News :Waltham

Residents affected by persistent anti-social behaviour in North Lincolnshire now have stronger powers to challenge inaction when problems continue unresolved.

For residents who feel they are getting nowhere despite repeatedly reporting anti-social behaviour, the strengthened arrangements provide an important safeguard, ensuring concerns cannot simply be ignored when problems continue.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “Nobody should have to put up with persistent anti-social behaviour or feel they are being ignored when they report it.

“This is about giving residents confidence that if problems continue, there are clear steps they can take to make sure everyone come togethers to review what has happened and agree what more can be done.

“People deserve to feel safe in their neighbourhoods and know that concerns will be taken seriously. Strengthening support for victims is at the heart of what we’re doing.”

By strengthening the process, the council is helping ensure residents have a stronger voice and that agencies remain accountable when anti-social behaviour continues to affect communities.

The ASB Case Review gives victims and communities the right to request a formal review where anti-social behaviour has been reported on multiple occasions but concerns remain unresolved.

The process brings together organisations across the Community Safety Partnership to examine what action has been taken and identify what further steps can be taken to tackle the issue.

The review process applies to existing cases where anti-social behaviour has been reported to agencies at least three times within six months. New incidents should continue to be reported through normal channels.

The council works closely with Humberside Police, housing providers and other partners through the Community Safety Partnership to tackle anti-social behaviour, support victims and improve neighbourhood safety.

As part of that work, the council has also signed the ASB Help Pledge, demonstrating its commitment to best practice, victim-centred services and effective partnership working.

Cllr John Davison, cabinet member for Ashby, Bottesford and Scunthorpe, said: “Anti-social behaviour can have a significant impact on people’s quality of life, particularly when issues continue over a long period of time.

“The Case Review process is an important safeguard because it gives victims another opportunity to have their concerns heard and ensures agencies are challenged to work together to find solutions.

“The focus is simple – supporting residents, resolving problems and making our communities safer places to live.”

Residents can find out more here.

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From riverside trails and woodland paths to gentle strolls through parks and nature reserves, hundreds of opportunities are being offered this summer to help people get active, improve their wellbeing and discover more of North Lincolnshire.

The new Walking North Lincolnshire summer programme features dozens of free led walks taking place across towns, villages and beauty spots throughout June, July and August, with routes designed for all ages and abilities.

Whether people are looking for a gentle one-mile accessible walk, a social walk with friends, a longer five-mile trail route or even Nordic walking, there is something for everyone.

The programme takes in locations across the whole of North Lincolnshire, including Barton-upon-Humber, Winterton, Epworth, Brigg, Alkborough, Goxhill, Belton, Wrawby, South Ferriby, Haxey, Scotton and Scunthorpe.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “Sometimes the best things are right on your doorstep. These walks are a fantastic way to get out, get active, meet new people and explore parts of North Lincolnshire you may never have visited before.

“Walking is one of the simplest ways to improve your health and wellbeing, but it is also about enjoying our countryside, our parks and our communities. Whether you are taking your first steps towards being more active or already enjoy regular walks, there is something in this programme for you.”

Alongside the led walks programme, residents can also take part in a wide range of community wellbeing activities, including walking football, walking cricket, strength and balance sessions, social groups, parent and pushchair walks and low-impact exercise classes.

Cllr Christine Patterson, cabinet member for healthy communities, said: “We want North Lincolnshire to be a place where people can live healthy, active and independent lives. Programmes like this help people improve their physical health, boost their mental wellbeing and make new connections within their communities.

“The fact that so many activities are free or low cost means more people can take part and benefit.”

No booking is required for the led walks – residents can simply turn up and join in. Full details of all walks and activities are available through Walking North Lincolnshire and LiveWell North Lincolnshire.

Visit Walking North Lincolnshire – North Lincolnshire Council for more details.

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North Lincolnshire Council has once again been awarded the Gold standard under the Ministry of Defence’s Employer Recognition Scheme – the highest national recognition for organisations that actively support the Armed Forces community.

The reaccreditation recognises the council’s continued commitment to serving personnel, reservists, veterans, cadet force adult volunteers and military families across North Lincolnshire.

From additional paid leave for reservists and cadet force volunteers, to employment support for veterans transitioning into civilian life, the council has continued to strengthen its backing for those who serve the country.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “Backing our Armed Forces is not something we do for show because it is fashionable – it is about recognising duty, service and sacrifice.

“We are proud of our military communities across North Lincolnshire and proud to stand behind the people who protect this country, whether they are currently serving, have served in the past, or support others through cadet and reserve forces.”

The Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award is the Ministry of Defence’s highest badge of honour for employers that go above and beyond in supporting defence personnel and the wider Armed Forces community.

North Lincolnshire Council first achieved Gold status in 2020 and has now successfully retained the accreditation following reassessment of its ongoing commitment and support.

Cllr Elaine Marper, cabinet member for customer services, is the council’s Armed Forces champion. She said: “This Gold award recognises real action, not warm words. Those who serve Britain should never be disadvantaged because of that service and we will continue to make sure North Lincolnshire is a place that supports them properly.

“At a time when people want to see pride in country, respect for service and practical support for veterans and military families, this demonstrates exactly where North Lincolnshire stands.”

The council is also a long-standing signatory to the Armed Forces Covenant, working alongside partners to ensure members of the Armed Forces community are treated fairly and face no disadvantage because of their service.

The award comes as preparations continue for this year’s Armed Forces Festival at Normanby Hall Country Park, which will place Armed Forces Day at the heart of a wider celebration of service, community and North Lincolnshire’s contribution to Britain’s national story.

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Vandals breached security measures surrounding Horkstow Bridge, council leader Rob Waltham says.

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Thousands of North Lincolnshire households have now received £300 payments to help with rising heating oil costs, putting more than £400,000 directly into the pockets of residents.

The support was introduced to help rural households who rely on heating oil and have been hit by sharp increases in fuel prices.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “When this funding became available, our priority was simple – get help to residents as quickly as possible – we’ve kept that promise.

“More than 1,000 families have now received support, putting more than £400,000 back into rural communities. That’s money helping families, pensioners and residents with the increasing cost of living.

“We know households that rely on heating oil can face unique challenges, particularly in our villages and rural areas, which is why we moved quickly to make sure support reached those who needed it most.”

The council worked at pace to launch the scheme and contact residents who had previously registered an interest in receiving support.

Cllr Tim Mitchell, cabinet member for finance and efficiency, said: “The response has shown just how important this support is to local people.

“While more than 1,000 households have already benefited, we know there may still be residents who are eligible and have not yet come forward. If you use heating oil to heat your home, it is worth checking whether you could receive the £300 payment.

“We don’t want anyone to miss out on support that could make a real difference.”

Residents who believe they may be eligible are encouraged to apply through the council’s website.

Anyone who needs help completing an application can visit their local community hub, where staff will be available to provide support.

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Council leader Rob Waltham has written to the Environment Agency demanding urgent action to protect Horkstow Bridge and prevent further damage to the historic structure – after reports that vandals have breached security measures around the site.
northlincs.gov.uk/news/leade…

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More than 100 North Lincolnshire children have joined the Imagination Library in the last month, giving them access to a free, high-quality book delivered to their home every month from birth until their fifth birthday. 

A total of 118 children were registered during May, taking the number of children currently benefiting from the scheme across North Lincolnshire to more than 6,800. 

Funded by North Lincolnshire Council, the programme is available free of charge to every child under five and helps families enjoy reading together from the earliest years. 

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “It’s fantastic to see another group of children start their reading journey through the Imagination Library. Reading is one of the most important foundations for learning and development, and by investing in this scheme we are helping to give every child the best possible start in life. 

“We know children who are part of the programme are more likely to be ready for school and develop a lifelong love of reading. I would encourage any family with a child under five who is not yet registered to take just a few minutes to sign up and start receiving their free books.” 

Since launching in North Lincolnshire in 2013, the scheme has delivered more than one million books to local children and now reaches almost 87 per cent of all under-fives in the area. The books are carefully chosen to support language development, imagination and early learning, while creating opportunities for families to read together at home. 

Cllr Carl Sherwood, cabinet member for rural communities and market towns, said: “For many children, these books are their first introduction to the joys of reading. Receiving a book through the post each month is something families really look forward to and it helps create special moments that support learning, confidence and development. 

“We are incredibly proud to continue supporting a programme that is making a real difference to children and families across North Lincolnshire.” 

Libraries across North Lincolnshire have expanded their opening hours by more than 20 per cent over the last decade and now offer a wide range of activities, learning opportunities and support services alongside their traditional book lending service. From helping people get online and develop new skills to providing welcoming spaces for communities to come together, libraries continue to play an important role in everyday life. 

Did you know?

There are 14 libraries in hubs across North Lincolnshire – all offering free access to books, activities, digital support and welcoming community spaces close to home. 

You can visit: 

• Ashby, Barton, Bottesford, Brigg, Broughton, Crowle, Epworth,Goxhill, Haxey, Kirton in Lindsey, Messingham,Park, Riddings, Scunthorpe Central and Winterton. 

With opening hours expanded by more than 20% over the last decade, it’s never been easier to discover everything your local library has to offer. 

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North Lincolnshire Council is increasing fostering allowances – part of its commitment to support local families and ensure children can continue growing up in stable, loving homes close to where they live.

The increase means foster carers will continue to receive payments above the Government’s national minimum rates, helping to offset rising household costs while recognising the vital role foster families play in caring for children and young people across the area.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “Families across the country are feeling the squeeze and foster carers are no different. That’s why we’re increasing our fostering allowances and continuing to invest in the people who provide loving homes for local children.

“Too often we hear about rising costs and shrinking support. In North Lincolnshire we’re taking a different approach. We’re making sure foster carers are properly supported so they can continue changing children’s lives.

“Every child deserves the chance to grow up in a stable family environment, close to their school, friends and community. Supporting local foster carers helps us do exactly that while reducing reliance on expensive agency placements and keeping more money invested in local families.”

The allowance increase forms part of the council’s wider commitment to foster carers. Alongside competitive weekly payments, foster families benefit from a comprehensive package of support including council tax rebates, dedicated social workers, ongoing training, support groups, family activities, discounts and round-the-clock advice when it is needed.

Cllr Julie Reed, cabinet member for children, families and young people, said: “Foster carers provide the love, patience and stability that can transform a child’s future.

“This increase is about recognising the incredible contribution they make and ensuring people are not out of pocket for doing something so important.

“We want anyone who has ever considered fostering to get in touch. There is a real need for more local foster carers and the support available from our fostering team is second to none.”

Are you interested in joining a supportive and welcoming community by becoming a foster carer? Some people walk away, some people foster – why not be one of them?

To find out more and start your fostering journey, visit the fostering section on the council website , email fostering@northlincs.gov.uk or call 01724 297024.

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Towns and villages are set to burst into colour this summer after more than £26,000 was awarded to community groups and parish councils helping make the area one of the best-kept places in the country.

From floral displays and hanging baskets to community gardens and village improvements, the funding will help residents transform public spaces, brighten up neighbourhoods and create places residents can be proud to call home.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “When people talk about what makes a place special, it’s often the little things that make the biggest difference – colourful displays, well-kept green spaces, community gardens and villages that clearly take pride in where they live.

“These grants help local communities turn great ideas into reality. They support volunteers, parish councils and community groups who give up their time to make North Lincolnshire even more beautiful – we’ve promised to keep back them and this proof of that.”

The funding will support projects in communities across North Lincolnshire, from Barton and Brigg to Crowle, Epworth, Haxey, Messingham, Winterton and many Isle villages, with local volunteers and community groups playing a vital role in bringing many of the schemes to life.

Cabinet member Cllr Richard Hannigan said: “Behind every colourful display, well-kept planter and community garden are volunteers who care deeply about where they live.

“They don’t do it for recognition. They do it because they want their village, town or neighbourhood to be somewhere people are proud to call home.

“I’d like to thank every volunteer involved in the In Bloom projects across North Lincolnshire. Their hard work helps make our communities brighter, greener and more welcoming for everyone.”

The grants form part of the council’s wider commitment to supporting thriving communities, helping local people take pride in their neighbourhoods and ensuring North Lincolnshire remains one of the most attractive places in the region.

This year’s successful applicants include Belton, Epworth, Owston Ferry, Crowle and Ealand, Amcotts, Haxey, Barton, Brigg, Broughton, Gunness, Winterton, Thornton Curtis, Ulceby, Messingham and many more communities across North Lincolnshire.

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More young people will be able to dance, perform and develop new creative skills thanks to funding that is helping Street Beat establish a base in Epworth.

The popular North Lincolnshire dance organisation has secured more than £2,500 from North Lincolnshire Council’s Community Grant Fund to hire premises for its Street Beat Elite sessions and buy equipment to support classes and creative projects.

For almost 20 years, Street Beat has used dance to build confidence, friendships and opportunities for young people. The latest funding will help it reach even more children and families, particularly in rural communities where access to activities can be more limited.

New iPads will support lessons and performances while also giving young people hands-on experience in filming, editing and producing their own digital content.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “Street Beat is a fantastic example of a community organisation making a real difference to people’s lives. Their work goes far beyond dance classes – they help build confidence, tackle isolation and create opportunities for young people across North Lincolnshire.

“This funding will help them continue to grow, improve access to sessions and give young people even more opportunities to develop their creativity and skills.”

Street Beat Director Kim Oakley-Duffill said: “As an organisation, we aim to provide an inclusive and supportive environment where young people can develop creatively, socially and personally through dance and performance.

“The iPads will help us deliver this in a safer, more accessible, and more engaging way.”

Since launching in 2007, Street Beat has built a reputation for combining creativity with inclusion, supporting children, young people and adults of all backgrounds and abilities.

Alongside community sessions, the organisation has helped talented dancers from North Lincolnshire achieve national and international success, including appearances at the U.Dance National Festival in London, the World Street Dance Championships and on Channel 4.

Since launching in 2011, North Lincolnshire Council’s Community Grant Fund has supported hundreds of local projects, helping communities, clubs and organisations thrive.

If you have an idea that could benefit your local community, visit the community grants page on the council’s website to find out more.

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