Better footpaths, a new sensory garden and many other projects benefited from developer contributions funding in 2020/21.  We collect money from developers every year and with the latest annual total of over £2 million, we’ve now collected £8.9 million since 2016. Click the link for more information about the funding - and how you can nominate future local projects.

With costs rising, are you struggling to pay your bills and make ends meet? Do you wonder whether you are receiving all the financial help you could be entitled to? The Money Support team has helped 141 local residents over the last year with budgeting, maximising income and reducing debt. If you, or someone you know, would like to become more confident at managing their finances get in touch.

'Game On' is a new and exciting sports project for young people in school years 5 to 8, running from January to March 2022.  At a Game On session young people will have the chance to try a new sport, make friends and have fun. All Game On sessions are free of charge and all abilities are welcome. Before you attend your first session, you will need to register online.

If you're trying to be greener this year you can find some ideas for changes you can make on our website. You can check the impact they could have on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and we've highlighted some that are easy for a quick win and some that are good for saving you money without costing a lot up front. You can also hear from some local people who made resolutions for the planet on our social media.

Our R&Be Active programme helps children to learn new skills, build self-confidence and improve physical and mental health. We want to work with more local sports clubs, coaches, and activity providers to develop new sessions for kids to enjoy. Send us an email to get involved. Contact leisure.services@reigate-banstead.gov.uk

The Council has secured further government funding, which it will use to support local businesses based in Reigate & Banstead that have been severely affected during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Finalists have been announced for the nine categories in this year's Reigate and Banstead Business Awards! The event is taking place on Tuesday 22 March at Reigate Manor and is hosted by Gadget Show presenter, Ortis Deley.

If you or someone you know is looking for a new job locally, check our website for our latest vacancies.

Did you know our community centres in Banstead, Horley and Woodhatch are available for hire? There is a wide choice of bookable spaces for weddings and parties, as well as corporate meetings, training events and community activities. With modern facilities, equipped with full audio visual support and space for up to 200 guests, there's something for every occasion.

At VARB (Voluntary Action Reigate & Banstead), 82% of volunteers said volunteering improved their well-being. Research shows that when people volunteer, they experience a physiological response to doing good. Volunteering is a great way to connect with others and give back, as well as stay mentally fresh by learning new skills. VARB always has a wide range of volunteering opportunities to choose from. There really is something to suit everyone.

As of last Thursday, 27 January, the Government's Plan B measures under its Covid-19 winter strategy were lifted. Work from home guidance for businesses and employees has been dropped, face masks are no longer compulsory in many locations, and Covid passes are no longer compulsory at venues and events.

While cases have shown a decline in recent weeks nationally, infection rates in the borough are still high and residents are being urged to test regularly for Covid using rapid lateral flow tests, to manage your own risk and the risk to others. You should report your test result here even if it displays negative.

Getting your Covid booster vaccine is still the most effective way to protect yourself against the virus and anyone over the age of 18 can book theirs now. If the system is busy, please be patient. Remember, it’s never too late to book your first or second jab. Book all vaccine appointments here.

You must still self-isolate if contacted by NHS Test and Trace. You can find the rules for self-isolation here.