06 04 20 Covid-19 update from Bridgend County Borough

As the Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic continues, Bridgend County Borough Council is continuing to focus its resources on providing essential services and protecting vulnerable residents. The following information provides a summary of latest developments, with the most recent additions at the top:

Pods for the homeless
Four pods designed to help keep rough sleepers safe during the coronavirus outbreak will be set up in Bridgend County Borough this week. The new pods are being placed in temporary locations near projects run by The Wallich and housing association Pobl, which offer 24/7 support for the individuals using them. The pods are intended to ensure homeless people suffering from symptoms of the virus can self-isolate and comply with social distancing measures, with plenty of support close at hand. The pods, which contain a bed and toilet, are being supplied by Amazing Grace Spaces.

Finding accommodation
A range of support for homeless people during the coronavirus outbreak is in place, and the council’s Jigsaw facility is continuing to assess people’s needs to either prevent them from becoming homeless or help provide emergency accommodation. Advice regarding homelessness, the housing register and housing benefit is available online, and people can also contact the council via talktous@bridgend.gov.uk or 01656 643643. Domestic violence support is also being offered by the Calan DVS Assia Suite – call them direct on 01656 766139.

Food parcel support
Extremely vulnerable residents who cannot rely on family or friends to support them during the outbreak can arrange a free weekly food parcel from the council. As around 4,000 residents start to receive letters from the chief medical officer urging them to take particular care and stay at home for the next 12 weeks, the scheme is one of the first of its kind to be set up in Wales. To take part, residents can contact the council for an assessment which identifies what support they might need. The food parcels are available as part of this and contain essential supplies including pasta, cereal, fruit, tea bags and toilet paper.

If required, they can be delivered on a weekly basis using a provider arranged by Welsh Government.

Accessing foodbanks
Details of which Bridgend Foodbanks are open and how to access them during the ongoing outbreak are available on the Bridgend Foodbank website, with updates posted to social media.

Help with finding work
Employability Bridgend are offering help and support for people who are looking for additional work or new job opportunities during the Covid-19 coronavirus outbreak. With 13 people supported in the last fortnight to find work in social care, retail and distribution, Employability Bridgend can provide free advice and guidance online, over the phone or via text or Skype in areas ranging from completing an application form, putting a CV together or gaining new skills and qualifications. To find out more, email employability@bridgend.gov.uk or call 01656 815317.

Social care opportunities
More people are being sought to help support the county borough’s most vulnerable residents. A number of employment opportunities are available, and anyone who has previously worked in social care or who has transferable skills is invited to apply. A fast-tracked application process and rapid refresher training course are available. To apply or find out more, visit the job pages at the council’s website.

Volunteers wanted
People who are interested in volunteering to help during the Covid-19 outbreak can do so by contacting the Bridgend Association of Voluntary Organisations (BAVO) where they will be matched to a role according to their skills, interests and experience. Free training will be provided along with DBS checks where necessary – visit the BAVO website for more information.

Contacting the council
The Customer Service Centre at the Civic Offices in Angel Street, Bridgend remains closed to the public. Residents are asked to use the online My Account and Oggie webchat facilities, or to email talktous@bridgend.gov.uk or call 01656 643643.