New measures have come into effect to allow local people to ‘recycle’ unused buildings and to bring them under community control. The Communities Secretary, Hazel Blears, said the tougher economic climate had heightened interest in communities maintaining local assets.

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Reforms are being introduced to the way social services in Wales are reviewed and inspected. The changes announced by the Care and Social Services Inspectorate Wales follow consultations with local authorities and social care providers.

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This document from Communities and Local Government summarises the result of consultation on proposals to extend time off entitlements to specific civic roles, extend the list to reflect changes to the nature and types of civic roles available and to consider other ways to encourage participation in governance roles in third sector organisations.

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