Sktoday Summer 2023

SKtoday

for residents of South Kesteven Summer 2023

Welcome

Here is the latest issue of SKtoday, packed full of news and updates from South Kesteven District Council. Did you know ... ? You can read SKToday online by visiting www.southkesteven.gov.uk/sktoday

If you have any feedback about the magazine or any content you would like to see in future issues please get in touch.

For even faster news and updates why not follow us on social media? We’re on all the popular platforms, including Twitter and Facebook. Find them all at www.southkesteven.gov.uk/getsocial

Contents

6-7 Nominations open for annual SK Community Awards

We are looking for those special people who stand out in your community. There are seven award categories celebrating a wide range of activities and support.

8-10

Cost of living officers appointed

Two new roles created to help households cope with rising prices and other challenges.

SKtoday editorial communications@southkesteven.gov.uk

General enquiries 01476 40 60 80

Council Offices

Grantham (head office)

The Picture House, St Catherine’s Road, Grantham, NG31 6TT

Bourne South Kesteven Community Point Abbey Road, Bourne PE10 9EF

You can now apply, pay, report and contact us on our website for a range of services and find the latest NHS and Government guidance.

 www.southkesteven.gov.uk

Nice to know

• Alternative formats are available: audio tape, CD, large print and Braille

• The South Lincolnshire Blind Society distributes SKtoday to all of its members

15-19

Election results

A new-look Council is in place following last month's local elections. See all the changes inside this edition.

22-24

What's On

Check out the live entertainment lined up at our fantastic arts centres and other arts venues.

Our Corporate Plan clearly sets out how South Kesteven District Council intends to help fulfill the District's promise and potential:

Housing that meets the needs of all residents

Growth and our economy

Front cover: Coronation celebrations on St Peter's Hill Green, Grantham.

Healthy and strong communities

Clean and sustainable environment

High-performing Council

Key themes for new-look Cabinet

Itake great pride in the faith that has been shown in me, having been elected Leader of a new-look South Kesteven District Council. The voters of South Kesteven have made a choice for change and I have already started work on the delivering just that across the whole District.

For full details of the election results and reaction please turn to page 15 of this edition.

The first task of the new administration is to establish the true state of the Council’s finances. We must ensure they are as sound as they can be. There are a number of other key themes which we will also pursue:

• Improving decision-making by enhancing scrutiny and review of major projects

• Stepping up action on climate change

• Improving response times to enquiries from the public

• Doing all we can to help people through the cost of living crisis

• Stimulating the local economy

• More transparency in

By Cllr Richard Cleaver, Leader of South Kesteven District Council

development and planning policy

• Providing good quality council housing and other social housing

• Renewing public confidence in our council and local democracy

I have never seen our country’s public services so over-stretched at any point previously.

We face a great challenge but one which I know we will confront conscientiously, creatively and compassionately and I encourage all communities within the District to work with me in this spirit.

I am delighted to be working with the Deputy Leader of the Council, Cllr Ashley Baxter (IND, Market and West Deeping) who is also the Cabinet Member for Finance and Economic Development.

Joining us in the Cabinet are:

• Cllr Rhys Baker (GREEN, Bourne Austerby) and Cllr Patsy Ellis (GREEN, Grantham St Vincent’s) – joint portfolio

holders for Environment and Waste

• Cllr Phil Dilks (IND, Deeping St James) – portfolio holder for Housing and Planning

• Cllr Philip Knowles (IND, Bourne East) – portfolio holder for Corporate Goverance and Licensing

• Cllr Rhea Rayside (LIB DEM, Stamford St George’s) –portfolio holder for People and Communities

• Cllr Paul Stokes (IND, Grantham Arnoldfield) –portfolio holder for Leisure and Culture

Rest assured that we will be working in the very best interests of the residents and businesses of South Kesteven.

This administration will embrace partnership, collaboration, openness and transparency, which are key components in creating stronger communities and providing stability, while achieving shared goals.

I am under no illusion that the hard work starts here.

Cabinet Members, left to right, Cllr Patsy Ellis, Cllr Rhys Baker, Cllr Phil Dilks, Cllr Richard Cleaver, Cllr Ashey Baxter, Cllr Rhea Rayside, Cllr Paul Stokes and Cllr Philip Knowles.

Green light for energy efficiency package

More than 330 Council houses across South Kesteven are to benefit from a £3.4m Government grant to fund energy efficiency upgrades.

The funding comes after SKDC identified a programme of energy efficiency and lowcarbon heating upgrades.

Cllr Rhys Baker, Cabinet Member for Environment and Waste, said: “This project has clear benefits for the Council’s wider work to reduce carbon emissions.

“Although the homes outlined for the bid are not included in the Council’s own carbon footprint, energy efficiencies will be achieved through delivery of the project.

“There will also be wider benefits to tenants including an improved living environment and reduced energy consumption to help address cost of living pressures.”

The Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund grant of £3.4m will be supported with £3,847,516 from the Council’s Housing Revenue Account. https://tinyurl.com/ SKclimateplan

Climate change mapped out as SKDC drives change

Revised plan highlights the Council's role in driving change as we work together towards the net zero goal and transition towards a low carbon economy.

The pathway towards a greener future is being mapped out by South Kesteven District Council in a farreaching plan outlining positive action that SKDC can take itself – and highlighting how partners and outside organisations can also do their bit.

The revised Climate Action Strategy focuses on specific areas relating to climate change mitigation and adaptation, and is about to go out to consultation to give people the chance to have their say.

The strategy will be developed throughout 2023 with support from parish councils, neighbouring local authorities, and wider partners.

There are eight areas for action – the built environment;

power; growing our green economy; natural environment; transport; resources; Communities; Decision-making.

This work will dovetail with the role SKDC has to lead, shape and enable local action by engaging residents, businesses, and other public sector organisations to kick-start wider change.

Cllr Patsy Ellis, Cabinet Member for Environment and Waste, said: “Following our declaration of a Climate Emergency, SKDC’s target is to reduce its own carbon footprint by at least 30% by 2030 and endeavour to become net-zero carbon as soon as viable before 2050. Last year, we reported a carbon reduction of 14%.

“Now is the time to act but SKDC cannot act, alone. Changes need to be tackled with our partners: everyone must consider all opportunities for energy reduction, low carbon energy use and generation and valuing our resources better.”

Council supports county’s life-savers

South Kesteven District Council has continued to support the Lincolnshire Integrated Volunteer Emergency Service (LIVES) – this year celebrating 50 years of saving lives in Lincolnshire.

Life-saving defibrillators have gone to the charity’s volunteer emergency first responders in the Deepings area thanks to a £4,896 grant from SKDC’s Community Fund.

The Defibs for Deepings project replaced outdated equipment for treating cardiac arrests, meaning that the four emergency responders based in the area can now help an estimated two to three medical emergencies every week.

Nikki Cooke, Chief Executive Officer of LIVES, said: “We’re enormously thankful to South Kesteven District Council’s Community Fund for the £4,896 grant towards our defib rollout.

“The money has gone a long way towards helping us equip our volunteer emergency first responders, doctors, paramedics and nurses with a new generation of defibrillators that have the power to transform how we respond to medical emergencies, and train for them.”

In 2021 SKDC’s Community Awards honoured Ella Tapson, a young LIVES community first responder, as a clear winner in the ‘Neil Smith Beyond the Call of

Duty’ award.

Ella, who had trained and volunteered for LIVES since June 2018, responding to hundreds of 999 calls, has now become a fully trained paramedic.

Her award was presented by Candice Smith, whose late husband and SKDC employee Neil, inspired the award after he saved their infant son’s life through administering CPR until medical help arrived –from a LIVES first responder.

11,000

67,177 hours dedicated to saving lives

A defribrillator handover and training evening for LIVES emergency responders

Last year LIVES attended over incidents

LIVES were first on the scene of the time

587

Defribrillators were used widely with

confirmed cardiac arrests

Lives first responder Ella Tapson (right) with Candice Smith and son Tommy. (2021)

Nominate someone special for an SK Community Award

It’s time to once again turn the spotlight on some very special people. Our popular SK Community Awards are back for 2023 with your chance to nominate someone for special recognition and shine a spotlight on those who go above and beyond to help others.

Who are the people who stand out in YOUR community? That's who South Kesteven District Council wants to hear about as it launches this year’s SK Community Awards.

The 2022 awards highlighted some incredible people who had contributed in so many different spheres.

Roadside medical assistance; a lifetime of support for the Royal British Legion; children's environmental efforts; a school peer support pioneer; and work to help community wellbeing were all recognised and applauded.

A special prize giving ceremony at Grantham’s Guildhall Arts Centres hosted shortlisted nominees from seven categories with winners announced on the night.

Award winners took home engraved crystal trophies and runners-up were presented with commemorative framed certificates.

Now the search is on again, and in 2023 there are two new awards: the Community in Bloom Award to replace the former

Best Kept Village competition, and an Urban Space Award recognising urban improvement projects.

Cllr Rhea Rayside, Cabinet Member for People and Communities, said: “Over the last two years the Council awards have recognised some truly outstanding individuals, and it has been quite humbling to hear their stories.

“In our first year we were restricted by the pandemic to present trophies remotely, but last year we had the privilege as a Council to host a celebratory evening to acknowledge our winners.

“Now we want to do it all again. Look around, see who is making a difference in your community and nominate them. Let’s give them the recognition they would never seek but truly deserve.”

Nominations opened on June 1st to coincide with National Volunteers Week, with a closing date to receive nominations of August 18th.

A person or organisation can be nominated for more than one award. All winners will be announced in October.

...and the SK Community

Awards categories are:

Our awards celebrate a wide range of activities and community efforts, encouraging nominations across the board.

Inspirational Young Person

We’re looking to celebrate a young person who is either pioneering or supporting an activity or project that is making a difference in their local community. Nominations are encouraged in support of young people aged up to 25 years.

Business and the Community

Do you know a business involved in and benefitting its local community? Perhaps it is working to make the local area smarter, safer, healthier or more sustainable or they could be contributing with projects to reduce carbon emissions and improving climate change outcomes.

Lifetime Community Champion

We want to celebrate individuals who have contributed time and effort to a club, group, charity or organisation. Is there someone in your community who has given their time selflessly in the service of others, possibly a public servant, a local charity worker/supporter or fund raiser?

Health and Wellbeing

Do you know an individual or group contributing to the wellbeing of others? Is there someone in your community who has helped others to make positive healthy lifestyle changes? Our judges are looking for people whose actions have positively impacted on mental wellbeing, sports and physical activity.

The Neil Smith Beyond the Call of Duty Award

This special award, given in memory of our late colleague Neil Smith, acknowledges the amazing work of our blue-light services. Nominations can be for a community police officer, a paramedic or ambulance crew, a local fire officer or crew, a volunteer First Responder or a doctor.

Community in Bloom Award

Communities have made huge efforts in recent years to improve the look of their villages, and this award continues recognition of that effort. Our focus is on the floral decoration of village gardens and centres with local groups invited to send in photographic evidence with their nominations.

Urban Space Award

Our market towns are a key feature of the district and huge effort goes into projects of all types from organisations and groups. We want to hear about urban space improvements completed within the last year with applicants invited to send in photographic evidence with their nominations.

Look around, see who is making a difference in your community and nominate them. Let’s give them the recognition they would never seek but truly deserve.

To make your nomination online, go to: www.southkesteven.gov.uk/ SKawards2023

If you would like a paper copy posting, please contact us at skcommunityhub@ southkesteven.gov.uk or call 01476 406 161.

Post your nominations to: SK Community Awards

South Kesteven District Council

The Picture House St Catherine's Road Grantham NG31 6TT

Cllr Rhea Rayside

New roles to co-ordinate cost of living support in South Kesteven

Two experienced staff have started work in new roles to help South Kesteven residents cope with increases in the cost of living.

The posts have been funded for 12 months from the UK Support Prosperity Fund and will ensure a dedicated resource is maintained.

Cost of Living Co-Ordinator

Funmi Reilly and Support Officer

Stella Darker will take their lead from the Council’s dedicated working group, to set up and ensure the smooth operation of a range of projects.

They will also provide advice and support with:

 Household budgeting, money management and welfare benefits

 Helping residents to claim benefits that they may be due

 Completing income and expenditure assessments to

Household costs

South Kesteven District Council administers several schemes which can help local people with the costs of Council Tax and rent. They include:

 Council Tax Support Scheme

 Household Support Fund

 Discretionary Housing Payments (additional payments to those in receipt of Universal Credit/Housing Benefit)

Find out more about these schemes at:

 www.southkesteven.gov.uk

 01476 40 60 80

 customerservices@ southkesteven.gov.uk

access Government support

 Working with charities and community groups to help the vulnerable

 Debt advice

Funmi said: “I am already involved in financial inclusion, the household support fund and cost of living impacts, and look forward to continuing to support residents in real need.”

Stella added: “As an

Energy costs

 Ofgem has announced that from July 1st the energy price cap for an average dual fuel household paying by direct debit based on typical consumption will be set at £2,074 until the end of September.

 www.ofgem.gov.uk/ publications/customerspay-less-energy-billssummer

 www.gov.uk/government publications/energybills-support/energybills-support-factsheet-8september-2022

 0% VAT when buying energy saving materials such as thermal insulation and solar

experienced support officer, I enjoy working with the public and together we will help people who need our support and advice.”

SKDC’s online cost of living advice can be found at: www.southkesteven.gov.uk/ costofliving

Information includes energy saving, financial support, health and wellbeing, support for older people and grants.

panels for homes until 2027.

 www.gov.uk/guidance/ vat-on-energy-savingmaterials-and-heatingequipment-notice-7086

 Energy Grant Schemes (Help to Heat). Help for low-income households to make their homes warmer and cheaper to heat is available from local installers, SKDC or through your energy company.

 www.gov.uk/government/ collections/find-energygrants-for-you-home-helpto-heat

Utility bills

Households can check to see if they are entitled to switch to a social tariff to help meet the

Stella and Funmi are joining forces to help tackle the cost of living

costs of their utility bills. These include:

 Basic/Essential Phone and Broadband packages

 www.ofcom.org.uk/phonestelecoms-and-internet/ advice-for-consumers/ costs-and-billing/socialtariffs

 Help to pay water bills

 www.ccw.org.uk/savemoney-and-water/helpwith-bills/

Benefits entitlement

Additional financial assistance is available for those already claiming benefit. This includes:

 Three Cost of Living Payments of £300 for households on Universal Credit, Pension Credit and Tax Credits

 www.gov.uk/guidance/costof-living-payment

 Budgeting loan – an interest free loan which can be used for various household purchases

 www.gov.uk/budgetinghelp-benefits/eligibility

 Help to Save – If entitled to Working Tax Credit or in receipt of Universal Credit, savers can get a bonus of 50p for every £1 saved over four years

 www.gov.uk/get-helpsavings-low-income/ eligibility

 Job Centre Plus Travel Discount Card – Issued through your local job centre, this card entitles those eligible and actively seeking employment to a 50% discount on selected rail tickets.

 www.nationalrail.co.uk/ times_fares/jobcentre-pluscard.aspx

 Support for Mortgage Interest scheme – a loan for homeowners issued by the organisation administering

your benefit. If eligible, it can be used to contribute towards the cost of interest payments on either your mortgage or loans you’ve taken out for certain repairs and improvements to your home.

 www.gov.uk/support-formortgage-interest/how-toapply

Don’t forget to check that you’re claiming all the benefits you’re entitled to:

 https://benefits-calculator. turn2us.org.uk

Unemployed or on a low income

 Check if you’re eligible to claim Universal Credit:

 0800 328 5644 www.gov.uk/universalcredit

 Apply for new style Jobseekers Allowance:

 www.gov.uk/jobseekersallowance

 If you’re on the minimum wage, check your pay:

 www.gov.uk/am-i-gettingminimum-wage

 checkyourpay.campaign. co.uk

Health & wellbeing

Support available from various voluntary sector providers including:

 Connect to Support Lincolnshire

 03455 564 144

 NHS Lincolnshire Partnership – Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)

 0303 123 4000

 lincs.spa@nhs.net

 Wellbeing Lincs

 01522 782 540

 www.wellbeinglincs.org

 Health Costs Helpline

 0300 330 1343

 https://www.nhs.uk/nhsservices/help-with-health-costs/

 NHS Low Income Scheme

 0300 330 1343

 nhsbsa.nhs.uk/nhs-lowincome-scheme

Dealing with debt

Support is available from various voluntary sector providers. These include:

 Citizens Advice South Lincolnshire

 0808 278 7996

 www.citizensadvice southlincs.org.uk

 Money Advice and Pensions Service

 0800 138 7777

 www.maps.org.uk

 Step Change Debt Charity

 0800 138 1111

 www.stepchange.org/ contact-us

 Christians Against Poverty, Stamford

 0800 328 0006

Living with a health condition or disability

 Disability Living Allowance (currently being replaced by other benefits and now only available for those aged under 16)

 0800 121 4600

 www.gov.uk/disabilityliving-allowance-children

 Personal Independence Payment (if not reached state pensionable age)

 0800 121 4433

 www.gov.uk/pip

 Attendance Allowance (if state pensionable age or older and not claiming Disability Living Allowance)

 0800 731 0122

 www.gov.uk/attendanceallowance

 Employment & Support Allowance

 0844 811 3390

 www.gov.uk/employmentsupport-allowance

 Disability Cost of Living Payment

A payment of £150 will be made to those eligible during the summer of 2023. Eligibility dependent on being in receipt of specific benefits on a particular date.

 www.gov.uk/guidance/ cost-of-livingpayment#disability-costof-living-payment

 Learning Disabilities

 0808 808 1111

 helpline@mencap.org.uk

 www.mencap.org.uk/helpwith-food-energy-andmoney

Marriage Allowance

Check that you’re claiming the Marriage Tax Allowance. This lets you transfer £1260 of your personal allowance to your husband, wife or civil partner.

 www.gov.uk/marriageallowance

Caring for someone

Check if you’re eligible to claim a carer’s allowance:

 www.gov.uk/carersallowance

Help for children

 Free childcare – 15 or 30 hours of free childcare for children aged 2, 3 and 4

(depending on eligibility)

 www.childcarechoices. gov.uk

 www.gov.uk/help-withchildcare-costs/freechildcare-2-year-olds

 www.gov.uk/apply-30hours-free-tax-freechildcare

 Tax-free Childcare

 www.gov.uk/tax-freechildcare

 Child Benefit

 0300 200 3100

 www.gov.uk/child-benefit

If you have children and are claiming Universal Credit you may also be eligible to:

 Claim back up to 85% of costs of childcare

 www.gov.uk/guidance/ universal-credit-childcarecosts

 Free school meals

 01522 782 030

 www.gov.uk/apply-freeschool-meals

 Access free activities and food in school holidays

 HAF@lincolnshire.gov.uk

 www.lincolnshire.gov. uk/school-pupil-support/ holiday-activities-foodprogramme

 Healthy Start Vouchers

 0300 330 7010

 healthy.start@nhsbsa.nhs.uk

 www.healthystart.nhs.uk/ how-to-apply/

 Help with maternity costs

 www.gov.uk/sure-startmaternity-grant

Help for pensioners

There are various schemes to help pensioners with the cost of living. All pensioners are eligible for some of them, and some are means-tested. They include:

 A Winter Fuel Payment and a Cost-of-Living Payment of between £150 and £300 (paid alongside the Winter Fuel Payment)

 www.gov.uk/winter-fuelpayment

 Pension Credit. Check eligibility

 0800 99 1234

 www.gov.uk/pension-credit

 Housing Benefit. Check eligibility

 www.gov.uk/housingbenefit

 A free TV Licence (Eligible if 75 or over and in receipt of Pension Credit)

 0300 790 6117

 www.tvlicensing.co.uk/ check-if-you-need-one/foryour-home/aged-74-andover-aud3

 A national concessionary travel pass

 0345 456 4474

 concessionaryfares@ lincolnshire.gov.uk

 www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/ public-transport/applyfree-bus-pass

Don’t forget to check that you are claiming everything you’re entitled to:

 www.entitledto.co.uk/ benefits-calculator/Intro/ Home

www.southkesteven.gov.uk/costofliving

Mobile food hubs coming to South Kesteven

A community food organisation that helps people on low incomes eat varied and nutritious meals is set to establish five hubs across the District.

Founded in 2016, The Bread and Butter Thing (TBBT) operates mobile affordable food clubs in nearly 100 locations across the UK. Its service improves local access to good quality, healthy and nutritious food.

South Kesteven District Council will be working in partnership with TBBT to deliver five hubs across the District. Two will be established in Grantham, and one each in Stamford, Bourne and The Deepings.

Just over £150,000 from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund will help to establish the hubs.

Cllr Rhea Rayside, Cabinet Member for People and Communities, said: “Sadly, many people across our District are struggling to make ends meet, but this is a great initiative that will make life a little easier for some.

“As a Council, we are proud to be supporting the work of TBBT and to be providing additional support for those residents who need it most.”

By working in partnership with supermarkets, factories and farms, TBBT redistributes surplus food that would otherwise go to waste.

The food is transported to the hubs where TBBT members can then access three bags of fruit and veg, chilled food and cupboard staples at discounted prices. It enables members to improve their diet whilst saving money.

TBBT extends the benefits of its hubs further by working with

partners to provide expert advice and practical solutions in income maximisation, energy, digital exclusion and mental health support.

Mark Game, Chief Executive of TBBT, said: “We aim to unleash the power of affordable food and use it to ignite long-lasting change in struggling neighbourhoods.

”Our members tell us that over 80% of them have previously had to skip meals to feed their families. By using TBBT, most save £25 a week on their food budgets, money which they can then use for other household priorities. They also benefit from

better quality and a bigger variety of food. Plus, we save tonnes of surplus edible food from going to waste.

“We are delighted to be working with SKDC to bring the benefits of our mobile food clubs to five new communities across the District.” SKDC has been allocated £3,898,582 from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund as part of the Government’s Levelling Up process.

The fund can support projects that build pride in place, improve the places where people live, and that support individuals and businesses to thrive.

Five mobile hubs will be established across South Kesteven

TBBT distributes high-quality, fresh food to local communities

Applications invited for community projects

Communities across South Kesteven are about to benefit from almost £100,000 of new funding from a new £1m pot of cash to directly support local initiatives over the next two years.

They are receiving the first allocations from the South Kesteven Prosperity Fund, set up with the district's £3.9m share of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

A diverse range of community initiatives has already been confirmed by SKDC’s Prosperity Fund Board, with dozens of bids currently being assessed. There is still time to apply.

Cllr Ashley Baxter, SKDC's new Cabinet Member for Finance and Economic Development, said: “This fund is part of our allocation from the Government to meet the need for community projects anywhere across the 365 square miles of our district and we urge groups to apply for a share right away.

“There are some specific criteria and bids for funding can be made for projects for building improvements; green space and outdoor improvements; culture, arts, and heritage initiatives.

“Community groups will need to

show project plans, receipts and quotations for work to qualify.

“We are pleased to see the wide range of initiatives already in the pipeline which will undoubtedly enrich the local area for everyone.”

The Government has chosen SKDC to administer the fund, and the Council monitors and evaluates projects to ensure the best value for money.

All applications to the South Kesteven Prosperity Fund go through the Council's cross-party board, which meets on a regular basis.

Details of how to apply can be found online: www.southkesteven. gov.uk/SPFgrants Projects should provide a public benefit to the residents of South Kesteven, which could be targeted at a specific demographic or the wider community.

There are no fixed deadlines for applications, which are considered on a rolling basis until the annual allocation of funding in this area is committed. There is no upper or lower limit for bids.

Applications are open to town councils, parish councils, parish meetings, and community groups within South Kesteven.

On the way to Arnhem Market Deeping Library

Snapshot of how some communities are spending SPF grants

Arnhem 1944 Fellowship - £4,000

To commission a feasibility study to establish a public Arnhem and Airborne Forces Trail throughout South Kesteven. This would link with existing heritage around America’s 9th Group Troop Carrier Command, whose aircraft transported airborne troops to Holland from airfields around Grantham.

St Wulfram’s Parochial Church Council - £3,115

For maintenance to the Grade I listed church in Grantham, including replacing high-level window mesh to stop damage from pigeons and to repairing gutters, sumps and downpipes to prevent water damage to stonework.

Castle Bytham Village Hall - £20,242

To provide a modern, energy-efficient heating system, insulation to vaulted ceilings, draught-free exterior doors and LED lighting.

Long Bennington Parish Council£9,689

For a traffic calming scheme with ‘gateways’ to define the village entrance, exits and highlight a 30mph speed limit.

Open Door Baptist Church, Deeping St James - £8,000

To upgrade to LED lighting, plus installation of modern controls including PIR to reduce running costs and ensure the church can continue as a community hub.

Caythorpe & Frieston Parish Council - £12,977

To install an automated winding and regulation system in Grade I listed St Vincent’s Church in Caythorpe. The church welcomes visitors from a far, the clock set within the body of the church being one of the main attractions. The mechanical clock was fabricated and installed by the same company that installed the Great Clock at the Houses of Parliament, better known as Big Ben.

Brudenell Playing Fields Management Committee - £8,555

To replace fire doors at Baston Village Hall, currently in disrepair causing

soaring heating costs in a community building used by a range of village groups including exercise classes, the WI, private parties and ‘mum and tot’ groups.

Uffington Cricket Club - £8,000

A safe play area for children will be built to attract more families to the only sports facility in the village.

Stamford Art Pop-up - £6,353

This event built on last year’s successful free community arts event, which involved collaboration with local artist Korp to feature 12 urban artists and muralists painting ‘live’.

Swinstead Parish Council - £5,642

Deer-proof fences are needed at the Jubilee Orchard in Swinstead, to protect the 60 fruit trees there. The orchard is a safe family environment in a countryside setting.

Friends of Deepings Library - £2,148

To bring pop-up cinema for a two-day film festival meeting local need for cinema without having to travel.

Deepings Community Library£1,100

A History Heritage Day for 150 children from local schools.

Grantham’s Jubilee Church - £3,750

To replace an old heater, without which community groups and language lessons would need to be cancelled in cold weather.

Carlby Village Hall - £1,400

To install loft insulation which will reduce operating costs.

Deeping St James Priory Church£500

Funding to stage a ukulele concert.

Grantham Rivercare - £250

To go towards litter picking equipment for work along the River Witham and surrounding areas.

For more information about approved grants to date visit www.southkesteven.gov.uk/SPFgrants

Warning on battery and vape disposal after after blaze on bin lorry

Awarning has been issued for householders to dispose of rubbish correctly – or risk the potential for dangerous consequences.

This comes after a South Kesteven District Council waste freighter was forced to dump its blazing load in the street when an electrical item was suspected to have sparked a fire on board.

The waste collection team was unharmed in the emergency –thought to have been caused by a disposable vape or small battery item.

Cllr Rhys Baker, Cabinet Member for Environment and Waste, said: “Please help keep bin crews and other refuse workers safe by disposing of any items with a battery inside properly.

“Waste is compacted several times on its journey from home to the energy from waste plant or recycling centre, and it takes just one battery to create a spark that can set the whole load alight.

“Anything with batteries inside, or with a plug, should not go in household bins and needs to be recycled separately.

“Single use vapes have a battery so they can't just go in the bin; they need to be taken to a household waste recycling centre where they can be recycled properly.

“For a refillable vape, you can pop the batteries out and take them to the local council tip.

“You can also recycle household

batteries at local supermarkets, an electrical retailer or recycling centre.”

The incident happened on Grantham Road, Ingoldsby, where three fire engines were in attendance and police closed the road while the fire was fully put out and the waste could safely be removed. The fire was spotted quickly and the correct action taken. The driver safely ejected seven tonnes of recycling waste, waste that unfortunately could not go for recycling.

Across Lincolnshire, there have been several instances of carelessly discarded electronics. A Lincoln bin lorry had to shed its load onto a city street after a battery caught fire in the back. And in Boston, an electrical appliance caused a fire in a collection vehicle in April.

Battery recycling points can now be found at most supermarkets, and electronics and batteries –including car batteries – can be

recycled at local household waste recycling centres.

See what you can recycle at your local Household Waste Recycling Centre and find details of your nearest site by visiting www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/recycle

Check you're putting the right thing in the right bin at home by visiting www.southkesteven.

Recycling waste fire Ingoldsby

Firefighters tackle the incident at Ingoldsby

SKDC takes new shape after elections

South Kesteven District Council has a new look following the local elections on May 4th.

The position after all 56 seats were declared was that no single political party achieved an overall majority.

Cllr Richard Cleaver was subsequently elected Leader of South Kesteven District Council and heads a new Independentled administration, supported by his Deputy Leader, Cllr Ashley Baxter, who takes on the Cabinet portfolio for Finance and Economic Development.

Cllr Cleaver said he was honoured to be elected Leader of the Council: “It is a responsibility I intend to discharge with a fair and open mind, a full heart, and with great thoroughness.

“The majority group is one in which I feel I can take great pride.

It is a responsibility I intend to discharge with a fair and open mind, a full heart, and with great thoroughness.

Half of them are new councillors who have been elected because they have listened to their electorate, and they come here with great energy and commitment.

“We also have many longserving councillors whose wisdom and experience will be so important in moving this council forward.”

Cllr Baxter welcomed the many and varied contributions from all sides of the chamber - and said the debate would continue in the various committees.

4 (+4)

(One seat was vacant ahead of the election)

Cllr Baxter said: "We will be open to new ideas, open to innovation, taking ideas from all sides of the chamber; we want to be more collaborative and co-operative."

The other new Cabinet members are Cllrs Phil Dilks, Philip Knowles, Paul Stokes, Rhys Baker/Patsy Ellis (shared role), and Rhea Rayside.

A meeting of the full Council on May 18th, also saw roles and responsibilities allocated across the political groupings, including the announcement of new committees and new chairs and vice-chairs of those committees.

Cllr Gloria Johnson was elected Chairman of the Council, with Cllr Paul Fellows as her Vice-Chairman for the year ahead.

 The full election results can be found online at www. southkesteven.gov.uk/SKvote

Cllr Richard Cleaver, Leader of South Kesteven District Council

Find your Councillor

Elected Members of South Kesteven District Council play a key role in serving residents across the District. Depending where they live, residents are represented by one, two or sometimes three councillors.

Often the first point of contact in their communities, our councillors offer advice and can raise issues of concern within council debate and the decision-making processes.

Eight key councillors are also members of SKDC’s Cabinet.

Each Cabinet member has specific areas of responsibility,

such as housing, growth, finance or planning, and they meet regularly to ensure timely decision-making.

Leader of the Council Cllr Richard Cleaver said: “Our councillors play a vital role in ensuring local views are reflected in local decision-making.

“I would urge anyone who needs advice or has a question about our services to contact a councillor representing their ward.”

For more information and councillor details please visit www.southkesteven.gov. uk/councillors

Cabinet Members

Market and West Deeping

Grantham Arnoldfield

Key:

Cllr Richard Cleaver

E: richard.cleaver@ southkesteven.gov.uk ● Leader

Bourne East

Cllr Philip Knowles

E: phillip.knowles@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Cabinet Member for Corporate Goverance and Licensing

Cllr Ashley Baxter

E: ashley baxter@ southkesteven.gov.uk ● Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Economic Development

Stamford St. George’s

Cllr Paul Stokes

E: paul.stokes@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Cabinet Member for Leisure and Culture

Cllr Phil Dilks

E: phil.dilks@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Cabinet Member for Housing and Planning

Grantham St Vincent’s

● South Kesteven Coalition Group

● Independent Group

Cllr Rhea Rayside E: rhea.rayside@ southkesteven.gov.uk

Cabinet Member for People and Communities

Cllr Patsy Ellis

E: patsy.ellis@ southkesteven.gov.uk

Cabinet Member for Environment and Waste

● Democratic Independent Group

● Grantham Independent Group

Stamford St. John’s

Deeping St James

cllrr.trollopebellew@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

southkesteven.gov.uk ● Glen

Cllr

E: helen.crawford@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

E: anna.kelly@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

E: james.denniston@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Cllr

E: bridget.ley@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

southkesteven.gov.uk ●

southkesteven.gov.uk ●

●

E: ian.selby@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Cllr Elvis Stooke E: elvis.stooke@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Aveland

Cllr Richard Dixon-Warren E: richard.dixon-warren@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Belvoir

Cllr Pam Bosworth E: pam.bosworth@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Belmont

Cllr Phil Gadd E: phil.gadd@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Belvoir

Cllr Robert Leadenham E: robert.leadenham@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Bourne Austerby

Cllr Paul Fellows E: paul.fellows@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Bourne Austerby

Cllr Emma Baker E: emma.baker@ southkesteven.gov.uk

Grantham Earlesfield

Cllr Steven Cunnington E: steve.cunnington@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Grantham Barrowby Gate

Cllr Mark Whittington E: mark.whittington@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Grantham Earlesfield

Cllr Lee Steptoe E: lee.steptoe@ southkesteven.gov.uk

Grantham Harrowby

Cllr Chris Noon E: chris.noon@ southkesteven.gov.uk

Grantham Harrowby

Cllr Ian Selby

Bridget Ley

Deeping St James

Cllr James Denniston

Deeping St James

Helen Crawford

Bourne West

Cllr Anna Kelly

Bourne West Bourne East

Cllr Zoe Lane E: zoe.lane@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Casewick

Cllr Vanessa Smith E: vanessa.smith@ southkesteven.gov.uk

Casewick

Cllr Rosemary Trollope-Bellew E:

Castle

Cllr Nick Robins E: nick.robins@

Cllr Penny Robins E: penny.robins@

Grantham Arnoldfield

Cllr Paul Martin E: paul.martin@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Dole Wood

Cllr Barry Dobson E: barry.Dobson@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Grantham Barrowby Gate

Cllr Gareth Knight E: gareth.knight@

Grantham Springfield

Cllr Nikki Manterfield E: nikki.manterfield@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

E: virginia.moran@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Cllr

E: susan.woolley@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

E: peter.stephens@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

E: ian.stokes@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Cllr

E: habib.rahman@ southkesteven.gov.uk

Cllr

E: max.sawyer@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Cllr

E: gloria.johnson@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Viking

Cllr

E: susan.sandall@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

harrish.bisnauthsing@ southkesteven.gov.uk

Cllr

E: jane.kingman@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

For more information and councillor details please visit www. southkesteven.gov.uk/ councillors

Cllr

E: murray.turner@ southkesteven.gov.uk

Cllr

E: jane.wood@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Cllr

E: paul.wood@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Stamford St George’s

Gloria Johnson

Stamford All Saints

Max Sawyer

Stamford St John’s

Susan Sandall

Toller

Murray Turner

Stamford St. Mary’s

Jane Kingman

Stamford St. Mary’s

Cllr Harrish Bisnauthsing E:

Jane Wood

Viking

Paul Wood

Peascliffe & Ridgeway

Cllr Peter Stephens

Morton

Susan Woolley

Peascliffe & Ridgeway

Cllr Ian Stokes

Stamford All Saints

Habib Rahman

Market and West Deeping

Cllr Virginia Moran

Market and West Deeping

Cllr Pam Byrd E: pam.byrd@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Loveden Heath

Cllr Penny Milnes

E: penny.milnes@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Lincrest

Cllr Sarah Trotter E: sarah.trotter@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Isaac Newton

Cllr David Bellamy E: david.bellamy@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Grantham St. Wulfram’s

Cllr Tim Harrison E: tim.harrison@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Grantham St. Wulfram’s

Cllr Ray Wootten E: ray.wootten@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Isaac Newton

Cllr Ben Green E: ben.green@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Grantham St Vincent’s

Cllr Charmaine Morgan E: charmaine.morgan@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Grantham St Vincent’s

Cllr Graham Jeal E: graham.jeal@ southkesteven.gov.uk ●

Grantham Springfield

Cllr Rob Shorrock E: rob.shorrock@ southkesteven.gov.uk

New Chairman looking forward to year in office

CllrGloria Johnson was elected Chairman of South Kesteven District Council for 2023/24 at its Annual General Meeting.

Cllr Johnson, the Conservative Member for Stamford St George’s, was Vice-Chairman last year.

She paid tribute to her predecessor as Chairman and said: “Cllr Helen Crawford has been a fantastic role model and has represented this Council better than anyone I have ever known to do it.

“I thoroughly enjoy being a councillor, meeting and helping new people and learning about my local area so I am delighted to be chairing this year.”

Cllr Johnson was elected as a District councillor in 2019, serves on Stamford Town Councill and was Mayor of Stamford in 2021/22.

Born near Doncaster, Cllr Johnson has lived in Stamford for the past 43 years. Before settling in the area she moved frequently while her husband, Kenneth, served in the RAF.

Cllr Paul Fellows, Independent Member for Bourne Austerby, was elected Vice-Chairman for 2023/24.

South Kesteven marks

Dambusters anniversary

Eighty years since the RAF’s iconic wartime Dambusters Raid a single Lancaster bomber paid a special tribute to Grantham’s role in the mission.

Lancaster flyovers on two separate days were backed by South Kesteven District Council-cordinated visits to see memorabilia at St Vincent’s Hall, HQ for 5 Group Bomber Command in 1943.

It was at St Vincent’s Hall that Wing Commander Guy Gibson first learned that he was to lead 617 Squadron on Operation Chastise, an audacious night bombing raid to destroy dams in Germany’s industrial heartland.

It was here too where bouncing bomb inventor Sir Barnes Wallis was waiting on May 16th 1943 to hear the outcome with Air Chief Marshal Sir Arthur Harris, head of Bomber Command. Both men then drove to Scampton to meet the returning crews.

Cllr Paul Stokes, Cabinet

Member for Leisure and Culture, said: “We should never forget our proud military heritage in South Kesteven, and this commemoration illustrated the critical role of St Vincent’s Hall during WW2.”

On May 13th the Lancaster flew over the town thanks to an request from Grantham aviation enthusiast Mike Brummitt, then over St Vincent’s Hall.

On May 16th, the exact date of the raid, the aircraft again went over Grantham as part of its 22-site tour of county Bomber Command sites.

Guests at St Vincent’s Hall saw a rare and unique collection of exhibition items – many on show to the public for the first time. Items were loaned from the private collection of Kenneth Ward, with other related pieces provided by Lincolnshire County Council’s military archive.

The exhibition was presented by aviation heritage specialist Brian Riley.

Guests enjoy hearing about the Dams raid from Brian Riley (right)

A royal celebration in South Kesteven

Our, communities came together to mark the Coronation of His Majesty, King Charles III and Her Majesty, The Queen Consort.

As well as a concert at Windsor Castle, events across the country united friends, families and communities over the special Coronation weekend.

Hundreds of events took place between Saturday 6 and Monday 8 May across South Kesteven.

Cllr Rhea Rayside, Cabinet

and even the chance to tuck into an afternoon tea fit for a King.

To commemorate the Coronation for years to come, some of the younger generation were presented with commemorative bookmarks,

medals and coins to mark the occasion.

As well as food, drink and music, families from across the District have took part in arts and crafts, games and activities to celebrate with their community.

Member for

People and Communities, said: “It was wonderful to see residents and visitors enjoying such an uplifting and historic event.

“For many, it was a once in a lifetime moment and I was delighted that the Council was able to support so many community celebrations.

Across South Kesteven, there were village fun days, festivals

Essex Road, Stamford, Sheltered housing scheme

New payment app to make life easier for motorists across District R

ingGo parking by mobile app is now in place in South Kesteven District Council-run car parks, offering a quick and convenient way to pay.

The new system allows motorists to book, manage and pay for parking space remotely by mobile phone.

The existing options for cash or contactless card payment remain available.

Leader of the Council, Cllr Richard Cleaver, said: “The introduction of the service across the 11 SKDC car parks where we charge is more convenient for many residents and visitors. Our car parks in Bourne and Market Deeping remain free to use.

“Once registered for a RingGo account, motorists can manage their booking online, whether by extending parking without returning to the vehicle, or by saving details for faster booking in the future.

“When the parking session is close to running out, an optional text message is sent as an alert. The app can then be used

to extend the parking session remotely without returning to the car. Motorists simply select the current session in the app and enter the desired extension time.”

This means there is no need to display a ticket, which is more

is

convenient for many residents and visitors.

environmentally friendly as our Parking Enforcement Officers can see that phone parking has been used for payment by checking the vehicle registration number on their devices.

The RingGo app also offers text receipts and reminders to confirm the session details and notify motorists when parking is about to run out. Users can opt in or out of the optional text messages at any time.

The popular parking payment service is in operation at more than 17,000 locations nationwide and can be downloaded onto a smartphone via app providers or by visiting https://myringgo.co.uk

• There is a small additional charge for using the service and for the optional text messages.

• Charges in each location can be checked via the app or online.

The introduction of the service across the 11 SKDC car parks where we charge

more

what's on

Arts across South Kesteven

Enjoy live events at our fantastic arts centres and venues. With something for everyone, now is the perfect time to support and take part in the arts across the District. Concessionary prices in brackets.

DIARY EVENTS

JUNE to AUGUST 2023

JACK’S ASHES

THURSDAY 22ND JUNE, 7:30PM

Stamford Arts Centre Theatre

TALK

Possibly the worst team talk you've ever heard...Former professional cricketer Jack gives his team talk, but wickets fall like a ticking time bomb and the anecdotes from the ashes of his career prove less than inspirational… As Jack pads up to be the last man in to go out and save the day, ‘Jack's Ashes’ offers a humorous insight into the mental frailties that can cloud the mind and the distractions that can lead to ruin.

■ TICKETS: £16 (£15)

FUNHOUSE COMEDY CLUB

FRIDAY 23RD JUNE, 8PM

Stamford Arts Centre Cellar Bar COMEDY

If you want serious comedy David Tsonos is not your man. His comedy stems from being the youngest of five boys, babysitting ...his nephews and his cat. Join us for a hilarious evening of comedy featuring David Tsonos, Jake Donaldson, Paul Merryck, compered by Paul Revill.

■ TICKETS: £10

BARBARA DICKSON WITH NICK HOLLAND

THURSDAY 29TH JUNE, 7:30PM

Guildhall Arts Centre Theatre MUSIC

In this special acoustic performance Barbara Dickson and her pianist Nick Holland explore her catalogue of songs at an intimate level. The pair let the words and melodies take ‘centre stage’ as they perform a

wonderful range of material drawing on Barbara’s folk roots, contemporary greats, and some of her classic hits.

■ TICKETS: £28

THE SONGS THE BEATLES GAVE AWAY

FRIDAY 7TH JULY, 7:30PM

Stamford Arts Centre Ballroom MUSIC

BBC’s Bob Harris and author/music journalist Colin Hall set out upon an intimate speaking tour based around their mutual love and appreciation of The Beatles, including previously unseen footage from Bob Harris’ archive with Lennon & McCartney. This is the story behind those songs, the hits, the misses and the demos that the group never released.

■ TICKETS: £20 (£18)

THE NOSY LITTLE TROLL SATURDAY 8TH JULY, 2PM

Stamford Arts Centre Theatre

ALSO SATURDAY 15 JULY

Guildhall Arts Centre

FAMILY

Join us for this funny Scandinavian story starring a tasty brown cheese song, a lost goat and a bushy old troll with green fingers. Garlic Theatre hold their young audience spellbound with wonderfully crafted troll puppets, live music and lots of joining in.

■ TICKETS: £8 (£6) £24 family of 4

JUST LIKE THAT! THE TOMMY COOPER SHOW

THURSDAY 13TH JULY, 7:30PM

Guildhall Arts Centre Theatre

ALSO THURS 6 JULY

Stamford Arts Centre

Barbara Dickson with Nick Holland

COMEDY

Celebrating over 100 years of Tommy, this all-encapsulating show of magic, music and mirth is the perfect celebration of Britain's top comedian and features all of Tommy’s classic gags combined with lesser-known gems lovingly selected from his joke archive and extensive magic routines.

■ TICKETS: £16 (£14)

THE NAT KING COLE STORY

SATURDAY 22ND JULY, 7:30PM

Guildhall Arts Centre Theatre MUSIC

Featuring world-class live music, alongside narration and projected archive images and footage, this is the unique concert celebrating one the greatest vocalists and entertainers of the Twentieth Century: Nat ‘King’ Cole.

■ TICKETS: £21

SARAH AND DUCK

TUESDAY 1ST AUGUST, 1:30PM & 4PM

SOUTH KESTEVEN Disc����

Visitor treasures open for summer

Grantham Canal. Grantham to West Bridgford

Guildhall Arts Centre Theatre FAMILY

Join Sarah and her best friend Duck as they plan the ultimate circus soiree to help Scarf Lady celebrate her birthday. With entertainment lined up from a whole host of your favourite friends, including The Ribbon Sisters, The Shallots, Flamingo & John and Umbrella, the party is ready to go! Let’s just hope the weather holds out.

■ TICKETS: £14 (£12) £48 family of 4 | £10.50 groups of 10+

ANIMAL CLUB: ANIMAL HANDLING SESSIONS

WEDNESDAY 16TH AUGUST, 9:30AM & 10:30AM & 11:30AM

Guildhall Arts Centre Ballroom WORKSHOP

Fascinating, fun and interactive animal workshops! Animal Club will arrive with all the crew from jumpy stick insects to calm pythons, friendly bearded dragons, fluffy bunnies, curious guinea pigs and many more!

■ TICKETS: £8

Guildhall Arts Centre

St Peter's Hill, Grantham NG31 6PZ

www.guildhallartscentre.com

 01476 406 158

Stamford Arts Centre

27 St Mary's Street, Stamford

Lincs PE9 2DL www.stamfordartscentre.com

 01780 763 203

Bourne Corn Exchange

3 Abbey Road, Bourne PE10 9EF www.facebook.com/ bournecornexchange

 01778 423579

Follow towpaths along peaceful stretches of this beautiful waterway wending through the countryside and the picturesque Vale of Belvoir on a 33 mile route through 18 locks. Find parking places where roads intersect the canal.

 www.canalrivertrust.org.uk

Burghley Park, Stamford

Stunning parkland offers walking in the surroundings of Elizabethan Burghley House. The parkland was largely designed by Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown in the 18th century and is rich in ancient trees. Open daily from 7am until dusk.

 www.burghley.co.uk

Bourne Woods. Bourne

For a delightful forest walk, choose Bourne Woods to relax amidst ancient woodland, winding paths, pond-side picnics and wildlife. Owned and managed by Forestry England, it’s a great place for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. Large accessible car park. www.forestryengland.uk/ bourne-wood-bourne

Market Deeping, West Deeping

Follow a lovely circular walk on a mapped 5.5 mile footpath between Market Deeping and West Deeping, passing a number of water mills. Walk along the old Stamford canal and River Welland plus field and roadside paths

 www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/ coast-countryside/walkingcycling-horse-riding

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Twitter: @discoversouthk

Facebook: Discover South Kesteven

TikTok: @discoversk discoversouthkesteven.com

The Nosey Little Troll

The Nat King Cole Story