Column by the leader of Stroud District Council, Doina Cornell.

It was heartening to see families out in the snow at the weekend enjoying their time together. Of course we are still in winter and flooding and extreme weather remain a risk and will be even more so as our climate changes. If you have concerns do check out the advice on the council website including an essential flood guide to download with information on flood risk, emergency guidance and post flood help as well as advice on how to protect your home and source sandbags: stroud.gov.uk/environment/flooding-and-drainage

For local businesses affected by the latest lockdown, Stroud District Council has simplified the process by making automatic payments to businesses which qualify and have already received a Local Restriction Support Grant during the November lockdown.

If a business has already made a claim, a new application does not need to be made - once an application has been approved, payments will be made for all periods that the business is eligible. If a claim has not yet been made, it can be done at stroud.gov.uk/businessrates

If you run a local business and would like to support young people getting into work through the Kickstart scheme, the council is now registered as a Kickstart gateway organisation and will support businesses in their Kickstart application. The pandemic has impacted young people so I’m really pleased we’re able to give this practical help in partnership with local businesses to take on and train local young people.

The Kickstart Scheme provides funding for employers to create job placements for 16-24 year olds who are claiming Universal Credit and are at risk of unemployment. All employers, can join the scheme. Find out more at stroud.gov.uk/kickstart while young people can apply for placements here: jobhelp.campaign.gov.uk/kickstart