Column for the South Wales Argus

Everyone of us will have a relative, friend or neighbour who is doing something remarkable in these times to help. Whether they work in our treasured NHS, caring for our loved ones or keeping essential services going. Every Thursday night at 8pm we all join neighbours whether on our doorsteps or out of our windows to clap and cheer for those who are putting themselves at risk to help us and those we care for. We must do what we can to help them to save lives. Support them by listening to the advice and stay at home.

We’re all missing family and friends that we can’t see at the moment. Technology has helped with keeping in touch and helped those who can work from home. Over the last few weeks the Welsh Parliament has sat through Easter recess remotely. It’s been an important way to ask questions of the Welsh Government – although a bit strange to be doing that from my dining room! Last week I was able to ask the First Minister about the number of critical beds available in Gwent and how we can support carers through this incredibly difficult time. Young carers specifically often rely on the direct support they receive at school and they are more likely to feel isolated, lonely and overburdened. It’s important that we don’t forget about them.

Social Care staff are hugely important in our society. They continue to care for our most vulnerable in our community. We owe them a huge debt of gratitude. The Welsh Government has announced an extra £40million to support adult social care during the pandemic. The funding will help meet the increased costs of basic Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), food, staffing costs and ICT, which are being incurred by adult social services.

It’s been incredibly frustrating to see many people struggling to access online deliveries from supermarkets. The Welsh Government have provided details of all those on the extremely vulnerable list to all 8 of the major supermarkets in Wales. A shielding letter went to all identified as extremely vulnerable – 85,000 people in Wales. It’s important that the supermarkets do all they can to prioritise those. Work must be done to look at how the wider group of vulnerable people can be helped.

I’m here to help. If you have any questions, issues or suggestions please do not hesitate to get in touch: [email protected] 01633 376627.