COMMUNITY SELF – HELP SCHEMES
As we are all aware Central Government have cut funding to Local Authorities and so Devon County Council and West Devon Borough Council have no option but to reduce its maintenance service we have all been accustomed to.
And as residents we are all aware of the growing problem of increasing pot holes and weeds, and now autumn is here the potential for leaves to block drains and footpaths. We had a mild winter last year but will we be so lucky this year?
As a community we are increasingly encouraged to sort these problems ourselves (with only the ‘hazardous’ issues becoming a priority for Local Authorities) through support schemes such as Snow Warden; Road Warden; Community Self-help.
This is therefore an appeal from the Town Council to any person/persons to step forward and volunteer in an official role to undertake local maintenance tasks. Training and insurance will be provided. And no doubt a few willing helpers – Councillors included!
SNOW WARDEN: Hatherleigh is signed up to Devon County Council’s snow warden scheme. Snow Wardens are the key point of contact between the local community and Devon County Council. Our previous Warden had to resign this post due to work commitments. He was one of 265 wardens across Devon. The role involves coordinating a response when bad weather strikes. You and a team of helpers will spread salt on footpaths or roads that have been identified as priority areas – areas that the County grit teams don’t usually cover. This activity will help service providers and community workers to continue their work in snowy/icy weather, and ensure that Hatherleigh residents can get about with less disruption.
ROAD WARDEN – trained volunteers would complete minor maintenance works in the vicinity of the public highway within their community. The Road Warden would be the communication link between the County Council and the parish/town council. The road warden should coordinate any works which take place, in liaison with your Neighbourhood Highway Officer, and take responsibility for completing risks assessments for those works. Free chapter 8 training will be provided, public liability insurance, access to a supply of tools which are kept at 5 locations across the county and a supply of certain materials.
Is there a recently retired person out there with time to ‘give something back’? Or a young person looking to build up their CV? If so please contact Hatherleigh Town Council. Further information on the schemes is provided here https://new.devon.gov.uk/roadsandtransport/maintaining-roads/self-help-and-community-support/
If you would like to volunteer or would like more information about the scheme please contact the Clerk.