Business support tops £20.8m
Business grant funding issued by Bridgend County Borough Council as part of Welsh Government’s Covid-19 business support package has topped more than £20.8m. With 1,636 applications from local firms processed to date, the support is being made available to businesses who 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. Applications can be made by completing the online form. Please note that to avoid delays in processing claims, it is vital for all applicants to provide accurate, essential information, including copies of bank statements showing bank details.
New app seeks to help fight Covid-19
Welsh Government and NHS Wales are urging people to download a COVID Symptom Tracker app to support the NHS response to Covid-19. The app is designed to track the spread of the virus, build up a clearer picture of how the virus is affecting people, and provide early indications of where future hospital admissions are likely to be focused.
Warning on vandalism, arson and other criminal activity
Bridgend County Borough Council is warning that action will be taken against anyone found to be committing criminal acts such as vandalism, fly-tipping, arson and more during the Covid-19 coronavirus outbreak. It follows several minor incidents around school sites which are under investigation, a rise in the amount of fly-tipped waste that the authority is clearing, grass fires in the Llynfi Valley and the seizure of several off-road vehicles by South Wales Police. With the county-borough wide CCTV system still in operation to support South Wales Fire and Rescue Service and South Wales Police, members of the public are being urged to report suspicious or criminal behaviour immediately by calling the police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Homeless support
A range of support for homeless people is in place for homeless people during the coronavirus pandemic. 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 [email protected] or 01656 643643. Four pods designed to help rough sleepers stay safe while self-isolating have also been provided and are in use near projects run by The Wallich and housing association Pobl, who are offering 24/7 support for the individuals using them.
Help with finding work
Employability Bridgend are continuing to offer help and support for people who are looking for additional work or new job opportunities during the Covid-19 coronavirus outbreak. They 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, and have supported people to find work in areas such as social care, retail and distribution. To find out more, call 01656 815317 or email [email protected].
Emergency childcare applications
Applications have closed for emergency childcare between Monday 27 April – Friday 1 May. Anyone who has already submitted an application in advance for next week will not need to re-apply. People who have applied for emergency childcare, but no longer need the care are being asked to inform the council by emailing [email protected] as staff are volunteering to run the settings according to demand. It remains the local authority’s strong advice that parents should keep their children at home unless absolutely necessary.
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 [email protected] or call 01656 643643.