Thank you all for your efforts 

In so many ways this has been a tough few weeks. The actions taken in response to Covid-19 have placed a whole series of social, economic and emotional demands on us all. While the virus has not gone away we can see the number of cases falling and for that I want to thank all those who have followed the advice.

Easing the restrictions

The problems with the virus are not yet finished and there is a long way to go on the Welsh Government’s route map as we move from the “lockdown” back towards some more normal times. 

However the most recent review of the regulations has seen the opportunity provided to visit family in our local area, to exercise more and to start planning for the return of schools/colleges and more retail activity at the end of the month.

Schools

Throughout the “stay at home” period hub schools continued to open for the children of key workers and vulnerable children. The Welsh Government has now announced that local schools can plan to receive more children.

Children are being invited to be ready for a “check in, catch up and prepare for the Summer and September”. I have my fingers crossed that the cases of the virus continue to fall and that children can take advantage of this opportunity. It will not be school as we knew it before lockdown as there will be staggered timings, and social distancing in schools but I do believe it will be beneficial for children to have a school-based experience again.

I know that local councils and individual schools are now carrying out the detailed work required to identify the numbers who can be accommodated, and all the practical plans for arriving, leaving and moving around on individual school premises. Some children will not be able to take advantage of this so schools will also be making plans for those children who cannot attend school.

Civic Amenity Waste Sites   

Councils were able to re-open the waste sites and with the Rhymney site open that is another step in restoring services closed as the virus spread in our communities. Please check Caerphilly County Borough Council’s website for all the latest information on opening times etc.

Buses etc 

I know that as more people return to work and activities like routine NHS appointments increase and shops reopen then we will face issues with our buses. The infection means that buses cannot carry the same numbers as before and the costs associated with services increase as there is reduced revenue etc. I am in discussion with Welsh ministers and transport providers about the most practical solutions to these new problems.  

Use the NHS

Finally a reminder that our NHS is not closed! Indeed I have myself used it for an x-ray in recent weeks. It is important that if you are feeling unwell or your health condition deteriorates that you contact your doctor for a discussion and referral if necessary. And emergency services continue to operate.

So fingers crossed that in the next few weeks we continue to see progress in tackling the virus. On the whole I believe the cautious approach taken in Wales is bringing benefits, but there will always be judgements to be made by our political leaders and by ourselves about our own behaviour. But for each week that we can restrict the passing of the virus from person to person the better I believe it will be in the longer term. 

Take care and get in touch if you need any help or advice

Dawn.bowden@senedd.wales

01685 386672