Council launches monthly Community Connect Service in Bottesford

Following the success of several rural drop-in clinics, Melton Borough Council is launching a new monthly Community Connect service in Bottesford.  This initiative reflects the council's ongoing commitment to making services more accessible and inclusive- particularly for residents who may find it difficult to travel to the Council offices in Melton Mowbray. The service is supported by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), which aims to build pride in place and increase life chances across the UK.   

At previous clinics, residents received support with housing applications, updates to their housing register status and help with digital skills. In response to this demand, the council is also planning  rural bespoke digital skills training sessions. One resident described the support as invaluable, sharing how they had been able to submit a housing application despite not having online skills and struggling to get into Melton. 

The new Community Connect sessions, taking place monthly, will offer face-to-face support, advice, and guidance from Melton Borough Council teams, including Customer Liaison Officers, the Community Coordinator, and Mentors from the Community Support Hub. A range of partner organisations have also committed to attending and supporting these events. 

The recently launched Digital Suite at The Community Support Hub, will be available in a mobile format at these sessions. Residents can receive one to one help with online forms, emails, tailored careers support, and much more. Depending on individual needs, attendees may also be connected with additional partner services. 

The Community Connect service will be in Bottesford from 10am to 12 noon on the first Wednesday of each month, starting from 01 October at 

The Parish Rooms, The Old School, Grantham Road, Bottesford NG13 0DF. 

No appointment is required, just call in for help and advice. 

Speaking of the initiative Councillors for the Bottesford Ward Cllr Don Pritchett and Cllr James Mason stated that: 

“Community is really important to us, especially in our rural areas. We want to make sure everyone can get the help they need, no matter where they live. These sessions are a great way to bring our services closer to people.” 

Cllr Steve Carter, who is Portfolio Holder for Communities added that: 

"This UK Shared Prosperity Funded service continues to go from strength to strength. It shows we’re listening to our communities and learning from them. Every community is different, and the feedback we receive reflects that—so we’re using this opportunity to shape services around what people are actually asking for." 

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For more information please contact: communications@melton.gov.uk