I’M very proud that Bath & North East Somerset Council (B&NES) is recognised nationally as a leader for our work to tackle the climate and ecological emergencies – this is one of our core priorities and influences every decision that we take.

Our new climate and nature emergency report sets out our progress and achievements. For example, carbon emissions per person in Bath & North East Somerset have halved over the last 20 years and continue to reduce steadily.

Working in partnership is critical. I want to thank the many organisations, groups and individuals who have contributed to the progress that we are making towards a low carbon, nature positive and climate resilient district.

Last year, we supported Bristol Avon Rivers Trust in a successful bid to the West of England Green Recovery Fund to develop a farm cluster covering the Chew Valley and Cam & Wellow catchments. The cluster is now active, and grants are being distributed to farmers and landowners to deliver interventions that enhance nature and improve water quality; we are represented on the Steering Group that oversees distribution of these grants.

Together with the Forest of Avon Trust, we led a successful bid for the Western Forest to be chosen as England’s second National Forest, with £7.5-million of funding for more trees and woodland across the West of England

We have also just adopted a new Greener Places Plan, which will feed into the Local Plan and play a key role in ensuring our area has a more sustainable, nature-rich and climate resilient future. It includes ambitious targets for green spaces including tree cover.

Taking B&NES Council’s adult social care services back in house after seven years of being run by the private sector has been another top priority. The transition was made in April last year. The council is investing £1.79-million, over two years, to transform our adult services which has led to significant improvements for service users.

I’m pleased to report that our council adult social care service is bedding in well and improving. Occupational Therapy waiting times have fallen thanks to a new occupational therapy assessment centre, which opened in June at the council’s Combe Lea Care Home in Midsomer Norton, and additional staff. The waiting list has fallen from 229 in January to 41 in August this year. Also, 74 per cent of people requiring an annual review, which makes sure someone’s support needs are being met appropriately, have had theirs within a one-year timescale.

These improvements come as the service receives an average of 255 new care assessment requests each month. Feedback from people using services is overwhelmingly positive with 90 per cent of respondents saying their experience is good and they say they feel listened to, supported, and involved in their care. Our frontline staff are central to shaping the future of care. My personal thanks to all residents who take the time to give positive feedback to our hardworking, dedicated teams. It’s so motivating to hear they’ve helped you.