By Geoff Fisher 
One of the great strengths of village or town life is the willingness of neighbours to look out for one another.
Across the Broadland district, there is growing recognition that strong community connections play an important role in supporting mental health and well-being.
Recent initiatives, including the expansion of the Mindful Villages programme (thank you to the Bircham Centre and well done) and increased access to local support services (via Help Hub) are helping residents find practical advice and assistance closer to home.
As a former service user of mental health services, any scheme that helps others in any capacity is strongly encouraged – this is a positive initiative from Broadland District Council.
As your county councillor, I regularly see the difference made by local volunteers, community groups, churches, sports clubs and charities. Often, a friendly conversation, a helping hand or simply knowing where to turn to for support can make a real difference to someone’s well-being.
Whether you are attending a community event, volunteering with a local organisation or checking in on a neighbour, every small act helps strengthen the fabric of our community. Together, we can ensure that Reepham and the surrounding villages remain welcoming, supportive places for everyone to live.
Budget time
The budget at Norfolk County Council for the 1926/27 financial year is £2.31 billion − an extraordinary amount of money, but only 27% of this funding is raised by council tax.
The proposals (not decisions; there will be consultations and debates at different committees then at full council) include cuts to verge cutting (which, if targeted constructively, could be done sensibly), cuts to highways and discussions of reduction in library services (no further details as yet) − overall £36 million worth of cuts (savings?) must be found to balance the books.
There will most likely be a council tax increase of 4.99%, comprising the maximum increase of 2.99% and 2% ring-fenced solely for adult social care.
As soon as I see more information I will share it in this column and on my Facebook page to ensure everyone can have input.
Cllr Dave Thomas
Tel: 07903 820140
Email: dave.broadlandlibdems@gmail.com
Image: Broadland District Council