Cllr Huw David, Leader of Bridgend County Borough Council, has welcomed the recent announcement from First Minister Mark Drakeford on the payment of £500 for all social care workers.
On 1 May, the First Minister announced a cash bonus to say ‘thank you’ to workers who had carried out frontline duties throughout the pandemic. He has since clarified that the payment will include kitchen workers, cleaners and other staff who work in care homes.
Responding as the Welsh Local Government Association’s (WLGA) Spokesperson for Social Care and Health, Cllr Huw David said: “We are extremely pleased that Welsh Government has managed to find a way forward to give all workers in care home settings this recognition for their key role, and that they are continuing to work with the UK Government and HMRC to try to ensure that every penny of the payment reaches people’s pockets.
“Over the last few months, staff in care homes have shown the utmost dedication to work together as a team to give the best possible care to those who most need it.
“In addition to personal care workers, it is absolutely right that the extra payment is extended to all workers in care home settings, along with personal assistants and domiciliary care workers.
“At such a worrying time and under very tough circumstances, they are doing all they can to wrap a comfort blanket of support and safety around the most vulnerable in our society.
“Their role will continue to be absolutely vital as the response efforts continue.”