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NEWYDDION Council News Spring 2019 Issue 54

www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru 01766 771000 cyngorgwyneddcouncil @cyngorgwynedd cyngorgwyneddcouncil Welcome support for families Families from across Gwynedd and beyond are benefitting from the new Hafan y Sêr facility which offers specialist respite care for children with complex needs.

The purpose-built facility in offers overnight care for disabled children and includes modern rooms, a recreational open space, sensory equipment, computer facilities and an enclosed garden.

Hafan y Sêr offers parents the peace of mind that their children are having an enjoyable time during their overnight breaks.

Could you help a disabled child? Of course, there are many other disabled children that can benefit from respite care but who don’t necessarily need the specialist support offered at Hafan y Sêr. The Council has set-up the ‘Amser Ni’ project to help these children too, and wants to hear from anyone who has a passion and keen interest to assist disabled children and their families.

In particular, the Council is eager to hear from volunteers who could take a child on a day-out, accompany a family on their weekly shop or even offer support in the family home. The Council is also keen to hear from potential foster carers who could offer overnight care for short breaks.

Anyone who would like to find out more about the scheme are urged to contact the ‘Amser Ni’ team on 01286 674686 or email [email protected] l Cameron, Jac and Rhys with Alaw Dobson and Natalie McDonnell at Hafan y Sêr A financial plan to protect services Gwynedd councillors have approved a financial strategy “After a thorough public consultation process, councillors from for the coming year which will protect key services that are across the political groups came together to weigh-up all the important to local people. This comes despite a reduction feedback and comments presented. The financial strategy in the funding received from the government to pay for that has now been agreed by councillors is a genuine attempt services. to balance the need to tackle the funding gap whilst also protecting the services that are so important to the people of 29p Despite over a decade of having to deliver savings, once again Gwynedd. from the Council the annual grant from the which makes up Tax you pay 71% of the Council’s budget is not enough to meet the growing “I am pleased that we have been able to set a Council Tax cost of services such as social care and education. Because of increase for 2019/20 that is amongst the lowest in north this, Gwynedd must deal with a shortfall of nearly £13 million in and below the average for the 22 Welsh councils.” 2019/20. 71p Looking to the future, Councillor Jenkins added: “Careful long- To address this 2019/20 funding gap, councillors have agreed to term financial planning by the Council has meant that we have from the Welsh deliver £2.45 million of scheduled savings plus further savings been able to protect Gwynedd’s communities from the worst Government grant of £2.73 million which it is hoped will not have a negative effect effects of austerity. However, we have now reached the very on residents. limit of what is possible without having to resort to deep service cuts which would have far-reaching negative implications for Even then, the scale of the shortfall means that these savings the people and communities of Gwynedd. alone are not enough to bridge the gap. Having considered the views presented by local people in two recent public “To avoid this nightmare scenario, we are urging the consultations, councillors have opted for a 5.8% Council Tax government to provide financial fair play for Welsh councils Out of every £1 in the Gwynedd Council increase rather than further painful cuts to frontline services. from next year onwards.” budget, the majority comes from an annual This means that Council Tax bills for an average (Band D) property will increase by £1.46p per week. grant from the Welsh Government, with the remainder coming from Council Tax. “Following years of insufficient funding from the government, l To find out how your views have shaped Gwynedd’s the financial situation facing the Council is now critical,” said budget, turn to page 8 Councillor Peredur Jenkins, Gwynedd Council Cabinet Member l For information about paying your Council Tax and the help on-offer for those finding it difficult to pay, turn to page 9 for Finance. l For a breakdown of the Council Tax for your , turn to page 10. Spring 2019 NEWYDDION

A word from the Cabinet What’s on in Gwynedd this spring?

20-22 Ardudwy Knights and Easter 11 Gwŷl Fwyd food SEPTEMBERMARCH Egg Hunt, festival Storiel, Bangor 11am-4pm The festival has firmly established itself The Women, War & Peace exhibition by Step back in time with the Ardudwy as a popular event, with thousands of photographer Lee Karen Stow will be on- knights to find the hidden Easter eggs. people attending in 2018. There are show until 27 April. The Quarry Women www..gov.wales numerous stalls offering top quality exhibition - a collaborative exploration food and drink, cookery demonstrations, of the quarry women of the past, present 22 Dragon’s Easter Egg Quest, freshly prepared food and live and future, will open on 13 April. The entertainment. l The Hafod y Gest extra care housing diverse Open Art exhibition will also Join the keeper of the castle to discover www.gwylfwydcaernarfon.cymru development has recently opened its doors open on 13 April. the dragon’s lair and earn a chocolate www.storiel.cymru Easter egg prize! 12 Caernarfon 5K Race for Life www.cadw.gov.wales Raising valuable funds for life saving I have been a member of the Council’s Executive Board APRILAPRIL research. Start time 11am - Coed Helen. and Cabinet since 2008, initially as the member for the MAYMAY www.raceforlife.org Environment and then responsible for Care matters for the 6 Race the Train, Bala Lake Railway past four years. As I step down from the Cabinet at the end 6 Wales Coastal Path Festival, Stand-up paddleboarders and boats will 17-19 Rail Ale of the month, I am pleased to be handing over the reins at a be racing the train along the length of This festival offers a wide selection of time when several exciting initiatives to improve care services 9am - 6pm Llyn Tegid. You can travel on the train to real ales and cider with excellent music, for local people are being realised. Seven walks starting and ending at follow the race. good food and of course steam trains! Porthmadog to celebrate seven years The fact that more and more people in Gwynedd are living www.bala-lake-railway.co.uk Dinas Station, Caernarfon. since the launch of the Coastal Path to a ripe old age is good news. However, old age has its www.festrail.co.uk implications of course, and supporting an increasing number 19-22 Easter Egg Hunt, Bala Lake opening. Routes vary in terms of length and challenge. of older people in the county to live independently in their Railway 18-19 Slateman Triathlon, www.ramblers.org.uk communities is a priority and challenge, especially as the The challenge is to find all the Easter The race offers a unique mix of incredible purse strings tighten and demand rises with every passing eggs the White Rabbit has hidden scenery and challenge with a carnival 11 Bala Challenge Charity Walk year. We must find ways of making the money go further by around the railway. atmosphere that makes all feel welcome. Join the Bala & Penllyn Rotary Club on a changing an innovating how we provide the support. www.bala-lake-railway.co.uk www.alwaysaimhighevents.com scenic or challenge walk. Three different One example of this was when I visited the new extra care 20-22 Easter Egg Hunt, Llanberis routes available. housing development at Porthmadog which offers dedicated Lake Railway www.rotarygbi.org All events listed correct at time of publishing independent flats for people over 55 years old. The Hafod y Search for the Easter eggs which are Gest development - in partnership with Grŵp Cynefin - is the hidden around the railway and stations. latest of its kind in the county, and several local people have www.lake-railway.co.uk already settled there.

Following developments in Bala and Bangor, Hafod y Gest is 21 Easter Bunny Trail, Talyllyn the third extra care housing scheme in the county, and work Railway is underway looking at similar developments at and Come and meet the Easter Bunny, who in . will be hiding clues for you to find. www.talyllyn.co.uk Another aspect of this work is the significant steps we have recently taken to support people with dementia to receive 21 Easter Egg Hunt, Castle care close to their loved ones, by developing dedicated units 11am-4pm within some of the Council’s residential homes. By the end of Find the colourful eggs which will be the summer, units will be in place at , , hidden around the castle. Bangor and , and our hope is to be able to build on this There will be a chocolate success in other areas including and , Easter egg prize! when funding will be available. l Gwŷl Fwyd Caernarfon food festival www.cadw.gov.wales There has been a clear shift over the past few years to strengthen the relationship, and to remove the unnecessary If you would like more information about events in Gwynedd or to let us know about any event in your barriers, between Health and Care. In this regard, I have sat local area, visit: www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/events You can also receive more information regularly about on the Regional Partnership Board, and in fact local events in Gwynedd by following us on Twitter: @CyngorGwynedd or liking our Facebook page: chaired it for the past two years. By joint planning we can www.facebook.com/CyngorGwyneddCouncil. develop modern services that ensure that the support given meets the needs and aspirations of the individuals who receive it.

A striking example of this modernisation is the Hwb Arfon project, where adults with learning disabilities gain work A plan for the future Preparing experience and training which equips them for employment opportunities and essential life skills. The Council has published a revised version of its Plan for the period up to Wales The individuals there get an opportunity to work in the café 2023. at the Arfon Leisure Centre - through the opportunities and On 29 March, the UK is due to leave the European Union. support the individuals have, they develop confidence and This working document sets out the are able to make a valuable contribution while developing Council’s direction for the years ahead, As part of the preparations, the Council has been skills that will be of great benefit to them in their everyday outlines the work already achieved and lives. working with its partners to identify possible how the authority plans to continue to risks of a No Deal EU Exit on the Council services This is a positive difference that I have seen during my time deliver for the people of Gwynedd over the we provide for local people, and any action that in the Cabinet. The time for continuous and unnecessary care, coming years. can be taken to reduce those risks. which can create dependency, is coming to an end. The new emphasis on wellbeing and the individual’s true needs by A copy of the revised plan is available on More information about the Wales-wide taking their wishes into account is a breath of fresh air for the the Council website preparations, including what you can do to get service area. www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/councilplan ready are available on and paper copies are also available from www.gov.wales/preparingwales Councillor Gareth Roberts the Council’s Siop Gwynedd one-stop-shops at Caernarfon, Gwynedd Council Cabinet Member for Care Dolgellau and Pwllheli as well as the Council’s libraries. *Details correct at the time of print

02 Gwynedd Council NEWYDDION Spring 2019

Your ‘Gwobr y Bangor Recycling Centre Team Neil Claybrook, Pwllheli Street Cleaner The welcoming team at the Bangor Recycling Centre on the Neil Claybrook is a Gwynedd Council street cleaner in the industrial estate are obviously a popular crew Pwllheli area. A number of local people were keen to draw Bobl’ winners with numerous local residents nominating them for their attention to his hard work in keeping the area tidy. dedication. revealed Residents who nominated Neil said that his work is truly Local people were keen to point out the extra efforts appreciated by the local community and that he goes the Gwobr y Bobl recognises the hard work and the team go to make their visit to the recycling centre as extra mile in his duties. dedication of those individual Council staff convenient as possible - and always do so with a smile on members and teams who the people of Gwynedd their faces. These are just some of the comments submitted about Neil’s want to recognise for their exceptional service. work:

This year has seen a record number of nominations “Street cleaner extraordinaire. Neil picks up rubbish off from local people for the ‘Gwobr y Bobl’ award. Thank the streets in his sleep, even when he’s not on duty or at you to everyone who took the time to show their work.” appreciation.

After careful consideration of all the nominations, “As well as working hard, he always manages to smile and Gwynedd Council Chair, Councillor Anwen Hughes has is very polite. He is always happy to help and is a grafter. chosen two winning entries who will receive the 2019 He does a great job of keeping Pwllheli clean - a credit to Gwobr y Bobl award in recognition of the outstanding the Council!” service they provide to the people of Gwynedd.

“Despite the unprecedented financial challenges l David Roberts, Chris Thomas and Dylan Williams from the facing public service, it is so pleasing to know that the Bangor recycling centre efforts of so many Council staff members and teams are appreciated by residents across Gwynedd,” said Here’s what some of you had to say about the team’s efforts: Councillor Anwen Hughes. “I have mental health problems and went there for the “Hearing some of the inspirational stories submitted first time recently. My anxiety was sky high and they from members of the public confirms that our staff helped me by reassuring me there was no rush and are committed to putting the people of Gwynedd at showing where everything goes. I now feel confident to the heart of everything they do. go again should I need, without anxieties as I know what to expect and how approachable they are should I need to “I’d like to thank everyone who took part and to thank ask for help. Diolch!” all the staff who have been nominated.

“In the end the number of nominations received for “They’re such a welcoming and friendly team who go the the winning entries confirmed that there is a extra mile to help. They make it easy to recycle and help deep appreciation for their work and that they people no matter what their age, sex or ability. They’re often go that second mile as part of their such a so hard-working team.” l Neil Claybrook with his family daily work. Many congratulations to them.”

Begin your career path here in Gwynedd Are you looking to start your career in Gwynedd? You scheme will obviously offer equal opportunities for all, we might be interested to know that the Council will shortly hope that the apprentices offer the chance for more women be recruiting up to 20 brand-new apprentices to work in to develop careers in science and technology roles as well as various roles with the authority. allowing the opportunity for men to develop successful career paths in sectors like social care. Over the coming months, Gwynedd Council is looking to appoint new apprentices in a range of areas including “Through this scheme, the Council will provide apprentices information technology, civil engineering, social care, leisure with the experience of working side by side with specialist and fitness, business and administration and customer service officers, as well as ensuring opportunities to develop skills and posts. qualifications at work.

“We’re proud to be able to offer apprenticeship opportunities,” “It will provide a fantastic basis for people looking to follow a said Councillor Nia Jeffreys, Gwynedd Cabinet Member for professional career here in Gwynedd and contribute towards Corporate Support. our aim of ensuring high quality job opportunities for people with the Council.” “By investing in people through this scheme, we aim to provide the best opportunities for people to achieve their full Why become an apprentice? potential here in Gwynedd. Earn as you learn 4 “As a Council, we want to lead the way by offering quality How to apply? Gain practical work experience 4 apprenticeships which allow staff to train and develop their The Council will be recruiting the apprentices in the coming skills and to develop expertise through the .” Work alongside experienced professionals 4 months. To make sure you get the latest information, sign- up to receive latest update on Secure invaluable professional qualifications 4 The Council has identified specific areas where they will offer www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/apprenticeships opportunities for apprentices to train and develop their skills as they work. Alternatively, follow the Council’s social media accounts for jobs: Councillor Jeffreys added: “The apprenticeships also offer us @SwyddiCyngorGwynedd @SwyddiGwynedd the chance to challenge traditional stereotypes. Whilst the

Gwynedd Council 03 Spring 2019 NEWYDDION

Helping Gwynedd’s older people live better lives at home Home care workers provide a lifeline for many older and vulnerable residents in Gwynedd so that they can live at home as independently as possible. Community resource teams The contact details for the five new teams are: Over the past two years, Gwynedd Council and the Local Health Board have been working to develop the way home care is delivered so that the support is focused on helping older people to live their Bangor lives in the way they want. 1 Llŷn Team - 01758 704099 3 [email protected] Pilot projects providing more tailored support for individuals have been set-up all over the county to Caernarfon Bethesda test this new way of working. The new model brings together all the people and agencies involved in 2 2 supporting people to work more effectively at the local level. Caernarfon Team - 01286 679099 Llanberis OedolionCaernarfon@ Why change? gwynedd.llyw.cymru Blaenau About 1,000 people in Gwynedd receive home Ffes�niog care from the Council or another care provider. Nefyn 4 But the demand for these services is far higher 1 3 Porthmadog than the number of home care workers available Bangor Team - Criccieth and is rising steeply in Gwynedd as it is across 01248 363240 YBala OedolionBangor@ Pwllheli Harlech the country. gwynedd.llyw.cymru As a result, there are frequently people who • people will be supported before their needs 5 are at home without the care they require or become critical needlessly in hospital or a residential home. 4 • people will be more involved in the design Eifionydd/north Meirionnydd Team - Barmouth Dolgellau and delivery of their support 01766 510300 Traditionally, home care support has focused on • stronger partnerships and joint working OedolionEifionydd/ GogMeirionnydd@ gwynedd.llyw.cymru completing specific tasks at specific times of day will happen between all agencies and the within allocated timeslots. This way of working individual leaves little time to listen and understand what 5 South Meirionnydd team - 01341 424499 Tywyn really matters to the individual, and to realise [email protected] what kind of support they really need. So, what’s the way forward? Over the next few months the Council and its As part of efforts to tackle this problem, partners will be working towards developing a the Welsh Government has passed a Social Care tailored to your needs different approach to improve services for older Services and Well-being Act (2014) that allows people through: and encourages key organisations and those requiring care to work together to do things Tailored Home Care at a local level - this will differently. mean that home care providers will have the flexibility to focus on what matters to each What does the new act say? individual and to work with them to achieve this.

The Welsh Government, local Councils and Health Setting up Local Community Resource Teams Boards want to make care and support the - five Community Resource Teams have been best it can be for people in Wales. They want to established (see map) to deliver a range of help people live the life they choose, and stay coordinated health and care services within the independent for longer. community. This will help make sure that care is arranged quickly and appropriately, with health The new law changes the way councils and care care workers, social care workers, home care services work. It says that: l Elizabeth Hassall with home carer Fiona Owen workers, families, communities and the individuals themselves working together more effectively. Elizabeth Hassall has been part of the “I have a hearing assistance dog that • people will have a stronger voice and control pilot in the Porthmadog area. I can’t take for a walk unfortunately, over the services they receive, and that what but the carers go out of their way to matters to the individual is central to their For more information about this project, “I’ve been receiving care for about five help. care please go to years. I broke my hip and it’s made • people will be supported to achieve their own www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/HomeCare2020 walking very difficult ever since,” said “The care is first class - I get the care I well-being, and helped to do what matters to or contact the Home Care Project Team on Mrs Hassall. need not what is just given to me.” them 01286 679577.

Help to find an affordable home Are you looking to buy or to rent an including neighbouring councils and local available in their area. affordable house in Gwynedd? housing associations. “A number of Gwynedd families have If you are struggling to find an affordable “Securing suitable affordable housing successfully used the scheme to find a property locally, you may wish to join the for Gwynedd residents is a top priority new home since it was launched in 2018, hundreds of people who have registered for us,” said Councillor Craig ab Iago, the and I would encourage any one who is on the new Tai Teg website. Cabinet Member who leads on Housing looking for an affordable house to rent or on Gwynedd Council. buy to register on the Tai Teg website.” The Tai Teg website offers help to find an affordable home for local people at a “The Tai Teg scheme is a simple way of Since the register was set up in April price that is lower than the market value ensuring that residents looking for an 2018, more than a hundred people across For more information on how to register in order to be to rent or buy. The scheme is supported affordable property to rent or buy are north Wales have been helped to find an considered for an ownership plan or to rent, or to see the by Gwynedd Council and several partners, informed as soon as possible of what is affordable home to buy or to rent. property available, go to www.taiteg.org.uk

04 Gwynedd Council NEWYDDION Spring 2019

Investing in Ysgol Godre’r Berwyn Preparations are nearing completion on the £10.27 million community school that will open in Y Bala in September. Ysgol education Godre’r Berwyn will cater for pupils from three to 18 years of age. Over recent years, Gwynedd Council has worked hard to secure significant funding Bethan Emyr Jones began in the role of strategic head in January to ensure that pupils in communities across and pupils who will be attending from September have started the county have access to the very best l Work has recently got underway on the to visit the site and are already making use of the new modern educational facilities. new Ysgol y Garnedd school building learning environment at the school.

Together with funds from the Welsh Bangor primary education The campus is also home to a number of community facilities Government’s 21st Century Schools Programme, including the town’s library, ‘Neuadd Derek Williams’ hall and Construction work recently got underway on a major project to Gwynedd has invested tens of millions of pounds ‘Stiwdio Buddug James’ as they have been named in tribute to two develop a brand new building for Ysgol y Garnedd in Bangor. to improve school buildings and construct brand- who worked tirelessly in promoting cultural activities in the area - This forms part of a wider £12.7 million project to re-organise new facilities for Gwynedd’s schoolchildren. have already hosted a number of local community events. primary education in the city.

“We are determined to make sure that Gwynedd’s l Improvements will include a purpose-built new home for y Local pupils recently had the chance to visit young people - wherever they live and go to Garnedd on a site near the current school building. The new the new facilities at Ysgol Godre’r Berwyn school - are able to fully realise their potential,” building which will cater for up to 420 pupils is expected to open said Councillor Gareth Thomas, Gwynedd’s its doors in September 2020. Cabinet Member for Education. Proposals are also moving along to extend the school building at “As part of this vision, we are proud that we have nearby Ysgol y Faenol, with work due to start this summer. As part of been able to invest Council funding as well as the exciting proposals, there will be 315 places at the school, as well securing Welsh Government funding to deliver as a brand-new Penrhosgarnedd Community Centre. The extended modern learning environments for our pupils Ysgol y Faenol is expected to open its doors in January 2021. despite the hugely challenging financial context.”

Is your family entitled to free childcare?

Are you the parent of a three or four year-old? If you’re a working parent, you could be entitled to 30 hours a week of early education and childcare.

A Welsh Government-funded scheme, which is administered locally by a specialist team of Gwynedd Council staff, helps parents apply and find childcare providers. Who can benefit from the childcare offer?

Since the scheme was launched in Gwynedd in September The Welsh Government-funded scheme offers 30 hours 2017, more than 1,400 Gwynedd three and four year-olds a week of early education and childcare. It is available to have benefitted, saving a total of £2.6 million in childcare working parents of three and four year-olds for up to 48 costs for parents. weeks of the year. To be eligible:

“Securing good, affordable child care is one of the most n your child must be aged three or four and is able to access important issues facing young families,” said Councillor part time Foundation Phase Education, Dilwyn Morgan, Gwynedd Cabinet Member for Children and n you work and earn the equivalent of at least 16 hours at Young People. national living wage or national minimum wage; or are in receipt of specific caring benefits. l Craig and Ella with Siwan and Caio “This childcare scheme means parents know that they can return to work safe in the knowledge that their child is in Help is at-hand good hands. “It’s made a world of difference” Information about applying for the childcare offer in Ella Jones and Craig Hughes live in Caernarfon with their “Since the scheme was launched in Gwynedd, a specialist Gwynedd is available on the Council website children Caio and Siwan. They currently benefit from the team of Council staff has been working with the childcare www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/30hours childcare offer for both Caio who is four and three-year-old sector to ensure that working families make the most of Siwan. the help available. So far, more than 150 Gwynedd childcare providers have signed-up to the scheme. “Applying for the childcare offer was a really straightforward process, but it was good to know that there “This important scheme has significantly reduced the was help available over the phone if we needed it,” said Ella financial burden that childcare can bring and has allowed who works for the Youth Justice Service. numerous parents to return to work. As a Council, we would urge any families who believe that they could benefit to get “For us as a family, the scheme has made a world of in touch with the team so that they can help them apply.” difference - childcare costs have reduced dramatically as we’re entitled to claim for both children at the moment.

“It’s improved our quality of life, and the extra money has l Staff from the Childcare Unit meant we’re able to spend a little bit extra to do things as a family on the weekends.

Parents or child care providers in Gwynedd who require “I’d encourage any parent that’s entitled to apply for the further information are welcome to contact the Gwynedd Childcare Offer - if the help is there for families it’s so & Childcare Unit on email: 30hourchildcare@ important that we make the most of it.” gwynedd.llyw.cymru or call 01248 352436.

Gwynedd Council 05 Spring 2019 NEWYDDION

Slate is the new black Generating a ripple effect As part of the wider work to celebrate “There is a huge range of LleCHI projects heritage, the Council and its partners in the pipeline including some to raise is developing a project to ensure that local awareness of the historical industrial communities make the most of the buzz buildings dotted around the area, surrounding the slate area. community arts projects, business support events and opportunities to collate local Gwynedd Council has secured over £500,000 history and people’s stories from the in funding through various sources, including slateworks.” the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Cronfa Eryri, Arloesi Gwynedd Wledig and the Councillor Ioan Thomas added: “We are Council itself to develop the “LleCHI” Great also excited about the Youth Ambassadors’ Places project, to ensure communities can programme, where young people will be given benefit - whatever the outcome of the the chance to play a role in their community’s UNESCO bid. (LleCHI is a play on words involvement in the different schemes. encompassing the Welsh words for ‘’ and ‘your place’) “Young people will learn about local history and be the voice of their town or village “It’s important that the bid doesn’t become a when ideas are being shaped. They will also conversation purely between the Council, the have the opportunity to report back to their l quarry Government and UNESCO,” said Councillor school and local area as things take shape. Ioan Thomas, Gwynedd Council’s Cabinet It is a great opportunity for them personally Member for economy. “The effects should as well as for the community they represent Gaining international recognition, and proud to this day - it’s amazing to see terraced ripple through the whole community. and for the over-arching project.” protection, for the slate producing areas of houses, royal palaces and everything in north-west Wales is coming ever closer. between the world over are still roofed with Welsh slate. This nomination celebrates Another significant step towards gaining the industry’s place in history and will help UNESCO World Heritage Site Status for the protect and promote the remains of the home of the Welsh slate industry was taken works.” in October 2018, when the UK Government announced that the bid was its preferred The announcement that the Slate Landscape nomination to be presented to UNESCO for of north-west Wales is the UK Government’s consideration. preferred nomination for UNESCO status was made in during a Parliamentary Reception for Regular readers of ‘Newyddion’ may the bid at Westminster last autumn. remember the coverage of the bid, and what it would mean to the region. A growing The final bid will be presented to UNESCO in l A community event was recently held in heritage tourism industry could bring millions the autumn and a final decision is expected in as part of the LleCHI project of pounds to the local economy, create the summer of 2021. hundreds of jobs and the status could elevate the region and its historical significance in the For more information about the bid, visit eyes of the rest of the world. www.llechi.cymru and for all the updates Town centre improvements about the nomination, follow the project “I think local people would agree that there on social media: The Council has also been successful in renovation of shops and other properties should be greater understanding of the attracting £500,000 for a town centre within these towns. importance of the slate-producing areas in @LlechiCymru loan scheme which is currently operating terms of industry and export,” explained in Bethesda and Penygroes to provide For more information, visit Councillor Ioan Thomas, Gwynedd Council’s @LlechiCymruWalesSlate a boost to businesses within those www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/ Cabinet Member for economic development. communities. financialassistance or contact the @LlechiCymruWalesSlate Business Support Team on “The legacy of the Gwynedd quarries stands The loan provides finance to support the 01286 679231.

A new beginning for leisure centres From April, Gwynedd • new classes for adults included within the Council’s new Direct Debit membership package, such company, Byw’n Iach as swimming lessons and social sports Cyf, will manage the sessions; county’s 12 leisure • a new Excellence Card offering free access centres. to facilities for budding Gwynedd athletes competing on the international stage. Both new and regular users of the county’s To find out more about Byw’n Iach and the leisure centres can expect to receive the same wide-range of activities at your local leisure high level of service from the welcoming staff centre, please visit the new when the new Byw’n Iach service is launched www.bywniach.cymru website. Over the as well as a number of improvements and coming months, more and more features l Byw’n Iach managing director Amanda Davies (second from right) with some of the company’s additions including: will be added to the website including board members, Councillor Jason Parry, Councillor Beth Lawton and Councillor Dewi Owen fitness blogs, videos and -fit plans. • a wide-range of Byw’n Iach membership protect leisure services for the future whilst mean the Council will make financial savings packages to suit all interests, ages and The decision to set-up a new company - Byw’n delivering annual savings of up to £500,000. at the same time as it ensures the same level abilities; Iach - has been made as part of efforts to Establishing the arms-length company will of service for Gwynedd residents.

06 Gwynedd Council NEWYDDION Spring 2019

‘Appy parking with apGwynedd apGwynedd: making life easier If you have a smartphone or a tablet computer 4 Access a number of other services such as paying for have you downloaded the free ‘apGwynedd’ school dinners or check recycling services app yet? 4 Search for planning applications It’s a quick and safe way to access everyday services such as buying your parking season ticket. 4 You’ll soon be able to track your Council Tax bill (see page 9) “A parking season ticket makes life so much easier if you’re a regular user of Gwynedd Council-run carparks,” explained Councillor Dafydd Meurig, Gwynedd Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for parking. Gwynedd online “Whether you’re out and about running errands or want somewhere to park while you’re at work, with a Gwynedd Parking Ticket you may park in long-stay carparks* and those services who are over 60 years old may park in short-stay carparks for However you go online, Gwynedd Council two hours*. services are safe, secure and easy to use: 4 If you have a smartphone or a tablet “Buying a Gwynedd Parking Ticket can often work out cheaper computer (such as an iPad or Tab) than paying each time you park up. For example, if you were to - go to the Apple App Store or Android Play Store and pay to park for two hours in a long-stay carpark twice a week, download the free ‘apGwynedd’ app; you’d be spending £208 a year whereas the annual ticket costs £125, that’s over £80 cheaper. You’d save even more if you were 4 On your laptop or home computer, go to parking every day or for longer. Six month tickets are available www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/MyAccount and follow the for £67.50 too. instructions;

“And of course it spares having to scrabble around for change, 4 Don’t forget that there are free public computers at especially if you’re in a rush to get to work or an appointment all Gwynedd Council libraries. on time.” Don’t currently use online services? Help is at hand! Applying and paying for the parking season ticket through Pop over to your nearest Siop Gwynedd (Pwllheli, the app is seamless. Unlike the previous system, you can Dolgellau or Caernarfon) and the staff can show you how do the whole process online - including payment - on your to set up an account. Or telephone the Council on smartphone or tablet whenever suits you. Simply go to the 01766 771000 and one of our customer care staff app > Make a request > More services > Parking | Travel > l You can check where you can use the Gwynedd Parking can talk you through how to get stated on your own Gwynedd Parking Ticket Ticket and the location of all Council pay and display car- computer or smartphone. *terms and conditions apply parks using the online map on Gwynedd’s website

Working towards a greener Gwynedd Over the past decade or so, the efforts of Gwynedd residents together with positive changes to the way we collect and process Garden waste recycling and waste has seen recycling levels almost double across the county. We’d like to thank you for your efforts and hope even more households do their bit as we work together towards a greener Gwynedd and the Welsh Government’s 70% recycling target for 2025. Here are some of the highlights over recent years: collections With spring almost upon us, many Opening the of you might well have been GwyriAD busy tidying your gardens and Opening Recycling facility to treat Centres at: food waste beginning to think about starting Opening Recycling to mow the lawn. Centres at: - Dolgellau - Ffridd Rasus - Thousands of Gwynedd households - Bangor have already signed-up again this - Bala - Caergylchu year to receive a fortnightly garden waste collection - Pwllheli for an annual fee of £33. It’s not too late to pay to join the service for the remainder of 2019.

Anyone who wishes to receive the fortnightly Introducing Collecting garden waste collection can do so using the Weekly Food Council’s safe, secure and convenient online service. Recycling Waste Simply visit Collections Introducing www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/gardenwaste and Cartgylchu follow the online instructions, or alternatively you Collecting can use the ‘apGwynedd’ app on your smart phone Residual or tablet device. Waste Every Two Weeks Those who aren’t online can purchase the garden waste collection service over the phone by calling 01766 771 000 or by visiting one of the Council’s Siop Gwynedd one-stop-shops in Caernarfon, Dolgellau or Pwllheli and pay by bank card or cheque.

Gwynedd Council 07 Spring 2019 NEWYDDION continued from page 1 How you have shaped Gwynedd’s Financial Strategy We asked...? You said... We did: 4 Between October and December 2018, Gwynedd Gwynedd’s business The Council is limiting the cuts Council carried out a public consultation to find out community said that that effect the business sector to which local services are most important to you. This budget cuts that have a a minimum. Councillors have also helped us decide where we should look for savings. negative impact on local decided not to end the free parking companies should be kept scheme set-up to promote local Then, during January 2019, we asked for your views on to a minimum. shops in the run-up to Christmas. our draft Financial Strategy along with 65 proposals to save an extra £1 million to help bridge the £13 million funding gap the Council is facing in 2019/20. You said... You said... More than 3,100 Gwynedd people returned one of the two survey questionnaires. This You said... That library services were important Residents should not be charged to is how your views have shaped the Council’s and should be protected as much as replace damaged bins. The Council should protect education plans: possible from cuts. and care - the two areas on which around two thirds of the Council’s You said... budget is spent.

That many of the services the Council provides are important to you.

We did: 4 To protect your front line services, the Council will deliver an extra £2.45 million by cutting “back office” costs and by working more efficiently We did: 4 We did: 4 Councillors have decided to: You said... The Council will not be asking schools l maintain the mobile library service to contribute to the further savings at its current level; needed in 2019/20 and will limit the Young people under 25 and older l protect the library services to We did: 4 people over 65 said that bus services contribution of the care service area to schools; The Council has decided not to are very important to them. efficiency savings or savings that will only have a marginal effect. l maintain the books fund budget at introduce any changes to the current its current level. arrangements.

You said... You said... The Council should protect contributions to Women’s Aid and The Council should protect strategic the Youth Justice Service. grants for the arts.

We did: 4 We did: 4 We did: 4 The Council is protecting the public The Council will not be reducing the Councillors have decided to protect transport budget from any cuts in financial contribution provided to funding at its current level for the 2019-20. these organisations in 2019/20. 12-months ahead.

Gwynedd Council’s budget for 2019/20 is £248 million. This money - which comes from the Welsh Government in the form of an annual grant as well as through Council Tax - pays to deliver a range of local services:

Education & Schools Care for Adults & Older Recycling & Refuse Highways & Care for Children & Rent & Council Tax Relief People Transportation Families £103 million £57 million £18 million £16 million £16 million £11 million

Fire Service, Libraries, Leisure & the Planning & Environmental Housing & Homelessness Economic Development Other Costs National Park & Others Arts Services £7 million £6 million £5 million £5 million £2 million £2 million

08 Gwynedd Council NEWYDDION Spring 2019

Taking the stress out of your Council Tax bill Direct Debit Online Services Over 75% of Gwynedd households pay their Council Tax During April the online services or the ‘apGwynedd’ app bill by Direct Debit - it’s the simplest and safest way for will be introduced to enable you to check your Council you and for the Council. Tax bill and see how much is due. Go paperless If you’re not quite ready to do everything online, you With Direct Debit, you can pay your Council Tax in more could choose to receive your Council Tax bill by email. manageable monthly or weekly instalments. Once you have This is a quick and efficient way of receiving your bill chosen the option that suits you, the payments simply transfer and you can keep a copy on file. Sign up to ensure your from your account on the date you agreed. Council Tax is invested in services, rather than needless postage and paper. If you don’t already pay by Direct Debit, setting it up is easy. Simply contact Gwynedd’s Council Tax Service on 01286 682 700 to discuss the option that best suits you.

You’ll also be able to use the online service to set-up a convenient Direct Debit payment, let us know about a change of address or even check your property’s Council Tax band.

Using the convenient online services mean that you get the If you’re interested in receiving your Council Tax bill via e-mail, information you need quicker. This option is also better for the visit: www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/ElectronicBilling - you will environment and the public purse as it cuts out the need to need your Council Tax reference which is noted on any bill that pay for sending out paper bills. has been sent to you.

Remember even if you don’t have Paying online internet access at home, you can You can use the secure pages on Gwynedd Council’s go online for free at your local website 24 hours a day to pay your bill. Visit: Gwynedd library or use the free www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/pay and pay using your bank wi-fi facilities at any Council debit or credit card. building where you see the Digital Gwynedd logo.

There are 61,630 households in Gwynedd. Of these, around 9,600 receive some element of help towards paying their Council Help is available Tax bill. If you’re struggling with your Council Tax bill, help is on-hand from dedicated Council officers, as well as from a number of independent organisations that work to ensure people get the financial help they need. Council Tax discounts Council Tax Reduction Help at-hand may be available If you receive Universal Credit, Income There are a number of independent Support, Job Seekers Allowance, organisations that can offer you free If you’re having difficulty keeping up with Employment and Support Allowance or advice. your Council Tax payments, please contact you are on a low income, you could be Gwynedd Council immediately to discuss entitled to a reduction in your Council Tax Your local Citizens Advice Bureau office your situation. Gwynedd’s Revenues team bill. In some circumstances you may be can help with all sorts of questions you may offer friendly professional advice. entitled to a reduction of up to 100% of have about money matters including advice the amount payable. about dealing with debts. Contact them You may qualify for a discount or an by phone on 0345 450 3064 or visit their exemption. To find out, call the team on To find out if you’re entitled to be part of website: www.cabgwynedd.org 01286 682 700, or visit one of Gwynedd’s the Council Tax Reduction scheme, apply three Siop Gwynedd one-stop-shops at: online at www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/ Castle Street, Caernarfon; Ffordd y Cob, counciltaxreduction Pwllheli or Cae Penarlâg, Dolgellau. For further information or to request a Even if legal action has been taken, you can paper form, contact the Council’s Benefits still discuss the matter and try to come to team on email: ctreduction@gwynedd. an arrangement with the Council. To contact llyw.cymru or call 01286 682689. the Council Tax Recovery Team on email: Age Cymru Gwynedd & Môn offers free, l Gwynedd’s Benefits [email protected], or call impartial advice to older people on the team are here to help 01286 682 706. benefits they can claim. They can also help to deal with paperwork. Contact them on

If you are entitled to money off your bill, 01286 677 711 - lines open weekdays 9am- Applying online you can then go on to make an on-line 5pm - or visit: www.agecymru.org.uk/ application from the same page. gwyneddamon You can use an online calculator to work out whether you may be entitled to a reduction Remember though, if you already receive a in the amount of Council Tax you pay. Go to reduction, it is very important that you let www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/benefitclaim the Council know about any changes in your www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/ to see if you’re eligible. circumstances. You can do this on-line here: changeofcircumstances

Gwynedd Council 09 Spring 2019 NEWYDDION

Your Council Tax - community by community As well as funding Gwynedd Council services, your Council Tax also goes towards paying for more local services provided by your Community, Town or City Council, as well as and Crime Commissioner services. This year, the Gwynedd Council part of your Council Tax bill will increase by 5.8%, the North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner part by 7.74% and the Community, Town or City Council part by an average of 6.5%.

COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COUNCIL COMMUNITY COUNCIL COMMUNITY COUNCIL GWYNEDD COUNCIL NORTH WALES POLICE AND CRIME BAND D COUNCIL PRECEPT 2018/19 PRECEPT 2019/20 BAND D EQUIVALENT BAND D EQUIVALENT COMMISSIONER BAND D EQUIVALENT TAX 2019/20 £ £ £ £ £ £ 15,000 15,000 27.12 1,376.22 278.10 1,681.44 34,955 35,829 36.65 1,376.22 278.10 1,690.97 3,000 3,000 25.23 1,376.22 278.10 1,679.55 Abermaw (Barmouth) 54,600 57,300 49.61 1,376.22 278.10 1,703.93 12,000 12,000 19.44 1,376.22 278.10 1,673.76 Y Bala 24,000 24,000 30.98 1,376.22 278.10 1,685.30 Bangor 380,700 385,216 99.14 1,376.22 278.10 1,753.46 8,900 9,500 30.01 1,376.22 278.10 1,684.33 2,600 2,600 18.74 1,376.22 278.10 1,673.06 Bethesda 67,060 92,455 55.20 1,376.22 278.10 1,709.52 Bontnewydd 16,500 18,500 42.80 1,376.22 278.10 1,697.12 5,500 5,500 12.29 1,376.22 278.10 1,666.61 Brithdir & 6,000 6,000 14.13 1,376.22 278.10 1,668.45 12,000 12,360 36.15 1,376.22 278.10 1,690.47 Buan 3,750 3,750 16.38 1,376.22 278.10 1,670.70 Caernarfon 198,488 198,488 56.01 1,376.22 278.10 1,710.33 12,000 15,000 33.55 1,376.22 278.10 1,687.87 7,434 8,425 27.74 1,376.22 278.10 1,682.06 Criccieth 36,000 42,000 44.49 1,376.22 278.10 1,698.81 12,000 18,000 29.70 1,376.22 278.10 1,684.02 Dolgellau 54,000 60,000 48.84 1,376.22 278.10 1,703.16 29,742 35,000 43.10 1,376.22 278.10 1,697.42 35,000 40,000 34.57 1,376.22 278.10 1,688.89 Ffestiniog 200,000 215,000 123.20 1,376.22 278.10 1,777.52 Y 3,000 3,000 34.68 1,376.22 278.10 1,689.00 Harlech 70,000 70,000 88.45 1,376.22 278.10 1,742.77 25,000 25,000 56.36 1,376.22 278.10 1,710.68 14,193 14,193 43.95 1,376.22 278.10 1,698.27 17,800 19,000 26.64 1,376.22 278.10 1,680.96 Llanberis 24,000 28,000 36.89 1,376.22 278.10 1,691.21 48,000 55,000 53.44 1,376.22 278.10 1,707.76 Llandygai 21,408 21,408 21.61 1,376.22 278.10 1,675.93 26,500 31,800 17.31 1,376.22 278.10 1,671.63 9,000 9,000 18.08 1,376.22 278.10 1,672.40 5,000 5,000 31.30 1,376.22 278.10 1,685.62 7,500 7,500 26.00 1,376.22 278.10 1,680.32 50,000 50,000 23.59 1,376.22 278.10 1,677.91 Llanfair 13,000 13,000 41.99 1,376.22 278.10 1,696.31 Llanfihangel y Pennant 10,755 11,078 51.20 1,376.22 278.10 1,705.52 6,300 7,300 32.99 1,376.22 278.10 1,687.31 Llangelynnin 9,800 9,800 23.94 1,376.22 278.10 1,678.26 4,000 4,000 29.13 1,376.22 278.10 1,683.45 7,500 8,000 23.47 1,376.22 278.10 1,677.79 40,360 48,826 34.60 1,376.22 278.10 1,688.92 16,660 18,160 20.13 1,376.22 278.10 1,674.45 42,000 50,000 44.02 1,376.22 278.10 1,698.34 10,000 10,000 32.00 1,376.22 278.10 1,686.32 Llanwnda 25,000 28,000 35.72 1,376.22 278.10 1,690.04 4,000 4,000 19.95 1,376.22 278.10 1,674.27 15,000 15,000 17.32 1,376.22 278.10 1,671.64 6,051 6,051 21.54 1,376.22 278.10 1,675.86 8,400 8,820 25.16 1,376.22 278.10 1,679.48 Nefyn 60,558 65,000 44.08 1,376.22 278.10 1,698.40 6,000 6,000 27.17 1,376.22 278.10 1,681.49 Penrhyndeudraeth 36,000 38,200 49.42 1,376.22 278.10 1,703.74 50,000 50,000 42.06 1,376.22 278.10 1,696.38 8,500 10,000 39.68 1,376.22 278.10 1,694.00 Porthmadog 57,320 60,759 30.16 1,376.22 278.10 1,684.48 Pwllheli 73,000 73,000 41.63 1,376.22 278.10 1,695.95 20,000 20,000 62.14 1,376.22 278.10 1,716.46 18,000 18,000 35.43 1,376.22 278.10 1,689.75 6,000 7,000 15.17 1,376.22 278.10 1,669.49 Tywyn 88,500 88,125 54.91 1,376.22 278.10 1,709.23 12,000 12,000 21.40 1,376.22 278.10 1,675.72 For further information regarding your Council Tax bill including the North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner and local community council precepts, visit www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/counciltax

10 Gwynedd Council