Covid-19 update 08 06 20

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.

Survey on school re-openings

The recent survey which asked parents and carers of school-aged children for their views on how schools in Bridgend County Borough could eventually reopen saw 11,337 completed questionnaires returned. The results are now being studied and will help to inform the council’s decision-making alongside national guidance from Welsh Government – look out for further details on this soon.

Recycling centres open for essential visits

Residents are being reminded that while the ‘odds and evens’ car number plate system is no longer necessary, community recycling centres are still only available for essential visits only. On-site procedures designed to keep staff and visitors safe and to minimise potential exposure to the Covid-19 coronavirus will remain in place until further notice, so drivers should continue to expect delays and queues. Visit the council’s recycling page for more information.

Bus station now open

Bridgend bus station is now open again between 10am – 4pm. The council is monitoring the situation to ensure that the station can be used safely, and will announce further changes as required. Please note that the toilets are not available until further notice in order to limit potential exposure to the coronavirus.

Businesses receive £27.9m support

More than £27.9m has now been issued in business grants processed by Bridgend County Borough Council. With 2,248 successful applications to date, the support is available for businesses that are eligible for small business rates relief in Wales and who occupy premises with a rateable value of £12,000 or less. It also includes those who fall under small business rates relief but who do not currently pay business rates, and retail, leisure or hospitality businesses with a rateable value of £12,001 to £51,000. You can apply to the fund using the online form before the deadline of 30 June. 

Support for small charities

With 17 applications processed and £170,000 issued to date, charity-run shops, sports premises and community centres in Bridgend County Borough are being encouraged to apply for business support grant. Available until 30 June to eligible organisations who have properties within the retail, leisure and hospitality sector with a rateable value of £12,000 or less, applications are restricted to a maximum of two properties and the funding is not available to organisations that have already received more than £10,000 from the Economic Resilience Fund (ERF). Visit the council website for full details. 

Remain alert during track and trace

Residents are reminded that official callers from the free Test, Trace, Protect service will never ask you to make a payment or to disclose your personal banking details. Please remain alert for scammers, and report any suspicions to 101 or the Shared Regulatory Service on 0300 123 6696. You can find out more on preventing fraud at the Action Fraud website, while info about track and trace is available at the council website.

Mental health support

A range of support is available for anyone who may be suffering from poor mental health during the pandemic. Visit the council website for links to help and support such as Samaritans Cymru (116 123), Mind Charity (0300 1233393), Welsh Womens Aid (0808 8010800), Calan DVS (01656 766139), Childline (0800 1111), NHS Direct Wales (0845 4647) and more.

Free menstrual products

Pupils who are self-isolating or shielding can claim free menstrual products during the pandemic. With more than 100 children already signed up to the scheme, the council is using funding from Welsh Government to provide a range of both single-use and reusable menstrual products. To take advantage of the free offer, send your name, school and address to PeriodDignity@bridgend.gov.uk

Social care opportunities

More people are being sought to 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.

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 use the webchat on our homepage by clicking the Oggie icon, or to email talktous@bridgend.gov.uk or call 01656 643643.