Council meets the pandemic challenge

Hebden Royd Town Council has revealed the start of its response to the impact of the pandemic on the communities of Hebden Royd. The Town Council is very aware that 2020 has been a difficult year for Hebden Royd and particularly for those vulnerable people affected by the pandemic who need support.

Rob FirsthAt the heart of the Town Council's efforts is a new partnership. Bringing together partners from across the Hebden Royd community the Town Council has launched a Recovery Group that will co-ordinate and drive the comeback from the pandemic. Founded by Deputy Mayor Councillor Rob Freeth it has quickly started work. Cllr Freeth said, “Following the flooding of February 2020 and the impact of Covid 19 our aim is to bring positivity and hope to our local community which in turn will create a welcoming and inviting environment for visitors and local people.

We aim to sustain Hebden Royd through the current crisis and return to our position as a regional centre that is vibrant and active with a strong economy and an engaged and confident community. in achieving this aim, we plan to engage the support of community groups/ organisations, CIC’s, local charities and cooperatives from Hebden Bridge, Mytholmroyd and Cragg Vale.”

Proposals are soon to be considered that will see an Employment Support Worker providing additional help to school leavers and others who face difficulties getting a job. Councillor Richard Needham Leader of the Labour Group said: “The Council cannot stand by as food poverty and financial hardship grow and young people face a bleak future. We are working with excellent partners who we are confident will make a real difference.”

The already announced Town Council's Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) advice worker for Hebden Royd, supporting families facing challenges, will be available from the 4th February to offer support, to local residents, across a full range of issues.

Further details of both the CAB worker and Employment Supporter Worker will be published in the near future.

The Town Council are also looking to provide additional support to the Mytholmroyd community facing the closure of its library, and to Hebden Bridge Picture House to ensure a sustainable future of the much-loved community venue.

The Town Council's Strategy and Review committee recently recommended the approval of the Budget for 2021/22 and which will be considered at the upcoming budget setting meeting of the Town Council.

Added: Thursday, 28 January 2021

Photos from Hebden Royd