Welcome

Many more of you are aware of the fundamental shift in the relationship between local authorities and the public. You understand local councils now face challenges never faced before – massive funding cuts from central government set against the rising costs of our statutory and non-statutory duties, plus expectations from some who still see us through historical eyes.

But despite this, Wokingham Borough Council continues to weather the storm a lot better than others. This is because we’ve found opportunities amid austerity – new ways to be resourceful, inventive and efficient, building new partnerships with fellow public sector organisations, the voluntary and private sectors, and of course with you - the communities we serve.

Our emerging Borough Plan on page 26 is an example of this. Here we’re working with you, and the groups above, to pinpoint Wokingham Borough’s unique challenges to formulate a realistic joint action plan to overcome them. By working together we’re stronger.

The wide range of infrastructure needed for the planned new homes coming to the Borough is being created or started before the developments are completed, through partnerships with the developers themselves. See pages 13 and 24.

With our own housing developments such as Gorse Ride (page 9), we’ve been talking to the community already there to ensure they were involved right from the start helping to shape the new estate.

And with the cost of adult social care rising dramatically – due to

our ageing population both here and nationally – we work with partner health organisations and the patients themselves to create seamless care packages specifically for them (page 17).

At this time of year, it’s good to take stock and consider what we’ve achieved by working together. Our New Year’s resolution to you is that we’ll continue to think outside the box to safeguard your services.

I wish you all a peaceful festive season with a positive 2019 we can embrace together.

Remember you can keep up-todate with our latest news on our dedicated website at: www.news. wokingham.gov.uk. This is where all our news, videos and photos are in one place for you to enjoy at any time you like.

You can also like us on Facebook (facebook.com/ wokinghamboroughcouncil) or follow us on Twitter (@WokinghamBC).

If you have any questions or comments, please do email me at: Pauline.Jorgensen@wokingham. gov.uk

Cllr Pauline Jorgensen Deputy Leader of the Council