- Local government reorganisation
- Household energy payment announcement
- Celebrate Bonfire night and Diwali safely
- Preventing damp and mould
- Changes to landline phone services
- Check if you’re eligible for Pension Credit
Local government reorganisation
The government has announced in Parliament this afternoon (Thursday 29 October 2026) their latest update on local government reorganisation (LGR).
No decision has yet been made for LGR in Hampshire and the Solent. While decisions have been announced for some parts of the country, Hampshire’s proposals are still being reviewed.
The government said it remains committed to LGR but wants more time to consider the existing proposals and aims to reach an outcome for Hampshire by early 2027.
Its provisional timetable for all remaining council reorganisation areas anticipates elections for new shadow councils in 2028, ahead of new unitary councils being in place in 2029. We are seeking clarity on what this means for the New Forest district and the timetable locally.
We’ll share more information when it is available and will update our LGR website page.
Household energy payment announcement
In its Autumn Budget, the government announced a new £100 energy payment to help households with energy costs this winter.
The payment is expected to be available to households living in properties in council tax bands A to D. If you pay your council tax by direct debit, the payment is expected to be made directly into your bank account, and you will not need to take any action. Households that do not pay by direct debit are expected to be invited to apply for the payment directly.
At this stage, we are aware of the announcement but have not yet received official guidance from the government about when the scheme will operate from.
We will share more information on our website as soon as further details become available. There is no need to contact us about the scheme at this stage.
Beware of scams
Whenever new financial support schemes are announced, fraudsters may try to take advantage of the situation.
Please be cautious of unexpected texts, emails, phone calls or social media messages claiming to be about the energy payment. Never provide personal or bank details, click on suspicious links, or pay a fee to access support.
Any official information about the scheme will be shared on our website when we have all the information.
Celebrate Bonfire night and Diwali safely
Bonfire night and Diwali are a time for communities, families and friends to come together and celebrate. If you’re marking either occasion next week, please take a few simple steps to stay safe and protect others.
Firework safety
Residents planning to use fireworks are encouraged to follow the safety advice provided by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service. This includes:
- consider attending an organised display rather than hosting your own event
- always read the instructions before use
- keep fireworks in a closed box and use them one at a time
- never return to a firework after it has been lit
- keep children and pets away from fireworks and bonfires
For more firework safety advice, visit Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service’s website.
Please be considerate of pets and vulnerable residents. Fireworks and bonfires can be distressing for some people and animals. If you’re planning a celebration, let neighbours know in advance and avoid setting off fireworks late at night.
If you’re planning a bonfire, please follow advice on our website.
Preventing damp and mould
As temperatures drop, homes can become more prone to condensation, damp, and moisture problems. Taking early steps can help reduce excess moisture and prevent issues from developing.
You can reduce the risk of damp and condensation by:
- opening windows regularly and keeping trickle vents open to improve ventilation
- using extractor fans when cooking or showering and keep internal doors closed to stop moisture spreading
- drying clothes outside where possible or using a well-ventilated room if drying indoors
- keeping your home heated consistently during colder weather
- leaving space between furniture and walls to allow air to circulate
- using a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture in the air
Condensation is the most common cause of mould. It happens when warm, moist air meets cold surfaces such as windows and external walls. To help prevent it causing issues, wipe away condensation from windows and sills when you notice it appearing.
Find more advice on preventing damp, mould and condensation on our website.
Changes to landline phone services
If you have a landline, some devices connected to your phone line may be affected as telecoms providers move from analogue landlines to digital phone services by 31 January 2027.
This may include personal alarms, CCTV systems, door entry systems, payment terminals, and healthcare devices (such as devices provided by Appletree Careline).
Your telecoms provider will let you know directly if any action is needed and will explain the next steps.
If you or someone you know is an Appletree Careline customer, there is no need to contact us at this stage. We’re contacting all customers who use analogue equipment by phone and letter to discuss the options available, and any action needed to make sure there is no interruption to their Appletree Careline monitoring service.
You can read more about the telecoms industry’s intention to retire analogue telephone networks on GOV.UK’s website.
Check if you’re eligible for Pension Credit
Pension Credit is extra money to help with living costs if you’re over State Pension age and on a low income.
Pension Credit can also help with housing costs such as ground rent or service charges.
You can check if you are eligible on GOV.UK’s website and apply for Pension Credit online. You can also call the Pension Credit claim line on 0800 99 1234.
Local support with making Pension Credit applications is available from our partners Citizens Advice New Forest and Age Concern New Forest.
Parish Open Times: Monday – Friday 9am – 12 Midday
Telephone: 02380 860273
Marchwood Parish Council
