News and Events
WSCC Latest Update
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Welcome to our special edition Residents’ eNewsletter. However you are planning to spend the period over Christmas and the New Year, we wish you a safe, peaceful and enjoyable time.
Merry Christmas from West Sussex County Council
The Chairman and Leader of the county council are wishing residents a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year in their annual messages to communities across West Sussex.
On behalf of the county council, Chairman Cllr Pete Bradbury said: “Whatever you are doing, I hope that you have a good festive season and have the opportunity to spend time with your loved ones.”
Looking ahead to 2024, Council Leader Cllr Paul Marshall added: “Early in the new year, the county council will have some difficult decisions to take about our budget and making best use of the resources available to us.
“I know how tough things are at the moment, and forefront in my mind is the principle that every penny the council spends is your money.
“So while we will continue to protect and invest in vital services, we will also ensure they deliver value for money and clearly contribute to the four priorities in Our Council Plan together with our underlying commitment to protecting the environment.”
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Christmas Storytimes
Teddy bears are gathering in libraries across West Sussex to enjoy festive stories with our youngest readers.
Join one of our special Christmas Storytimes to share stories, songs and more!
Some events are later in the afternoon, so a perfect opportunity to visit the library in your pyjamas for tales before bedtime.
All Christmas Storytimes at our libraries are free, but most require you to book.
Discover them, and many other library events, at the link below.
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'Tis the season to bus it for less
Get into the festive spirit and take the bus this holiday season.
The £2 single bus fare is available to everyone until December 2024 and there are further discounts for young people aged 16 to 20.
Explore our new Book-a-Bus zones connecting rural communities in West Sussex, or take a moment to apply for or renew your bus pass.
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Recycling this Christmas
Please remember to recycle as much as possible this Christmas, and keep it clean, dry and loose. Our A to Z of Recycling is a handy guide if you’re ever unsure about how to recycle an item.
Collection days can change over the holiday period, so please check with your local district or borough council.
Our Recycling Centres close early on 24 December and completely on 25 and 26 December and 1 January.
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Fire safety at Christmas
Have you heard about fire risks from lithium-ion batteries? They’re used in mobile phones, laptops, e-cigarettes, electric bikes and scooters, among others items, some of which are popular Christmas presents.
The batteries are safe during normal use but can be a risk when over-charged, submerged in water, or damaged.
They can start a serious fire (like the one pictured) if they’re not disposed of properly and end up in your general waste or recycling bin.
Don't let them start a revolt; please dispose of these items responsibly.
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Volunteer for children in care
Are you a kind and caring person who could offer a few hours each month to support a child in care?
If yes, then why not volunteer to be an independent visitor and help make a real difference to the lives of young people in care.
Find out more at an online information session on Wednesday 3 or Thursday 4 January, email independent.visitors@westsussex.gov.uk or click the link below.
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Stay healthy with winter vaccinations
For everyone who’s eligible and not yet had their Covid-19 jab, now is the time to get vaccinated, especially if you’re in a high-risk group.
Book on the NHS website, on the NHS app, or by calling 119.
Find out if you’re also eligible to book the flu vaccination.
Children aged 2 or 3 should be offered a flu vaccine. The nasal spray flu vaccine is quick, easy and helps protect against serious illnesses. Contact your GP to book.
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More news
We’re here for you over the Christmas and New Year period. Find opening hours for our Customer Support Team, Family and Community hubs, and other services.
Are you worried about costs this holiday season? We have money-saving tips, including saving on food and other household costs. For those unable to pay for food and fuel, our Community Hub can provide information and advice.
Keep safe this winter with a range of advice and guidance from mental health, to driving in winter conditions, staying warm and staying in touch.
Make the most of your library card and our eLibrary services by downloading magazines like the Christmas Radio Times for free through the BorrowBox, Libby and PressReader apps. You can also borrow free eBooks, eAudiobooks and more.
Don't miss the last chance of winning a family trip to Bluebell Railway by taking our Residents' eNewsletter survey before it closes on 22 December. Terms and conditions apply.
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We have more than 40 eNewsletters on a wide variety of topics including Environment & Climate Change, Walking & Cycling, Highways & Transport, Recycling, Weather Alerts and Staying Safe Online. View all topics here.
