Stratford District and Solihull Metropolitan Borough Councils are co-hosting an exciting event to demonstrate the work that is being done with partners to improve services for residents and businesses. Both Councils were awarded Beacon Status in March last year in recognition for developing and carrying out best practice in local government in respect of work to increase digital inclusion.
The free event takes place on 12th March 2010 at Gaydon Motor Heritage Centre from 10am to 4pm and visitors will be able to see stands showing all key projects, displays and demonstrations from partners and organisations involved in supporting plans to develop and shape services around the needs of individuals.
Visitors will also get the chance to see plans for the future and be able to feedback comments on the services they receive and help to shape future plans.
One of the stands 'ask your councillor' will enable visitors to speak to their local representatives and raise issues relevant to their local area. Another stand 'your council, your views' will enable visitors to give feedback on council and partner services to help improve services. There will be an opportunity for visitors to give their views on future budgets to help establish future priorities.
Eligible residents will be able to apply for services such as concessionary travel passes. Original proof of residency, age and disability need to be provided. For further information please call the District Council on 01789 260909.
Exhibitors include Stratford-on-Avon District Council, Parish and Town Councils, Warwickshire County Council, Voluntary Action Stratford District, Warwickshire Police, NHS and NHS Direct, BT, Coventry University and many others.
There will be 60 stands divided across three zones:
- Community zone - showing the work of Stratford District Council, partners and associations that provide flexible services to all sectors of the community.
- Life zone - showing how independent living can be supported, what services are available to maintain a full and active life and how science is focusing on nurturing independence in an aging population.
- Digital zone - showing how technology simplifies service delivery, how customers can gain access to services at a time to suit them and our future plans. Included in this zone will be the launch of Stratford District Council new Digital TV channel bringing council services closer to hand for residents.
Councillor Mike Weddell, Portfolio Holder for Change and Performance said: "I would encourage all residents, businesses, parish and town councils to come along to this free event and see how the District Council is improving and shaping services to meet the needs of residents whilst maintaining our beautiful district and yet still remaining one of the lowest charging council tax authorities nationally. To encourage and enable residents to attend the District Council is offering free transport from all across the District to and from the venue. Don't worry if you live in a village we will do our best to provide a pick up from a location near you."
This free event will allow visitors the opportunity to see what services are available, how they are changing to address customer needs and how technology and the latest research is shaping services for improved quality of life in years to come.
If you would like to take advantage of the free transport on offer please call the District Council on 01789 260802 to make your reservation.
The event is sponsored by NHS Direct West Midlands and Coventry University.
