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NEWYDDION Council News Spring 2014 Issue 44 www.gwynedd.gov.uk 01766 771000 @cyngorgwynedd cyngorgwyneddcouncil

In this edition… l Outdoor opportunities for local people - Page 3

l Gwynedd’s food banks provide a life line - Page 6

l Bedroom Tax - support and n Pupils from Ysgol Bro Tegid welcome Mistar Urdd to Gwynedd advice - Page 12

Mistar Urdd is coming to If you would like Newyddion Gwynedd as an mp3 or in another In a few week’s time, Meirionnydd cerdd dant to disco dancing – and involved in the huge variety of cultural, language or format, please phone will become the home of Europe’s around 100,000 people will visit the sporting and social activities the Urdd 01766 771000. largest youth festival when the Urdd Maes. offers.” National Eisteddfod settles on the shores of Llyn Tegid in Bala. “Thanks to initiatives like the Gwynedd Looking forward to the big week, Urdd Newyddion Gwynedd Language Charter, National Executive Chairman, Hedd is produced on 100% The Eisteddfod – which takes leads the way in in ensuring Pugh added: recycled paper. When place between Monday, 26 May that all our young people can enjoy the you’ve finished reading and Saturday 31 May – will be an cultural and economic benefits of being “The Eisteddfod will be the pinnacle of this newspaper please recycle it. opportunity to enjoy our unique Welsh bilingual,” said Councillor Ioan Thomas two years of hard work for local people culture at its very best and to celebrate who leads on the for of all ages. Everything is now almost the fact that the Welsh language is Gwynedd Council. in place, so our message to the people thriving here in Gwynedd. of Gwynedd is simple - come and see A glossary of key words used on the “The Urdd Eisteddfod’s visit to us in Bala. A warm welcome awaits all, Welsh side of this paper can be found Over the course of the week, around Meirionnydd will boost these efforts from seasoned Eisteddfod-goers to at www.gwynedd.gov.uk/news If you 15,000 young people will take part in and will encourage even more of first time visitors.” are reading Newyddion online, the various competitions – from Gwynedd’s young people to get you can get quick translations of key words (highlighted in yellow) Turn to page 5 to find out more about the 2014 Meirionnydd Urdd Eisteddfod by clicking on the word itself.

£50 million funding gap will require careful planning In 2014/15, Gwynedd Council challenge to limit the impact on will have to contend with an local services and the tax payer unprecedented 4.4% cut in whilst continuing to work to deliver The financial year ahead the grant it receives from the the best possible services for local Government towards the cost people,” said Gwynedd Council’s For 2014/15, Gwynedd Council has set individual Council services. of local services. This cut is Resources Cabinet Member, a budget of £232 million. This means much larger than anything Councillor Peredur Jenkins. that, on average, £1,898 will be spent “Without a doubt, the 2014/15 budget is seen since local government by the Council during the year on local the tightest since Gwynedd Council was reorganisation in 1996. “By planning for the long run, we services for every man, woman and formed. Despite this, it is unfortunately a have been able to hold off from child living in the county. fact that things are likely to get significantly In addition, despite a firm focus on making the more knee-jerk service more challenging over the next few years,” financial planning, it is estimated cuts that many other councils are Of this sum, £175 million will come from said Councillor Jenkins. that Gwynedd Council will face now having to deliver. This has the Government in the form of a grant, a shortfall of around £50 million allowed us to buy ourselves a £1.8 million from Council balances and “Unfortunately extremely difficult decisions between now and 2017/18 in further 12 months in which to plan £55.2 million from Council Tax which will lie ahead that will have far reaching the amount of money it needs ahead for a future where we will increase by 3.9% or 70 pence a week for implications for local services in Gwynedd. to support local services at their have far less money to spend on the average Gwynedd household. Residents can be assured however that present level compared with our local services.” our approach will continue to be based on the amount of money actually In order to limit the impact on Council Tax careful forward planning to keep the impact available. “Our priority now will be to make payers, the budget agreed by Gwynedd on key services to the bare minimum.” councillors for the year ahead will be the best use of this extra time to To find out how your council tax “The scale of the financial seek the views of the people of £10 million less than the sum needed to maintain services at their current level. money is invested in local services, squeeze currently facing us is truly Gwynedd on how we can best This sum will need to be found from within turn to pages 7-11 enormous, and we face a daunting plug the gap.” Spring 2014 NEWYDDION Long term planning pays off Message from In recent months Gwynedd Council has Government has ranked Gwynedd second best received glowing endorsements from two of all 22 Welsh Councils. The Local Authority independent authorities for the way things Services Performance Report measures the the leader are being run despite the difficult financial performance of all the Welsh councils across key climate. services. There is a close link between two key issues that we as a Both the Auditor General for Wales and the This is the second year on the trot for Gwynedd Council have been discussing have given the Council top to come in the top two of Welsh Council in this recently - our campaign to marks. comprehensive study and the report shows that attract to Gwynedd and we outperformed the Welsh national average in a policy to raise the wages of In a report on local government finance by the 60% of services assessed. 2,000 of the Council’s lowest Auditor General for Wales, the Council has been paid workers. Although the praised for its strong financial leadership and Council Leader, Councillor Dyfed Edwards, link might not be immediately effectively planning for the future. said: “When the first effects of the UK economic apparent, the truth is that crisis started to be felt, Gwynedd was one of the both are part of our ambition In the report, the Auditor General said: “This first Councils in Wales to develop a long term to create a fairer county with approach has avoided the need for rash financial strategy which allowed us to prepare quality jobs, whilst trying to decisions and service cuts to balance the for the inevitable cuts in government public close the gap between those on high salaries and budget, and has allowed the Council to introduce spending. the lower paid workforce. service efficiencies in a planned and structured way over a period of time.” “This long-term planning, coupled with the hard The biggest challenge facing us as a county is to create work and vision of our staff and members, is a thriving and balanced economy in order to ensure In a separate assessment, the Welsh reflected in these positive reports.” exciting careers for the people of Gwynedd, especially our young people. This more than anything else is what can lead to a vibrant and exciting Gwynedd, which in turn will create sustainable Welsh communities. assistants, cleaners and school lunchtime Support for lowest paid supervisors. If S4C were to move part of its headquarters to Gwynedd, it would mean around 50 new jobs and Some of this year’s Council Tax increase will Gwynedd Council Leader, Councillor Dyfed a multi million pound investment to the be used to help some of the Council’s lowest Edwards said: “As is the case for a growing area, as well as the opportunity to attract more jobs in the future. Indeed, the creative industries are one of paid workers. number of councils across the country, we believe Gwynedd’s major strengths, and it is also a sector that that Gwynedd’s lowest paid Council workers the Welsh Government has recognised as having a key The majority of the 2,000 or so set to benefit deserve a fair wage. This decision is a first step role to play in the growth of the Welsh economy. are women in part-time jobs such as kitchen towards addressing this important matter.” Any successful economy plays to its strengths, harnesses its natural talents and builds on its inherent skills. For a national Welsh institution to locate its headquarters in the heart of , however, What’s on in your area this spring? would be of even greater significance. Such a decision by the S4C Authority would send a clear message MARCH 20: Easter Sunday Victorian Fair and Market that Wales is one nation and that quality jobs can be Y Maes, Caernarfon sustained in all parts of the nation – including those 27-30: The Sci-fi Weekender 20: Triathlon ; www.plasheli.org areas that have been considered as ‘marginal’ in the Hafan y Môr Holiday Park, Pwllheli; past. www.scifiweekender.com 21: Fair, Tywyn. 29-30: British Having the headquarters of S4C here would send a Downhill MAY clear message to our young people – that you can build an exciting career in rural Wales. This in turn Championships 10: The 10th Bala Challenge Charity Walk would make a significant contribution towards reversing Stage 1 of the One of South ’s main walking events the historical trend of enterprising young people British Downhill with a range of walks around or along Lake Bala, leaving Gwynedd, and our rural communities losing a mountain biking through forests, over moorland with wonderful generation of young people. As happened in the early championships, the views and an opportunity to see wildlife. 1980s with the launch of the new Welsh television most technically www.abercelyn.co.uk channel, there is an opportunity once again for S4C to inject new life to the Caernarfon area. advanced National 17-18: Slateman Triathlon Downhill Mountain ; www.snowdoniaslateman.com Of course, not everyone can work in television. Bike race series in 26-31: Historically, the public sector has been a major the World. Antur Bala. www.urdd.org employer in Gwynedd with thousands of people Stiniog, Blaenau 29: Queen’s Baton Relay – The Queen’s Baton dependent on institutions such as Gwynedd Council for ; www.anturstiniog.com visits Gwynedd and Anglesey ahead of the employment. As the county’s biggest employer, we are very much aware of the responsibility that is upon us to Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2014. offer careers to people and to ensure the best possible APRIL working conditions for those individuals. 5: ‘Lend me your ears’ – Conference for adults JUNE That is why it is right that we raise the pay of those in and parents of children who have a hearing 1: Great Strait Raft Run the Council who are currently on the lowest wages. impairment. Speakers, discussions and an ; www.greatstraitraftrun.co.uk There are about 2,000 of the workforce in this category, opportunity to socialise. 15: Etape Eryri and ensuring higher wages for these individuals will not Powis Hall, ; Caernarfon; www.etapeeryri.com only be a boost for them and their families but will also [email protected]; 01248 382255 mean more spending in the local economy. 5: Mawddach Goldrush Trail Race EASTER HOLIDAYS 14-25 April Delivering these two objectives – attracting S4C to Coed y Brenin, ; Wild Elements – Outdoor activity days to help Gwynedd and ensuring a fair wage for our workforce – www.mawddachgoldrush.com get children closer to nature. would be a major step towards the creation of a fairer society with opportunities for all. 19: Ras y Moelwyn – ; Castell Penrhyn, Bangor; www.wildelements.org. www.anturstiniog.com; 01766 832214 uk; [email protected]; 07799566533 To find out about children’s Easter activities in your local Leisure Centre, visit www.gwyned.gov.uk/leisure or contact your local centre. For more information about activities at your local Library, go to www.gwynedd.gov.uk/library Councillor Dyfed Edwards Gwynedd Council Leader

2 Gwynedd Council NEWYDDION Spring 2014 Snowdonia - One Big Adventure Gwynedd Council is working with a number of partners to make sure that local people and businesses are able to make the most of the breath-taking natural assets on our doorstep.

“Gwynedd is home to some of the best outdoor adventure facilities in the world and our fantastic mountains, coast, lakes, and trails mean that we welcome over 7 million visitors every year,” said Councillor John Wynn Jones, Gwynedd Council Cabinet Member for Economy.

“What’s vitally important is that we make sure that the people and businesses of Gwynedd are able to reap the benefits. Both in terms of enjoying the wide-variety of new and developing activities on-offer in Gwynedd and making sure that they are at the centre of this exciting business sector so that we can keep the economic benefit local.” One big opportunity Securing a reputation as a world-class work has been done in recent years, The Celtic link centre of excellence for adventure and we are now starting to see a new An innovative cross-border Gwynedd’s Cabinet Member for tourism - this is the goal of the generation getting involved in this vibrant project is providing training Economy said: “Over the past Snowdonia One Big Adventure project. and exciting sector. for Gwynedd residents to decades, has made huge encourage them to pursue steps in developing a unique The £4 million EU-backed initiative “In Blaenau Ffestiniog, there is a group careers in the local outdoor brand and marketing itself as aims to build on the strengths of the of active local people who have been at Meirionnydd area - from downhill the heart of developing the new downhill tourism sector. an international destination for mountain biking on Blaenau Ffestiniog’s mountain biking facilities which have visitors from near and far. ‘black-run’ course to fishing trips on already welcomed over 12,000 visitors The £1.6 million Outdoor Tourism Lake. since it opened in June 2012. project - which draws together “This cross-border project partners from north west Wales allows us to learn from Ireland’s As part of this work, Gwynedd Council “Our aim is to build on these recent and Ireland - aims to stimulate success and to ensure that we in and its partners are working with the success stories and to make sure that the local economy by working Gwynedd make effective use of area’s schools and colleges to raise local people are far more involved in this with communities and businesses the latest innovations in tourism awareness of outdoor tourism as a sector and the benefits it offers in future.” to help them get the most out of marketing and customer service.” possible future career path for the area’s the sector. young people. With 16,000 jobs in the tourism and The Outdoor Tourism project outdoor activity sectors across Gwynedd, Last year, more than 3,000 helps local people who are Councillor Paul Thomas, the Council’s the Council wants to make sure that the people took part in a range of interested in a career in the Cabinet Member for Healthy Gwynedd county’s young people are fully aware of free taster sessions including outdoor tourism sector to develop said: the career paths available to them. kayaking, surfing and rock their skills and provide suitable climbing held to get local people training. “The fact is that in the past our young The project has been funded via the people haven’t been encouraged to make Sustainable Tourism Project led by involved in outdoor tourism. the most of what the outdoor activity Visit Wales, the tourism department Similar events are being planned More information about the sector had to offer them. within Welsh Government and for the coming months. Outdoor Tourism project is supported through the European available at: “However, I’m pleased to say that all that Regional Development Fund. Councillor John Wynn Jones, www.outdoortourism.org has now changed and that a lot of hard Youngsters get involved One Big Adventure career days have somewhere local, rather than go away recently been held for secondary to work.” school pupils from the Meirionnydd area. The events supported by the For more information visit: www. Mid Wales Tourism Partnership visitsnowdonia.info/onebigadventure held at the Urdd’s Glan Llyn activity centre and the Coed y Brenin outdoor activity centre and included practical outdoor activities as well as a chance to talk to people who work in the sector.

Deio from Ysgol y Berwyn, who is a keen rugby and football fan, said: “I’m about to choose my GCSE options and this has really helped me to think about the subjects I’ll choose because I’d like to work in outdoor activities” and 30 March. All are welcome Remember: to attend this fast and furious Mirain, also from Ysgol y Berwyn, n Deio, Mirain and Ceri from Ysgol The Blaenau Ffestiniog event – it promises to be a added: “I came along because I’d like y Berwyn enjoying the career downhill mountain bike fantastic weekend. For more to work somewhere like Glanllyn, doing day at Glanllyn course will welcome the details, visit: outdoor activities. I’d prefer to stay British Championships on 29 www.anturstiniog.com

Gwynedd Council 3 Spring 2014 NEWYDDION Lifting the lid on recycling in Gwynedd In 2012/13, half of the waste collected in Gwynedd “We are extremely grateful to the thousands of local was buried in landfill sites. If this disappointing people who make good use of the weekly blue bin performance - which saw Gwynedd ranked a recycling and weekly brown food waste collection worrying 18th out of 22 in the Welsh councils service,” said Gwynedd Council’s Environment recycling league - is repeated in 2015/16, the Cabinet Member, Councillor Gareth Roberts. Council and the Gwynedd Taxpayer could be hit by a government fine of around £1 million. “Unfortunately this good work continues to be undone by the fact that around half of Gwynedd’s households Unfortunately, survey work undertaken in September continue to ignore the convenient weekly collection 2013 and February 2014 found that around half of services and to dump everything in their ‘residual Gwynedd households are continuing to shun the waste’ wheelie bin. convenient weekly recycling and composting service. “As a Council we simply cannot afford to pay the Instead of using Gwynedd’s weekly recycling and huge government fines we will be hit with unless we food waste service, these households still dump food increase the amount of rubbish collected - we will 27% was food waste that could waste and materials that could be recycled in the have to recycle or compost 58% by March 2016 or be recycled in the weekly brown green residual waste wheelie bin that should only be face these crippling government fines. bin collection used for left over waste that cannot be recycled or composted. “As a result, we are currently carefully analysing the 2,500 or so responses we received 21% was material such as According to the research, the rubbish placed in the to our recent public consultation newspapers, packaging, tetra green wheelie bins surveyed contained: on recycling and considering the packs, plastic containers and tins possibility of introducing changes to the n that should be recycled 27% was food waste that could be recycled in the fortnightly ‘residual waste’ collection in the blue box. weekly brown bin collection service in order to encourage more n 21% was material such as newspapers, people to use the convenient packaging, tetra packs, plastic containers and weekly recycling and kitchen waste tins that should be recycled in the blue box. collections.” Planning for Gwynedd’s future needs Over the past three years, have also been working to identify Council planning officers have as many ways as possible to provide This work is now continuing in been engaging with a range of new housing developments in ways Plan in brief smaller settlements where at present organisations and communities that meet the needs of Gwynedd’s it is anticipated that around 700 to identify the area’s housing, communities. Since 2011, around 300 homes housing units can be provided by economic and social needs for have been built in those parts of redeveloping sites, infill sites and the 15 years up until 2026 and to “As new housing built since 2011 and Gwynedd that are not within the affordable housing. identify land that may be suitable to homes which have received planning boundaries of the Snowdonia meet this expected need. permissions but have not yet been National Park. In addition, 1,600 As a result, it is likely that only a built count towards the housing total, houses have been granted planning limited number of sites will need Like every council in Wales, Gwynedd the work carried out so far already permission but not yet built. This to be allocated for housing in the must prepare a Local Development means that the number of additional total equates to around 40% of the Local Development Plan. Sites to Plan to provide a framework against new homes that will need to be expected housing requirement for be allocated are likely to include which planning applications for provided in the new plan has been the 15 year Local Development Plan some of the sites which come developments can be considered. reduced to 2,858. Period (2011-2026). under the existing Gwynedd Unitary Development Plan, but which currently “With regards to the need for housing, “We are now working to find ways to Of the 2,858 additional housing units do not have planning permission. the Welsh Government says that distribute these new homes to towns left to be provided for from within the councils should match the housing and villages in a way that does not new plan, the Council has identified Based on current evidence it is figures in their plans by population harm their form or character. Our aim over 1,000 empty properties, infill anticipated that there will only be and household numbers unless is to ensure that the plan supports sites and existing buildings that can a need to allocate sites for around they have evidence to prove that local housing needs in terms of potentially be reused in the county’s 1,130 housing units over the other matters should be taken into affordable and open market homes, five larger settlements – Bangor, remainder of the plan period, to meet consideration. Our aim in Gwynedd supports potential local employment Caernarfon, Pwllheli, the identified total demand for 4,719 is to ensure that the new plan reflects opportunities, and is intended to and Blaenau Ffestiniog. new housing units. our, values and priorities, satisfies the provide additional support for local housing needs of local communities services and facilities. and protects and enhances the Welsh language,” said Councillor John “The Council will be targeting Wyn Williams, the Council’s Cabinet appropriate brownfield sites, buildings, Have your say Member for Planning and Housing. and infill sites before we allocate new housing sites. A full public consultation on the plan will be held this year where “That’s why we have been working to all interested parties can have their say on the draft proposals. gather evidence to demonstrate to the “What is important is that at the end All comments received will then be carefully considered before an Welsh Government that the proposed of this process, the development plan independent public local inquiry will consider the proposals in full. housing figures for Gwynedd over the ensures the best possible conditions 2011 to 2026 Plan period should be to allow local people to live and work For more information about the plan, visit: www.gwynedd.gov.uk/ldp - 1,200 housing units lower than the in Gwynedd.” this page also tells people how to let the Council know if they want to Government’s projected figure. We contacted about the public consultation and the public local inquiry.

4 Gwynedd Council NEWYDDION Spring 2014 A rough guide to the 2014 Urdd Eisteddfod

Over 50,000 young people in Wales are Pentref Mistar Urdd – this year Turn to page 12 for members of the Urdd. Every year, they Mister Urdd will have his very own a chance to win and their families - from all corners village on the Maes that will be Eisteddfod tickets of the country - converge on the home to all sorts of competitions Eisteddfod yr Urdd Maes. and activities – from circus skills and shows to archery sessions and But you don’t have to be an Urdd member motorbike displays. The crew from to enjoy the Eisteddfod, the event really Stwnsh will set their daily does offer something for everyone – from challenge here too. singing and dancing competitions to all Sports on the Maes – why not sorts of attractions, performances and join in the fun at one of the regular things to see and do on the festival field football, rugby, golf or climbing wall itself. sessions? Stalls – the Maes will boast over Here’s a taste of what’s on offer to those 200 stalls selling and promoting who are thinking of visiting for the first time services, Welsh produce and crafts. when the Eisteddfod comes to Bala: Arts and Crafts Pavilion – an amazing display of the winning The Pavilion is the centre-point of crafts, design and technology. the week’s activities. The stage in the Cwtsh Cymraeg – a special pavilion is where the singing, dancing, display by Welsh learners as well acting and performing competitions as literary workshops. take place. GwyddonLe – packed with Performance stages – throughout the fascinating interactive activities to week singers, dancers, live bands and encourage young Eisteddfod-goers school groups will take to these smaller to get the science bug. stages to entertain visitors to the Maes. Fun Fair and Web Cafe The Urdd countdown continues Pupils from Ysgol Bro Tegid, Bala primary school show and I hope to Evening entertainment at the Eisteddfod received a special visitor recently compete there too.” when Mistar Urdd himself dropped There’s a bumper crop of talent of Meirionnydd featuring a script by by their school. He was given a Mari Elen: “I’m to be enjoyed every evening at Meilir Rhys Williams and songs by grand welcome by the children looking forward to Eisteddfod yr Urdd Meirionnydd. Branwen Haf (Siddi) and Osian Huw There’s an exciting programme (Candelas). and the staff and here’s what three taking part in the of concerts at the pavilion and at pupils had to say as they prepare dancing competition.” Theatr , with something for Primary School Show - Paid â gofyn to welcome the Eisteddfod to their all tastes: i mi! Pavilion own back yard: Lucy: “I’m hoping to Tuesday, 27 May 8pm compete with the choir Opening Concert – Pavilion Somewhere in the hills of Meirionnydd Catrin: “I’m looking and the folk dancing Sunday, 25 May 8pm a hero slumbers who is sure to wake forwards to going to on the main stage The Eisteddfod will start with a up when the people are in need. But, the Eisteddfod in Bala, at Y Bala. I hope the showcase of Meirionnydd local talent. when a gang of children hear that and to going around the sun will be shining The stars performing include Gai Toms they are to lose their playing field to festival field with my so that I can go around and his group, Jessops a’r Sgweiri, a rubbish dump, who will come to friends looking at the the Eisteddfod with my Swnami and up-and-coming local help? The vibrant primary school show soloist Luke McCall. The evening is directed by Iola Ynyr, the Cwmni different stalls. I’m also looking friends and enjoy will also feature Côr Aelwydydd Theatr Frân Wen crew and other forward to taking part in the myself.” Meirionnydd and the Meirionnydd creative locals. Youth Choir. Why not get Street, Hip Hop and Disco dancing, Youth show - Dyma Fi, Theatr Pavilion involved with Harlech Wednesday 28 May 6.30pm the Urdd in your 8pm on Saturday (24 May), Monday New this year – the festival will put ? (26 May) and Wednesday (28 May) modern dance in the spotlight, in a There’s more Special ticket An original musical drama by the youth night of fierce competition. information here: www.urdd.org offer! Why not take advantage of the Eisteddfod’s early bird cheaper How do I get to the Eisteddfod? tickets offer which runs until 6 May? Those who buy tickets before this By car By bus date will save £17 on a family day The Meirionnydd 2014 Urdd The X94 service that runs between ticket for two adults and 3 children Eisteddfod will be held on the and has a or £71 on a family week ticket. As a Rhiwlas estate, near Bala on convenient stop for the Maes at Llanfor. special offer for the last day of the the A494 towards . The Eisteddfod (Saturday 31 May), tickets Maes is convenient regardless By bike will be available for half price! of which direction you’re Those who choose to cycle to the travelling from – just look out for Maes will be able to leave their bikes in To book day or night tickets, please go to www.urdd.org/ the yellow signs that will direct a designated bike park near the Maes eisteddfod/tocynnau you to the Eisteddfod car parks. Welcome Pavilion. or phone 0845 257 1639.

Gwynedd Council 5 Spring 2014 NEWYDDION The Chairman’s A helping hand in tough times year What more evidence do we need uncomfortable truth, but there are been so generous to the foodbanks of the effects of benefits cuts and people in Gwynedd today who are by donating in whichever way they the spiralling cost of living on struggling to feed themselves and can, and I urge them to continue. ordinary families than the sight of their families. Also, if you think that a local a foodbank charity collecting food foodbank could help you or someone in our own community? “All sorts of reasons can conspire you know, please speak to your to push people to this breaking social worker.” The success of the foodbank system point – redundancy, increasing depends on a chain of people and living costs, mental health issues People can also be referred to a organisations working together to or family breakdown. Many families foodbank by health workers, the job help vulnerable people during what are struggling these days, but I have centre and organisations such as must be their darkest hours. seen that the closer people are to homelessness or drug charities and the edge to begin with the more Mantell Gwynedd. Everyone plays their part: the likely they are to fall off when things shopper who buys an item of food become difficult. for donation; the volunteer who Did you know? collects and distributes the food; “The Council has an important role to charities such as the Trussell Trust play in making sure that the people n According to the Trussell or local churches who organise the that are in need are benefitting fairly Trust, in 2012-13 foodbanks logistics; the agencies, including from the community’s generosity. fed 347,000 people across Gwynedd Council, which refer those Several Council services including the UK. Of those helped, who require help to the service when the homelessness service; social 127,000 were children. n Councillor Edwards is pictured they are in need of food parcels services which work with children with Haf Thomas, who is a clerical to see them through a few days of in need; those working with young n Over the last year, Gwynedd assistant at Gwynedd Council. hardship until their benefit payment people who are coming out of care Council has given out more comes through. at 16 give out tokens which can then than 100 tokens to families Councillor Huw Edwards, Chairman be redeemed at a local foodbank. and individuals. More will Councillor Brian Jones, the Gwynedd of the Council, looks back at his year have been referred through Cabinet Member with responsibility “I would like to thank the people and in the post. other agencies. for poverty prevention, said:“It’s an businesses of Gwynedd who have He said: “It has been an honour to serve the people of Gwynedd and to promote the good work the Council Local foodbanks does.

“Some of the highlights have included in Gwynedd: organising a charity concert in Caernarfon to raise money for the North Bangor – 01248 430525 West Wales Alzheimer Society and I www.cathedralfoodbank.org also had the opportunity to congratulate Haf Thomas, a valued member of staff Barmouth – 01341 280808 / at the Council, for her stellar effort in 07973 914599 raising £45,000 for local charities over www.barmouth.foodbank.org.uk the years.” Blaenau Ffestiniog – 01766 831871 / 01766 831901

Bro Dyfi – 01654 702043 No vote, Caernarfon – 01286 673355 / 07847 192896 [email protected] n Councillor Brian Jones with volunteers from the Barmouth Foodbank - Dave Hooper, Brian Wilson and the Reverend Pwllheli – www.stpeterspwllheli.com no voice Dawn Robinson European Parliamentary Elections will be held on 22 May, when voters across the 28 countries will go to the polls to choose who will represent How foodbanks work them. Dave Hooper of the Trussell Trust Foodbank 1:1 Schools, churches, businesses and individuals donate at Barmouth said: To make sure you have the non-perishable, in-date food to a foodbank. opportunity to make your voice heard 2:2 Food is sorted and stored by volunteers “The majority of people turning to foodbanks you must register before the 6 May are working age families and it only takes one deadline. 3:3 Frontline care professionals – such as health visitors and unexpected change in circumstances to throw social workers – identify people in need and issue them with a someone into crisis, even not having free For more information about: foodbank voucher or token. n How to register school meals during holiday times. 4:4 Foodbank clients bring their voucher to a foodbank where it n How to vote can be redeemed for three days emergency food, to tide them n How to vote by post or by proxy “All clients are welcomed in a friendly, non- over while benefit payments or other support is sorted out. judgmental and confidential manner and Agencies such as Mantell Gwynedd also deliver food parcels Go to www.gwynedd.gov.uk/elections are given information about the help they’re to people who have no transport. or telephone 01766 771000. entitled to.”

6 Gwynedd Council NEWYDDION Spring 2014 The cost of local services for 2014/15

£240.5 million is the sum Gwynedd Council estimates it needs to pay for our local services between April 2014 and March 2015. Bridging the financial gap £175.0 million – is the sum Gwynedd Council will receive from the Over the past four years, Gwynedd Council has saved a total of £20 million Government towards the cost of delivering services in 2014/15 – this is over to bridge the financial gap resulting from cuts in Government funding. £8 million less than the sum received in 2013/14. As a result of further cuts in Government funding, it is estimated that £55.2 million – this is the amount Gwynedd will raise locally from Gwynedd will have to find an additional £50 million of savings between Council Tax in 2014/15. now and 2017/18.

£5.5 million is the amount that has already been recognised to bridge this year’s gap by finding more efficient ways of working and delivering Gwynedd Council’s plan to tackle the deficit: services to people in creative new ways. The Council already has projects in place to reach this £8 million amount by realising savings and adjusting budgets £4.8 million is the extra amount the Council will find this year by using budgetary adjustments and balances to buy more time to develop a sensible programme of savings for the years to come. Further increases in Council Tax will have to be £8 million considered over the next four years to realise this 70p a week - this will be the additional amount the average Gwynedd amount household will pay in Council Tax as a result of the increase. £34 million The Council will have to achieve this remaining sum by: n finding even more ways of working more efficiently and getting more use For 2014/15 the Council estimates it will need an out of what we have

extra £2.7 million to meet inflation costs alone. n working with communities, the voluntary sector and businesses to find It is getting increasingly expensive to deliver local services in Gwynedd new less costly ways of delivering and funding services because: n joining up services so people get a whole service rather than lots of n our countyʼs population is getting older separate ones that don’t always fit together

n rising energy prices have a disproportionate impact on large and n acting quickly to prevent problems developing in the first place and sparsely populated councils like Gwynedd - we have more schools, supporting communities so people can look after their own needs more libraries and residential homes to heat and we spend more on fuel to visit clients, to collect rubbish and to transport pupils to school n consider increasing Council Tax to reduce the effect on key services and to protect those in most need n more Gwynedd people than ever require certain services to support n as a last resort ceasing to provide some services them through these difficult times. Where your money is spent Education 38% Care, Social Services Roads and Transport 6% & Housing 26% Economy & Regeneration Council Tax 1% Environment, support for Planning & Waste low income Management 8% households Precepts to 4% other bodies 3% Leisure, Libraries Other 11% & the Arts 3%

£7 out of every £10 spent on local services in Gwynedd is spent on three service areas - Education, Social Services and the Environment. £3 is the amount spent on all other local services.

Turn to pages 8 & 9 to see what else Gwynedd people get for their Council Tax

Gwynedd Council 7 Spring 2014 NEWYDDION What does my family get for our money? During the past year, Gwynedd Council spent an average of £1,922 on each and every one of the 122,142 of us who live here. Maintaining Whilst all Gwynedd families are different, the following gives an idea of what our roads local people get for their Council Tax... Gwynedd Council: n maintains 1,790 miles of road and Educating our pavements n grits 670 miles of priority roads young people n maintains 1,900 street lights

Gwynedd Council: £6,222 a year for n Is responsible for 97 primary schools, every mile of road 14 secondary schools and two special in Gwynedd £5 a year for schools every person n spent £89.3 million on educating living in Gwynedd three to 19 year-olds in 2013/14 n educates around 17,000 residents every year Safe roads and £5,205 per year cycle routes for every pupil Gwynedd Council is responsible for in Gwynedd 55 miles of cycle routes, 2,314 miles of public right of way and 7,800 parking spaces

£18 a year for £21 a year for Public Transport every person every person living in Gwynedd living in Gwynedd Safe communities Gwynedd Council is responsible for, CCTV, trading standards, Public environmental health and taxi and pub toilets licensing Gwynedd Council cleans and maintains 75 public toilets £7 a year for every person living in Gwynedd Developing our local economy Arts and Culture Gwynedd Council: Gwynedd Council runs: n manages 90 industrial units n 17 libraries n works to create and protect local n the Neuadd theatre and jobs, support employers and attract cinema in Pwllheli and Neuadd new businesses Buddug in Bala n provides training and support for n Gwynedd Museum and Art Gallery in Gwynedd’s voluntary sector Bangor n promotes tourism n the Lloyd George Museum in n leads community regeneration projects n works to secure European and £35 a year for n the Gwynedd Archive Service in Welsh Government funding £30 a year for every person Caernarfon and Dolgellau living in Gwynedd every person n a network of youth clubs and centres living in Gwynedd

8 Gwynedd Council NEWYDDION Spring 2014

During 2013/14, Gwynedd Council invested in a What does my family get for our money? number of major capital schemes worth £47.3m. £10,317 on average £212 a year for These included: per head a year every Gwynedd Caring for for older people in household vulnerable care in Gwynedd people

Gwynedd Council: n cares for vulnerable children, disabled, people with learning difficulties, £10.4 million to build new homeless people and older people school buildings and upgrade n runs 16 residential homes and 13 day existing school buildings centres for older people and people Collecting with learning difficulties n spent £62.4million caring for and recycling Gwynedd’s most vulnerable people in 2013/14 £16,192 on average our rubbish each year on every child who receives Gwynedd Council: care or support n provides recycling, composting and waste collection services for 60,000 households every week n runs eight community recycling centres £4.8 million on new roads, cycle routes and infrastructure projects

£45 a year for every person Getting living in Gwynedd Gwynedd active Gwynedd Council: to develop the n operates seven swimming pools, four £1.8 million new National Sailing Academy in leisure centres and two sports facilities Pwllheli as part of the wider £8.3 n maintains 129 playgrounds million project n runs two country parks n manages 187 miles of coastline, four harbours and two marinas

Crematorium and Cemeteries Gwynedd Council is responsible for £7.3 million was invested at 16 cemeteries and Pont Briwet as part of a wider £19.2 one crematorium £3 a year for every million project person living in Gwynedd £3.3 million to improve the private sector housing stock

D C E D Y M L R to keep public G U £6.4 million O Precepts to And the rest… G buildings up to standard N O R E S Gwynedd Council also provides a wide range T H W A L of smaller services which are just as essential. other bodies During 2014/15, a further £41.5 million These include: In 2013/14, Gwynedd Council will be invested in capital schemes. n registration of births, deaths and marriages allocated £6.7 million to other These will be funded by a combination n coastal protection and land drainage authorities including of borrowing (£12.4 million), grants and n building control Fire Service and Snowdonia contributions (£17.5 million) and the n the coroner service National Park Council’s own funding (£11.6 million).

Gwynedd Council 9 Spring 2014 NEWYDDION Your Council Tax community by community As well as funding Gwynedd Council services, your Council Tax also goes towards the more local services provided by your local Community, Town or City Council as well as services provided by . This year, the Gwynedd Council part of your Council Tax bill will increase by 3.9%, the North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner part by 2% and the Community, Town or City Council part by an average of 4.4%. For further information regarding the bill and how the money is being spent visit www.gwynedd.gov.uk/counciltax

COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COMMUNITY GWYNEDD NORTH WALES BAND D COUNCIL COUNCIL COUNCIL COUNCIL COUNCIL POLICE AND CRIME TAX PRECEPT PRECEPT BAND D BAND D COMMISSIONER 2014/15 2013/14 2014/15 EQUIVALENT EQUIVALENT BAND D EQUIVALENT

Aberdaron 6,500 8,000 15.18 1,111.07 227.61 1,353.86 22,763 23,218 24.84 1,111.07 227.61 1,363.52 1,500 2,000 17.60 1,111.07 227.61 1,356.28 9,500 9,500 15.56 1,111.07 227.61 1,354.24 Y Bala 16,500 16,500 21.92 1,111.07 227.61 1,360.60 Bangor 276,647 298,949 84.27 1,111.07 227.61 1,422.95 Barmouth 27,000 39,400 36.00 1,111.07 227.61 1,374.68 6,600 7,844 24.97 1,111.07 227.61 1,363.65 1,000 1,300 9.84 1,111.07 227.61 1,348.52 Bethesda 51,245 53,552 32.79 1,111.07 227.61 1,371.47 Bontnewydd 11,000 12,500 28.66 1,111.07 227.61 1,367.34 4,000 4,000 9.22 1,111.07 227.61 1,347.90 Brithdir and 6,000 6,000 15.14 1,111.07 227.61 1,353.82 6,480 6,675 20.31 1,111.07 227.61 1,358.99 Buan 3,750 3,750 16.68 1,111.07 227.61 1,355.36 Caernarfon 187,143 187,143 54.57 1,111.07 227.61 1,393.25 6,200 7,000 16.31 1,111.07 227.61 1,354.99 5,772 5,772 19.60 1,111.07 227.61 1,358.28 34,000 34,000 36.76 1,111.07 227.61 1,375.44 10,000 10,000 16.47 1,111.07 227.61 1,355.15 Dolgellau 49,000 49,000 41.18 1,111.07 227.61 1,379.86 19,000 19,000 23.93 1,111.07 227.61 1,362.61 Y Felinheli 27,000 27,000 25.57 1,111.07 227.61 1,364.25 Ffestiniog 71,500 76,500 46.02 1,111.07 227.61 1,384.70 Y 3,000 3,000 35.23 1,111.07 227.61 1,373.91 Harlech 15,000 16,000 21.55 1,111.07 227.61 1,360.23 12,000 13,000 30.37 1,111.07 227.61 1,369.05 8,000 10,000 32.05 1,111.07 227.61 1,370.73 13,250 14,950 21.85 1,111.07 227.61 1,360.53 Llanberis 19,000 19,000 25.13 1,111.07 227.61 1,363.81 31,000 34,000 34.49 1,111.07 227.61 1,373.17 16,962 19,962 20.74 1,111.07 227.61 1,359.42 10,000 13,000 7.30 1,111.07 227.61 1,345.98 6,600 6,900 14.06 1,111.07 227.61 1,352.74 4,000 4,000 26.39 1,111.07 227.61 1,365.07 39,690 45,000 22.92 1,111.07 227.61 1,361.60 6,000 6,000 21.48 1,111.07 227.61 1,360.16 Llanfair 5,750 6,500 20.66 1,111.07 227.61 1,359.34 Llanfihangel y Pennant 4,200 4,325 20.58 1,111.07 227.61 1,359.26 4,200 4,500 20.90 1,111.07 227.61 1,359.58 Llangelynnin 6,000 6,000 15.19 1,111.07 227.61 1,353.87 2,040 2,142 16.84 1,111.07 227.61 1,355.52 4,500 4,500 13.63 1,111.07 227.61 1,352.31 33,940 36,940 27.12 1,111.07 227.61 1,365.80 12,660 12,660 14.33 1,111.07 227.61 1,353.01 20,500 23,500 21.30 1,111.07 227.61 1,359.98 8,800 8,800 28.54 1,111.07 227.61 1,367.22 Llanwnda 16,700 18,200 23.77 1,111.07 227.61 1,362.45 3,300 3,300 17.18 1,111.07 227.61 1,355.86 Llanystumdwy 12,500 15,000 17.55 1,111.07 227.61 1,356.23 5,500 5,500 19.65 1,111.07 227.61 1,358.33 4,750 4,750 14.17 1,111.07 227.61 1,352.85 42,680 48,410 35.10 1,111.07 227.61 1,373.78 5,000 5,400 25.39 1,111.07 227.61 1,364.07 34,000 34,000 46.11 1,111.07 227.61 1,384.79 25,883 28,883 29.94 1,111.07 227.61 1,368.62 4,500 4,500 18.85 1,111.07 227.61 1,357.53 Porthmadog 51,510 53,000 27.09 1,111.07 227.61 1,365.77 Pwllheli 68,500 68,500 41.16 1,111.07 227.61 1,379.84 10,000 10,000 32.55 1,111.07 227.61 1,371.23 Trawsfynydd 11,500 12,000 23.95 1,111.07 227.61 1,362.63 5,400 5,800 13.05 1,111.07 227.61 1,351.73 Tywyn 46,000 46,000 29.84 1,111.07 227.61 1,368.52 12,000 12,000 21.60 1,111.07 227.61 1,360.28

10 Gwynedd Council NEWYDDION Spring 2014

Further Help is at hand for those who are explanation about struggling to make ends meet Council Tax and Gwynedd Council’s Council Tax, Non confidential advice is available from Gwynedd Domestic Rates and Recovery Teams Council’s Benefits Team. Telephone the team If you’re having difficulty keeping up with on 01286 682 689, email financial details your Council Tax payments, please contact [email protected] or call by Gwynedd Council as soon as possible as you one of Gwynedd’s three Siop Gwynedd one Following a change to the law, for the first time may qualify for a discount or an exemption. stop shops at Castle Street, Caernarfon; this year paper copies of the leaflets that usually Call 01286 682701 or 682708 to find out, or Embankment Road, Pwllheli or Cae Penarlâg, accompany your tax bill will not be provided in visit one of Gwynedd’s three Siop Gwynedd Dolgellau. Surgeries are also held at Llys the envelope with the Council Tax bill you receive one stop shops at Castle Street, Caernarfon; Gwynedd, Bangor. through the post. Ffordd y Cob, Pwllheli or Cae Penarlâg, Dolgellau. Age Cymru Gwynedd & Môn (formerly Age Instead, these documents - which include notes Concern Gwynedd & Môn) explaining Council Tax exemptions, Council Tax Even if legal action has been taken on an Age Cymru offer free, impartial advice to older discounts and financial information about the arrear, you can still discuss the matter and try people on the benefits they can claim and can Council and the North Wales Police and Crime to come to an arrangement with the Council. help in dealing with paperwork. Contact them Commissioner - are available on the Council The Recovery Team can be contacted on on 01286 677 711 - lines open weekdays 01286 682 706 or 682 707 9am-5pm - or visit website: www.gwynedd.gov.uk/counciltax www.agecymru.org.uk/gwyneddamon Council Tax Reduction Scheme If you’d like to receive paper copies of these Since 1 April 2013 Council Tax Benefit Citizens Advice Bureau leaflets, or if you’re unsure whether you’re eligible has been replaced nationally by a means Your local office can help with all sorts to receive any Council Tax reductions, please tested local scheme called the Council Tax of questions you may have about money contact the Council Tax Department by phoning Reduction Scheme. If you are on a low matters. To contact CAB, phone 0845 01286 682689. income, and think you may qualify, free and 4503064 or visit www.cabgwynedd.org How to pay your Council Tax bill There are several ways of paying your bill, Remember, the easiest and quickest way to pay By post - send a cheque or postal order payable to choose the one that suits you best. If you’re your tax is by Direct Debit. The more people Gwynedd Council, with a copy of your bill, to Chief unsure or wish to discuss the best option for choose to pay this way, the less it costs the Council Cashier, Council Offices, Penrallt, Caernarfon, LL55 you, please contact us. to process the paperwork. 1BN. Please note that receipts can not be sent.

Direct Debit – phone Online - visit the secure pages At the Post Office - Gwynedd Council’s on Gwynedd Council’s website contact the Council Council Tax Service www.gwynedd.gov.uk/payments on 01286 682 689 on 01286 682 701 or and pay using your bank debit or for a plastic swipe 682 708 to arrange for your bill to be paid directly credit card. card which allows from your bank account. You can choose one of you to pay at your four payment dates available within the monthly By telephone - call 01766 771 000 local Post Office payment plan. These options can be discussed with between 8.30am and 5.30pm to pay with with cash, cheque a member of staff when you phone. your bank debit or credit card. or a bank card.

Receiving your bill electronically is faster and If you’re interested in receiving your Council Electronic Council Tax bill more convenient. It allows you to view your bill Tax bill via e-mail, visit www.gwynedd.gov.uk/ As is already the case for many energy, water, as soon as it’s available and keep a copy on file counciltax and click on the electronic bill link telephone and broadband suppliers, you can and is better for the environment and the public on the page. You will need your Council Tax now choose to receive your Council Tax bill purse as it cuts out the need to pay for sending reference – noted on any bill that has been sent electronically rather than on paper through the post. out paper bills. to you.

The winner of the Newyddion Gwynedd Competition competition in the Try your hand at our competition and you could walk 22 According to the Trussell Trust, how many British children were winter 2013 edition of away with one of four family tickets for the Urdd National fed by foodbanks during 2012-13? Newyddion Gwynedd 17,000 70,000 127,000 Eisteddfod. A: B: C: was Mrs Gaynor Pugh The ticket will give free entry to two adults and three children 33 Which Council service costs the most? of Aberdyfi. She has to the festival field and all its attractions – including the main A: Education B: Social Services C: Libraries pavilion – on Monday, 26 May. received a hamper Send us your answers with your name, address, and daytime of local foods. To be in with a chance of winning, answer the following telephone number by 1 May, 2014. questions: n By post: Newyddion Gwynedd Competition, Communications Unit, Congratulations to Gwynedd Council, Shirehall Street, Caernarfon LL55 1SH. Mrs Pugh and thanks 11 Where in Bala will the Eisteddfod be held? n By email: [email protected] Please mark the A: Rhiwlas B: Rhiwgoch C: Rhiwabon subject box ‘Newyddion Gwynedd Competition’. to all who entered.

Gwynedd Council 11 Spring 2014 NEWYDDION Fairness for those who need support Gwynedd Council and partners replace most of the means tested “Ensuring fairness for all those which include housing associations welfare benefits. This will affect the who need support is our aim,” said and the Citizens Advice Bureau way people receive their benefits, and Councillor Brian Jones, the Gwynedd What is the (CAB), are working together to in many cases, it will involve a greater Cabinet Member with responsibility for make sure that some of the most responsibility on benefit recipients to tackling poverty. Bedroom Tax? vulnerable members of our society control their finances. have the support they need to cope “As a Council we are determined to Since April last year, the housing with a range of radical changes to Local councils have no control over the do everything in our power to help benefit of families of working age the UK welfare benefits system. changes, as all matters concerned with the most vulnerable families in our benefit payments come under the UK communities.” has been cut if they have one or Since April 2013, around 1,000 government’s Department of Work and more of what is being defined as Gwynedd households have been Pensions (DWP). spare bedrooms. affected by a cut in their housing benefit because of new rules about However, Gwynedd Council and This means any bedroom additional the number of bedrooms in their it’s partners are determined to do to the individual’s or the couple’s homes. everything possible to ensure that bedroom, and their children’s the most vulnerable members of our bedrooms. A separate bedroom is And during the next few years, a new society do not suffer as a result of benefit calledUniversal Credit will these changes. allowed for girls and boys if they are aged 10 or older; children under 10 are expected to share a bedroom regardless of their gender.

Help towards the ‘Bedroom Tax’ With the benefit often being paid Those who were hit by a cut in not receive state help to live in bigger directly as rent to the social landlord, their housing benefit last year will houses than they need,” said Brian the tenant has to find the difference continue to receive temporary help Jones. between the lower benefit and for the next financial year. Thanks the rent. The sum can vary, but it to determined lobbying, Gwynedd “Here in Gwynedd, however it’s a fact is around £14 per household on Council, has been successful in that there simply are not enough smaller average. This cut is often referred to houses that would be suitable for them securing a grant of £705,000 towards unofficially as the ‘bedroom tax’. its Discretionary Housing Payments or within their reach. We therefore had (DHP) fund for a further year. a strong case for getting this additional DHP grant, and I’m greatly relieved that Over the past year, this fund has enabled we were successful. over 800 Gwynedd households to What is temporarily avoid a cut in their overall “This will mean that we will be able to income resulting from the reduction in avoid the worst effects of the bedroom Universal Credit? their housing benefit. This is because tax in Gwynedd for another year. money from the DHP fund has made up The Universal Credit is currently for the shortfall in the benefit. “Unfortunately however, this temporary being rolled out in different parts fund will not be available in the future n Here to help - CAB’s of the UK between now and “The UK Government’s argument for and it is important that people start now Osian Evans 2017 and which is likely to affect the bedroom tax was that people should to prepare for this.” Gwynedd’s residents in 2016 or 2017. It will replace housing benefit Last year a similar initiative by the Gwynedd Welfare and many other benefits. It is Reform Group led to CAB providing housing benefit different from current benefits in Are you entitled? entitlement advice to 34% more clients than in the several ways: Those who are being hit hardest by the changes in previous year. As a result, local housing association n welfare payments are being actively helped by the statistics showed that their tenants’ arrears had not All recipients will have to have a Gwynedd Welfare Reform Group. Led by Gwynedd increased during the first six months since the ‘Bedroom bank account Council, the Group has a simple goal - to ensure Tax’ was introduced. that everybody knows how they will be affected n One payment will be made by the changes and fully understand the range of “We are giving one-to-one advice to the individuals for each household instead of temporary support available to reduce the impact on or families who are referred to us,” said Osian Evans, payments for each individual them. a senior case worker with the CAB who is based at Caernarfon. “We will be discussing their circumstances n It will include a payment for rent In the case of the ‘Bedroom Tax’, everyone in Gwynedd in detail with them, looking to see if they have specific instead of money being paid who received payments from the DHP fund last year will needs that could make them qualify for further support. directly to the landlord have recently received a letter urging them to apply for similar payments for the 12 month period from April 2014 “We also look to see if they can benefit from training on n It will usually be paid on a monthly onwards. how to deal with money. This will become increasingly basis, which will require greater important as the temporary support currently available control of day to day spending than comes to an end and the Universal Credit - which will In addition, to make sure that no one who is eligible loses is needed with weekly payments. out, the Gwynedd Welfare Reform Group team are also require the individual to take greater responsibility for knocking on the doors of everyone who could be entitled controlling their money - is introduced.” to temporary support during 2014/15. Anyone found to be in need of help with claiming the Make sure you payment are then referred to the Citizens Advice Bureau Know your benefits (CAB), who have a team of experts on hand to help. In some cases, tenants can appeal to avoid the ‘Bedroom Tax’ completely. don’t lose out “Our aim, and the Council’s aim, is to help people tackle For more information about any of their concerns before they become problems,” said For example, parents of disabled children have been these matters please visit Cemlyn Williams, head of Gwynedd CAB. able to argue the need for their child to have his or her www.gwynedd.gov.uk/benefitchanges own bedroom whilst parents who have a grown-up son “This includes making sure that they are getting all the or daughter in the armed forces are able to claim the send an email to benefits to which they are entitled and advice on making need for a bedroom for when they come home. [email protected] or phone the most of their scarce cash.” 01286 682689

12 Gwynedd Council