Covid-19 update 19 06 20

As the Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic continues, Bridgend County Borough Council is focusing its resources on providing essential services and protecting vulnerable residents. The following information provides a summary of latest developments.

Mural marks hub efforts

Staff and volunteers at Maes yr Haul Primary School have painted a mural to commemorate the last day of operation for local emergency childcare hubs. From Monday 22 June, emergency childcare will be provided by each child’s individual school between 8.30am-4.30pm. The council and its partners would like to thank everyone who has helped make the hubs a fantastic success over the last three months.

Reopening advice for businesses

Following the Welsh Government announcement that non-essential retail shops and businesses can re-open from Monday 22 June if they have social distancing and measures to protect staff and customers, a new online resource has been made available. The online resource provides details on frequently asked questions such as how businesses can change the layout of their premises to help protect staff and customers, whether facemasks need to be worn, what changes shoppers can expect to see, why contactless payment should be encouraged and more. It will be regularly updated as the situation develops further and more national guidance emerges. Access the online resource 'guidance for non essential retail businesses reopening.'

Vans can use recycling centres

From Monday 29 June, vans, trailers and the permit system will all be back in use at community recycling centres. Please note that all materials must be sorted before entering a recycling centre, and only one person is allowed to get out of the vehicle to dispose of the waste. Visit our community recycling centres webpage for more information.

Garden waste service

Residents who wish to sign up to the relaunched garden waste service can now do so. Places are limited and will be provided on a first-come-first-served basis. Visit our garden waste webpage for more information and to sign up online.

Two-bag waste limit

Households are being reminded that they will need to strictly observe the two-bag limit on waste from Monday 29 June. Additional bags were collected in exceptional circumstances while the community recycling centres were temporarily closed, but now that they are open again, the limit is back in place.

Book service extended

Following a successful trial at Pyle Library, the new book-and-collect service is being extended to Aberkenfig Library from Monday 22 June. Library members will be able to request and collect packages of books from a range of specific genres or interests, including crime novels, children’s books, young adult fiction and more. When returned, the books will be quarantined before being put back into circulation to prevent potential exposure to the coronavirus. Find out more on Awen Libraries website.

Sports clubs receive £64,980

Sports clubs have been provided with £64,980 to help them meet the challenges of the Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic. The money has been provided after the council reconfigured its Bridgend Sports Support Fund - part of the community asset transfer process – in order to provide clubs with immediate financial aid. It has enabled clubs to apply for grants of up to £1,000 to assist with day-to-day operating costs and other related expenditure designed to encourage participation, growth and improvement in sport, and follows a recent decision not to charge clubs for using outdoor sports facilities for the 2019-20 season.

Preparing for pupils

The council is working alongside each school to support their preparations for the ‘Check In, Catch Up – Prepare For Summer And September’ sessions which will begin on Monday 29 June. In line with latest guidance from Public Health Wales and Welsh Government, increased cleaning and social distancing procedures will be in place alongside various control measures. Handwashing and strong hygiene practices will be promoted and encouraged throughout the day, and hand-sanitiser will be available. Parents, guardians and carers are urged to make sure their children understand the importance of washing their hands regularly, including before leaving home, on arrival at school, after using the toilet, following breaks and physical activities, before eating, before leaving school and again as soon as they return home.

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. Find out more or apply for social care roles online.

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.