Help for people who use oil as their main source for heating or hot water is available through the Somerset Crisis and Resilience Fund – delivered by an Alliance of VCFSE partners, led by Citizens Advice Somerset – offering targeted support to people facing financial shock or hardship.

The Heating Oil Help scheme is aimed at households who have a low or limited income, depend on oil for heating or hot water, and have less than 300 litres in their tank. Our average household award is £600, which makes a substantial difference.

At the Taunton Brewhouse, Coal Orchard, Taunton, TA1 1JL, on Tuesday 29 September, from 6pm to 8pm

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Wessex Water has been forced to impose a hosepipe ban including Wiveliscombe

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There’s a winter virus which can be much more serious for those aged 75 and over. It’s a major cause of respiratory illness in the UK, often starting like a simple cold, but can quickly lead to pneumonia, breathing problems and even hospital stays in those who are most vulnerable.

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6-7th June 2026

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‘Safeguarding is everyone’s business’ – new campaign launched for Stop Adult Abuse Week

Somerset Council and the Somerset Safeguarding Adults Board (SSAB) have launched a new campaign asking Somerset residents to look out for members of their community who might be experiencing abuse.

The campaign, called ‘Safeguarding is everyone’s business’, asks that people do their part in supporting their communities by recognising the signs of self-neglect when they see them because self-neglect can be an indicator that someone is being abused. Acting early when you suspect that someone is neglecting themselves could save a person’s life.

If someone is struggling, getting them help early on can prevent things from getting worse, so if people are concerned about a neighbour, friend, or member of their community they can contact Somerset Council to raise a safeguarding concern by calling 0300 123 2224 or email adults@somerset.gov.uk. If someone is in immediate danger, the Police should be called by dialling 999.