'Social workers carry out a vital role within our communities'

MS for Delyn

As the rising cost of living continues to impact in communities not just across this constituency but across the country, the Welsh Government has announced that it is investing a further £90m in its Fuel Support Scheme. The extension of the fuel support scheme will mean 400,000 households will benefit in total. Thanks to the extension of the scheme, households on child tax credits, pension credits, disability benefits, carers allowance, contributory benefits and those receiving a council tax reduction will now be eligible for help.

The eligibility for the scheme is being extended as the current cost-of-living crisis is having a greater impact on lower-income households and this autumn and winter, more households will be eligible to benefit from a £200 payment to help keep their homes warm. Details are being finalised and I will share more information as soon as it is available but if you or anyone you know needs support right now, the Welsh Government’s discretionary assistance fund is also available to those facing financial hardship. You can access that support here: https://gov.wales/discretionary-assistance-fund-daf

Social workers carry out a vital role within our communities and are at the core of our social care system. The coronavirus pandemic has added significant pressures to social work and we know that recruitment and retention challenges are on the rise alongside the changing nature of social work as people’s needs are changing, and cases are becoming more complex. That’s why I’m pleased that the Welsh Government has, this week announced that it is increasing the packages of support through the Social Work Bursary, which is managed by Social Care Wales.

Eligible undergraduates studying for the social work degree will be able to access up to £3,750 per year over the three-year course through the Social Work Bursary. This is in addition to the funding available through Student Finance Wales. Eligible postgraduates will have access to a total package of £12,851 per annum for the life of their two-year course, which includes a more than 50% increase to the Social Work Bursary. Further details of this new funding will be available on the Social Care Wales website.

If you’re looking for things to do over the summer, then you and your family could take part in the Big Butterfly Count. Launched on 15th July, it runs for just over three weeks until the 7th August. During the Big Butterfly Count people throughout the UK are being asked to spend 15 minutes outside in a sunny spot and count the amount and type of butterflies they see. Results can be submitted via the free app or via www.bigbutterflycount.org There is also a free guide to identifying butterflies available on both the app and website.

As always, if you have any questions about my work as your Member of the Senedd or would like to ask for advice and support, please get in touch with me on 0300 200 7132 or at Hannah.Blythyn@senedd.wales