Latest News from Bridgend County Borough 2 December 2023

Another year of ‘excellent’ sea water quality in Porthcawl

Rest Bay, Trecco Bay and Sandy Bay have all retained the highest classification of ‘excellent’ following the publication of Welsh Government’s water bathing results for 2023.

This means that all three beaches meet Welsh Government’s stringent environmental standards.

Climate Change Minister, Julie James, said: “Wales is recognised internationally as having some of the best beaches and water quality in Europe, and high bathing water quality is vital to continue supporting valuable outdoor water recreation opportunities.

“We will continue to work with local communities and water companies to identify what action is needed to meet and exceed the required standards.”

 

Flu and COVID-19 vaccination reminder

Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board would like to remind eligible residents about the importance of having their COVID-19 and Flu vaccinations.

If you are eligible for a COVID-19 vaccination, and have not yet received it, Community Vaccination Centres will be open to drop ins from Monday 4 December between 9.10am and 4.45pm each day – Monday to Friday.

The centres in Bridgend County Borough are located at Glanrhyd Hospital and Maesteg Hospital. Please note that Maesteg Hospital will be open to walk-ins on a Monday only.

If you are not a health or social care worker and are eligible for the flu vaccine you can make an appointment at your GP or local pharmacy.

Please visit the Public Health Wales website for more information about the eligibility criteria.

 

Last call: Give the gift of joy this Christmas by supporting the Santa Appeal

People across Bridgend County Borough are reminded that this year’s Santa Appeal is due to close on Monday 4 December.

Your donation will ensure that every child and young person in Bridgend County Borough in our care will wake up on Christmas morning with a gift and a reason to smile.

If you would like to help, even just by giving a small donation, please visit Awen’s Just Giving page and make your donation online.

You can also make a card or cash donation at your local Halo sports centre or swimming pool.

If you would prefer to buy a gift and donate that way, please visit the council’s website for a list of secure drop-off points in Awen libraries and our Civic Office building in Angel Street, Bridgend town centre.

Your gift, no matter how small, will make a huge difference to a local child in need.

The closing date for all donations is Monday 4 December 2023.

 

Reminder: Nominations still open for Mayor’s Citizenship Awards 2024 

Residents are reminded that nominations for the council’s Mayor’s Citizenship Awards 2024 are still open.

The awards are an annual opportunity to celebrate the achievements of individuals, groups and organisations that have made an outstanding contribution to life in Bridgend County Borough.

Nominees must live or work locally and have shown the kind of values that make Bridgend great. They might have:

  • Raised an outstanding amount for charity
  • Performed an act of great bravery
  • Regularly gone the extra mile for others
  • Put the local area on the map
  • Achieved something really special over the past 18 months

Please visit the council’s website for more information about the awards and to find out how to make a nomination.

Nominations will close on Friday 12 January 2024.

 

Free period subscriptions still available for all young people in the area

The council would like to remind residents that its trailblazing period dignity initiative is still available to provide free period subscriptions to young people in the area.

The free period subscription programme aims to address the issue of period poverty, ensuring that individuals facing financial hardships have access to essential menstrual products, and removing any barriers to accessing education.

Period poverty remains a pressing concern in many communities, with individuals and families struggling to afford necessary menstrual supplies. Amid the cost-of-living crisis, soaring inflation and rocketing energy bills mean many have been forced to prioritise other household essentials over buying products like pads and tampons.

Anyone under 25 with a Bridgend postcode is eligible. For more information about the free period subscriptions program or to learn how to contribute, please visit the council’s website.