UDC NEWS UPDATE
Have your say on Local Council Tax Support
Uttlesford residents are being invited to have their say on how much support the council should give to people who might struggle to pay their Council Tax bill.
Local Council Tax Support (LCTS) is designed to help the most vulnerable. The local scheme is set by Uttlesford District Council which has some discretion over how it is administered.
For 2023/24, the council is proposing to maintain the scheme on the same basis as this year, meaning the amount that LCTS claimants pay towards their Council Tax would be kept at 12.5% of their full bill. The council is also proposing to continue to protect vulnerable and disabled residents and carers who are on a low income. Pensioners who are on a low income are automatically protected from any changes.
► Get more details about the scheme and how to have your say
£150 energy bills payment – discretionary scheme
Uttlesford District Council is currently finalising the Discretionary Energy Scheme which will include a hardship element. This scheme covers Uttlesford residents living in a property in Council Tax bands E to H who haven’t received the £150 rebate from the government to help with the cost of energy bills.
Further details will be published shortly. Keep an eye on our website and social media channels.
New timetable for Local Plan
Uttlesford District Council is in the process of drafting a new Local Plan that will set our strategic priorities for future development, including sites for new housing, provision of infrastructure, and policies to protect our historic buildings and places.
Producing a local plan is a very complex process that requires a substantial amount of evidence and consultations with the public and stakeholders. Some additional time is being taken to explore as many options as possible to create a robust local plan that best meets the needs of the district.
► Find out more about the Uttlesford Local Plan and what the next steps are
Apply now for an Active Uttlesford Grant
We want to continue to support the health and wellbeing of residents and communities, and have launched a new grant scheme for projects or activities that help people get more physically active or recover from the effects of coronavirus.
The Active Uttlesford Grant scheme will be open until we have allocated all of the £10,000 annual grant fund.
Constituted groups and clubs, registered charities, voluntary or community organisations, and not-for-profit companies or community interest companies can apply for grants of up to £1,500.
► Find out more about the Active Uttlesford grant scheme criteria and how to apply*
Look out for a form checking who’s registered to vote at your address
Have you received a letter from the council asking who is eligible to vote at your address?
We’ve started writing to households which we do not hold a valid email address for. These letters are printed on yellow paper and are part of the annual canvass.
If you receive a letter please read through carefully and confirm the information we hold is correct.
► Get more information about the annual canvass
Discover Uttlesford this summer
Looking for ways to keep the kids entertained this summer? Visit the Discover Uttlesford website for ideas on where to stay, what to do and where to eat and drink.
You can also download Dscvr, the free app dedicated to enhancing your experience of the local area. Whether you’re planning a visit or rediscovering your home town, it’s a handy addition to your day out.
The app is totally free and easy to use.
Looking for a fresh start?
DevelopMe
Whether you have been made redundant, looking for your first job or simply feel like it’s time for a change, there’s help available.
The DevelopMe Hub is packed with tips and advice to guide your job search.
•Careers assessment and skills training
•CV Builder
•Interview simulator and practice questions
•Job Search
► Go to the DevelopMe hub or download the mobile app on iOS and Android.
Essex Opportunities
Essex Opportunities is the go-to portal for skills training and apprenticeships information.
Students, employers and residents wishing to upskill can use the site to find out about career path development, apprenticeships and work experience, skills development and professional qualification programmes.
► Go to the website for more information
Essex ActivAte returns with summer clubs
Essex ActivAte returns this July and August, offering free activity sessions and holiday clubs for those who are eligible for free school meals, or those from low income working families.
The programme previously ran over the Easter holidays and saw children offered a safe space to have fun, make friends and learn new skills.
Activities will run until 29 August.
