By Hannah Blythyn

MS for Delyn

In recent weeks I have continued to get out and about across the constituency so that I can speak to residents about any concerns or ideas they may have to improve our communities. Due to the current circumstances I am only holding virtual and street surgeries, so have been knocking on doors to hear the issues which are most affecting our area. Whether I’ve been to your street but missed you, or I’ve not been in your street yet, please remember that you can get in touch at any point to ask any questions or raise concerns with me.

This week the Welsh Government carried out its latest three-weekly review of the coronavirus measures which are in place, considering the changes which can be made whilst keeping people across Wales, and our NHS, as safe as possible. The First Minister outlined the Welsh Government’s plans to work, safely, towards lifting restrictions which are in place to control the spread of the virus here in Wales.

From this Saturday, up to six people from different households can meet in private indoor settings – homes and holiday accommodation – as well as an increase in numbers able to attend indoor events.

Dependent on the circumstances at the time, the Welsh Government is also intending to move to Alert Level Zero, from 7 August. This will mean that there are no legal limits to the number of people who can meet in any setting – public or private, and that all businesses and premises will be able to reopen.

Face coverings will continue to be a requirement in a number of settings, even at Alert Level Zero, until a time where coronavirus is far less prevalent in our communities. This will mean wearing face coverings, unless exempt, in all public settings – from health care settings to public transport, but not in education or hospitality settings.

I want to continue as I have throughout the pandemic and urge caution to Leader readers – whilst the plans are to ease restrictions, the virus is still circulating. There is also a strong risk of new variants posing a threat to our health and wellbeing. We must also continue to play our part in preventing the virus from spreading, to protect ourselves, our loved ones and our NHS.

It is great to see in the current circumstances that communities are beginning to safely get together and it was a real pleasure to open the Northop Hall Big Bash last weekend. From craft stalls, to refreshments served by Northop Hall WI to welly throwing competitions, and of course the announcement of the winner of this year’s Scarecrow competition – the sun shone on a great community event.

It was also lovely to see the ladies of the Presbyterian Church Lunch Club, who were nominated for my Community Champion scheme last year, and continue to do amazing work in the community.

Whilst in the Senedd this week, I took some time out for a “virtual visit” to St Mary’s Catholic Primary School in Flint, where I was questioned by pupils in Year 4. The pupils asked me some great questions, from what my role is as their Member of the Senedd, to what my biggest achievement has been since being elected in 2016. It was lovely to end the session with the class beautifully singing “Love Shine A Light”.

I’m looking forward to visiting more schools, both virtually and in person, following the school holidays.