Covid-19 update from Bridgend County Borough 06 07 2020

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.

‘Stay local’ restrictions ease

Guidance restricting Welsh residents from travelling further than five miles from their homes has now been lifted as preparations begin for the tourism sector to reopen later in the month. Providing there is no resurgence in the number of people displaying symptoms of Covid-19, Welsh Government is planning to allow pubs, restaurants and cafes to open outdoors from 13 July as long as they can maintain social distancing and other measures designed to protect customers and minimise potential exposure to the coronavirus – look out for more details soon.

Countryside code amended

As travel restrictions ease, Welsh Government has amended the countryside code to take account of the coronavirus pandemic. People visiting the countryside are now being asked to plan ahead by checking what facilities are open, to always follow pandemic advice and local signage giving details of temporary arrangements, and to obey social distancing rules and hand hygiene procedures. People should also respect the local community while enabling others to also enjoy the outdoors, and to park carefully so that access to gateways and driveways remain clear. Gates and property should always be left as found, and people should give way to others when following paths and leave no trace of their visit. All litter should be taken home, dogs kept under control and dog fouling disposed of responsibly. Finally, no open fires should be lit, and care must always be taken if using a barbeque.

Outdoor attractions to reopen

Outdoor attractions can now open as long as they maintain social distancing requirements and can operate safely, but indoor attractions must remain closed until further notice. The latest changes also allow people from two separate households to join together to form an extended household, but please consider what risks may be involved, who would benefit most from support, and how you will self-isolate in the event someone develops coronavirus symptoms.

Last few training places available

Employability Bridgend are encouraging any local businesses who may benefit from free training to help prepare for reopening to get in touch. There are a few limited places left for the online Covid-19 awareness sessions, which finish on 14 July, along with a limited number of free anti-sneeze screens to help protect staff and shoppers from potential exposure to the virus. Call 01656 643428 or email employability@bridgend.gov.uk to find out more or to book a place.

Support grants are available

A range of financial grants remain available to help start-up businesses, third sector organisations and more in Bridgend County Borough. For further details, please visit the council’s coronavirus business support page at the council website.

Visitor economy guidance

Businesses working in the visitor economy sector can access guidance on current requirements and legal restrictions related to the ongoing pandemic. Designed to support businesses with their preparations for reopening, the guidance is in line with latest national advice and is being regularly updated as the situation develops further.

Covid-19 advice for businesses and staff

The Healthy Working Wales website is supporting employers and staff by offering business-related pandemic information from UK Government, Welsh Government, Public Health Wales and NHS Direct Wales. With specific guidance available for people working in retail, manufacturing, food and meat packing facilities, sports and recreation, animal businesses, creative industries, forestry businesses and tourism, further sector-specific guidance will soon be added to cover areas such as offices, call centres, construction, staff who work in other people’s homes, the use of vehicles at work and more.

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.          

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.