What we are doing to plan for the UK leaving the European Union
On 23 June 2016 the UK voted to leave the European Union in a referendum.
On 29 March 2017 the UK triggered Article 50 of the Treaty of Lisbon which started the process of withdrawal from the EU, commonly referred to as Brexit.
We have robust plans in place to ensure there is no disruption to the services we provide to our customers ahead of the Brexit deadline of 31 January 2020.
We have been sharing information with our local communities to ensure the businesses and people who are impacted by Brexit understand what they need to do.
If you are an EU national it is advisable to apply for Settled status as early as possible.
UK Nationals should check for changes if you are planning to travel to Europe after Brexit.
Somerset businesses will need to check how to trade with the EU, licences and permits for driving in the EU, what you need to do if you are involved in farming or fisheries and changes in your industry. You can find out more through the Somerset Chamber of Commerce website
Information about Brexit is available at www.gov.uk/brexit
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) contacted local authorities on 6 August asking them to designate a Brexit Lead Officer and set up a team, which is equipped to support the delivery of Brexit, ready for the period around 31 January 2020.
Our Brexit Team is now in place and they are working closely with the local District Councils and partners to prepare for Brexit.
We are continuing to work with the Government to help clarify the situation and share relevant information with our key stakeholders.
Email the Brexit Team – BrexitTeam@somerset.gov.uk
Somerset continues to welcome EU nationals (and nationals from Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland) and we urge them to remain in the UK and be part of our community. Find out how to apply and access support for Settled or Pre-Settled Status.
You must do this by June 2021 if the UK leaves the EU with a deal, or by December 2020 if there is a no deal Brexit. We would encourage you to apply as early as possible, to give yourself enough time to gather the documents required and provide security once your Settled or Pre-Settled Status has been granted. Currently, making an application is free of charge.
Somerset’s Diversity Voice has some useful information for people who need to apply for Settled Status and offers support for people applying for Settled Status.
If you are a local employer, please encourage your EU national staff to apply for Settled Status as early as possible. With a significant EU workforce in Somerset, it is important that employers prepare and support staff of European nationality, so that they can legally remain and work in the UK.
If you are a community organisation that works with or has contact with EU nationals, you can contact us for support, for example requesting leaflets that tell people how they can apply for Settled Status. We can also point you in the direction of other organisations that may be able to help. Email the Brexit Team – BrexitTeam@somerset.gov.uk
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