It’s going to be difficult over the coming months not to give you overload on the subject of devolution because as you can imagine it is taking quite a lot of work and discussion. We have had a short amount of time to sort things out and of course it’s not all sorted yet. Except of course we know the Government has accepted a pan Sussex Mayoral strategic authority so all the discussion at the moment is regarding what sort of Unitary local Government there will be and I know many meetings are taking place to sort this out and to confirm that County, District and Borough Councils will disappear at the end of April 2028.
Regarding elections it’s also an unknown except of course for by elections.
So far, as you all know, this May’s County elections are cancelled so we await to see what Government will do in 2026 when the Mayoral elections will take place and then of course the Unitary elections in 2027 when County/Borough/Districts will not be the shadow authorities but for the final year up to May 2028 we become the shadow authorities. What all this will mean I will let you know in later months when we have a clearer idea.
Back to County work which of course carries on as normal with all our responsibilities being taken care of.
Now back to what’s happening.
First of all I am happy to announce that the County is still supporting funding for the Community food hubs in West Sussex. For those of you who don’t know about them UK Harvest collects from such sources as supermarkets produce that would otherwise go to waste and for £5 anyone can attend their sessions and have their pick of the food on offer which consists of good fresh quality products.
Your nearest hub is the Sylvia Beaufoy Centre on the Midhurst Road in Petworth. You will need to check what date they are there and as I said anyone can use this service just turn up and for £5 get your choice from what’ on offer. I recommend using them.
The adult learning team have had success helping people with their numeracy skills which must be an advantage.
A recent contract has been signed with the Service that enables residents to live independently for long in their own homes.. This helps the elderly and includes those with learning disabilities or mental health needs as well as older people.
Finally in the past I have assured you all that our Children’s Services have improved out of all recognition in the last few years including the improvements to our children’s homes. Our initiative ‘Children’s Homes Collaborative Partnerships’ ca the MJ Achievements Awards 2025 has been shortlisted as a finalist.
As ever you can contact me on janet.duncton@westsussex.gov.uk. or my mobile 07979 152898
Take care.
Janet Duncton,
County Councillor Petworth division,
WSCC representative on South Downs National Park