AROUND 1,500 residents in Gloucestershire have had their say on a significant change in direction for the county council but the local authority wants more to get in touch.

As part of the Meeting the Challenge – Together We Can consultation, the local authority has been gathering people’s views on proposals to change the way they support individuals, families and communities to live fulfilled and independent lives.

The council is looking to make savings of around £75million over the next three years, with the consultation looking at how people can be supported from various parts of the community.

Back in 2010, the council launched Meeting the Challenge and it is on track to make £114million of savings, reduced its staff by 2,500, including 25 per cent less managers, reducing its debt by £30million and has 82 less buildings.

One such way will be improving people’s health, with a series of online animations have been created to help people understand the proposed new direction.

The stories include Melanie, a married mum struggling to eat healthily or exercise due to her hectic lifestyle, 74-year-old Jack who lives alone and enjoys his independence until he is diagnosed with dementia.

Others include Greg who is looking for support for his mum Sue, as well as Ben who has learning difficulties.

Cllr Mark Hawthorne, leader of Gloucestershire County Council, said: “We are delighted that so many people have already had their say on the proposals.

“It’s likely that most people will be able to relate to at least one of the animations we’ve developed so it’s worth taking a look as they really help explain what we’re talking about here.

“It is really important that we gather the views of as many residents as possible, and from all walks of life so if you haven’t had your say yet then please do visit our website or come along to the quays food festival or another one of our roadshows and give us your views.”

People have until Monday, August 4, to tell us what they think online at www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/togetherwecan