How can Swindon respond to the global economic downturn?

By pulling together and looking at how we can tackle the problems facing local people and businesses. The Council is taking the lead by pulling together as much information and advice as possible into one place.

The recession is a global problem but I am all too aware of the effects it is having at a very local level. The Council cannot make the difficulties go away but we can try and make it easier for people to find the advice and support they need. We can also pull together partner organisations like the Police and PCT so we join up our efforts to respond to the recession.

I am determined that we keep an eye on the long term vision for Swindon, one of regeneration, growth and high aspirations. I want to see Swindon emerge stronger and better positioned to deliver that vision. I realise however that right now most people and businesses are focussed on the next week, the next month or at most the next year. Uppermost in minds are paying mortgages, keeping jobs and balancing the books. The information here is designed to help people through this period and it will be regularly updated with news and information.

We all have an important role to play in responding to this recession. Now is a time for communities to pull together and support each other, for friends and neighbours to watch out for each other and a time to think local. It is even more important than ever to show consideration to others, to take responsibility for our actions and to be good citizens. It is often during uncertain and difficult times that people often discover a renewed sense of unity and purpose. Maybe if we all pull together we can rediscover what it means to really belong to a community and place, to belong to Swindon.

Cllr Roderick Bluh
Leader of Swindon Borough Council