At the Parish Council meeting on 12 January the Council agreed the budget and precept for the next financial year (from 1 April 2026).
Despite increasing costs all over, and the extra services that we have taken over from Somerset Council, we have found a way to reduce the budget, saving an average household about £12 per year, 9.7%. We have done this by careful management, and by successfully applying for grants to meet costs that would otherwise have come from the budget.
The Parish Council are conscious that money is tight for everyone and we hope that this will go a small way to help offset the big increase that Somerset Council and other bodies are hoping to put on their part of the Council Tax bill.
As we approach the end of the financial year, it’s a good to time to remind local organisations and groups that the Parish Council set aside funds each year to provide grants to support you and to benefit the community. We still have funds left to be awarded before the end of March. If your group needs support please think about applying. The deadline is 28 February.
To qualify you must show how your group or organisation benefits the area or the residents of the Parish. You do not need to be a registered charity but usually your organisation must generally be open to anyone to join, although there are certain exceptions. If you think you would like to apply but need advice, please give Caro a ring or drop in for a chat, otherwise the application form and guidance are available at Local organisations and activities – Grants on our website or available from the office. There is a finite pot of funds, so qualifying grants are offered on a “first come, first served” basis.
See here for a list of Grants awarded to local organisations and other costs paid by the Parish Council on behalf of local organisations
