YOUR GUIDE To local Council spending and Council Tax 2015 - 2016
www.bathnes.gov.uk
Foreword
Contacting the Council Council Tax and Benefits For Council Tax enquiries including benefits, exemptions and discounts: l Visit www.bathnes.gov.uk and follow the links to Council Tax and Benefits l Email us about your Council Tax: counciltax@bathnes.gov.uk l Email us about Benefits: benefits@bathnes.gov.uk l Tel: 01225 47 77 77 (during office hours) Fax: 01225 47 78 09 l Post: Customer Services, Lewis House, Manvers Street, Bath, BA1 1JG l Visit us in person at One Stop Shops in Bath, Keynsham and Midsomer Norton
Reporting suspicions of benefit fraud All reports are treated confidentially. Call us on 01225 47 77 77 (during office hours) or the National Benefit Fraud Hotline on 0800 854 440. You can also email: investigations@bathnes.gov.uk
Council Connect Report It online – use our web form to report issues about litter, graffiti, broken paving slabs, missed waste collections, abandoned vehicles and more. Go to www.bathnes.gov.uk/reportit You can also contact us by phone or email with enquiries relating to waste, recycling, transport, roads, general planning applications and libraries. This service is available Monday - Friday, with some self-service options out of hours. Tel: 01225 39 40 41 Text (SMS): 07797 80 65 45 Twitter: @ccbathnes Email: councilconnect@bathnes.gov.uk or visit www.bathnes.gov.uk/contactus
In person Most of the above services are available at One Stop Shops in Bath, Keynsham and Midsomer Norton. Opening times of our offices may vary. Please visit www.bathnes. gov.uk/contactus or call 01225 39 40 41 for more information.
This publication can be made available in a range of languages, large print, Braille, on tape, electronic and accessible formats from the Communications & Marketing Team on 01225 477495 or email communications_marketing@bathnes.gov.uk
Welcome to your guide to local authority spending in Bath and North East Somerset. This guide includes details of how Bath & North East Somerset Council continues to deliver services; an explanation of what your Council Tax bill means, plus a breakdown of how your money is spent; and a handy services directory. The guide also sets out the charges for Town & Parish Council precepts, as well as charges from the Police and Fire services. It also includes details of the Environment Agency levy in respect of flood protection. Bath & North East Somerset Council strives to deliver outstanding services to local people while investing in the future prosperity of the area. This is a challenge given the financial climate and the significant reduction in the amount we receive in Government funding. The Council therefore needs to manage its finances sensibly on behalf of local taxpayers. In setting this year’s budget the Council has focussed on supporting vulnerable people in the community, whilst investing in the future prosperity of our communities with new homes, jobs and local facilities. The Council recognises the ongoing pressure on household incomes and has been able to deliver over £30 million in savings while freezing Council Tax for the fifth year running. In the years to come, the Council will face further financial pressures and will need to make further savings or generate additional income. The Council wants to hear your views. We will listen and act on them. We are keen to hear from you if you have an opinion on which services we should make a priority, or how we can improve services at a lower cost. You can write to us via email at Council_Connect@bathnes.gov.uk
Photography courtesy of Bath News and Media Group 2
www.bathnes.gov.uk
www.bathnes.gov.uk
3
# t f Go Digital in 2015/16 Over the coming years, even more information and services will become available digitally; there are already many ways in which you can access Council information and services – 2015/16 really is the year to Go Digital. There is lots of information about our services at www.bathnes.gov.uk
1. Report It – people can report all manner of issues like missed waste collections, potholes, litter grot spots, graffiti, abandoned vehicles, and broken street lights quickly and conveniently. Website: www.bathnes.gov.uk/reportit 2. Get Tweeting – access and share the latest news and information, or use Twitter to get in contact with Council Connect instantly. Share your photos and experiences instantly. Tweet us: @ccbathnes to get in touch with Council Connect Follow us: @bathnes for News, Events, Information
4. Email & Text SMS – Contact Council Connect 24 hours a day with reports, concerns, and issues – you can also obtain information about services like local libraries, public transport and waste facilities. Email: councilconnect@bathnes.gov.uk Text SMS: 0779 7806545 5. What’s On – Find out about the latest events going on in your community all year round and add them completely free of charge. Website: www.bathnes.gov.uk/events 6. View Planning and Licensing Applications – anybody can view planning and licensing applications in their communities online swiftly and easily. Can’t find what you are looking for? Email or Text SMS Council Connect. Website: www.bathnes.gov.uk/planningapps www.bathnes.gov.uk/licensingapps 7. View Meetings Live – Watch Council meetings live via computer, tablet or smartphone, from the comfort of your own home. Watch the latest meeting www.bathnes.gov.uk/webcast.
m
Access services on the move!
You can access www.bathnes.gov.uk via a mobile website on your phone or tablet computer. Our website will detect what gadget you are using and automatically switch to a mobile site specially designed for mobile devices. Alternatively, you can bookmark the mobile site on www.m.bathnes.gov.uk
3. Pay for it – 24 hours, pay online payment service for Council Tax, Business Rates, Council Invoices, Commercial Rent, Mortgages, PCN - Penalty Charge Notices, Annual Garden Waste subscriptions, FPN Fixed Penalty Notices and Business Improvement District bills, Allotment rent, Curo rent, Libraries local studies fees, HMO licences, Licences and School Transport. Website: www.bathnes.gov.uk/pay 4
www.bathnes.gov.uk
@ t f www.bathnes.gov.uk
5
Contents
Council Tax information
Council Tax information.......................................................7 What if your circumstances change?....................................8 Council Tax appeals.............................................................9 Your Council Tax bill explained..........................................10 Living within your means - delivering value for money......12 Why spending has increased/decreased.............................13 Reserves & Council debt...................................................13 Where each £1 of your Council Tax will go in 2015/16......15 Summary of average Band D charge..................................15 Further information............................................................15 Parish & Town Councils - Precepts....................................16 Services Directory.............................................................18 Environment Agency South West Region...........................24 Avon & Somerset Police....................................................28 Avon Fire Authority............................................................30
Some Council spending is financed by Central Government and the balance is raised through the collection of Council Tax. The money we collect goes towards the cost of services provided by the Council, Avon & Somerset Police Authority, Avon Fire Authority and Parish and Town Councils. Your Council Tax bill is the legal notice that details the amount you need to pay.
Could you reduce your Council Tax bill? The following sections provide an introduction to Council Tax discounts, exemptions and other help available to reduce your bill. Get in touch with Customer Services if you need more advice. Our contact details are provided on page 2.
Council Tax discounts Your Council Tax bill is based on two or more adults living in a property. If you are the only adult living in your home, your bill may be reduced by 25%. There are also some people we don’t ‘count’ when looking at the number of adults in a property. A discount may apply if someone who lives with you is:
This document is published on the Council’s website at www.bathnes.gov.uk Bath & North East Somerset Council will not use or disclose your Council Tax information for a purpose that falls outside the limits of its statutory responsibility, unless you give your consent. The only exception to this is where the disclosure of Council Tax information is required or permitted by law.
l
a full-time student
l
in prison
l
a person who is severely mentally impaired
l
a care worker, depending on certain conditions
l
an 18 - 19 year old school leaver
l
a religious community member
l
a member of visiting Forces
Published by Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Print Services, Dartmouth Avenue, Oldfield Park, Bath BA2 1AS DP 3716 03/14 SC
6
www.bathnes.gov.uk
www.bathnes.gov.uk
On 1 April 2014, the Government introduced a new discount for family annexes. If you have an annexe which is lived in by a family member, a 50% discount can be applied to the Council Tax bill for that annexe. This discount is based on occupation of the annexe by a resident of the main building, or by a family member. If a nonfamily member occupies the annexe the discount will not apply.
Property & student exemptions Some properties are classed as ‘exempt’ and this means that you will not have to pay any Council Tax. For example this includes: l a granny annexe occupied by a dependant relative over 65 l properties occupied wholly by students l properties left unoccupied, under certain circumstances. 7
Council Tax appeals By law, you must continue to pay your Council Tax as normal until your appeal has been resolved. You can appeal if you think that: l l
Council Tax reductions for people with disabilities
Help paying Council Tax for people on a low income
Do you, or someone who lives with you, need extra space in your property to meet the special needs arising from a disability? For example, you might qualify for a reduction if this included using a wheelchair indoors, or needing an extra room, bathroom or kitchen.
If you’re on a low income, you might be entitled to some help towards paying your Council Tax. Council Tax Support reduces the amount you have to pay and is taken straight off your bill. To apply, you’ll need to give us information about your income and any savings, and details about the people who live with you.
What if your circumstances change? If your bill shows you are receiving a discount or you apply in the future, any change in your circumstances could affect your entitlement. You have a legal duty to tell us within 21 days, or you may incur a penalty charge. This authority is under a duty to protect the public funds it administers, and to this end may use the information you have provided for the prevention and detection of fraud. It may also share this information with other bodies responsible for auditing or administering public funds for these purposes. For further information, see the Council’s website (www.bathnes.gov.uk under National Fraud Initiative) or contact the Information Compliance Manager.
Paying your Council Tax – 12 month option If you haven’t already asked us to spread your payments over 12 months, your annual Council Tax bill will automatically have been broken down into 10 monthly instalments, payable between April and January. If you wish to take up the option of 12 monthly instalments for your 2015/16 annual bill, please write to Customer Services (see page 2) by 15 April 2015. If you contact us after this date, your current bill will be recalculated to give the maximum number of instalments available for the rest of the year, up to March 2016. Your future annual bills will automatically be payable over 12 months. 8
www.bathnes.gov.uk
we have made a mistake in the calculation of your Council Tax bill you think that you are not liable to pay the bill
In these cases, please write to Customer Services (see page 2). If you disagree with the valuation banding for your property, you need to contact the Valuation Office Agency (VOA). Their contact details are provided on the right. The grounds of appeal are restricted to specific circumstances. More information about valuation bands and when you can appeal are available at www.bathnes.gov.uk in the Council Tax section.
For further information and appeals about valuation bands contact: The Listing Officer, Council Tax West, Overline House, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, SO15 1GW Telephone: 03000 501 501.
Council Tax valuation bands The amount of Council Tax you pay depends on your property band, which is included on your bill. The VOA, which is part of H.M. Revenue & Customs, puts every property into one of eight valuation bands according to its open market value at 1 April 1991. All the bands are shown in the table below: Valuation band
Ranges of values
Proportion of Band D
A
Up to and including £40,000
6/9
B
£40,001 - £52,000
7/9
C
£52,001 - £68,000
8/9
D
£68,001 - £88,000
1
E
£88,001 - £120,000
11/9
F
£120,001 - £160,000
13/9
G
£160,001 - £320,000
15/9
H
More than £320,000
2
www.bathnes.gov.uk
9
Your Council Tax bill explained This is the number you need to quote when making a payment or contacting us about your Council Tax account Name of liable person(s)
Council Tax Bill 2015-2016 Why not sign up for Direct Debit today? Customer Services, Lewis House, Manvers Street, Bath BA1 1JG Telephone: 01225 47 77 77 Email: counciltax@bathnes.gov.uk Account Number
Date of Issue
1234567890
MR A SAMPLE 1 ANY STREET ANY DISTRICT ANY TOWN BA1 XX2
Charge set by Avon Fire Authority Charge set by a Parish or Town Council - if you live in a parish or town area, your Parish or Town Council may issue an amount to finance its expenditure
Address of property if different from billing address
MR A SAMPLE 1 ANY STREET ANY DISTRICT ANY TOWN BA1 XX2
Billing address The general charge by the Council - this is the amount which the Council needs to raise from the Council Tax in order to provide its main services
Date your Council Tax bill was issued
10th March 2015
C
Your property has been valued in Band
The Council Tax Band for your property which is set by the Valuation Office Agency
Reason for Bill Amount for 2015/2016 % change £ from 2014/2015
How the tax is arrived at for your band
Bath & North East Somerset Combined Fire Authority Town/Parish of Avon & Somerset Police
£879.48 £5.16 £43.32 £116.75 £1044.71
0.0 5.7 0.0 0.0 0.0
YOUR COUNCIL TAX BILL IS MADE UP AS FOLLOWS:-
Charge for period Band C Less Void Property Relief
01-Apr-2015 01-Apr-2015
31-Mar-2016 31-Mar-2016
£1044.71 -£1044.71
Charge set by Avon & Somerset Police Authority Charge for the year Details of any exemptions or discounts you are receiving Notes to inform you of any credits or debit from previous financial years Dates of instalments
The adjustments made as a result of any exemptions or discounts
Total amount payable AMOUNT PAYABLE BY YOU £
£00.00
If this bill shows you are receiving a discount or you apply in the future, please read the important message overleaf.
Number of instalments and amounts due
INSTALMENT DETAILS As at 21-Feb-2015 2014/2015 Tax a/c is in credit by INSTALMENT TO BEyour PAID BY: CASHCouncil PAYMENTS MONTHLY This has reduced your account to leave a balance of FIRST INSTALMENT DUE2015/2016 ON 01/02/2015 The credit from 2014/2015 has01/03/2015 been used to reduce your 2015/2016 instalments OTHER INSTAMLMENT DUE ON First instalment due 01-Aprl-2015 9 other instalments due on 01-May-2015 to 01-Jan-2016 Instalments to be paid by: Cash Payments Monthly
-98.50 19.03 1 x 1.03 9 x 2.00
Please Note: This is a fictitious Council Tax bill made up for explanatory purposes
Not paying by Direct Debit? Why not sign up today…
Method of payment
10
Total due for the year before any reductions for discounts or exemptions
www.bathnes.gov.uk
www.bathnes.gov.uk
11
Why spending has increased/decreased
Living within your means – delivering value for money The following information shows where every £1 of Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Council Tax is spent. This is based on net spend after deducting income generated by services and grants including the Dedicated Schools Grant. Children’s Services 23.9p The Council ensures school places for around 25,000 pupils in 78 schools and Academies locally and funds home to school transport and support services for schools. Funds and provides youth services and children’s centre services plus social care and support for 750 of the most vulnerable young people. Adult Social Services 45.4p Each year Adult Social Services provides around 2,200 care packages for elderly and disabled people, supports 1,100 people to use our Personal Budget programme giving them choice over their care, and home improvement services to around 2,000 people. Refuse Collection & Disposal 10.1p We provide a weekly kerbside collection of domestic food waste, small electricals and other recyclables, a fortnightly collection of garden waste and a weekly collection of general waste. We run three Recycling Centres and over 170 communal mini recycling centres for flats. In 2013-14 we sent for re-use, recycling or composting 48% of all household waste generated within Bath and North East Somerset. Highways 7.3p Over 960 miles of highway maintenance, surfacing, gullies, street lighting, winter 12
gritting and traffic signals. We also improve network safety and manage public rights of way. Transport, Planning & Economic Development 4.2p Over 50 supported bus services, around 7,000 parking spaces, three Park & Ride sites. Deal with around 3,000 Planning & Listed Building Applications each year. Development of the planning policies and visions for Bath, Keynsham and Radstock / Midsomer Norton. Housing & Environmental Services 5.8p Responsible for undertaking the Council’s strategic housing role to assist around 4,000 households each year, inspections and interventions in 2,000 food businesses and over 3,400 licences. Funding Capital Projects and charges 2.6p Payment of debt charges on loans to fund spending on current and previous capital schemes and payment of debt charges on the Council’s allocation of debt inherited from the former Avon County Council. The remaining 0.7p funds services including libraries, cemeteries, recreation, tourism and cleansing www.bathnes.gov.uk
The Council has set its net revenue budget for 2015/16 at £119.914m This represents an increase of £0.673m. The build up is shown below. Net Revenue Base Budget rolled forward 2015/16
£m 119.241
One-off Allocations
0.949
Contractual and Unavoidable Inflation
3.169
New Legislation / Government Initiatives
2.486
Increased Service Volumes
1.891
Other
1.903
Total including Growth
129.639
Change Programme and Efficiency Savings
-3.358
Increases in Income from fees, charges and other grants
-4.134
Service Reduction
-2.233
Council’s Net Revenue Budget 2015/16
119.914
Reserves & Council debt At the start of 2015/16, the Council is expected to have unearmarked reserves of £8.3m against a risk assessed target level of £10.5m. The difference of £2.2m relates to the temporary use of reserves for invest to save schemes which pay back reserves in the future. The Council’s risk assessed minimum level of unearmarked reserves is set at £6m. In addition to these reserves, the Council has provision in earmarked reserves, including for affordable www.bathnes.gov.uk
housing of £3m, supporting costs of change and restructuring of £4.9m, financial planning and contingency of £6.3m, and £2.9m to support the Council’s transformation programme. These reserves are anticipated to be fully utilised over the medium term. The Council has £14m of debt that is managed by Bristol City Council and relates to the former Avon County Council. The estimated level of the Council’s own borrowing at the start of 2015/16 is £108.3m. 13
Revenue Budget 2015-16
Where each £1 of your Council Tax goes in 2015/16
Where the Council spends money 2015/16 - £321.1m - gross spend before taking account of income Funding Capital Projects Charges £3.25m 1.0% (14/15 £3.25m) Refuse Collection & Disposal £14.44m 4.5% (14/15 £14.83m)
Retained Business Rates Tariff Payment £9.84m 3.1% (14/15 £9.65m)
Other Services £28.69m 9.0% (14/15 £27.02m)
Housing, Environmental & Consumer Services £9.40m 2.9% (14/15 £9.86m)
Bath & North East Somerset Council Avon & Somerset Police Avon Fire Authority Average Parish/ Charter Trust
Children’s Services £36.67m 11.4% (14/15 £42.68m)
Libraries, Recreation & Tourism £17.91m 5.6% (14/15 £17.97m)
Dedicated Schools Grant Spend £77.74m 24.2% (14/15 £73.92m)
Planning, Transport & Economic Development £19.30m 6.0% (14/15 £19.76m) Highways £9.23m 2.9% (14/15 £9.05m)
81p 12p 5p 2p
Avon & Somerset Police 12p
Adult Social Services £85.82m 26.7% (14/15 £89.26m) Public Health £8.77m 2.7% (14/15 £7.68m)
Where the money comes from to pay for all the services 2015/16 - £321.1m Adult Social Services specific grants and charges £31.43m 9.8% (14/15 £29.93m) Children’s Services specific grants and charges £7.99m 2.5% (14/15 £8.33m) Council Tax £74.46m 23.2% (14/15 £72.63m)
Public Health specific grant £8.77m 2.7% (14/15 £7.68) Planning, Highways and Car Parking Charges £14.67m 4.6% (14/15 £14.63m) Museums, Leisure, Recreation & Tourism £16.59m 5.3% (14/15 £16.59m)
Retained Business Rates (Before Tariff Payment) £31.58m 9.8% (14/15 £30.61m)
Property rental and fees income £17.10m 5.3% (14/15 £16.90m)
Dedicated Schools Grant (DSG) £77.74m 24.2% (14/15 £73.92m) Government Revenue Support Grant (RSG) £20.50m 6.4% (14/15 £26.47m)
Housing and Environmental & Consumer Services £2.39m 0.7% (14/15 £2.39m) Operational Services and other income £17.84m 5.5% (14/15 £24.90m)
Capital Budget 2015-16 Total Approved Spend £57.9m Property and Support Services £6.4m 11%
Transport & Highways £17.5m 30%
Keynsham Regeneration and Office Replacement £4.5m 8%
14
Avon Fire Authority 5p
Average Parish / Charter Trust 2p
Summary of average Band D charge Band D
% increase
Bath & North East Somerset Avon & Somerset Police Avon Fire Authority Average Parish
£1,201.85 £174.78 £66.60 £35.99
0.00% 1.99% 1.99% 0.76%
Overall Average Band D
£1,479.22
0.34%
(Figures shown are for at least a two person household) The Council’s Council Tax Requirement (excluding Police, Fire & Parishes) for 2015/16 is £74.455m and including Parishes is £76.685m
For further information
Other Regeneration Schemes £11.5m 20% Adult Social Care & Housing (including BWR) 6.2m 11%
Bath & North East Somerset Council 82p
Children’s Services £9.2m 16%
Tourism Leisure & Culture £0.7m 1%
Neighbourhoods & Waste (inc. Vehicle Replacement) £1.9m 3%
www.bathnes.gov.uk
If you have any questions on the 2015/16 budget for Bath & North East Somerset Council please write to: Divisional Director – Business Support, Bath & North East Somerset Council, Guildhall, High Street, Bath BA1 5AW or email: finance@bathnes.gov.uk or visit our website at www.bathnes.gov.uk www.bathnes.gov.uk
15
Parish & Town Councils - Precepts The Council Tax charges shown below relate to the charge for the Parish Council, Town Council or Charter Trustee element only 16
2014/15 Precept £ 193,843 23,000 30,000 16,895 18,750 11,500 1,470 350 21,500 15,000 3,000 38,095 8,500 7,011 8,960 6,900 6,860 9,150 5,651 13,160 10,260 17,920 24,000 6,209 12,432 1,560 423,953 5,120 308,583 4,890 1,000
2015/16 Precept £ Parish 198,524 Bath 23,000 Bathampton 35,000 Batheaston 16,884 Bathford 20,000 Cameley 12,075 Camerton 1,470 Charlcombe 350 Chelwood 21,500 Chew Magna 15,000 Chew Stoke 2,970 Claverton 30,639 Clutton 8,500 Combe Hay 7,011 Compton Dando 8,960 Compton Martin 6,900 Corston 6,997 Dunkerton 9,150 East Harptree 5,994 Englishcombe 13,880 Farmborough 10,260 Farrington Gurney 17,920 Freshford 25,500 High Littleton 7,985 Hinton Blewett 12,432 Hinton Charterhouse 1,560 Kelston 423,953 Keynsham 5,320 Marksbury 318,172 Midsomer Norton 5,935 Monkton Combe 1,600 Nempnett Thrubwell
Band D £ 6.58 31.96 32.23 21.54 46.27 49.77 7.04 5.74 36.04 32.75 42.56 56.05 91.25 24.63 36.17 36.23 31.08 30.26 46.44 32.37 31.89 63.33 32.39 57.81 52.35 18.44 78.86 29.23 86.16 34.00 17.15 www.bathnes.gov.uk
2014/15 Precept £ 4,000 0 4,000 199,810 160,967 5,460 11,000 196,757 750 29,395 6,437 6,680 8,416 16,730 2,800 47,000 6,730 9,768 7,500 158,850 20,000 2,158,571
2015/16 Precept £ Parish 4,500 Newton St. Loe 0 North Stoke 4,000 Norton Malreward 214,250 Paulton 162,771 Peasedown St. John 6,210 Priston 11,000 Publow & Pensford 207,968 Radstock 750 St. Catherine 29,702 Saltford 6,813 Shoscombe 7,680 South Stoke 8,416 Stanton Drew 18,730 Stowey Sutton 2,800 Swainswick 47,000 Timsbury 6,730 Ubley 10,115 Wellow 8,000 West Harptree 171,810 Westfield 25,000 Whitchurch 2,229,685 TOTAL
Band D £ 69.06 0.00 36.23 116.94 77.45 49.98 23.26 133.85 19.01 16.63 42.07 33.69 26.89 31.64 21.05 51.57 38.79 41.96 40.64 96.79 55.77
For information on calculating the charge for different property bands, see the Council Tax Valuation Bands paragraph on page 9 If your parish precept is £140,000 or above in 2015/16, a leaflet which includes details about how the parish money is spent in your area is also available online at www.bathnes.gov.uk/ctaxguide.
www.bathnes.gov.uk
17
Services Directory
Do you need some information about a Council-run service? Help is at hand with this useful guide... To be put through to someone who can help, call the Council switchboard on 01225 477000 or visit www.bathnes.gov.uk for further information
Aa n Adoption and Fostering Placements, recruitment of adopters and support services. The team also provides counselling for adopted adults and support in accessing birth records. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/adoption T: 01225 394949 Google Search: Bathnes Fostering
Bb n Benefits: Housing and Council Tax Support Visit a One Stop Shop in Bath, Keynsham or Midsomer Norton, or alternatively, contact a Benefits Officer by phone or email. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/benefits T: 01225 477777 Google Search: Bathnes Benefits n Birth Registration Register a birth, which occurred in the district, at the Guildhall, High Street, Bath BA1 5AW or The Hollies, High Street, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2DT. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/births T: 01225 477234 Google Search: Bathnes Births n Building Control Contact Building Control for help and advice about the 18
building regulation process and any proposed building projects you have. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/buildingcontrol T: 01225 477517 Google Search: Bathnes Building Control
Cc n Cemeteries and Crematoriums Find out about Council-administered cemeteries when organising a funeral. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/cemeteries T: 01225 396020 Google Search: Bathnes Cemeteries n Children’s Centre Information Service The Service holds up-to-date information about all Ofsted-registered childcare, as well as information about working with children and family support. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/fis T: 01225 395343 Google Search:Bathnes Fis n Community Meals Service This service provides hot meals to those who have difficulty cooking for themselves. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/mealsonwheels T: 01225 394350 Google Search: Bathnes Community Meals
www.bathnes.gov.uk
n Council Tax Enquiries For account queries about your Council Tax bill, ranging from online payments to exemptions. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/counciltax T: 01225 477777 Google Search:Bathnes Council Tax n Curo Curo is the largest provider of affordable housing in the area and offers a range of high-quality care and support services. Contact us using the details below. W: www.curo-group.co.uk T: 01225 366000 T: 01225 366111 (repairs) T: 0300 123 2468 (anti-social behaviour) E: hello@curo-group.co.uk (enquiries) E: repairs@curo-group.co.uk (repairs)
Council Connect n Bus Passes
n Pavements and Road Maintenance
n Dog Warden Service
n Planning Enquiries
n Fly Tipping
n Public Toilets
n Garden Waste
n Public Transport
n Grass Cutting
n Recycling and Waste
n Graffiti Removal
n Road Faults and Potholes
n Gritting of Roads (except motorways)
n Road Safety
n Libraries
n Street Lighting
n Parks and Open Spaces
For all of the above services, contact Council Connect: Twitter: @ccbathnes Telephone: 01225 394041
Email: councilconnect@bathnes.gov.uk Text: 07797 806545
Monday to Friday 08.00 to 18.00 (except Wednesdays 09.30 to 18.00). Closed Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays. At other times, for emergencies or dangerous incidents only, please phone 01225 477477. www.bathnes.gov.uk
19
Dd n Death Registration Register a death, which has occurred in our district, at the Guildhall, High Street, Bath BA1 5AW or at The Hollies High Street, Midsomer Norton, BA3 2DP. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/deaths T: 01225 477234 Google Search: Bathnes Deaths n Disabled Car Users (Blue Badges) The UK-wide Blue Badge scheme provides parking concessions for people with severe mobility problems. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/bluebadges T: 01225 477133 or 01225 477134 Google Search: Bathnes Blue Badges n Discovery Card Discovery Card holders receive discounts or free entry for numerous attractions in the area. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/discoverycard T: 01225 477737 Google Search: Bathnes Discovery Card
Ee n Electoral Registration and Elections For queries on voting rights or other election matters. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/elections T: 01225 477333 Google Search: Bathnes Electoral Registration
Ff n Family Information Service The Service holds up-to-date information about all Ofsted-registered childcare, as well as information about working with children and family support. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/fis T: 01225 395343 Google Search: Bathnes Fis 20
n Fire Service, Avon Get updates on the latest news and incidents in your area and view the work we do within the community. W: www.avonfire.gov.uk T: 0117 9262061 (non-emergency)
Hh n Housing Services Support and advice for all of your housing issues. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/housing T: 01225 396296 Google Search: Bathnes Housing
Jj n Jobs with the Council Up-to-date information about job vacancies, equal opportunities, employment and training initiatives. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/jobs T: 01225 396409 (24 hours) Google Search: Bathnes Jobs
Ll n Leisure Centres Bath Leisure Centre, North Parade Rd, Bath BA2 4ET W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/leisure T: 01225 486905 Google Search: Bathnes Leisure and Sport Culverhay Sports Centre, Rush Hill, Bath BA2 2QL T: 01225 486902 (office hours) T: 01225 480882 (after 5pm) Keynsham Leisure Centre, Temple Street, Keynsham BS31 1HE T: 01225 395164 South Wansdyke Sports Centre, Rackvernal Rd, Midsomer Norton BA3 2UG T: 01761 415522 n Licensing Offers a range of information regarding licensing, including alcohol, cinemas and taxis. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/licensing T: 01225 477531 Google Search: Bathnes Licensing www.bathnes.gov.uk
Mm n MOT Testing We offer vehicle MOTs to members of the public and trade for cars, taxis and some coaches. Book today! W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/bath_mot T: 01225 477314 Google Search: Bathnes MOT Testing n Museums and Art Galleries Assembly Rooms and Fashion Museum W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/museums T: 01225 477789 Google Search: Bathnes Museums Roman Baths and Pump Room T: 01225 477785 Victoria Art Gallery (closed Mondays) T: 01225 477233 Bath’s Historic Buildings (venue hire) T: 01225 477786 or 01225 477782
Nn n NHS Service, BANES Find out how to register with your local GP or NHS dentist, plus information on other key services. W: www.bathandnortheastsomersetccg. nhs.uk T: 01225 831800 E: BSCCG. information@nhs.net
Pp n Parking Services For parking queries, Park & Ride, clamping, fines, permits, Blue Badges, Pay & Display, enforcement of restrictions. Visit the website to download maps. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/parking T: 01225 477133 Google Search: Bathnes Parking n Pest Control The Council offers a comprehensive pest-control service for residents and businesses. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/pests T: 01225 396007 Google Search: Bathnes Pests www.bathnes.gov.uk
n Police Service, Avon and Somerset Stay informed about what is happening in your area, with regular news updates, as well as useful information about crime reduction. W: www.avonandsomerset.police.uk T: 101 (non-emergencies)
Rr n Record Office The office holds a wealth of information and archives. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/records T: 01225 477421 (closed Mondays) Google Search: Bathnes Records
Ss n School Admissions We deal with applications and can advise about your right of appeal, as well as home-to-school transport. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/admissions T: 01225 394312 Google Search: Bathnes Schools n Sirona Care & Health Providing community health and adult social services in Bath and North East Somerset. For detailed information on the services we offer, as well as online contact forms, visit our website. W: www.sirona-cic.org.uk T: 01225 831400 n Social Services Visit the Health and Social Care pages on the website for information and advice. W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/adultcare T: 01225 477000 T: 01454 615165 (out of hours emergencies about adults or children) T: 0808 800 4444 (emergency housing advice, contact the Shelter England 24hour freephone advice line) Google Search: Bathnes Social Services 21
: Bathnes Records
Ss
Tt
n Taxi and Private Hire Cars –
Make the most Travel Information (Traveline) Traveline Paynprovides the Council… timetables and journey planners for bus, coach and rail services in the South West. W: www.travelinesw.com The Council’s ‘pay for it’ T: 0871 200 2233 (7am to 10pm - Calls online service a speedy, cost 10p per minute is from landlines) Search: Southwest Traveline simpleGoogle and secure way to pay for
ssions Complaints If you have a complaint cationsregarding and can advise about your any licensed vehicle, contact the well asCouncil home-to-school transport. Licensing Enforcement Officer. .gov.uk/admissions W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/taxis
T: 01225 477689 Google Search: Bathnes Taxi : Bathnes Schools Complaints
bills and charges, and it is available Yy 24 hours a day. In just a few simple n Youth Connect Working with young n Trading Standards The Council is & Health steps,people you can payments for agedmake 11-25 years. responsible enforcing nity health and adult for social servicesa range of Council Tax, Penalty Notices, consumer legislation W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/youthconnect East Somerset. For detailed including misleading advertisements and counterfeit trademarks. Business Rates, Commercial T: 01225 396980 services we offer, as well as online W: www.bathnes.gov.uk/trading E: youth_service@bathnes.gov.uk Rents, Garden Waste renewal our website. T: 01225 396753 Google Search: Bathnes Youth Connect fees, and many other services. ic.org.uk Google Search: Bathnes Trading
You will need your account number or invoice reference in order to ces make – a payment. you have d Social Care pagesto on the website the most How make Pay theOnce Council… d advice. this, visit the website at .gov.uk/adultcare www.bathnes.gov.uk/pay, click on The Council’s ‘pay for it’ online service is a speedy, simple paymentsand link itand and secure way to pay forthe billsonline and charges, is follow out of hours emergencies about the on-screen prompts. available 24 hours a day. In just a few simple steps, you can
make payments for Council Tax,don’t Penalty Notices, (emergency housing advice, contact If you have access Business to the d 24-hourRates, freephone advice line) Commercial Rents,internet, Garden you Waste renewal and can also payfees, by phone, : Bathnesmany Social Services other services. You will need your account number
or by visiting one of our local offices:
or invoice reference in order to make a
Call 0845 372 3501 Tt payment. Once you have this, visit the (24 hours a day)
website at www.bathnes.gov.uk/pay, click on
ate Hire Cars – Complaints Visit the One Stop the online payments plaint regarding any licensed vehicle, link and follow the onShop in Bath, screen prompts. il Licensing Enforcement Officer. Riverside in .gov.uk/taxis
The Resident’s Discovery Card enables local residents to visit your Council-run museums free of charge. In Bath & North East Somerset we are fortunate to have two world famous museums on our doorstep. For the benefit of everyone, the Council runs the Roman Baths and Fashion Museum in Bath, together with an exceptionally fine art collection at the Victoria Art Gallery. The Council’s Heritage Services runs a full programme of adult, children’s and family activities throughout the year, culminating in Heritage Open Week during the autumn half-term. In Heritage Open Week, dozens of independent organisations join us in providing a programme of heritage-based activities for all ages, most of which are free.
Telephone: 01225 477785 24 hour information: 01225 477867 discovery_card@bathnes.gov.uk Shown not to scale
If you don’t have access to the internet, you can also Keynsham or pay by phone, or by visiting one of our local offices: The Hollies : BathnesCall Taxi0845 Complaints 372 3501 (24 hours a day) Visit a One in Midsomer Stop Shop in Bath, Keynsham or Midsomer Norton.
Norton.
22
WHAT IS A DISCOVERY CARD?
www.bathnes.gov.uk
SCHEDULE WATER RESOURCES ACT 1991, SECTION 141 FORM OF STATEMENT REGIONAL FLOOD AND COASTAL COMMITTEE PRECEPT AND LEVY FOR THE YEAR COMMENCING 1ST APRIL 2015 PART I Statement of purposes to which the amount demanded by Levy is intended to be
ENVIRONMENT AGENCY SOUTH WEST REGION The Council Tax (Demand Notices) (England) Regulations 2011. The Environment Agency is a levying body for its Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management Functions under the Flood and Water Management Act 2010 and the Environment Agency (Levies) (England and Wales) Regulations 2011.The Environment Agency has powers in respect of flood and coastal erosion risk management for 2813 kilometres of main river and along tidal and sea defences in the area of the Wessex Regional Flood and Coastal Committee. Money is spent on the construction of new flood defence schemes, the maintenance of the river system and existing flood defences together with the operation of a flood warning system and management of the risk of coastal erosion. The financial details are:
essex Regional Flood W and Coastal Committee
Gross Expenditure Levies Raised Total Council Tax Base
2014/2015 ‘000s
2015/2016 ‘000s
£36,222 £3,325
£33,771 £3,392
946
961
The majority of funding for flood defence comes directly from the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). However, under the new Partnership Funding rule not all schemes will attract full central funding. To provide ‘matching’ funding the Agency may seek funding from County and Metropolitan Councils, Unitary Authorities and London Boroughs in the form of a Local Levy. The Local Levy is shared on the basis of Band D Equivalents between all contributing bodies within the Committee Area. Changes in the Gross Budgeted expenditure between the years both reflects the impact of the Government Spending Review and national prioritisation of projects. For 15/16 we have included Grant Aided Expenditure on all Risk Management Authority Programs. The total Local Levy raised has increased by 2%. The total Local Levy raised has increased from £3,325,000 in 2014/2015 to £3,391,857 for 2015/2016.
Purpose Total Government Expenditure Grants ‘000s ‘000s (1) (2) (3) 1.Expenses under enactments relating to land drainage: (1) Capital expenditure from revenue (a) Grant-aided works £16,800 £0 (b) Non grant-aided items £4,625 £0 (2) Other expenditure (a) Payments in respect of £0 £0 works financed by borrowing, under section 48 of the Environment Act 1995 (including loan charges) (b) Maintenance Works £12,346 £0 (c) Administration £0 £0 Expenses (including proportion of Environment Agency and Regional Flood Defence Committee expenses) (d) Contributions to Internal £0 £0 Drainage Boards (e) Debit transfer to other £0 £0 Environment Agency accounts (f)Other items £0 £0 2. Provision for working capital
Defrayed from any reserve, replacement or sinking fund ‘000s (4)
Relevant Expenditure (Col 2 less Cols 3 & 4) ‘000s (5)
£0 £0
£16,800 £4,625
£0
£0
£0 £0
£12,346 £0
£0
£0
£0
£0
£0
£0
£0
£0
£0
£0
3. Debit balance brought forward £0
£0
£0
£0
Total Expenditure
£33,771
www.environment-agency.gov.uk 24
www.bathnes.gov.uk
www.bathnes.gov.uk
25
SCHEDULE WATER RESOURCES ACT 1991, SECTION 141 FORM OF STATEMENT REGIONAL FLOOD AND COASTAL COMMITTEE PRECEPT AND LEVY FOR THE YEAR COMMENCING 1ST APRIL 2015
PART II 1. (a)Government Grant - in - Aid (b)Contributions from Internal Drainage Boards (see part (c)General Drainage Charges (d)Sundry Receipts 2.Movement in balances. 3.Credit transfers from other Environment Agency accounts 4.Amount to be met by levies under the Environment Agency (Levies) (England and Wales) Regulations 2011 (SI 2011 No 696) Total Income Part III Statement of the amounts demanded by precept from Internal Drainage Boards (ii)
£27,947 £553 £0 £0 £1,879 £0 £3,392
£33,771
Amount of precept from each Board
Axe Brue North Somerset Levels Parrett
£249,807 £99,962 £203,018
Total amount of precept
£552,787
26
PART IV Statement showing the basis on which the amounts Council tax base demanded by levies to the individual councils for relevant area (iii) are calculated. (1) County Council Dorset County Council Gloucestershire County Council Hampshire County Council Somerset County Council
160,520 8,597 11,652 177,354
Amount of Levy (iv)
£566,295 £30,330 £41,106 £625,683
(4) Unitary Authority Bath & North East Somerset Council 61,951 £218,553 Bournemouth Borough Council 59,582 £210,197 Bristol City Council 114,401 £403,591 North Somerset Council 73,997 £261,051 Poole Borough Council 54,808 £193,355 South Gloucestershire Council 87,715 £309,447 Wiltshire Council 150,870 £532,249 Total 961,447 £3,391,857 NOTES (i). “Grant in Aid” means grants made to the Environment Agency under section 47 Environment Act 1995. “Precept” means precepts to internal drainage boards issued under section 141 Water Resources Act 1991. (ii). Precept includes contribution by resolution under Section 58(2)(b) of the Land Drainage Act 1991. (iii). The ‘’Council tax base’’ for an area, or part of an area, is to be that calculated in accordance with regulation 7 of the Environment Agency (levies) (England and Wales) Regulations 2011 (SI 2011 No 696). (iv). Councils of Counties include district councils to which county functions have been transferred in accordance with Regulation 5(6) of the Local Government Changes for England Regulations 1994 (SI 1994/867) pursuant to structural change.
27
YOUR
HOW WE SPEND THE BUDGET 2015/16 The chart below shows where the budget goes
P LICING
POUNDS
Police Officers - £137.2m
Despite the financial challenges crime and risk of crime remains below average in Avon and Somerset and, in our area, public confidence in policing remains amongst the highest nationally. There is still much more work to do. Domestic and sexual violence, exploitation and hate crime remain significantly under-reported. In 2015/16 Sue Mountstevens will continue to focus on ensuring policing meets local needs, provides value for money and importantly supports you to be safe and feel safe.
Police Staff - £56.3m
BUDGET 2015/16
2014/15 £290m £14m £276m
2015/16 £287m £14m £273m
Where does the money come from Funding from central government Amount paid by council tax Total income
2014/15 £186m £90m £276m
2015/16 £179m £94m £273m
Police Pensions - £7.1m
Community Safety Fund - £3.3m
Office of the PCC - £1.4m
YOUR AREA NOW HAS ITS OWN POLICE AND CRIME PLAN 2015/16 £273m Total net budget
Police and Crime Plan 2014-17
SUPPORTING YOU TO BE SAFE AND FEEL SAFE
Consultation draft
Bath & North East Somerset has its own Police & Crime Plan which sets out the local priorities for your area and tells you what the police are doing to keep you safe and to reduce crime.
It focuses specifically on requirements from our consultation with you, the council and other partners and shows that by working together we can make your streets and homes safer.
CHANGES IN SPENDING The net expenditure for the Police will be £3m lower in 2015/16 compared to 2014/15 following a 5.1% reduction in central government funding. The PCC has taken the decision to increase the policing part of the council tax by £3.41 a year for the average band D household. This follows extensive consultation with over 3,000 residents. Although inflation and other unavoidable spending pressures will increase costs by £8m, savings have been agreed to balance the budget. This means that the average band D precept will be £174.78.
Running Expenses - £53.5m
Capital Funding Costs - £4.1m
The spending plans for 2015/16 are shown below with comparative figures for 2014/15 and details of how the budget is financed:
Spending Plans Gross expenditure Specific grants and other income Net Budget requirement
Community Support Officers - £10.1m
To read your area’s Police & Crime Plan visit www.avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk or pick up a copy in your local library or council building.
2014/15 £276m Total net budget
WE ALL WANT TO LIVE IN A COMMUNITY THAT IS STRONG AND SAFE.
Remember call 101 in a non-emergency and always dial 999 in emergency To contact your PCC Sue Mountstevens call 01275 816377 email pcc@avonandsomerset.pnn.police.uk 28
www.bathnes.gov.uk www.avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk
AandSPCC @AandSPCC visit www.avonandsomerset-pcc.gov.uk
29
Annual budget Avon Fire Authority has set its net budget for 2015/16 at £43.252 million(m). This represents a Council Tax level of £66.60 a year for a Band D property, an increase of just below 2%.
Your fire and rescue service Avon Fire & Rescue Service (AF&RS) protects the communities of Bath & North East Somerset, Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire.
This service costs the average Band D household £66.60 a year – or £1.28 a week. Since 2010 our overall budget has been decreasing and in January 2014 we announced plans that will help us achieve £4.5million of annual savings. The Investing for the Future programme is now well underway with the first project already completed. This year the redeveloped Kingswood Fire Station in South Gloucestershire was re-opened. The station now
Where does each pound
go? 30
Supplies and services 9.7p Transport 3.9p Premises 4.5p
has an increased capacity, providing a modern, efficient facility serving a wider community. As part of the changes Speedwell Fire Station was closed, however local people will still receive the same emergency response standards from the new station at nearby Kingswood.
The Government’s funding assessment for Avon Fire Authority has been reduced to £20.062m for 2015/16, a reduction of £1.994m (9.04%). The impact of this is that the funding provided by Central Government has been reduced by £2.082m (11.9%). The main changes in spending from 2014/15 to 2015/16 are shown below:
Spending plans 2014/15 (£m)
2015/16 (£m)
Main changes in net expenditure
(£m)
2014/15 Budget
44.332
Total fire expenditure
48.689
45.556
Inflationary pressures
0.760
Work is also underway to build new fire stations at Hicks Gate near Keynsham and at Temple Back in Bristol. These projects will allow the rationalisation of our premises, providing long term financial savings.
Income
-1.857
-1.904
Other
-1.617
Net budget before use of reserves
46.832
43.652
Use of reserves
2.100
Use of reserves
-2.500
-0.400
Savings
-2.323
Net budget
44.332
43.252
2015/16 Budget
43.252
Despite the changes, we have made a commitment that our emergency response standards will remain unchanged in areas affected. You can read more about the plans at www.avonfire.gov.uk/investing-for-thefuture.
Funding:
If you would like fire safety advice about your home, or the home of a loved one, find out how we can help. Please call us on 0117 926 2061 or visit our website at www.avonfire.gov.uk
Savings
Central Government Revenue Support Grant
12.342
10.162
Business rate - Top-up
5.160
5.258
Local funding
This year savings totalling around £2.3 million have been identified in the following areas: Savings
2015/16 (£m)
Employees
-1.638
Running costs:
Premises
-0.060
Locally retained business rates
4.541
4.660
Transport
-0.050
Collection fund surplus
0.420
0.343
Supplies and services
-0.010
21.869
22.829
Other
-0.565
44.332
43.252
Council tax Total
Total
Capital requirements
Capital financing 5.5p Investing for the Future programme 2.3p Other 0.3p Employees (including pension costs) 73.9p
The capital programme for 2015/16, excluding any capital expenditure within the 2014/15 capital programme that may be delayed or slipped into 2015/16, is shown to the right:
-2.323 2014/15 (£m)
2015/16 (£m)
Premises
0.500
0.500
Investing for the Future programme
2.420
8.170
Vehicles and equipment
1.580
1.500
IT and communications
0.200
0.200
Total
4.700
10.370
For further information please contact: Avon Fire & Rescue Service, A: Temple Back, Bristol, BS1 6EU T: 0117 926 2061 W: www.avonfire.gov.uk 31
Are we looking for you? Local families for local children Could you foster a young person from the Bath and North East Somerset area? We are looking for people with child care experience and the time and energy to care for young people aged 11 and over. Carers receive an excellent support and training package, as well as a competitive allowance – those caring for older teenagers are likely to receive up to £400 per week.
“Becoming a foster carer has been a huge challenge but is immensely rewarding and satisfying in ways that I hadn’t anticipated.” To find out more, call The Family Placement Team on 01225 394949 or email fpt_duty@bathnes.gov.uk www.bathnes.gov.uk