Somerset’s Local Community Networks (LCNs) have now completed their second round of Annual General Meetings, marking an important milestone in their journey to build stronger, more connected communities across the county.
Launched to provide a space for local partners to come together, LCNs enable discussion of issues and opportunities across LCN areas. They aim to bring focus to what matters most to residents and support collective action that improves local lives and experiences.
An LCN-wide Annual Report, published to coincide with the meetings, shares key highlights from the past year. From shaping Highways and Traffic priorities to encouraging positive activities for children and young people, supporting community transport initiatives, and promoting health and wellbeing – LCNs have already made a meaningful difference across Somerset.
The report also reflects the important work of Somerset Council’s Link Officer team, who continue to strengthen relationships with city, town and parish councils, local groups, and organisations. Their role is vital in ensuring local voices are heard, and that concerns and ideas are fed back into Somerset Council, helping to shape policies and decisions.
LCNs have also played a critical role in emergency preparedness and response. During recent floods, several LCNs supported local efforts on the ground and are now working with emergency planning colleagues to ensure communities are better prepared for future events.
As the LCNs move into their third year, the ambition is to further empower local areas to take action, influence service delivery and respond to emerging needs.
Cllr Theo Butt Philip, Lead Member for Transformation, Human Resources and Localities, said:
“Local Community Networks exist to strengthen local partnerships and encourage and enable city, town and parish council, and other representatives of Somerset’s communities to work together to turn shared ideas into action.
“It has been inspiring to see the positive differences that have been made through LCNs – from improving safety on our roads and improving active travel, to supporting young people and responding to local emergencies.
“None of this work could have been done without the work of fantastic volunteers, councillors and and the dedicated Link Officer team who so often go above and beyond to support the communities they serve.
“Over the coming months we’ll be reviewing the operation of LCNs and Somerset Council’s community engagement work more broadly, to ensure we’re making the most of opportunities to engage and work with the people and communities of Somerset, to shape the places people live in a way that reflects local priorities.”
To find out more about your Local Community Network, including how to get involved or contact your local Link Officer, please visit our webpages: www.somerset.gov.uk/lcns
Alternatively, email us at LCN@somerset.gov.uk.
