News
downsmail.co.uk Appeal for foster carers
THE number of children requiring foster families in Kent is at cri- sis point, according to the county council. It says it needs at least 200 new foster families to meet current de-
mand. So far this year, 1,593 children from Kent have been placed in care
– up from 899 in the year to 2014. The need is particularly great in placing older children, aged 13-
Business bosses in Brexit talks
A HUNDRED days after Brexit, business leaders from throughout Kent gave their views at a Maid- stone seminar on the best strategies to thrive in a“new world”. The briefing, held at Kent Institute
of Medicine and Surgery (KIMS), Bearsted, heard from key speakers including Tonbridge and Malling MP, Tom Tugendhat. An active remain campaigner during the referendum run-up, he stressed the importance of small and medium businesses, and that they should get in touch with their MPs to make their voices heard. The uncertainty over free move-
mentwas already creating issues, he said. “There aremanydecisions that
are incompatible. It is simply not true that you can be a member of the single market and not have freedom of movement.” Alexandra Renison, Institute of Directors (IoD) policy lead on Brexit, said itwas imperative that the Gov- ernment communicated with busi- ness and provided an assurance that transitional arrangements would be put in place. She thought that Arti- cle 50, the official start of Britain’s exit from the EU, would be triggered in 2017. “I don’t think they arewait- ing for politics such as the French and German elections,” she said. The briefingwas organised by the
IoD Kent, with the Federation of Small Businesses and KIMS.
18, and young asylum seekers. Peter Oakford, KCC cabinet member for specialist children’s services, says Kent needs more foster carers now and urges anyone who has ever considered fostering to take the plunge. “As the number of children entering care continues to rise, coun-
cils across the country are struggling to recruit the homes we need to be able to do our best for our ‘looked after children’.” KCC says it offers “excellent payments and all the support and training needed for one of the most rewarding roles you can do”. Foster carers can be married or single, and with or without chil-
dren of their own. To find out more visit
www.kentfostering.co.uk or call 03000 420002.
Mencap quiz MAIDSTONE Mencap members are holding their Apple Pie Quiz Night at Cobtree Hall, Mote Park, School Lane, off Willington Street from 7pm on Saturday, October 29 at 7 for 7.30pm. Teamswill be six to eight people
and admission is £6 per person, which includes a slice of pie. Park- ing is free beyond the wooden gates leading the hall. To book call Rita on 07790 643218.
Tax valuation
TONBRIDGE and Malling Council is reminding residents who think their property might be in the wrong council tax band that they can get a free valuation by the Val- uation Office Agency. To apply for a free council tax
band valuation, contact the Valua- tion Office Agency on 0300 0501 501. Application forms can be downloaded
online at:
www.gov.uk/council-tax-appeals/ challenge-your-band
Coming to the Mercure Maidstone Friday 5th May 2017 Join Strictly Star professionals
Anton Du Beke & Erin Boag for a fabulous experience! Learn to dance with the stars in a 50 minute workshop followed by an evening like no other. Enjoy a 4 course gala meal and see Anton & Erin perform their breath-taking Ballroom showcase up close & personal for a truly intimate experience. To finish your experience dance the night away with music from Mr Wonderful DJ until 1am.
Package also includes overnight accommodation and breakfast the following morning.
An experience not to be missed!
Only £199 per person Dinner only experiences available
CALL NOW TO BOOK! T: 01622 528565 MERCURE MAIDSTONE
Ashford Road, Hollingbourne, Kent, ME17 1RE 24 Malling October 2016
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