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Welcome to December’s Parish News from your local Council. If you have any enquiries about any of the articles, please feel free to contact the communications team at communications.unit@boston.gov.uk
Boston Borough Council joins WhatsApp Channels
Boston Borough Council is excited to announce the launch of its first WhatsApp Channel, providing residents and visitors with another convenient way to stay informed about local happenings.
Residents can now sign up to receive updates about the latest news, exciting events, activities, and services in their communities directly on their smartphones. Follow Boston Borough Council on WhatsApp today!
WhatsApp channels offer users a secure and private way to follow what matters to them, subscribing for free to news from their favourite organisations and celebrities. Channel admins and fellow followers don't have access to personal information such as names, profile photos, or numbers. Followers can set notifications to read messages in real-time and, if they choose, respond with a simple emoji or vote in a poll. Without public or private replies to posts, Channels steps away from the sometimes-hostile atmosphere that has turned some users away from other social networks.
Channel followers can also easily share WhatsApp channel posts with individual contacts and WhatsApp groups, helping to keep their friends, families, and local communities informed.
The new WhatsApp Channel does not change how you can get in touch or share your views with the Council. Boston Borough Council will continue to run its other social media channels, public engagement sessions, customer contact service and website to support residents.
Boston Borough Residents: Sign up for 2025/26 Garden Waste collections!
Starting Monday 6 January 2025, residents of Boston Borough can renew or subscribe online for garden waste collections for the 2025/26 season. Signing up online is quick and easy, allowing you to do it at your convenience. For an annual fee of £52.50, you'll receive a year's worth of garden waste collections.
New and existing customers will be automatically entered into a prize draw competition where 10 lucky winners will have the chance to win a full year's service for free. Additionally, when you sign up online, you will be automatically entered into a prize draw to win a Lincolnshire Hamper valued at £52.50. Please note these offers are not open to Boston Borough Council employees or elected members.
Please note that we will not be able to process telephone payments until 20 January 2025.
The subscription period for 2025/26 will begin the week commencing 31 March 2025. The final collections for the 2024/25 season will take place during the week ending 30 March 2025. Councillor Butler encourages all residents to sign up: "Renewing your garden waste collection is a simple way to keep our community clean and green. Let's all do our part to maintain the beauty of Boston Borough."
Residents who subscribe will receive a letter with full details and a sticker for their bin(s).
For more information on this service, please visit www.boston.gov.uk/gardenwaste
A 2024 reflection from the Leader of Boston Borough Council
As we gather with family and friends to celebrate this special time of year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible spirit of our community and the achievements we've shared over the past year.
2024 has been a truly vibrant year for Boston Borough, filled with events that have brought us closer together and showcased the energy and creativity of our community. The Boston Christmas Festival has set the tone for this festive season, and I was particularly impressed with the children and adults who participated in the Illuminate Parade, which filled our town with joy and a sense of togetherness. Earlier in the year, we marvelled at the incredible displays of strength and determination at Boston's Strongest competition, we celebrated unity and rhythm at the Reggae and Ska Festival, and many of us, young and old alike, enjoyed the sunshine and seaside fun of the Beach Event in Central Park. These moments remind us of the diversity and richness of life in Boston Borough.
None of these events would have been possible without the unwavering support of our whole community—volunteers, local businesses, and residents who give their time and effort to make Boston such a wonderful place to live. Your contributions, large and small, are the foundation of our borough's success, and I extend my heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you.
Volunteering opportunities have flourished this year, and I continue to be inspired by the generosity and compassion of local people. Whether it's helping at a food bank, litter picking with the wonderful Wombles, educating our children through the Guiding and Scouting movement, supporting our community events, or lending a hand to those in need in your local neighbourhood, these acts of kindness don't just reflect the true spirit of the festive season, they enhance the lives of others all year round. If you haven't yet found your way to volunteering and it's something that you might be interested in, I encourage you to make 2025 the year you get involved! Together, we can achieve even more!
Above all, what stands out for me is the positivity and resilience of Boston's people. In challenging times, we see the best in each other through small gestures of kindness, understanding, and support; and this reminds me of what it means to be part of a caring and united community. We Bostonians have much to be proud of so let's keep talking the town up so that others see what we see. We have a rich heritage and history which attracts tourists from all over the world but how often do we, as residents, take the time to appreciate what's right here on our doorstep? So, I would encourage you to visit some of our local sites if you've not been for a while. For example, if you've not been to The Guildhall since leaving school why not pop in and remind yourself of what it has to offer? It's free to get in!
As we look ahead to a new year, let us continue to foster a spirit of kindness and understanding. Let's build on the successes of the past year, embrace new opportunities, and support one another as we move forward. By working together, we can make Boston Borough an even stronger, more inclusive, and thriving community.
On behalf of everyone at Boston Borough Council, I wish you all a joyous Festive period filled with peace, love, and happiness, and a New Year full of hope and opportunity. Here's to another year of community spirit and shared success in 2025!
Cabinet recommends offering full Council Tax Support to low or no-income families in Boston Borough
Boston Borough Council's Cabinet is recommending more help for low or no-income families to manage the cost of their annual council tax.
The Council has carried out a fundamental review of the Council Tax Support Scheme which concluded with a period of public consultation with residents, organisations and other authorities who set council tax.
Following that process, Cabinet on Thursday 12 December, voted to recommend increasing the maximum amount to households with children who receive the benefit from 75 per cent to 100 per cent.
Read the full article online: https://www.boston.gov.uk/article/27746/Cabinet-recommends-offering-full-Council-Tax-Support-to-low-or-no-income-families-in-Boston-Borough
Help shape Boston Borough Council's budget for 2025/26
Residents in Boston Borough are being asked to help shape the budget for 2025/26.
Boston Borough Council is asking for your views on council tax, key council services and the public's awareness of Internal Drainage Board levies that the council pays.
Each year by law, the council must set a balanced budget. The draft budget is scheduled to be published for consideration by Cabinet in February 2025 and Council in March 2025.
Before the budget is set, the council wants to hear the views of people of all ages and backgrounds as well as representatives from businesses, parish councils, community groups and organisations.
Boston Borough Council collects but does not set council tax on behalf of the Lincolnshire Police and Crime Commissioner, Lincolnshire County Council and parish councils.
Only 10p in every £1 Boston Borough collects is the council's element. Of the 10p, more than half is funding a Special Levy to support the vital work of Internal Drainage Boards. These boards manage pumping stations, playing a vital role in maintaining waterways and pumping water, particularly to prevent flooding.
Without them, the flood risk to land, properties and businesses would be much greater.
Nationally, they directly reduce flood risk to over 600,000 people who live in an IDB area and 880,000 properties.
The consultation will close at midnight on Sunday, 5 January 2025.
You can take part here: https://online1.snapsurveys.com/Interview/f55e0f9a-1669-4207-b73a-067b2836956b
Find the full article online: https://www.boston.gov.uk/article/27727/Help-shape-Boston-Borough-Council-s-budget-for-2025-26
Lower Witham Flood Resilience Project Newsletter
Please see attached the latest Lower Witham Flood Resilience Project newsletter. This newsletter is given to interested parties in the Lower Witham area. It provides an update on the development of a project to increase flood resilience in the Lower Witham Fens.
In this latest newsletter you will find updates on:
The EA would be grateful if you could share information on this project with members of your parish and or ward. We look forward to sharing more of our delivery with you in 2025.
Stay Warm and Connected this Winter in Lincolnshire! As winter sets in, the NHS health and care system partners in Lincolnshire have joined forces with voluntary, community, faith, and social enterprise (VCFSE) sector organisations to address the challenges posed by colder months and increased living costs. Through allocated funding, these partners are supporting winter pressures projects across the county to provide essential resources and services to those in need. One key initiative is the creation of Warm Spaces, designed to offer much-needed support to the community during this time. These spaces provide:
Warm Spaces bring people together and offer practical and emotional support to those who may be struggling. Find your nearest Warm Space at https://haylincolnshire.co.uk/winter-warm-spaces-and-support/. By working together, we can ensure that everyone in Lincolnshire has access to a warm, safe, and supportive environment this winter.
Notification of Phase 1 Hoarding Installation at Rosegarth Square Site We wish to inform you that Phase 1 of the redevelopment works at Rosegarth Square is set to commence shortly. This initial phase involves the installation of hoardings around the designated area in preparation for the upcoming demolition works. Key details:
These hoardings are a vital part of ensuring public safety and minimising disruption as work begins on the redevelopment of Rosegarth Square. At this stage there are no plans of any road or public footpath closures. As part of this project, there will be occasional drone footage being taken to document the progress. If you require any support with 'we're still open' signage to inform your customers, please let us know. Should you have any questions or require further clarification, please do not hesitate to contact RosegarthSquare@boston.gov.uk
PLEASE NOTE: The Napier Car Park at the former B&M site is now closed for public use. For alternative parking in the area please visit www.boston.gov.uk/carparks
We will continue to keep you updated on the works taking place. Thank you for your attention and continued support for this project.
Lincolnshire Event Safety (LESP) group opens bookings for a training day for event organisers
The LESP One-Day Event Safety Awareness Event provides attendees with an awareness of their responsibilities as an event organiser, as well as signposting them to additional supporting information. During the day on Thursday 6 February, attendees will hear from professionals in the emergency services, event professionals and local authority staff who will share their skills and experience to assist attendees in delivering a safer event.
During the day, attendees will be able to ask questions to the professionals, although, please note, that individual event specific questions will not be able to be answered (the content of the session will not be event/season specific).
The event costs £30 per person which includes refreshments and a buffet lunch. The lunch will be in the form of a pack-up consisting of a filled roll, bag of crisps, chocolate bar, sausage roll and bottle of water.
To book onto an event, the booking form* on the link below should be completed. Upon receipt of a correctly completed booking form, an invoice will be issued for the cost of the space(s) required which must be paid within seven days. Once payment has been received, a calendar invite will be issued with joining instructions following nearer the event date.
https://forms.office.com/e/AxPdS3kD6B
All bookings must be received by 20th January 2025 to guarantee a place on this event.
*Please ensure that you include any details of specific dietary requirements on the booking form.
Free online training for parents
The Lincolnshire Domestic Abuse Partnership (LDAP) are running a Free parent online Teams workshop around navigating teen relationships. Teenagers aren't always open around their relationships and it can be difficult to know how best to support them. Within this workshop LDAP will discuss signs of unhealthy relationships, coercive control, love bombing and other red flags to look out for in your teens and where you can get support.
Sign up here: https://www.tickettailor.com/.../staysafepartnership/1428506
Recognition given to local photographer
Cllr Anne Dorrian, has personally thanked photographer Bartosz Fedkowicz for his continuous efforts in presenting the Borough in a very positive light.
Bartosz takes a great interest in the Boston area and through his photography, he showcases the borough by covering local events and by also capturing beautiful, natural landscapes. He shares his talent with others on social media and his work is often used in local newspapers.
Cllr Dorrian said: “Bartosz is a very talented and dedicated photographer and I thanked him for his part in promoting the positivity of the Borough with residents and visitors. Recently Bartosz captured the atmosphere beautifully from our Christmas Festival, the Christmas lights switch-on, the Boston Santa Run as well as the Remembrance Parade, amongst many others. He also takes countless landscapes, nature scenes and anything else that catches his eye for a good photo.
“By posting his photographs on social media, he is doing so much to share the beauty and positivity of the Borough and I know that many residents appreciate his work.”
Cllr Dorrian presented him with a copy of the Boston Calendar 2025, where three of his amazing photographs feature.
Bartosz regularly posts his photos on his Facebook page, which can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/bartosz.fedkowicz.photographer
Join our Trusted Volunteer Team as a Village Cleaner & Greener in Kirton
Are you passionate about making a difference in your community? Kirton Parish Council is looking for dedicated volunteers to help keep their village cleaner and greener!
As a Trusted Volunteer, you'll work with us at pre-agreed areas and community spaces in Kirton to help:
All PPE and equipment will be provided. Any spare time you can offer is greatly appreciated.
For more information about how you can help contact our Volunteer Co-ordinator, Alison Carlisle – alison.carlisle@e-lindsey.gov.uk
Upcoming digital inclusivity sessions with Lincs Digital
Lincs Digital have announced extra sessions in Boston Borough to help residents get online and access essential services more easily. The sessions promise one-on-one assistance, tips for staying safe online, as well as fun and interactive learning.
These sessions are:
Police and Crime Survey
Help us understand your priorities for community safety by taking the Police and Crime Survey.
Your feedback supports funding bids and informs council tax decisions. Complete the survey online: https://habit5research.questionpro.eu/a/TakeSurvey?tt=3zeKBmUKt%2BPX/cWMrW4TtA%3D%3D&&custom2=OPCCSocialMedia&fbclid=IwY2xjawGYBQZleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHTHNule4XnLR39kqEHNbd1ZRzHTYUufIguGbg3bXJ03hBRn3zqZ_RhagKA_aem_YOhcOj_Q6ny06oWUBXRyHg
Have your say on Neighbourhood Policing
On Wednesday 8 January 2025, the Neighbourhood Policing Priority Setting Meeting will take place! Your voice matters in shaping the focus of local policing efforts for January, February, and March.
Share your thoughts on local issues and help us prioritise what matters most to our community by completing the 2-minute survey: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=-fC9ZJ0h3EyI6ic3MltNJrcTFmkgeq5PrPW4qJTmP8NUM1I4SUZFR01WQUtINDJMSkQ5M0wyWUVONS4u&route=shorturl
The survey closes at midnight on Friday 3 January.
LPFT engagement events for feedback
Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (LPFT) are holding a number of engagement events over the next few months to hear the thoughts of patients, carers, families, professionals and the public on how urgent mental health care is delivered locally.
If you or a loved one have received support from one of the following services, we’d love you to join us for a cuppa and a conversation:
Engagement events will take place on the following:
At the events, attendees will hear more about how urgent care support is currently delivered, as well as have the opportunity to share their own experiences and views to help shape future care.
If you would like to attend an event or find out more, email lpft.involvement@nhs.net or call 07773 206341. Please see the attached posters for more information.
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