Events place spotlight on priorities for Wem
More than 100 people shared their views at events held as part of work to develop the best ways to meet the needs of the community in Wem.
Anyone living, working or visiting Wem was invited to drop in at one of two sessions at Wem Town Hall on Thursday 8 August 2013, and discuss their thoughts and suggestions on what is important for the town. People also offered their opinions at a play day at Thomas Adams School on Tuesday 6 August.
Everyone was given an opportunity to have a say on themes which have been highlighted from initial information and research, including keeping the high street alive and supporting people to age well. They were asked whether these were their top priorities, if they had other ideas, and if they would like to get involved in future in making changes.
The events were held to help shape local commissioning work in Wem. This involves a range of organisations – including Shropshire Council, town and parish councils, and voluntary and community groups – looking at ways to ensure that they work effectively together, services are fitted to the community, don’t cost more than they should and are delivered by the best people to do the job. Partners aim to focus further support where it matters, remove duplication and support local jobs and economic growth.
Steve Charmley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for local commissioning in the north of the county, said:
“These events are part of wider efforts to find out more about what goes on in Wem, how much time, effort and money is being spent and what the priorities are for people who live and work in the area.
“By progressing this approach we can make sure services are right for Wem, and that we are getting the greatest benefits possible from the expertise and resources available, which is increasingly important as less funding is received from the Government year-on-year.
“I’d like to say a big thank-you to everyone who has got involved and continues to help to develop new ways of working.”
Connie Granger, Wem town councillor and Mayor of Wem, added:
“This is a great chance for the people of the town to have some input into the way things are to be changed in the future, and to come together to make a difference, for the benefit of all who live, work and use the facilities of the town.”
The discussions and findings will be brought back to the board of councillors and other community leaders which has been set up to govern the work. After community leaders agree the areas to focus on, it is planned to trial new ways of working from the autumn to see how changes can better complement what is already happening in the community.
Local commissioning work has been piloted in Church Stretton, and is being extended to communities including Oswestry, Shrewsbury, and Craven Arms, as well as Wem.
Anyone who missed the opportunity to go along to the community events, can share ideas by calling Sue Thomas, Shropshire Council community action officer, on 01939 237453 or 07582 002027.
