Borough News September 2024

What’s new this autumn:

• Play and learn sessions
• Parenting support workshops
• Health and wellbeing sessions
• Early years education and school readiness

All sessions and activities are accessible to families living across the Borough, and most are free of charge. You can access the full autumn timetable by clicking the button below or by visiting your nearest Family Hub or Children’s Centre.

The programme boasts:

• 36 exciting courses offering a diverse selection of 18 different activities, including archery, shooting, women’s tennis, yoga, and more
• Something for everyone with sessions specifically for women, beginners, and those living in villages around the Borough
• Convenient options including evening sessions and courses held in locations  including Bromham, Turvey, Renhold, Great Denham, Wilstead, Kempston, Stagsden, Wootton, and Wixams.

Cllr Sarah Gallagher, Portfolio Holder for Customer Experience, Leisure and Culture said; “We’re delighted to see the return of the ever-popular Active Adults programme, offering a fantastic range of activities for residents of all abilities. Whether you’re looking to try something completely new or rediscover a love for an old favourite, there’s something for everyone. These courses are a great way to get active, have fun, and make new friends.”

From September, the RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) vaccine will be available to all mums-to-be following a recommendation from the UK’s Joint Committee for Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI).

A recent study estimated that the new programme, launching in England this autumn, could prevent 5,000 hospitalisations and 15,000 emergency department attendances for infants.

Councillor Martin Towler, Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhoods and Communities: Health and Wellbeing said; “Respiratory illnesses can be awful in very young babies, which is why I am urging pregnant women to take the new RSV vaccine to protect their babies. The vaccine reduces the risk of severe bronchiolitis by 70% in the first six months of life. It is the safest way to protect you and your baby and has been approved by medicines regulators in the UK, Europe and the USA.”

The Employer Recognition Scheme, run by the Ministry of Defence, has three tiers of award the Bronze, Silver and Gold that recognise the different levels of commitment provided by organisations who pledge, demonstrate and advocate their support for the defence community.

The recognition acknowledges that Bedford Borough Council has signed the Armed Forces Covenant; the work of our Armed Forces Network; and the role of our organisation in advocating support to defence people with partner organisations, suppliers and customers with tangible positive results.

Mayor Tom Wootton expressed his pride in receiving the accolade, stating; “This award highlights the Council’s dedication to supporting those who serve our country. We’re proud signatories of the Armed Forces Covenant, ensuring veterans, service personnel, and their families receive the same level of support as everyone else, whether it’s education, careers advice, housing, or health and wellbeing.”