Devon County Council

Wondering what to do this weekend? The is here - so why not head down to your local beach? 🌊🗑

Beach cleaning is an amazing way to help protect the environment, keep our oceans clean, and meet like-minded people while soaking up some fresh sea air.

There are events happening all along Devon’s stunning coastlines, or you can organise your own clean-up.

To find an event near you, check the Marine Conservation Society’s event map 👇
https://www.mcsuk.org/what-you-can-do/join-a-beach-clean/great-british-beach-clean/great-british-beach-clean-events/

Have you seen the horse and carriage sculpture at our Stover Country Park?

The sculpture made by Nick Mussell using materials from the Park, allows you to sit within the carriage and pretend you are travelling along a 200 year old carriage drive!

⚠️ There are multiple yellow weather warnings for Thunderstorms and Rain in place from today through until Sunday.

While many places will remain dry, thunderstorms and heavy showers could cause some disruption in a few places. Please drive to the conditions.

Stay up to date by visiting: https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/warnings-and-advice/uk-warnings and follow Devon Alert for the latest traffic and travel updates.

Protective measures have been installed on two Grade One listed bridges in West Devon to guard them against future storm damage.

Steel plates or “nosings” have been fixed to the piers of Newbridge at Gunnislake and Greystone Bridge near Tavistock in order to protect the structures from impacts during flooding.

Gunnislake Newbridge was left with a void in one of its piers in April this year after it was struck by a fallen tree that had washed into the River Tamar, while Greystone Bridge sustained similar damage during storms in 2022.

To read more, visit 👇
https://www.devon.gov.uk/news/two-listed-bridges-given-added-protection-to-guard-against-repeat-of-storm-damage/

It's important to check if you're eligible for Pension Credit - don't miss out! 👇

Currently, only 63 per cent of people who are eligible nationwide for Pension Credit are receiving it.

We are encouraging residents of state pension age to see if they qualify for Pension Credit, and if so, to apply for it to receive the winter fuel payment.

If you get Pension Credit, you can also get other help, including:

• Housing Benefit if you rent the property you live in

• Winter Fuel Payment

• Support for Mortgage Interest if you own the property you live in

• A Council Tax discount

• A free TV licence if you’re aged 75 years old or over

• Help with NHS dental treatment, glasses and transport costs for hospital appointments, if you get a certain type of Pension Credit

• Help with your heating costs through the Warm Home Discount Scheme

• A discount on the Royal Mail redirection service if you’re moving house

Find out if you are eligible for Pension Credit by clicking the link below 👇
https://orlo.uk/7cmig

The Great British Beach Clean is here! 🌊

Beach cleaning is an amazing way to help protect the environment, keep our oceans clean, and meet like-minded people while soaking up some fresh sea air. 🌿

There are events happening all along Devon’s stunning coastlines, or you can organise your own clean-up.

Find an event near you by checking the Marine Conservation Society’s event map: https://www.mcsuk.org/what-you-can-do/join-a-beach-clean/great-british-beach-clean/great-british-beach-clean-events/

Let’s make a difference together! 🌎

Photo credit: MCS, Natasha Ewins

🚍 FREE BUSES this Sunday! 🚍

As part of , and to celebrate , why not take advantage of the free Sunday bus travel being offered to residents and visitors on most bus routes across Devon and Torbay on 22nd September.

Whether you want to revisit a favourite location or discover a new one, it's the perfect opportunity to leave the car at home, hop on a bus - no cost, no hassle - and see what Devon has to offer!

Find out more, including the routes on offer 👇
https://www.traveldevon.info/bus/latest-news-service-updates/world-car-free-day-2024/

The vibrant colours of autumn are starting to appear across Devon’s nature reserves! 🍂

For inspiration on where to go this season, head to Devon Wildlife Trust's website: https://www.devonwildlifetrust.org/where-go-season-autumn

📸 Instagram -

We're supporting stem4‘s Youth Mental Health Day today, 19th of September 2024. The theme of this year is .

Why not encourage your children to take a digital detox today so they can understand the importance of taking regular breaks from screens and devices on our mental wellbeing.

For tips on planning a digital detox, simple digital hacks and mental health strategies needed for having a positive and safe online experience visit 👇
https://stem4.org.uk/.

Devon and Torbay's proposal to create a Combined County Authority has been given the green light by the new Government, the two councils confirmed today, Thursday 19 September. Read more https://www.devon.gov.uk/news/green-light-for-devon-and-torbay-combined-authority/

Did you see the supermoon? 🌑

We'd love to see your pictures!

📸 Supermoon rising over Berry Head Brixham, by Chris Slack Photography

Countryside Mobility Hire Scheme are a fantastic charity that help people get access to our beautiful environment!

They have a brilliant map showcasing where you can hire an all-terrain mobility scooter from. Head to their website to find all the spots in Devon!

https://countrysidemobility.org/hire-locations/?_filter_map_by_location_dropdown=devon

Living Options Devon Active Devon

It's ! 🚴‍♀️🏃‍♀️

Celebrated annually by Get ukactive, this campaign highlights the importance of staying active and leading healthier lives.

Why not take your fitness outdoors this ? Devon offers amazing spots to explore while getting active!

🚴‍♀️ Cycle the scenic Granite Way, run along the stunning Otter Valley and coastline, or discover the accessible trails of Northam Burrows. 🌳

For more inspiration, visit the Explore Devon website: https://www.exploredevon.info/

Could you or someone you know be eligible for Pension Credit?

Many pensioners are eligible for Pension Credit but haven’t applied yet—this financial support can make a real difference and means you can also get other help, such as the Winter Fuel Payment. Don’t assume you’re not entitled because you have other income or savings

Check today! To find out more visit 👇
https://www.gov.uk/pension-credit

Hedgehogs and blackberries this . What nature have you spotted this month?

📸 Beach4Art

Did you know we're on WhatsApp Channels? 📱

Follow us to get the latest community news, events, important information and more delivered straight to your phone 👇
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VafIzjoJ93wUXxTW322N

🚍 FREE BUSES on 22nd September! 🚍

As part of , and to celebrate , Free Sunday bus travel is being offered to residents and visitors on most bus routes across Devon and Torbay on 22nd September!

It’s the perfect opportunity to explore Devon’s beautiful wildlife spots, reduce your carbon footprint, and leave the car at home. Whether you're revisiting a favourite location or discovering a new one, hop on a bus - no cost, no hassle - and see what Devon has to offer!

What will you discover?

Find out more, including the routes on offer 👇
https://www.traveldevon.info/bus/latest-news-service-updates/world-car-free-day-2024/

Get your blood pressure checked for FREE at The Medical Centre, Ilfracombe, EX34 8EG today, Tuesday 17 September, 9am - 12.45pm and 2pm - 5.45pm.

High blood pressure is a major cause of heart attack and stroke but usually has no symptoms. Knowing your numbers means you can start making healthy lifestyle changes or start taking medicines if you need them to bring your blood pressure down to a healthy level.

Free Sunday bus travel is being offered to residents and visitors on most routes across Devon and Torbay on Sunday 22 September to celebrate World Car Free Day. Read more https://www.devon.gov.uk/news/free-bus-travel-offered-in-devon-on-car-free-day/

Our Cabinet has approved a new scheme at Barnstaple Railway Station which will make it easier for passengers to transfer between bus services and trains and access the town centre. Read more https://www.devon.gov.uk/news/cross-party-support-for-barnstaple-railway-station-transport-interchange/

Autumn is just around the corner, and Devon's wildlife is flourishing. 🍁🦉

Join the Devon Local Nature Partnership for a one-hour webinar with local wildlife expert James Chubb, from Wild East Devon to discover the fascinating species you can spot this season and the best locations to find them in Devon.

Whether you’re a seasoned nature lover or simply curious about the outdoors, this FREE event is for everyone. Expect engaging, easy-to-follow insights into Devon’s autumnal wonders, followed by a Q&A session.

Register here: https://bit.ly/46Mt7Og

Cases of childhood infections like measles and whooping cough are rising – but they can be prevented. Immunisation is the best defence for children against many common illnesses.

Make sure your child is up to date and book any catch up appointments with your GP practice.

👇 Head on over to our Devon SEND Local Offer page and let other families know what's on in your community!

Are you part of a fantastic group for families with children with special needs? What amazing activities does your family love? Do you know of any excellent events coming up?

Share your ideas and help connect other families with opportunities in your community.

Pop your recommendations in the comments below 👇

There's lots of fantastic ways to enjoy Devon during 💚

Discover the joys of cycling on Devon’s extensive network of bike paths. From the family-friendly Tarka Trail to the more challenging Dartmoor cycling routes, there’s something for every level of cyclist.

For more information on cycling routes in Devon visit 👇
https://www.exploredevon.info/category/activities/cycle/

Su***de bereavement can be lonely, but that doesn't mean you are alone. Here's where you can get help if you have been bereaved by su***de.

◽️ Pete's Dragons - Devon based charity specialising in su***de bereavement support for people and families of all ages.

◽️ Survivors of Bereavement by Su***de - SOBS - Offers peer-led support to adults impacted by su***de loss.

◽️Support After Su***de - Brings UK services together to make sure everyone bereaved or affected by su***de is offered appropriate support: https://supportaftersu***de.org.uk/

◽️Mind - Website contains a large amount of information and free resources for bereavement: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/guides-to-support-and-services/bereavement/

Today is ***dePreventionDay which aims to raise awareness about the importance of reducing stigma and encouraging open conversations to prevent su***des. Changing the narrative on su***de is about transforming how we perceive this complex issue and shifting from a culture of silence and stigma to one of openness, understanding, and support.

If you or anyone you know is struggling, remember support is available not only today but everyday.

◽️Samaritans: 24-hour Su***de Helpline – call 116 123

◽️NHS: 24/7 Mental Health Crisis Support - call 111

◽️Qwell: Free online Mental Wellbeing Support for adults - access at qwell.io

◽️SHOUT: 24 Hour Text Support – text SHOUT to 85258

◽️SOS (Silence of Su***de): Su***de Prevention Helpline open 8pm-midnight on weekdays and 4pm-midnight on weekends – call 0808 115 1505

◽️Police or Emergency Services: Call non-emergency number (101) or emergency number (999)

Pete's Dragons

Take Part in and Enjoy the Great Outdoors in Devon 💚

Put your best foot forward and discover what’s on your doorstep. This could be your local green space, exploring the South West Coast Path, wandering through Dartmoor or Exmoor National Park, or taking a leisurely walk along one of our many estuaries. For more information on exciting cycling and walking routes visit 👇
https://www.exploredevon.info/

📷 Alex Walton
📍 Ladram Bay

One of the best ways to protect children from getting seriously ill from preventable diseases, like whooping cough and measles, is to make sure they're up to date with all their routine vaccinations. Not sure? Check their Red Book or contact your GP practice.

Crisp reflections on our Grand Western Canal. A perfect place to spend outdoors this weekend 😍

📸 Maria Lock

Repairs to Gunnislake Newbridge are proving more challenging than expected and will have to continue into next week.

Work on the Grade One Listed Bridge was due to be completed today (Friday 6 September). However, steady rain throughout the week has caused the river level to rise and visibility in the water these past 48 hours has been extremely poor, hampering divers’ efforts to work safely under the water.

The bridge will be open to traffic this weekend, but the road will be closed again on Monday, from 9:30am to 3:30pm. Weather and conditions permitting, we expect to finish the repairs on Monday, and no further road closure should be required after that.

To read more 👇
https://www.devon.gov.uk/news/gunnislake-newbridge-repairs-will-continue-on-monday/