets’ Roads, Derby Road and Grantham Green area in Eastleigh and residents and staff at Brendoncare Knightwood Care Home cleared their local area. Hamble Conservation Volunteers took part again after a successful pick during last year’s Great British Spring Clean. While parishioners of St Nicolas went out in household groups around North Stoneham.
“Working in partnership with Eastleigh Borough Council as part of the Great British September Clean has been a pleasure for our young people and adult volunteers and the whole group look forward to working with them again in the future.” The Great British September Clean was run by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy and litter picks like this happened up and down the country. Cabinet Lead for the Environment, Cllr Rupert Kyrle, said: “The efforts made by these groups is truly inspiring. It’s fantastic to see people who care about their local area giving up their free time to make it a better place for everyone. “It’s such a shame littering happens at all. It’s a blight on our environment, harms wildlife and is completely avoidable if people take their litter home with them or put it in a public bin.”
New government grants for home energy efficiency improvements The UK government is providing a ‘green homes grant’ in the form of vouchers worth up to £5,000 or £10,000 to help cover the cost of making energy efficiency improvements to your home. Improvements could include insulating your home to reduce your energy use or installing low-carbon heating to lower the amount of carbon dioxide your home produces. If you use a voucher for such work, it can be used to help cover the cost of any secondary measures, such as installing draftproofing or double/triple glazing.
In addition to growing trees from seed, the nursery will be taking delivery of over 1,200 young trees, which will be matured at the nursery before being planted out into the Borough. The Council aims to plant 160,000 more trees in the Borough by 2030 - one for every resident, as part of its commitment to tackling the climate and environmental emergency.
The government will provide a voucher that covers two-thirds of the cost of qualifying energy efficiency or low carbon heating improvements to your home, up to a maximum value of £5,000. If you are on a low income and receive certain benefits, you can receive a voucher covering all the cost of the improvements worth up to a value of £10,000.
All the trees grown at the nursery will be native species, chosen for their benefit to local wildlife.
We are helping to promote the scheme as the more people who make energy improvements
to their homes, the closer we will get to our goal of supporting the Borough to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030. If you think your home could be leaking energy (and cash) this winter, there’s never been a better time to go green. You must redeem the voucher and ensure improvements are completed by 31 March 2021. Further details are available from the Environment Centre on 0800 8048601, visit environmentcentre.com/get-help/ or the government: gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-thegreen-homes-grant-scheme
GREENER BOROUGH
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Make the most of your green recycling bin this Christmas
Your Christmas waste collections
You’ll be amazed how much refuse you can get inside your green wheelie bin. With many more people ordering goods online we are asking residents to ensure they make the most of the space in their green bin over the festive period. To ensure you can put as much as you can in your green bin and help the Council’s bin crews stay safe follows these simple tips;
• • • • •
cut up or tear large cardboard boxes to a size where they can lay flat inside the bin remove tape from cardboard crush aluminium cans squash plastic bottles flatten other cardboard packaging, like cereal boxes
Use clinical waste bins for ‘sharps’ The Council has recently seen an increase in the amount of clinical waste found in household waste bins. Sharps such as needles and syringes could cause serious injury or pass on disease. Residents are reminded that they must dispose of sharps in a safe way and should use our free clinical waste collection service.
professional. Once you have this, contact our customer service team and we will arrange for a free clinical waste bin and collection service from your home. For more information and to arrange a collection please contact our Customer Service Centre on 023 8068 8000
To arrange this, you will need a referral from your GP, District Nurse or other local health
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Normal Collection Day
Revised Collection Day
Friday 25 December
Monday 28 December
Monday 28 December
Tuesday 29 December
Tuesday 29 December
Wednesday 30 December
Wednesday 30 December
Thursday 31 December
Thursday 31 December
Saturday 2 January
Friday 1 January
Monday 4 January
Monday 4 January
Tuesday 5 January
Tuesday 5 January
Wednesday 6 January
Wednesday 6 January
Thursday 7 January
Thursday 7 January
Friday 8 January
Friday 8 January
Saturday 9 January
Please note that the garden waste service will be suspended after 18 December 2020 and resumes on 4 January 2021
Christmas tree recycling Free recycling collection points for real Christmas trees have been set up around the Borough. Trees can be dropped off between 4 - 18 January 2021. We will collect Christmas trees for recycling from the following locations:
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Have you accessed your 2020/21 bin collection dates online? Join over 15,000 households and sign up to automated email reminders
Collection dates are available to the end of November 2021 Visit eastleigh.gov.uk/bincollectiondates Residents offline can call our Customer Service Centre 023 8068 8000
Mortimers Road Car Park, Botley Hilliers Garden Centre, Woodhouse Lane, Botley Lakeside Country Park, Eastleigh Brambridge Park Garden Centre, Kiln Lane, Brambridge In-Excess Garden Centre, Winchester Road, Fair Oak
• Hound Parish Hall, Woolston Road, Netley • Haskins Garden Centre, West End If you subscribe to our garden waste scheme , we will collect your tree on your scheduled collection day – just place it next to your garden waste bin. We can only collect trees that are 4ft in length - so please cut your tree to this size.
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GREENER BOROUGH
eastleigh.gov.uk
Council changes to ‘greener’ hand tools
The Council’s StreetScene team are now using battery operated hand tools to undertake nearly all their work including strimming, grass and hedge maintenance. By March 2021 all their hand tools will be battery powered.
The battery-operated hand tools have replaced the old petrol driven ones and are much better for residents and nature as they reduce noise and local pollution. They are also much better for the operatives as they reduce hand/arm vibration when they are being used over long periods. Cabinet Lead for Environment, Cllr Rupert Kyrle, said: “This is a fantastic initiative and the 100% renewable electricity powered tools are another great example of the Council responding to the climate and environmental emergency. Moving all our hand tools from fossil fueled to battery-operated will save thousands of pounds a year and is better for the environment, our operatives and residents. I fully encourage residents and businesses in the Borough to consider taking similar steps.”
Green Flag award recognises Itchen Valley Country Park’s role in wellbeing Having a beautiful green space on your doorstep has been particularly important for the wellbeing of Borough residents over the past six months – and Itchen Valley Country Park is amongst the best in the country.
run to the highest possible standards, with excellent facilities. The Council-operated park is in its second decade of success in the scheme, which is a nationally recognised mark of quality.
The park is once again flying the Keep Britain Tidy charity’s Green Flag Award that is a sign to visitors that the park is well maintained and
Reduce wood burning to clear air It’s the time of year when we want to feel warm and cosy in our homes. For some, this might mean putting your feet up by an open fire or wood burning stove. But did you know fumes from your fire increase pollution in the local atmosphere and could make symptoms worse for you, your family and neighbours with breathing difficulties such as asthma? quality of life and premature death in people with existing conditions. Eastleigh Borough Council is teaming up with three nearby local authorities (Southampton, Winchester and the New Forest) to give residents in the area information and advice on household burning, with the aim of cleaning up our air, thereby improving our health. Backed with a £60,100 Air Quality Grant from the government, the campaign kicks off this winter and is funded for two years. It will ask residents to reduce the amount of burning they do, and to use cleaner fuels and more efficient appliances when they do.
Reducing local pollution is particularly important given the impact cononavirus has on people’s ability to breathe. Nationally, household burning is the biggest contributor to particulate matter, which is linked with several heart and lung problems and can contribute to a reduction in
Remember, you can avoid burning garden waste by using our garden waste collection service. Find out more at eastleigh.gov.uk/ gardenwaste. Find out more: eastleigh.gov.uk/airquality
CLIMATE CHAMPIONS
CLIMATE CHAMPIONS
Energy Efficient Local Climate Champion, Ben Earl is the Director of Sustainability, Energy & Water Efficiency at Skewb Ltd. In both his personal and professional life, he is passionate about helping the environment. As part of his commitment to tackling climate change, Ben has retrofitted his house for energy efficiency; some of the changes include LED lighting throughout, cavity wall insulation and a solar hot water system. He switched to a 100% renewable energy provider and took part in a community project to encourage households to use the brown food waste recycling bins. As part of a previous initiative, the Council assisted Ben by providing an energy performance certificate, allowing him to update the energy efficiency rating of his property. He encourages people to get together and help the environment through the Eastleigh Sustainable Vision - a welcoming group of social media connected residents wanting to take action to improve the environment. He is now working with the Council to deliver long-term improvements associated with new housing developments to make them both water and energy efficient. Ben said: “I would like people in the area to get involved in tackling climate change themselves, starting with small, simple changes, such as replacing old light bulbs for energy efficient equivalents and look at what grants are available to support more difficult measures.” Find out more: eastleigh.gov.uk/climatechangechampions
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HEALTH AND WELLBEING
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#Ever yonesCorner Have you got a story to tell? We are seeking stories on the realities of navigating life during the pandemic, whether it’s about shielding or self isolating, the challenges you’re facing, or your community. It might be how you are helping others and yourself through the challenges. eastleigh.gov.uk/everyonescorner Contact communications@eastleigh.gov.uk
Improve your wellbeing with a social stroll Our Country Parks team are always looking at ways of putting the Borough’s outdoor spaces to good use in new and beneficial ways for residents. In light of the pandemic they have set up Walk & Talk events. They aim to bring together those who might be feeling lonely or in need of mental healing following lockdown. The events allow a safe space to share experiences and connect with others while benefitting from the soothing natural surroundings. Nature has long been known as having great benefits for our wellbeing and an escape from daily stresses.
We are looking for residents living with a long-term health condition who find that physical activity helps their health and would be happy to share their story! Contact sportworks@eastleigh.gov.uk Visit weareundefeatable.co.uk for more info about the national campaign.
These events are monthly, free and take place at both Lakeside and Itchen Valley Country Parks. Join a small socially distanced group for a stroll and a chat, led by one of the team, to explore the parks through the seasons. They’re informal, include refreshments and are COVID-safe. Booking is essential to ensure we don’t exceed the ‘rule of six’.
Visit eastleigh.gov.uk/countryparkeventbookings and select ‘Wellbeing Activities’ or call 023 8068 3790.
HealthWorks start their comeback The Council’s HealthWorks team support active lifestyles for those with a pre-existing medical condition or at risk of developing a health condition. This is achieved through tailored programmes and group sessions. They have been working hard to safely reinstate their activities.
some virtual alternatives and pilot them with our existing users before Christmas.
17 Health Walks per week, for existing users, have now restarted in different areas of the Borough. Our small group walks are now taking place in Chandler’s Ford, Eastleigh, Bishopstoke and Fair Oak, with more new locations returning this month.
The teams’ aim is to take on class participants, new walkers and referrals in the future. This will begin once existing users have been safely restarted.
As a result of current coronavirus guidance, we are unable to restart our community lowintensity classes. We are looking to provide
We are currently working towards getting consultations available for our Referral Scheme and will be in contact with existing customers to start these very soon.
Learn about HealthWorks: eastleigh.gov.uk/healthworks
Eastleigh plans to mark Remembrance Despite the current restrictions, which mean the traditional ceremonies and parades cannot take place this year, Eastleigh Borough Council will be encouraging residents to mark Remembrance Sunday on 8 November and Armistice Day on Wednesday 11 November in a way that follows current government guidelines. There will be an online Remembrance ceremony and residents are encouraged to decorate the windows of their home with homemade poppies and to help turn Eastleigh bandstand red by adorning it with poppies. We are encouraging all residents to ‘Remember at home’ by standing on their doorstep at 11am to honour the two minute silence. The virtual service can be viewed online at eastleigh.gov.uk.
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YOUR COUNCIL
eastleigh.gov.uk
Local Hero nominations We’re giving people in the Borough the opportunity to nominate individuals, organisations or volunteer groups for two different awards to celebrate their contributions to the community. Nominate your Local Hero This year has been challenging for many people across the Borough as coronavirus has continued to have an impact on day to day life, it has also brought people together and we have seen people go above and beyond to help others. As a community, people in the Borough have pulled together to support each other during this time, whether they are vulnerable and shielding or a struggling small business, the kindness many people have shown has been great to see so we are giving people in the Borough the chance to nominate their ‘Local Hero’. If you know an individual or group who you think has helped significantly during the coronavirus
pandemic, you can submit your nomination at eastleigh.gov.uk/local-heroes. If you are nominating an individual, please ensure you get their consent first. If you aren’t able to complete the online form, please detail the story in approximately 300 words and send to Harry Stow, Eastleigh House, Upper Market Street, Eastleigh SO50 9YN. Nominate your Citizen of Honour Do you know someone who has made a substantial contribution to the community or has helped to make the Borough a better place? If so, they could be made one of the Borough’s Citizens of Honour. The Citizen of Honour award is granted every two years to people who have given long and exceptional service to their local community. If you would like to recommend someone for the Citizen of Honour award, please send their name and the reasons why you think they should be nominated to the Mayor’s Office, Eastleigh House, Upper Market Street, Eastleigh SO50 9YN or email mayorsoffice@eastleigh. gov.uk by 5 January 2021. All nominations will be treated with the strictest confidence.
Make fireworks less frightening for animals If you want to enjoy fireworks as part of celebrations over the next few months please remember there are a few steps you can take to help make them less frightening for pets and wildlife;
• Never set off fireworks near livestock
• Only let fireworks off on traditional celebration dates such as Diwali, Bonfire night, Christmas, New Year’s Eve and Chinese New Year
• Check bonfires before lighting for animals such as hibernating hedgehogs
• Use low noise fireworks
For more information visit: rspca.org.uk/ adviceandwelfare/pets/general/fireworks
• Let your neighbours know well in advance
• Fireworks disturb wildlife too so don’t let them off by habitats such as lakes and woodland with roosting birds
• Pick up firework litter after it has cooled down
Have fun – but please don’t smoke out your neighbours Given that social distancing rules mean that organised bonfire and firework displays will not take place this year, we know many people may be planning their own at home (remember the Rule of 6). However, before you plan a bonfire, please check with neighbours – remember that smoke pollution can be unpleasant for many, but particularly during the coronavirus pandemic. If you’re having a bonfire, don’t burn aerosols, tyres, canisters or anything containing foam or paint - many produce toxic fumes which are not just unpleasant, but can be dangerous. Don’t leave the bonfire unattended and, once it has died down, spray the embers with water to stop it from reigniting.
CAFÉ BAR OPEN MONDAY TO FRIDAY: 10AM - 2PM, SATURDAY: 10AM - 3PM
Together let’s stay safe and social: Take-away available For full guidance, please visit www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk/hang-out
Dogs on leads welcome FREE WIFI
Construction & Maintenance services proves a big hit Following our article in the last edition of Borough News about services our Construction and Maintenance team can provide for local residents, we have been inundated with requests for quotes and subsequent work. Our highly skilled and experienced team can provide a range of external construction and grounds maintenance work at a competitive price by a team you can trust; • Dropped kerbs - a great way of ensuring 24-hour access to your property for vehicles, as it prevents other road users from blocking the entrance. • New driveways - what’s the best choice for you, tarmac, resin or block paved? • Fencing - we can remove and/or install a new fence for you • Paths - we can install a range of new paths We are now taking bookings for the new year so if you would like more information visit eastleigh.gov.uk/candm or for a free competitive quote simply call our dedicated Support Team on 023 8068 8384 or email us on constructionandmaintenance@ eastleigh.gov.uk
Keeping the electoral register up-to-date During August, your household should have received a form from the Council showing the names of residents who are registered to vote at your property. Please check the information and make sure the details are correct. If the information needs to be updated, please visit householdresponse.com/ eastleigh to make any changes - it’s quick and easy. The information is used to confirm who, at your address, is eligible to vote. This information can also be used when applying for credit, such as a mortgage or personal loan.
Not being registered means that you cannot vote at the local elections and can risk you being refused credit. Please help us by responding as soon as you can to prevent reminders being sent and to avoid the need for additional contact with you, which is particularly important at the moment with the impact of COVID-19.
YOUR COUNCIL
@eastleighbc
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Locally focused decision-making for Eastleigh town centre Residents of Eastleigh town centre and its surrounding neighbourhoods are being consulted on a proposal to bring more locally focused decision-making to the area.
north, the M27, Test Valley and Southampton City border to the south, the M3 to the west, and the River Itchen boundary with the Bishopstoke and West End parish areas.
The Community Governance Review (CGR) is aimed at bringing the Eastleigh town area into line with the ten other parish and town councils across the Borough.
This month, residents in this area are being sent a letter and survey asking for their views on options for how the first tier of local democracy might be structured. These include having one town/parish council covering the whole area, or a number of smaller parish councils dedicated to specific and clearly identifiable neighbourhoods.
The move is part of the Borough Council’s commitment to give residents greater ownership and control over the day-to-day activities and services delivered on their behalf, such as the maintenance of open spaces and play areas, and the management of community buildings and cemeteries.
Christmas lights in Eastleigh Despite the current difficult circumstances the Christmas lights in Eastleigh will be sparkling again this year. Although we are not able to stage the traditional ‘switch on’ event, Eastleigh will be illuminated with festive lights from Saturday 14 November. Lights will again be placed around Eastleigh on Market Street and High Street as well as Leigh Road from the junction with Southampton Road to the Point (including the precinct) and Wells Place. Icicle lights will also be placed on the bandstand and there will be a cone of lights in Leigh Road precinct to replace the Christmas tree.
Picture: artist’s impression of the cone of lights in Eastleigh town centre
& present
If the wider Eastleigh town centre is ‘parished’, householders would be represented by elected councillors who could be responsible for more tightly drawn local areas than the much larger Borough Council wards administered by the Eastleigh Local Area Committee, which has a more strategic role; they would also have a greater say in how the budget for local services is spent. The area covered by the community governance review is bordered by Allbrook parish in the
Council Leader, Cllr Keith House, said: “The Borough Council’s Local Area Committees have a strong record of working in partnership with our town and parish councils to provide excellent facilities and services. The community governance review reflects our commitment to increasing local accountability and bringing service delivery and decision-making as close to local residents as possible.” Elections to a new council or councils would take place in 2022.
More information is available at eastleigh.gov.uk/towncentrecgr
Theatres awarded £193k
Free parking introduced in Eastleigh town centre
The fund, administered by Arts Council England, was introduced to provide financial support for arts organisations impacted by COVID-19. It helps venues operate on a sustainable, costefficient basis until they are able to reopen. The award is a vote of confidence in the theatres’ longterm commitment to reach even more people in the Borough’s communities, forge new links with partners and to build for the future, including their online presence.
Visitors to Eastleigh town centre can benefit from free extra parking when they use the digital RingGo parking service. This allows visitors to pay for a one-hour stay and receive a two-hour stay instead, getting two hours parking for the price of one hour - and it’s all contactless. The free extra parking is valid in the Council’s four town centre pay and display car parks in Wells Place, Hanns Way, Romsey Road and Leigh Road and is valid every day of the week until 1 January 2021. If you do not have the RingGo app you can book with a phone call using the number that is provided at each parking location.
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HEALTH AND WELLBEING
eastleigh.gov.uk
Help at a glance
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There are times in life when we all need a little bit of help and support
Find out what support is on offer to make your life that little bit easier. The Council may be able to provide you with extra support or assistance for a range of services, if you are on a low income, in receipt of benefit, have a physical or learning disability, long-term medical condition or are over 60.
Providing financial and housing support Welfare benefits and housing
Contact our Customer Service team on 023 8068 8000.
We can provide information and support about welfare benefits and housing, including;
Alternatively, for Council Tax or Housing Benefit assistance, please email revbens@eastleigh.gov.uk quoting your Council Tax or Housing Benefit number.
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Support with your Council Tax
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pplying for Housing Benefit and A Discretionary Housing Payment (when the benefit you receive is less than the amount of rent you have to pay)
For housing advice, please email housing@eastleigh.gov.uk
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omelessness and housing H advice
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pplying for affordable housing A and the Hampshire Home Choice register.
We work in partnership with Eastleigh Citizens Advice who offer free, independent and confidential advice on a range of subjects including specialist debt and benefits advice.
Debt, benefit and other advice
For more information, call 0800 144 8848 or visit citizensadviceeastleigh.org.uk
Help in and around the home Home adaptations service
Keeping your home warm
If you, or someone living in your property, is disabled and experiencing difficulties getting in and around your home, you may qualify for a Disabled Facilities Grant towards the cost of providing adaptations. We also oversee the work on your behalf.
The Hampshire-based Hitting the Cold Spots team offers advice on the grants available and ways to reduce your energy bills to keep you, your family and your home warm and healthy.
For more information call 023 8068 8000 or visit eastleigh.gov.uk/DFG
Essential home repair and maintenance loans The Home Improvement Loan is a unique, low cost, home improvement service and lending scheme offered by us in partnership with the Parity Trust. It is specifically designed for homeowners who require financial assistance in order to carry out essential repairs or maintenance to your property. For more information call 023 8068 8000 or visit eastleigh.gov.uk/ home-improvement-loans
For more information call 0800 804 8601, email: staywarm@environmentcentre.com or visit eastleigh.gov.uk/energygrants
Home gardening support We provide a gardening support service for older and/or disabled residents, which offers assistance with grass cutting, edging, pruning and low hedge trimming. This service is only available from April to October. For further details or to request the gardening service, please call 023 8068 3361 or visit eastleigh.gov.uk/gardening-scheme
HEALTH AND WELLBEING
@eastleighbc
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Assisted waste services Putting out your bins If you have difficulties putting your household, recycling, food or garden waste bins out for collection due to a disability, illness or infirmity and there is no one else to help you, you can apply for our Assisted Collection Service. This service is also available if you still use sacks. For more information call 023 8068 8000 or visit eastleigh.gov.uk/assisted-bin-collection
Garden waste We offer a fortnightly garden waste collection service with discounted rates available for residents in receipt of Council Tax Support or a defined benefit. To sign up to the scheme and claim your discount call 023 8068 0000 or visit eastleigh.gov.uk/gardenwaste
Large household item removal We offer a bulky waste collection service for large items that are not in a good condition or suitable for reuse. Discounted rates are available for residents in receipt of Council Tax Support or a defined benefit. To request a bulky waste collection call 023 8068 8440 or book online by visiting eastleigh.gov.uk/bulky-waste
Pest control We can provide advice on pest control and, if treatment is needed, discounted rates may be available if you are in receipt of a defined benefit. For more information call 023 8068 8000 or visit eastleigh.gov.uk/pestcontrol
Keeping you active and well Air pollution alerts If you have a heart or lung condition such as asthma, you can sign up for free air pollution alerts by text message, voicemail or email through the airAlert service. For more information call 023 8068 8355 or visit eastleigh.gov.uk/airquality
Physical activity Our HealthWorks team provides advice and support for older residents and residents with a long-term health condition who are looking to improve their physical and mental health. For more information call HealthWorks on 07469 377643 or email healthworks@eastleigh.gov.uk or visit eastleigh.gov.uk/healthworks Our SportWorks service offers a variety of lowcost sport and physical activity opportunities for children and adults throughout the year. We also offer a Passport to Leisure Scheme providing discounts to those who fall in specific categories on selected sport and leisure activities at Places Leisure Eastleigh. For more information call 023 8068 8000, email sportworks@eastleigh.gov.uk or visit eastleigh.gov.uk/sportworks
Health and wellbeing at home At the start of lockdown, we created a new section of our website in response to the pandemic. One area within this focusses on maintaining health and wellbeing safely at home, whether this was around keeping active, eating well or looking after mental health and each other. For tips and support from national and local sources, visit eastleigh.gov.uk/ healthandwellbeingathome
The Point, Eastleigh The Point offers a range of classes and workshops to support health and wellbeing with concessionary ticket, and occasionally subsidised, prices available. On selected shows, the theatre offers a free personal assistant ticket to anyone who needs additional support.
As part of the Council’s ongoing commitment to creating healthy communities, the Point offers a limited number of bursaries on a means-tested basis to help cover the cost of activity fees for those in most financial need. These activities currently include our Youth Theatres, Youth Dance Companies and The Point Training scheme. For further information, and the full list of concessions, please call our friendly Box Office team on 023 8065 2333 or visit thepointeastleigh.co.uk
Door-to-door transport A Dial-a-Ride service operates across the Borough, providing a door-to-door transport service if you find it difficult or impossible to use ordinary bus services. For information call 023 8090 2450 / 023 8090 2432
Transport for medical appointments If you have difficulty using public transport to get to a hospital appointment, medical centre or GP surgery, we run a local Medical Transport Taxi Service in partnership with Hampshire County Council. To register and book call 023 8027 0088, text 07894 684 969 or visit eastleigh.gov.uk/ community-transport
Parking for Blue Badge holders If you are a Blue Badge holder you are exempt from some waiting restrictions and some parking charges as long as your valid Blue Badge and time clock are displayed correctly. For more information visit eastleigh.gov.uk/bluebadge-parking
Other community services We work in partnership with One Community who can signpost you to a range of services and support as well as offering volunteering opportunities for all. For more information about the range of support on offer please call One Community on 023 8090 2400, email info@1community.org.uk or visit 1community.org.uk
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HOUSING AND DEVELOPMENT
Friday Night Football Just £ 1 pay & play lds 10-19 Year o
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Returns from Friday 6 November Hamble Sports Complex 7pm to 9pm Places Leisure Eastleigh 6.30pm to 8.30pm Botley sessions are on now! Botley Recreation Ground 6pm to 7pm: 10-13 year olds 7pm to 8pm: 14-15 year olds 8pm to 9pm: 16-19 year olds eastleigh.gov.uk/sportworks-programme
Wildern Pool work complete Every Friday at Places Leisure Eastleigh
Work to improve facilities at Wildern Pool, 6.30pm - 8.30pm Hedge End has been completed. The Council invested £1.2million into the project that included the completion of a new roof with eye catching coloured opaque cladding panels to provide natural lighting into the pool area. It also included a new dedicated spectator seating area by the pool together with the replacement of the existing pool perimeter tiles. Chair of Hedge End, West End & Botley Local Area Committee, Cllr Cynthia Garton, said:
Council MOT service returns Hedge End Depot reopens for truly independent MOTs The Council’s Hedge End Depot is welcoming customers old and new for a truly independent vehicle MOT. In line with government advice the team have made a number of changes to keep customers safe since reopening, following the coronavirus lockdown.
Book online at: eastleigh.gov.uk/motbooking
“I’m delighted that work has progressed so well despite the current situation. I’m looking forward to seeing the new facilities and welcoming all our customers back when it is safe and appropriate to do so, in line with government guidelines.” Now that the works are complete, the pool has been handed back to Wildern Academy prior to them making the decision to reopen. Picture: New spectator area at Wildern Pool
School at North Stoneham Park opens Another important part of the community at North Stoneham Park, Eastleigh has been completed with the opening of the new £5.6 million, Stoneham Park Primary Academy -and the first 30 reception class pupils have now been welcomed into the school. Situated within the heart of the new North Stoneham Park development, the school comprises 11 classrooms and can provide 315 school places for pupils aged four to 11 years. The school has the capability to expand into a two-form entry school for up to 420 pupils.
Nicola Wells, Headteacher at Stoneham Park from The University of Winchester Academy Trust, said: “We are thrilled with our new school, it is a beautiful environment that we are sure our children will love.” She added, “We intend to provide an exciting, broad and balanced educational experience for the children in this growing community. We are particularly lucky to have such extensive grounds and we intend to take full advantage of this with a full forest school and outdoor learning programme.” Picture: Stoneham Park Primary Academy, photo supplied by HCC Property Services
HOUSING AND DEVELOPMENT
@eastleighbc
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Just moved into the area?
Find out everything you need to know about living in Eastleigh Borough Things to know | Things to do
Residents move into new homes
Places to visit | Places nearby Visit eastleigh.gov.uk/welcome
Work on the Pembers Hill Park development at Fair Oak has continued over the last few months since lockdown and the first residents have now moved in. The first buyers to complete and be welcomed to their hew home at Pembers Hill Park were two key workers, Heather and Jonathan. They have both been on the frontline throughout the pandemic and have now moved into a lovely new home. Jonathan said: “Our home is perfectly placed for both of us, close enough for me to get to Portsmouth and Heather to get to the hospital but far enough away for the quiet, semi-rural village setting we want to start our family in.”
To date, seven houses have been sold and 35 reservations made for this new development including four affordable homes.
If you would like more details about the housing options at Pembers Hill Park visit drewsmithhomes.co.uk/developments/pembershill-park/
Council Officers received further information submitted in mid October from the airport
The Council as Local Planning Authority refused outline planning permission for a proposed development at GE Aviation, Hamble Lane, Hamble, in January 2020, following the decision at Bursledon, Hamble-le-Rice and Hound Local Area Committee in December 2019 to refuse permission.
Picture: The first residents at Pembers Hill Park
Southampton Airport planning update The Council is currently in the process of reviewing feedback on the latest round of consultation regarding the Southampton Airport planning application and continues to discuss updates and modifications with the airport.
GE Aviation, Hamble Planning Appeal
team. A further 30 day public consultation period was undertaken to allow everyone to view and submit feedback. The consultation finishes on 15 November. Once all the information and comments are received the Council will be working with stakeholders to target a committee date later this year.
The proposal included the construction of up to 148 residential dwellings with new vehicle access to Hamble Lane, alterations to Kings Avenue and Coronation Parade together with new car parking for, and improvements to, existing sports facilities. In July 2020, the Council received confirmation from The Planning Inspectorate (PINS) that an appeal had been lodged by the applicants. The Planning Inspector will consider whether permission should have been granted for the proposal. The date for the start of the appeal is Tuesday 10 November and the Council will be defending the decision.
For more information visit eastleigh.gov.uk/geainquiry
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ONE HORTON HEATH UPDATE
Meeting our community ’s aspirations The September public engagement programme provided the first opportunity to view the emerging images for the Masterplan and first homes on the site.
Putting infrastructure first As part of the Council’s infrastructure first commitment, work started in June on the first phase of the new link road to build three new roundabouts on Bubb Lane, Burnetts Lane and Allington Lane and a new link road between Bubb Lane and Burnetts Lane. Once completed
next year, a new north and south access to the site will be in place to relieve congestion for local residents.
David Cranmer, Development Planning Manager for One Horton Heath said: “We know meaningful public engagement is vital to shaping our plans and have been in continuous dialogue over the last year. Already, we have received great feedback from the community about their key issues, including a strong desire for safe pedestrian and cycle connectivity, and we are working to incorporate these positive suggestions into the design work that the One Horton Heath team are undertaking.” You can view the proposed designs at onehortonheath.co.uk Picture above left: illustrative development on the south of the site
Picture: New Allington Lane roundabout takes shape
Explore the One Horton Heath website The One Horton Heath website was launched in the Spring. You can learn more about the Council’s flagship development including all the latest images, videos, events, news and how to subscribe to the project’s newsletter. Visit onehortonheath.co.uk
Learn more about our wildlife plans Explore the site with Ben Mitchell, the project’s Lead Ecologist in our latest film and hear about the work being undertaken to understand the site’s species and habitat areas and the long-term aspirations for wildlife within the developments proposals. To view the film, visit onehortonheath.co.uk.
Picture: Ben Mitchell, Lead Ecologist from Johns Associates, adjusting one of the onsite bat survey monitors.
ECONOMY
@eastleighbc in school or virtually depending on the current situation. Lea is passionate about careers education and helping students understand their options. Lea recently ran a workshop to 280 pupils in year 7 at Wyvern College, Fair Oak, as part of their “Aspiration Day”. The session helped students to look at ways they could achieve their goals.
Employment & skills engagement with local schools Lea Hampton is the Council’s new Employment and Skills Manager for the One Horton Heath development. The pandemic has meant she has had to find new ways of engaging with schools as she feels careers education is crucial. In her role she brings guest speakers from local businesses to speak to school children, either
Free online business school launches Entrepreneurs in the Borough of Eastleigh are being offered free places on an acclaimed online workshop to help turn their business dreams into reality. The popular PopUp Business School is aimed at helping wouldbe start-ups in the Borough to get their ideas off the ground and will run online from 7 - 11 December. The week-long training schedule includes a mix of practical sessions, one-to-one coaching, workshop sessions and local peer support that residents can attend from the comfort of their homes. The daily sessions will cover a range of courses from sales and marketing, growing your business quickly and taxes and company structure. At a similar event held in May, over a quarter of attendees started a new business and gained their first sale within five days.
The PopUp Business School welcomes people of all ages who are thinking about selfemployment. Whether you are at the beginning of your start-up journey, or an already established business looking for new ways to grow and adapt, the course aims to provide the information, inspiration and practical advice to teach you how to build and evolve your business.
For more information or to book a free space, visit popupbusinessschool.co.uk/ hampshire
Lea has also developed an innovative programme for younger children called Jobs in a Box – this is a resource box of costumes, props, games, lesson plans and information for use in primary schools. She created this last year in her role as an Ambassador for National Careers Week and wants to bring it to primary schools across the Borough. If you would like to know more about this free resource, contact lea.hampton@ eastleigh.gov.uk to arrange it for your school. She has also run two successful funded Train the Trainer sessions on gambling and gaming awareness with The Young Gamers and Gamblers Education Trust (YGAM) for people supporting young people.
As part of our ongoing dedication to skills and development we also have a devoted area on our website called SkillsZone, helping people find available training opportunities and courses. eastleigh.gov.uk/skillszone
Brexit The government is providing information and help for businesses to make sure they’re ready for the changes due to take place at the end of the transition period when the UK exits the EU. The biggest potential cause of disruption are traders not being ready for controls implemented on 1 January 2021. Irrespective of the outcome of negotiations between the UK and EU, traders will face new customs controls and processes.
Find out more: gov.uk/transition
EU Settled Status – deadline 30 June 2021 If you’re an EU citizen living in the UK you will need to apply to the EU Settlement Scheme before 30 June 2021. You can apply online on the government website, which also has up-to-date information and advice about the application process. Find out more at: www.gov.uk/ eusettledstatus
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News round up Smart watch The Borough has a number of very active Neighbourhood Watch schemes and funding has been agreed that will bring a smarter look to residents’ monitoring efforts. New signs are being installed, with a successful signage replacement scheme in the Hedge End, West End and Botley Local Area. Old or obsolete signs which were looking shabby have been removed. Bishopstoke, Fair Oak & Horton Heath
Community library in Fair Oak A move to keep library services in Fair Oak is making progress. The Fair Oak Parish Council’s Library Task & Finish Group, led by Councillor Nick Couldrey, wants to establish a community interest group to run a library in Fair Oak. Negotiations are still taking place between the Parish and the County Council. If you’d like to volunteer, please visit the Parish Council’s Facebook page.
St Paul’s community centre extension Planning approval has now been given for the community centre extension for St Paul’s church in Whalesmead, Bishopstoke. The extension is planned to be completed by the end of next year. The proposal for this muchneeded community space was welcomed during the public consultation.
Planney improvements More improvement works at the Planney – the small wooded area in Bishopstoke – will continue over the coming month. The Council has recently cleared fly-tipping and will be closely monitoring the area. Improvements to the area include better fencing, signage, footways and support for a ‘Friends of the Planney’ volunteer group.
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News round up Hedge End, West End & Botley
Dementia care
Over £1.1 million invested in children’s play
A purpose-built residential care home specialising in round-the-clock care for older people with dementia is due to open in Hedge End early next year.
The Council has a play area improvement programme that will see over £1.1million invested in the important area of children’s play. It includes the installation of new play areas and refurbishing existing ones across the Borough and more are planned.
Snowdrop Place in Pavilion Road, Hedge End also offers respite and short stays. It is Barchester Healthcare’s newest care home and enquiries are welcomed on 02381 892 777.
Thousands of children and families are now enjoying new and refurbished play areas that provide safe, fun and challenging experiences for children of all ages. New play areas have been installed on many of our new developments at Leah Gardens and two play areas at North Stoneham Park in Eastleigh, Bowlake Gardens, Bishopstoke and at Hatch Farm, West End. A number of play areas have been refurbished including Grantham Green and Leigh Road in Eastleigh.
Community Grants Charities and not-for-profit organisations can apply for community and youth grants from Hedge End West End & Botley Local Area Committee if they are based in the area.
More play areas are planned including;
• Pirelli Park, Eastleigh • Boorley Green, Botley • Heron Walk, Kingfisher Grange and Windhover Meadows, Bursledon
Find out more at: eastleigh. gov.uk/communitygrants
• Latitude, Hedge End
Bishopstoke, Fair Oak & Horton Heath / Hedge End, West End & Botley
• Crowdhill in Fair Oak
Smiley reminders on speed limits
Each play area has its own range of equipment that provide a range of activities for the children with multiactivity units, basket or combi swing, springers, zip wire, accessible roundabouts for disabled users. All our play areas also include safety surfacing.
The Hedge End, West End and Botley Local Area Committee has approved funds for a new ‘smiley face’ speed limit reminder and a request for additional reminders is being considered by the Bishopstoke, Fair Oak and Horton Heath Local Area Committee. The signs present a smiley or a sad face to drive home the safe speed message if a car is travelling over the limit. Not only are the signs more visual, but now allow much more detailed data to be gathered. Bishopstoke, Fair Oak & Horton Heath /
Stokewood Surgery The finance report to BIFOHH will be seeking approval for around £9,000 to fund internal improvements to Stokewood Surgery, allowing a more efficient use of space inside the building.
A
• Cheriton Road and Lawn Road in Eastleigh • Hellyar Rise, Hedge End
Here are some of the main benefits to children;
B
• increasing physical exercise and activity • enjoying being outdoors
C
• improving healthy activity and fresh air • increasing social play and interaction with other children
• learning about the local environment Cabinet Lead for Health, Cllr Tonia Craig, said: “I’m pleased and proud that we are investing over £1.1million in play areas for our communities across the Borough to enjoy. They provide safe and stimulating environments for our children to explore and have fun. It also enables them to meet other children and keep active which is great for both their physical and mental health.” Picture A : Rocco and Santi at Bowlake Meadows, Bishopstoke Picture B : Leigh Road Picture C : Hatch Farm, West End Picture D : North Stoneham, Eastleigh
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@eastleighbc
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Council praises Nims’ amazing mountaineering achievement The Council has recognised the almost superhuman achievement of one of the Borough’s residents. The Council has recognised the almost superhuman achievement of one of the Borough’s residents, as well as his ongoing work for charities. Nirmal ‘Nims’ Purja MBE is a former Gurkha and member of the local Nepalese community, who are always well represented at Eastleigh’s annual Remembrance Day ceremony. Nims is a legend within the extreme mountaineering community, having conquered all 14 of the world’s 8,000-metre-plus peaks in six months and six days, smashing the previous record of just under eight years. He was awarded the MBE for his outstanding contribution to high-altitude mountaineering. The Mayor of Eastleigh, Councillor Darshan Mann, has written to Nims praising his achievement, saying: “As a council we are always keen to
highlight the achievements of our ‘local heroes’ as a way of inspiring others to reach their potential. We’re very proud to have Nims as a resident of our Borough and wish him and his foundation well in their future endeavours.” Nims firmly believes in supporting young talent regardless of race, culture or religion. He set up the Nimsdai Foundation dedicated to building opportunities and creating a difference for local Sherpas and guides, as well as UK military and Nepalese children’s charities. He says: “Everything in life is possible armed only with a determined approach and positive mindset.”
Read more about Nims’ story by visiting nimsdai.com Picture credit: Thaneswar
Have your say Local Area Committees hold public question sessions at the start of each meeting Local Area Committees (LAC) are made up from elected Ward Councillors. They take decisions and make representations relating to their area on a wide range of Council business, including determining planning applications, traffic management and environmental improvements. We are now using Microsoft Teams Live Events to hold virtual meetings which are available to watch live or a recording will be available for up to 12 months after the meeting has taken place. Public question sessions are held at the start of
Contact us:
each meeting and if you would like to speak, you must register before the meeting begins. Please email democraticservices@eastleigh.gov. uk or you can register at the meeting. Each LAC has a Local Area Manager who works with the Councillors to set the strategic direction of the Committee’s work. Bishopstoke, Fair Oak & Horton Heath (7pm) 25 November • 27 January visit eastleigh.gov.uk/bifohh or contact andrew. thompson@eastleigh.gov.uk / 023 8068 8357
Eastleigh Borough Council, Eastleigh House, Upper Market Street, Eastleigh SO50 9YN 023 8068 8000 @EastleighBC
Bursledon, Hamble-le-Rice & Hound (6pm) 3 December • 21 January visit eastleigh.gov.uk/bhh or contact ross.mcclean@eastleigh.gov.uk / 023 8068 3367 Eastleigh (7pm) 17 November • 19 January visit eastleigh.gov.uk/elac or contact guy.riddoch@eastleigh.gov.uk / 023 8068 3369 Chandler’s Ford & Hiltingbury (7pm) 18 November • 13 January visit eastleigh.gov.uk/cfh or contact ross.mcclean@eastleigh.gov.uk / 023 8068 3367 Hedge End, West End & Botley (7pm) 2 November • 25 January visit eastleigh.gov.uk/heweb or contact julia.birt@eastleigh.gov.uk / 023 8068 8437
For more information about the virtual meetings please visit eastleigh.gov.uk/virtualmeetings
Distribution period We try to ensure that the dates featured or listed in the Borough News fall after the last copy is delivered. However, some events may occur during the delivery period. We try to avoid this, but we are keen that events get as much publicity as possible.
eastleigh.gov.uk • my.eastleigh.gov.uk Sign up to receive updates from us at: eastleigh.gov.uk/weeklynews
Eastleigh Borough Council makes no representations, endorsements, warranties or guarantees, and is not liable for any loss or damage, in relation to any advertisements placed in the Borough News.
Contact
and Funerals
Stays
guidancefrom home guidance Work from home
Rule of six indoors and outdoors, Up to 15 guests for weddings and Overnight stays permitted in all settings. up to 30 guests for funerals. 15 subject to social contact rules. where possible. Rule of six indoors and outdoors, Up to 15 guests for weddings and Overnight stays permitted Work from home for receptions, wakes and related in all settings. up to 30 guests for funerals. 15 subject to social contact rules. where possible. ceremonies. for receptions, wakes and related ceremonies.
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Shopping Leisure Hospitality Entertainment and RetailShopping To check andyour gyms and tourist Leisure Hospitality Entertainment local COVID Alert Level visit gov.uk/check-covid-alert attractions and Retail and gyms and tourist attractions Open. Open. Open with some restrictions Open, except nightclubs Open.
Education Education
Open.
Healthcare Services Healthcare Services
Schools, FE colleges open. Open. Universities must reflect wider Schools, FE colleges open. restrictions. Universities must reflect wider restrictions.
Sporting Activity Sporting Activity
Worship
Open.
Worship
Organised sport / licensed physical activity allowed in outdoor Open, subject to social Organised sport / licensed settings. Indoor organised sport must contact rules. physical activity allowed in outdoor Open, subject to social follow social contact rules (other settings. Indoor organised sport must contact rules. than youth or disabled sport). follow social contact rules (other than youth or disabled sport).
including 10pm closing time and and adult entertainment. Open with some restrictions Open, except nightclubs table-service only. including 10pm closing time and and adult entertainment. table-service only.
Residential Care Residential Care
Travel and TransportTravel and Transport
Open to external visitors with No travel restrictions within area. additional precautions, subject to Avoid travel into Local COVID Alert Open to external visitors with No travel restrictions within area. individual care provider guidance. Level Very High areas where possible. additional precautions, subject to Avoid travel into Local COVID Alert individual care provider guidance. Level Very High areas where possible.
Childcare Childcare
Youth Clubs and Activities Youth Clubs and Activities
Registered and wraparound Permitted. childcare open. Supervised activities Registered and wraparound permitted in private homes. childcare open. Supervised activities Children’s groups permitted. permitted in private homes. Children’s groups permitted.
Permitted.
There are three simple actions we must all do to keep on protecting each other: There are three simple actions we must all do to keep on protecting each other: Wash hands Cover face Make space keep washing your wear a face covering stay at least 2 metres apart - or 1 metre Wash hands Cover face Make space hands regularly spaces covering precautions keep washing your in enclosedwear a face covering with a facestay at leastor2other metres apart - or 1 metre hands regularly in enclosed spaces with a face covering or other precautions
For more information and detailed guidance visit: For more information and detailed guidance visit: gov.uk/coronavirus gov.uk/coronavirus
Have you been told to self isolate by NHS Test and Trace on or after 28 September 2020? Help to support you financially with your isolation is available through a Test and Trace Support Payment. To see if you’re eligible and to submit a claim, visit www.eastleigh.gov.uk/coronavirus-financial-support