Every fortnight Kevin writes a “Kev’s Column” for the Herald Express and you can read the latest edition (27th December) below:
Universal Credit
The roll out of full service Universal Credit in Torbay is scheduled for September 2018 and will involve major changes to the benefits system.
The principle of combining many benefits into one payment and removing the current complex system, which can see applications having to be made for a range of different benefits, makes sense. Yet the changeover will see many residents having to reapply using a new online system, with new applicants making a choice about whether to apply for an advance payment.
This major change will see many residents seek advice about it. I therefore questioned ministers on their approach to ensuring local advice agencies can support this.
The minister’s answer mentioned how the Government is working with key advice services, including the Citizens’ Advice Bureau to support the rollout. My own team will also be working with Advice Centres locally to ensure those needing support and advice before and during the roll out receive it.
Torre Post Office
The future of Torre Post Office was on the agenda in parliament last week after I secured a 30minute debate on its proposed closure.
During the debate I outlined how the closure would not only affect service users, but Torre as a whole. Those using the Post Office visit other businesses whilst in the area and it provides a vital (free) counter banking service. The current location is at the heart of the local community, with plenty of parking nearby, compared to the proposed location in Lymington Road where a previous Sub-Post Office closed a decade ago.
The campaign opposing the closure has been supported by the local community partnership, hundreds of residents, local businesses and politicians on a cross party basis. 2018 will hopefully see it given the stamp of success by the Post Office abandoning its plan to abandon Torre.
Date Set For Microbeads Ban
Microbeads are tiny pieces of plastic added to products like face washes and body scrubs, which then end up polluting our oceans and threatening sea life.
Last week the relevant Minister signed the order banning the use of microbeads in the UK. It will come into effect on 9th January 2018 and mark a welcome start to the year for protecting our environment and delivering a Green Brexit.
Devon Business Rates Pool
There was good news for our area as Devon was named as one of 10 pilots for 100% retention of business rates.
It is estimated this will mean Plymouth, Devon and Torbay retaining an additional £10m in 2018-19 via a Devon Business Rates Pool. The councils involved will be rewarded for generating more business rates and delivering economic growth.
This not only gives a boost to Torbay Council’s finances, but even more incentive to get long awaited regeneration schemes like Torwood Street underway.
Veterans Get Official Recognition,
Torbay’s military veterans will get official recognition of their status via a proposed change to the Driving Licence.
The move, similar to a US scheme, could see 2.5 million ex-military personnel issued with the new licence to "clearly distinguish" them as veterans. The scheme could be implemented in the early 2020s.
The card would be the first universally recognised ID for veterans in the UK and create a new proof of service for veterans, making it easier to identify those entitled to veterans’ services and discounts. There will be no requirement to hold a Driving Licence to access these services, it will just make it simpler for those who do.
This is welcome and will give our veterans the recognition they deserve, whilst also helping to deter “Walter Mitty” style characters from falsely claiming to have served in the military.
Christmas 2017
I hope you had an enjoyable Christmas and spent it with those you care about.
The run up to the big day can see many people focus on finding the perfect present or rushing to the supermarket for the last items needed. Yet once over the thing we most remember about Christmas is not what presents we received or food we ate, but who we shared it with.
And finally….
December normally sees politicians and pundits make a range of predictions for the year ahead. Yet after the politically tumultuous and unpredictable years of 2016 & 2017 it is better to avoid doing so as by February any I make could be out of date!!
So as this is my last column of 2017 I will just take the chance to wish you, and those you care about, a happy and successful 2018.
Surgery Times
My next surgeries will be on Friday 5th January 11am till 1pm at 5-7 East St, Torquay, TQ2 5SD and Friday 12th January 11am till 1pm at Paignton Library, 22 Station Lane, TQ4 5AR.
Just call 01803 214 989 or e-mail me at [email protected] to book a slot. You can drop in, but appointments are recommended to avoid a long wait or disappointment. My team also run drop in surgery sessions Mon to Friday 10am -1pm at 5-7 East St, Torquay, TQ2 5SD. My office will be closed on New Year’s Day.