Hello and welcome to another sunny day in Bracknell Forest.  

As nice as the warm weather can be, there is currently a level 3 heatwave in force, meaning that residents should be aware of the risks. Please check in on neighbours, family, and friends where possible, drink plenty of water, and avoid the sun between 11am and 3pm. Those are just some tips to stay safe. 

As a council, we deal with a variety of projects, all of which require planning, but some involve moving quickly in order to meet the pace of world events. 

Once such event this year has been the war in Ukraine. Since the Homes for Ukraine scheme was launched in March, Bracknell Forest has welcomed over 85 Ukrainians. The support from residents, local organisations and support services has been fantastic, and this humanitarian response is a true credit to the wonderful people living and working in our borough. Local residents have opened their homes to support those who have gone through an experience that no-one should have to.  

In the borough, we now particularly need hosts who can offer at least two spare rooms, or even a separate annexe, to accommodate a family of three or four. Accommodation is needed from July/August onwards and for a minimum of six months. If you are interested in hosting a family (or single person) under the Homes for Ukraine scheme, please register your details online at: www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/ukraine. 

Of course, there are also things we can plan for. As the end of school approaches, parents and carers of children attending Bracknell Forest schools, and in receipt of benefit related free school meals, may be eligible for the free holiday club and activities programme for children and young people. 

The Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/holiday-activities-and-food-programme/holiday-activities-and-food-programme-2021 enables eligible children and young people to enjoy fun and enriching activities, such as music, dance, drama, cooking and sport. It gives them the opportunity to make new friends, learn and develop new skills, and enjoy a nutritious meal over the summer holidays. 

For more information, please visit: https://bit.ly/HolidayActivitiesandFoodProgramme22. 

Plus, we continue to do all we can to support our local community. Proposals to develop new supported living accommodation for people with learning disabilities, were approved at the meeting of the council’s decision-making executive in June.  

The agreed plans will see a new bespoke facility to be situated on the current Bridgewell site at Ladybank in Hanworth. The new fit-for-purpose facility will provide accommodation that is better suited to the needs of the individual and will encourage its tenants to be in control of their lives. You can read more about it on our website. 

Whatever you’re doing, have a lovely week.