Devon News

The Government’s final local government funding settlement continues a long-term shift away from national funding, placing increasing reliance on council tax to pay for essential local services.

Devon Sexual Health has launched a new website to help people living in Devon & Torbay make informed decisions about their sexual health.

A consultation on the future of local government in Devon has been opened by the Department for Housing, Communities and Local Government.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) are reminding the public not to use four specified non-sterile alcohol-free wipe products under any circumstances due to an ongoing risk of infection associated with their use.

A petition has been presented to parliament calling for action and investment to future-proof the Tarka Line and improve reliability for passengers across the area who rely on the train service.

Next week (9-15 February) is Children’s Mental Health Week, an annual campaign that shines a spotlight on the importance of supporting children and young people’s mental wellbeing.

New research from National Grid Electricity Distribution (NGED) shows 86% of people in the South West don’t know about the first port of call in a power cut – the 105 helpline. 105 is a free number that connects callers directly to their local electricity network operator in the event of a power cut.

Devon County Council has welcomed the Government’s announcement to recruit 10,000 new foster carers by 2029.

Police Officers are appealing for witnesses after burglars targeted two commercial premises at a Crediton industrial estate.

A pilot project to help GPs spot early warning signs of cancer from routine blood tests has now rolled out to 60 GP practices in Devon.

Libraries Unlimited is partnering with The Guardian Foundation to bring a series of free news literacy workshops for families to libraries in Devon.

Communities hit by flooding as a result of Storm Chandra and recent wet weather are being encouraged to approach the Devon Community Resilience Forum if they need support.

Survivors of sexual abuse and rape will now be provided with improved support that better meets their needs across the region.

The UK Health Security Agency has published annual coverage data for the HPV vaccination programme for the 2024/25 school year. While the South West has achieved higher vaccination rates than the England average across all year groups, around 1 in 4 young people in the region are still leaving school without protection.

The pedestrian and cycle bridge over the A379 in south west Exeter, called Blisses Bridge, has been brought to life with newly added decorative panels.

Firearms owners are being urged to check if their previously lawful weapon is one of five now classified as illegal – and to hand them in safely during a month-long amnesty.

The Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, Alison Hernandez, will today propose an increase in the police part of next year’s council tax of £15 a year for an average Band D property.

Water bills will increase in April 2026 in the latest stage of South West Waters major investment programme to upgrade its water and wastewater network.

Devon County Council Leader, Councillor Julian Brazil, has issued an urgent request to Government for financial support to help communities hit by Storms Ingrid and Chandra.

Following heavy rain, areas of Devon are continuing to be hit by localised flooding. The advice from Devon and Cornwall Police is to please only drive if absolutely essential.

Devon County council leader Julian Brazil is calling for extra investment in infrastructure to protect communities from flooding and storms.

Town and parish councils across Devon are being invited to play a key role in shaping the future of the county’s 50 libraries, as Devon County Council’s consultation on proposed changes to statutory opening hours continues.

Everyone starts to pay a bit more attention when they realise the decisions councils are making might hit them in the pocket.

Residents across Devon and Cornwall have expressed clear support for Devon & Cornwall Police continuing as a single force, according to the results of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s 2026 Your Safety, Your Say survey.

Devon County Council has shared an update on its major programme to improve support for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

An empty pub that its community is trying to bring back to life could see its business rates value double, prompting fears for the wider sector.