Modular homes, elections and a closer look at councillor grants - Ken James

In my last column, I talked about the lighter evenings and the warmer weather on the way, but little did I know that there would be a Met Office Amber warning for cold weather in the meantime! The year continues to progress, and while there are many positive things to look forward to, serious issues still affect Torridge and the country, such as homelessness and the cost of living crisis.

With a nationwide homelessness problem, it was great to see the foundations laid for the temporary modular accommodation units at Sully House in Bideford. The three, one-person units will provide a bedroom, living area, bathroom and a separate kitchen for each occupant.

The cost of these smaller units came from a successful bid by Devon County to central government, which has, in turn, been made available to Torridge and other districts to tackle homelessness. We hope that the units will be available for use from spring next year, with the main building conversion of Sully House completed in early summer.

We already operate three hostels with 16 units of temporary accommodation and lease five private sector properties to help with our support for the homeless. However, these new units will be very welcome and will help us to save money that we are currently required to spend on more expensive B&B type accommodation, as unfortunately demand for assistance remains very high.

The current Household Support Fund is now closed to new applications, with a new fund to be launched shortly. The application process will then be reopened most likely in early April, so please keep an eye on the Torridge website and social media channels for more news. This will be the fourth incarnation of the scheme, with just over £151,000 of support already provided under the previous award programmes.

I have recently had the chance to look through the list of various organisations and charities that Councillors have supported throughout the year under the councillor grants scheme. The Northern Devon Foodbank was supported by many showing how valuable this resource is for the community, with the volunteers working extremely hard to help individuals and families.

Several sporting organisations, including the Bideford BMX club and football clubs throughout the district, have also received financial support from councillors. These clubs were particularly hard hit during the pandemic, and the volunteers do a fantastic job, so it's nice to see them getting help. Sports clubs are really important for children and adults alike, with exercise playing a big part in improving mental health.

A new council is also on the horizon with the Torridge elections due to take place on Thursday, 4 May, although I like to think that we will hopefully see some familiar returning faces to continue the positive work we’ve started in recent years. The election will be the first in which a photo ID is needed to vote at polling stations following the introduction of new Government legislation.

A list of all the types of acceptable ID can be found online, with a free Voter Authority Certificate available to anyone who doesn't have any of these. I encourage everyone to pass on this information, particularly to the elderly, new first-time voters, or those without internet access, so that they know about the changes and can ensure they have everything they need to vote well ahead of the 25 April deadline.

Anyone who wishes to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate can do so on the Government website at www.gov.uk/apply-for-photo-id-voter-authority-certificate.

Voters without internet access or who need further help can also apply in person Monday to Friday, 9am to 1pm and 2pm to 4.30pm at Torridge Council Offices, Riverbank House in Bideford, where customer service officers will be on hand to assist. To check whether you need one or for more information go online at torridge.gov.uk/elections.

Written by Ken James, Leader of Torridge District Council