Gwynedd councillors have approved a financial strategy for the coming year which will protect key services that are important to local people. This comes despite a reduction in the funding received from the government to pay for Gwynedd Council services.

Despite over a decade of having to deliver savings, once again the annual grant from the Welsh Government which makes up 71% of the Council’s budget is not enough to meet the growing cost of services such as social care and education. Because of this, Gwynedd must deal with a shortfall of nearly £13 million in 2019/20.

To address this 2019/20 funding gap, councillors have agreed to deliver £2.45 million of scheduled savings plus further savings of £2.73 million which it is hoped will not have a negative effect on residents.

Even then, the scale of the shortfall means that these savings alone are not enough to bridge the gap. Having considered the views presented by local people in two recent public consultations, councillors have opted for a 5.8% Council Tax increase rather than further painful cuts to frontline services. This means that Council Tax bills for an average (Band D) property will increase by £1.46p per week.

“Following years of insufficient funding from the government, the financial situation facing the Council is now critical,” said Councillor Peredur Jenkins, Gwynedd Council Cabinet Member for Finance.

“After a thorough public consultation process, councillors from across the political groups came together to weigh-up all the feedback and comments presented. The financial strategy that has now been agreed by councillors is a genuine attempt to balance the need to tackle the funding gap whilst also protecting the services that are so important to the people of Gwynedd.

“I am pleased that we have been able to set a Council Tax increase for 2019/20 that is amongst the lowest in north Wales and below the average for the 22 Welsh councils.”

Looking to the future, Councillor Jenkins added: “Careful long-term financial planning by the Council has meant that we have been able to protect Gwynedd’s communities from the worst effects of austerity. However, we have now reached the very limit of what is possible without having to resort to deep service cuts which would have far-reaching negative implications for the people and communities of Gwynedd.

“To avoid this nightmare scenario, we are urging the government to provide financial fair play for Welsh councils from next year onwards.”

NEWYDDIONGwynedd Council News Spring 2019 Issue 54

www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru 01766 771000 cyngorgwyneddcouncil @cyngorgwynedd cyngorgwyneddcouncil

A financial plan to protect services

Anyone who would like to find out more about the scheme are urged to contact the ‘Amser Ni’ team on 01286 674686 or email AmserNi@gwynedd.llyw.cymru

Welcome support for families

71pfrom the Welsh

Government grant

29pfrom the Council

Tax you pay

l Cameron, Jac and Rhys with Alaw Dobson and Natalie McDonnell at Hafan y Sêr

Out of every £1 in the Gwynedd Council budget, the majority comes from an annual grant from the Welsh Government, with the remainder coming from Council Tax.

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 Penrhyndeudraeth 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.

l To find out how your views have shaped Gwynedd’s budget, turn to page 8

l For information about paying your Council Tax and the help on-offer for those finding it difficult to pay, turn to page 9l For a breakdown of the Council Tax for your community, turn to page 10.

Gwynedd Council

Spring 2019 NEWYDDION

02

A word from the Cabinet

I have been a member of the Council’s Executive Board and Cabinet since 2008, initially as the member for the Environment and then responsible for Care matters for the past four years. As I step down from the Cabinet at the end of the month, I am pleased to be handing over the reins at a time when several exciting initiatives to improve care services for local people are being realised.

The fact that more and more people in Gwynedd are living to a ripe old age is good news. However, old age has its implications of course, and supporting an increasing number of older people in the county to live independently in their communities is a priority and challenge, especially as the purse strings tighten and demand rises with every passing year. We must find ways of making the money go further by changing an innovating how we provide the support.

One example of this was when I visited the new extra care housing development at Porthmadog which offers dedicated independent flats for people over 55 years old. The Hafod y Gest development - in partnership with Grŵp Cynefin - is the latest of its kind in the county, and several local people have already settled there.

Following developments in Bala and Bangor, Hafod y Gest is the third extra care housing scheme in the county, and work is underway looking at similar developments at Pwllheli and in Meirionnydd.

Another aspect of this work is the significant steps we have recently taken to support people with dementia to receive care close to their loved ones, by developing dedicated units within some of the Council’s residential homes. By the end of the summer, units will be in place at Tywyn, Llan Ffestiniog, Bangor and Nefyn, and our hope is to be able to build on this success in other areas including Dolgellau and Barmouth, when funding will be available.

There has been a clear shift over the past few years to strengthen the relationship, and to remove the unnecessary barriers, between Health and Care. In this regard, I have sat on the North Wales Regional Partnership Board, and in fact chaired it for the past two years. By joint planning we can 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 experience and training which equips them for employment opportunities and essential life skills.

The individuals there get an opportunity to work in the café at the Arfon Leisure Centre - through the opportunities and support the individuals have, they develop confidence and are able to make a valuable contribution while developing skills that will be of great benefit to them in their everyday lives.

This is a positive difference that I have seen during my time in the Cabinet. The time for continuous and unnecessary care, which can create dependency, is coming to an end. The new emphasis on wellbeing and the individual’s true needs by taking their wishes into account is a breath of fresh air for the service area.

Councillor Gareth RobertsGwynedd Council Cabinet Member for Care

SEPTEMBER

Storiel, BangorThe Women, War & Peace exhibition by photographer Lee Karen Stow will be on-show until 27 April. The Quarry Women exhibition - a collaborative exploration of the quarry women of the past, present and future, will open on 13 April. The diverse Open Art exhibition will also open on 13 April. www.storiel.cymru

APRIL

6 Race the Train, Bala Lake RailwayStand-up paddleboarders and boats will be racing the train along the length of Llyn Tegid. You can travel on the train to follow the race.www.bala-lake-railway.co.uk

19-22 Easter Egg Hunt, Bala Lake RailwayThe challenge is to find all the Easter eggs the White Rabbit has hidden around the railway.www.bala-lake-railway.co.uk

20-22 Easter Egg Hunt, Llanberis Lake Railway Search for the Easter eggs which are hidden around the railway and stations. www.lake-railway.co.uk

21 Easter Bunny Trail, Talyllyn RailwayCome and meet the Easter Bunny, who will be hiding clues for you to find. www.talyllyn.co.uk

21 Easter Egg Hunt, Criccieth Castle 11am-4pmFind the colourful eggs which will be hidden around the castle.There will be a chocolateEaster egg prize!www.cadw.gov.wales

11 Gwŷl Fwyd Caernarfon food festival The festival has firmly established itself as a popular event, with thousands of people attending in 2018. There are numerous stalls offering top quality food and drink, cookery demonstrations, freshly prepared food and live entertainment. www.gwylfwydcaernarfon.cymru

12 Caernarfon 5K Race for LifeRaising valuable funds for life saving research. Start time 11am - Coed Helen. www.raceforlife.org

17-19 Rail AleThis festival offers a wide selection of real ales and cider with excellent music, good food and of course steam trains! Dinas Station, Caernarfon.www.festrail.co.uk

18-19 Slateman Triathlon, LlanberisThe race offers a unique mix of incredible scenery and challenge with a carnival atmosphere that makes all feel welcome. www.alwaysaimhighevents.com

All events listed correct at time of publishing

20-22 Ardudwy Knights and Easter Egg Hunt, Harlech Castle11am-4pmStep back in time with the Ardudwy knights to find the hidden Easter eggs.www.cadw.gov.wales

22 Dragon’s Easter Egg Quest, Caernarfon CastleJoin the keeper of the castle to discover the dragon’s lair and earn a chocolate Easter egg prize!www.cadw.gov.wales

MAY

6 Wales Coastal Path Festival, Porthmadog9am - 6pm Seven walks starting and ending at Porthmadog to celebrate seven years since the launch of the Coastal Path opening. Routes vary in terms of length and challenge.www.ramblers.org.uk

11 Bala Challenge Charity Walk Join the Bala & Penllyn Rotary Club on a scenic or challenge walk. Three different routes available. www.rotarygbi.org

MARCH

APRILMAY

The Council has published a revised version of its Plan for the period up to 2023.

This working document sets out the Council’s direction for the years ahead, outlines the work already achieved and how the authority plans to continue to deliver for the people of Gwynedd over the coming years.

A copy of the revised plan is available on the Council websitewww.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/councilplan and paper copies are also available from the Council’s Siop Gwynedd one-stop-shops at Caernarfon, Dolgellau and Pwllheli as well as the Council’s libraries.

On 29 March, the UK is due to leave the European Union.

As part of the preparations, the Council has been working with its partners to identify possible risks of a No Deal EU Exit on the Council services we provide for local people, and any action that can be taken to reduce those risks.

More information about the Wales-wide preparations, including what you can do to get ready are available onwww.gov.wales/preparingwales

*Details correct at the time of print

l Gwŷl Fwyd Caernarfon food festival

If you would like more information about events in Gwynedd or to let us know about any event in yourlocal area, visit: www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/events You can also receive more information regularly aboutlocal events in Gwynedd by following us on Twitter: @CyngorGwynedd or liking our Facebook page:www.facebook.com/CyngorGwyneddCouncil.

A plan for the future PreparingWales

What’s on in Gwynedd this spring?

l The Hafod y Gest extra care housing development has recently opened its doors

Gwynedd Council

NEWYDDION Spring 2019

03

Gwobr y Bobl recognises the hard work and dedication of those individual Council staff members and teams who the people of Gwynedd want to recognise for their exceptional service.

This year has seen a record number of nominations from local people for the ‘Gwobr y Bobl’ award. Thank you to everyone who took the time to show their appreciation.

After careful consideration of all the nominations, Gwynedd Council Chair, Councillor Anwen Hughes has chosen two winning entries who will receive the 2019 Gwobr y Bobl award in recognition of the outstanding service they provide to the people of Gwynedd.

“Despite the unprecedented financial challenges facing public service, it is so pleasing to know that the efforts of so many Council staff members and teams are appreciated by residents across Gwynedd,” said Councillor Anwen Hughes.

“Hearing some of the inspirational stories submitted from members of the public confirms that our staff are committed to putting the people of Gwynedd at the heart of everything they do.

“I’d like to thank everyone who took part and to thank all the staff who have been nominated.

“In the end the number of nominations received for the winning entries confirmed that there is a deep appreciation for their work and that they often go that second mile as part of their daily work. Many congratulations to them.”

Are you looking to start your career in Gwynedd? You might be interested to know that the Council will shortly be recruiting up to 20 brand-new apprentices to work in various roles with the authority.

Over the coming months, Gwynedd Council is looking to appoint new apprentices in a range of areas including information technology, civil engineering, social care, leisure and fitness, business and administration and customer service posts.

“We’re proud to be able to offer apprenticeship opportunities,” said Councillor Nia Jeffreys, Gwynedd Cabinet Member for Corporate Support. “By investing in people through this scheme, we aim to provide the best opportunities for people to achieve their full potential here in Gwynedd. “As a Council, we want to lead the way by offering quality apprenticeships which allow staff to train and develop their skills and to develop expertise through the Welsh language.” The Council has identified specific areas where they will offer opportunities for apprentices to train and develop their skills as they work. Councillor Jeffreys added: “The apprenticeships also offer us the chance to challenge traditional stereotypes. Whilst the

scheme will obviously offer equal opportunities for all, we hope that the apprentices offer the chance for more women to develop careers in science and technology roles as well as allowing the opportunity for men to develop successful career paths in sectors like social care. “Through this scheme, the Council will provide apprentices with the experience of working side by side with specialist officers, as well as ensuring opportunities to develop skills and qualifications at work. “It will provide a fantastic basis for people looking to follow a professional career here in Gwynedd and contribute towards our aim of ensuring high quality job opportunities for people with the Council.”

Why become an apprentice?Earn as you learn 4

Gain practical work experience 4

Work alongside experienced professionals 4

Secure invaluable professional qualifications 4

Your ‘Gwobr y Bobl’ winners revealed

Begin your career path here in Gwynedd

How to apply?The Council will be recruiting the apprentices in the coming months. To make sure you get the latest information, sign-up to receive latest update onwww.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/apprenticeships

Alternatively, follow the Council’s social media accounts for jobs:

@SwyddiCyngorGwynedd @SwyddiGwynedd

l Neil Claybrook with his family

“They’re such a welcoming and friendly team who go the extra mile to help. They make it easy to recycle and help people no matter what their age, sex or ability. They’re such a so hard-working team.”

“As well as working hard, he always manages to smile and is very polite. He is always happy to help and is a grafter. He does a great job of keeping Pwllheli clean - a credit to the Council!”

“Street cleaner extraordinaire. Neil picks up rubbish off the streets in his sleep, even when he’s not on duty or at work.”

“I have mental health problems and went there for the first time recently. My anxiety was sky high and they helped me by reassuring me there was no rush and showing where everything goes. I now feel confident to go again should I need, without anxieties as I know what to expect and how approachable they are should I need to ask for help. Diolch!”

Neil Claybrook, Pwllheli Street CleanerNeil Claybrook is a Gwynedd Council street cleaner in the Pwllheli area. A number of local people were keen to draw attention to his hard work in keeping the area tidy.

Residents who nominated Neil said that his work is truly appreciated by the local community and that he goes the extra mile in his duties.

These are just some of the comments submitted about Neil’s work:

Bangor Recycling Centre TeamThe welcoming team at the Bangor Recycling Centre on the Llandygai industrial estate are obviously a popular crew with numerous local residents nominating them for their dedication.

Local people were keen to point out the extra efforts the team go to make their visit to the recycling centre as convenient as possible - and always do so with a smile on their faces.

Here’s what some of you had to say about the team’s efforts:

l David Roberts, Chris Thomas and Dylan Williams from the Bangor recycling centre

Gwynedd Council

Spring 2019 NEWYDDION

04

Help to find an affordable home

Helping Gwynedd’s older people live better lives at home

Are you looking to buy or to rent an affordable house in Gwynedd?

If you are struggling to find an affordable property locally, you may wish to join the hundreds of people who have registered on the new Tai Teg website.

The Tai Teg website offers help to find an affordable home for local people at a price that is lower than the market value to rent or buy. The scheme is supported by Gwynedd Council and several partners,

including neighbouring councils and local housing associations.

“Securing suitable affordable housing for Gwynedd residents is a top priority for us,” said Councillor Craig ab Iago, the Cabinet Member who leads on Housing on Gwynedd Council.

“The Tai Teg scheme is a simple way of ensuring that residents looking for an affordable property to rent or buy are informed as soon as possible of what is

available in their area.

“A number of Gwynedd families have successfully used the scheme to find a new home since it was launched in 2018, and I would encourage any one who is looking for an affordable house to rent or buy to register on the Tai Teg website.”

Since the register was set up in April 2018, more than a hundred people across north Wales have been helped to find an affordable home to buy or to rent.

Why change?About 1,000 people in Gwynedd receive home care from the Council or another care provider. But the demand for these services is far higher than the number of home care workers available and is rising steeply in Gwynedd as it is across the country.

As a result, there are frequently people who are at home without the care they require or needlessly in hospital or a residential home.

Traditionally, home care support has focused on completing specific tasks at specific times of day within allocated timeslots. This way of working leaves little time to listen and understand what really matters to the individual, and to realise what kind of support they really need.

As part of efforts to tackle this problem, the Welsh Government has passed a Social Services and Well-being Act (2014) that allows and encourages key organisations and those requiring care to work together to do things differently.

What does the new act say?The Welsh Government, local Councils and Health Boards want to make care and support the best it can be for people in Wales. They want to help people live the life they choose, and stay independent for longer.

The new law changes the way councils and care services work. It says that:

• people will have a stronger voice and control over the services they receive, and that what matters to the individual is central to their care

• people will be supported to achieve their own well-being, and helped to do what matters to them

• people will be supported before their needs become critical

• people will be more involved in the design and delivery of their support

• stronger partnerships and joint working will happen between all agencies and the individual

So, what’s the way forward?Over the next few months the Council and its partners will be working towards developing a different approach to improve services for older people through:

Tailored Home Care at a local level - this will mean that home care providers will have the flexibility to focus on what matters to each individual and to work with them to achieve this.

Setting up Local Community Resource Teams - five Community Resource Teams have been established (see map) to deliver a range of coordinated health and care services within the community. This will help make sure that care is arranged quickly and appropriately, with health care workers, social care workers, home care workers, families, communities and the individuals themselves working together more effectively.

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.

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 lives in the way they want.

Pilot projects providing more tailored support for individuals have been set-up all over the county to test this new way of working. The new model brings together all the people and agencies involved in supporting people to work more effectively at the local level.

Bangor

Bethesda

Llanberis

Caernarfon

Nefyn

AbersochPwllheli Harlech

CricciethPorthmadog

BlaenauFfes�niog

YBala

Barmouth Dolgellau

Tywyn

5

41

2

3

Caernarfon Team -01286 679099OedolionCaernarfon@gwynedd.llyw.cymru

2

Bangor Team -01248 363240OedolionBangor@gwynedd.llyw.cymru

3

Eifionydd/north Meirionnydd Team -01766 510300OedolionEifionydd/ GogMeirionnydd@gwynedd.llyw.cymru

4

Llŷn Team - 01758 704099OedolionLlyn@gwynedd.llyw.cymru

1

South Meirionnydd team - 01341 424499OedolionDeMeirionnydd@gwynedd.llyw.cymru

5

Community resource teamsThe contact details for the five new teams are:

l Elizabeth Hassall with home carer Fiona Owen

For more information on how to register in order to be considered for an ownership plan or to rent, or to see the property available, go to www.taiteg.org.uk

For more information about this project, please go towww.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/HomeCare2020or contact the Home Care Project Team on 01286 679577.

Care tailored to your needs

Elizabeth Hassall has been part of the pilot in the Porthmadog area.

“I’ve been receiving care for about five years. I broke my hip and it’s made walking very difficult ever since,” said Mrs Hassall.

“I have a hearing assistance dog that I can’t take for a walk unfortunately, but the carers go out of their way to help.

“The care is first class - I get the care I need not what is just given to me.”

Gwynedd Council

NEWYDDION Spring 2019

05

Ysgol Godre’r BerwynPreparations are nearing completion on the £10.27 million community school that will open in Y Bala in September. Ysgol Godre’r Berwyn will cater for pupils from three to 18 years of age.

Bethan Emyr Jones began in the role of strategic head in January and pupils who will be attending from September have started to visit the site and are already making use of the new modern learning environment at the school.

The campus is also home to a number of community facilities including the town’s library, ‘Neuadd Derek Williams’ hall and ‘Stiwdio Buddug James’ as they have been named in tribute to two who worked tirelessly in promoting cultural activities in the area - have already hosted a number of local community events.

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.

Since the scheme was launched in Gwynedd in September 2017, more than 1,400 Gwynedd three and four year-olds have benefitted, saving a total of £2.6 million in childcare costs for parents.

“Securing good, affordable child care is one of the most important issues facing young families,” said Councillor Dilwyn Morgan, Gwynedd Cabinet Member for Children and Young People.

“This childcare scheme means parents know that they can return to work safe in the knowledge that their child is in good hands.

“Since the scheme was launched in Gwynedd, a specialist team of Council staff has been working with the childcare sector to ensure that working families make the most of the help available. So far, more than 150 Gwynedd childcare providers have signed-up to the scheme.

“This important scheme has significantly reduced the financial burden that childcare can bring and has allowed numerous parents to return to work. As a Council, we would urge any families who believe that they could benefit to get in touch with the team so that they can help them apply.”

Who can benefit from the childcare offer?

The Welsh Government-funded scheme offers 30 hours a week of early education and childcare. It is available to working parents of three and four year-olds for up to 48 weeks of the year. To be eligible:

n your child must be aged three or four and is able to access part time Foundation Phase Education,

n you work and earn the equivalent of at least 16 hours at national living wage or national minimum wage; or are in receipt of specific caring benefits.

Help is at-hand

Information about applying for the childcare offer in Gwynedd is available on the Council websitewww.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/30hours

Parents or child care providers in Gwynedd who require further information are welcome to contact the Gwynedd & Anglesey Childcare Unit on email: 30hourchildcare@gwynedd.llyw.cymru or call 01248 352436.

Ella Jones and Craig Hughes live in Caernarfon with their children Caio and Siwan. They currently benefit from the childcare offer for both Caio who is four and three-year-old Siwan.

“Applying for the childcare offer was a really straightforward process, but it was good to know that there was help available over the phone if we needed it,” said Ella who works for the Youth Justice Service.

“For us as a family, the scheme has made a world of 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 meant we’re able to spend a little bit extra to do things as a family on the weekends.

“I’d encourage any parent that’s entitled to apply for the Childcare Offer - if the help is there for families it’s so important that we make the most of it.”

“It’s made a world of difference”

Is your family entitled to free childcare?

l Craig and Ella with Siwan and Caio

l Staff from the Childcare Unit

Over recent years, Gwynedd Council has worked hard to secure significant funding to ensure that pupils in communities across the county have access to the very best educational facilities.

Together with funds from the Welsh Government’s 21st Century Schools Programme, Gwynedd has invested tens of millions of pounds to improve school buildings and construct brand-new facilities for Gwynedd’s schoolchildren.

“We are determined to make sure that Gwynedd’s young people - wherever they live and go to school - are able to fully realise their potential,” said Councillor Gareth Thomas, Gwynedd’s Cabinet Member for Education.

“As part of this vision, we are proud that we have been able to invest Council funding as well as securing Welsh Government funding to deliver modern learning environments for our pupils despite the hugely challenging financial context.”

Bangor primary educationConstruction work recently got underway on a major project to develop a brand new building for Ysgol y Garnedd in Bangor. This forms part of a wider £12.7 million project to re-organise primary education in the city.

Improvements will include a purpose-built new home for y Garnedd on a site near the current school building. The new building which will cater for up to 420 pupils is expected to open its doors in September 2020.

Proposals are also moving along to extend the school building at nearby Ysgol y Faenol, with work due to start this summer. As part of the exciting proposals, there will be 315 places at the school, as well as a brand-new Penrhosgarnedd Community Centre. The extended Ysgol y Faenol is expected to open its doors in January 2021.

l Work has recently got underway on the new Ysgol y Garnedd school building

Investing ineducation

l Local pupils recently had the chance to visit the new facilities at Ysgol Godre’r Berwyn

Gwynedd Council

Spring 2019 NEWYDDION

06

Slate is the new black

Gaining international recognition, and protection, for the slate producing areas of north-west Wales is coming ever closer.

Another significant step towards gaining UNESCO World Heritage Site Status for the home of the Welsh slate industry was taken in October 2018, when the UK Government announced that the bid was its preferred nomination to be presented to UNESCO for consideration.

Regular readers of ‘Newyddion’ may remember the coverage of the bid, and what it would mean to the region. A growing heritage tourism industry could bring millions of pounds to the local economy, create hundreds of jobs and the status could elevate the region and its historical significance in the eyes of the rest of the world.

“I think local people would agree that there should be greater understanding of the importance of the slate-producing areas in terms of industry and export,” explained Councillor Ioan Thomas, Gwynedd Council’s Cabinet Member for economic development.

“The legacy of the Gwynedd quarries stands

proud to this day - it’s amazing to see terraced houses, royal palaces and everything in between the world over are still roofed with Welsh slate. This nomination celebrates the industry’s place in history and will help protect and promote the remains of the works.”

The announcement that the Slate Landscape of north-west Wales is the UK Government’s preferred nomination for UNESCO status was made in during a Parliamentary Reception for the bid at Westminster last autumn.

The final bid will be presented to UNESCO in the autumn and a final decision is expected in the summer of 2021.

For more information about the bid, visit www.llechi.cymru and for all the updates about the nomination, follow the project on social media:

@LlechiCymru

@LlechiCymruWalesSlate

@LlechiCymruWalesSlate

As part of the wider work to celebrate slate heritage, the Council and its partners is developing a project to ensure that local communities make the most of the buzz surrounding the slate area.

Gwynedd Council has secured over £500,000 in funding through various sources, including the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Cronfa Eryri, Arloesi Gwynedd Wledig and the Council itself to develop the “LleCHI” Great Places project, to ensure communities can benefit - whatever the outcome of the UNESCO bid. (LleCHI is a play on words encompassing the Welsh words for ‘slates’ and ‘your place’)

“It’s important that the bid doesn’t become a conversation purely between the Council, the Government and UNESCO,” said Councillor Ioan Thomas, Gwynedd Council’s Cabinet Member for economy. “The effects should ripple through the whole community.

“There is a huge range of LleCHI projects in the pipeline including some to raise awareness of the historical industrial buildings dotted around the area, community arts projects, business support events and opportunities to collate local history and people’s stories from the slateworks.”

Councillor Ioan Thomas added: “We are also excited about the Youth Ambassadors’ programme, where young people will be given the chance to play a role in their community’s involvement in the different schemes.

“Young people will learn about local history and be the voice of their town or village when ideas are being shaped. They will also have the opportunity to report back to their school and local area as things take shape. It is a great opportunity for them personally as well as for the community they represent and for the over-arching project.”

Generating a ripple effect

l Dinorwig quarry

l A community event was recently held in Deiniolen as part of the LleCHI project

From April, Gwynedd Council’s new company, Byw’n Iach Cyf, will manage the county’s 12 leisure centres.

Both new and regular users of the county’s leisure centres can expect to receive the same high level of service from the welcoming staff when the new Byw’n Iach service is launched as well as a number of improvements and additions including:

• a wide-range of Byw’n Iach membership packages to suit all interests, ages and abilities;

• new classes for adults included within the Direct Debit membership package, such as swimming lessons and social sports sessions;

• a new Excellence Card offering free access to facilities for budding Gwynedd athletes competing on the international stage.

To find out more about Byw’n Iach and the wide-range of activities at your local leisure centre, please visit the newwww.bywniach.cymru website. Over the coming months, more and more features will be added to the website including fitness blogs, videos and keep-fit plans.

The decision to set-up a new company - Byw’n Iach - has been made as part of efforts to

protect leisure services for the future whilst delivering annual savings of up to £500,000. Establishing the arms-length company will

mean the Council will make financial savings at the same time as it ensures the same level of service for Gwynedd residents.

A new beginning for leisure centres

l Byw’n Iach managing director Amanda Davies (second from right) with some of the company’s board members, Councillor Jason Parry, Councillor Beth Lawton and Councillor Dewi Owen

Town centre improvementsThe Council has also been successful in attracting £500,000 for a town centre loan scheme which is currently operating in Bethesda and Penygroes to provide a boost to businesses within those communities.

The loan provides finance to support the

renovation of shops and other properties within these towns.

For more information, visitwww.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/financialassistance or contact the Business Support Team on01286 679231.

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‘Appy parking with apGwynedd

Working towards a greener Gwynedd

If you have a smartphone or a tablet computer have you downloaded the free ‘apGwynedd’ app yet?

It’s a quick and safe way to access everyday services such as buying your parking season ticket.

“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.

“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 who are over 60 years old may park in short-stay carparks for two hours*.

“Buying a Gwynedd Parking Ticket can often work out cheaper than paying each time you park up. For example, if you were to pay to park for two hours in a long-stay carpark twice a week, 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 parking every day or for longer. Six month tickets are available for £67.50 too.

“And of course it spares having to scrabble around for change, especially if you’re in a rush to get to work or an appointment on time.”

Applying and paying for the parking season ticket through the app is seamless. Unlike the previous system, you can do the whole process online - including payment - on your smartphone or tablet whenever suits you. Simply go to the app > Make a request > More services > Parking | Travel > Gwynedd Parking Ticket

*terms and conditions apply

Over the past decade or so, the efforts of Gwynedd residents together with positive changes to the way we collect and process 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:

l You can check where you can use the Gwynedd Parking Ticket and the location of all Council pay and display car-parks using the online map on Gwynedd’s website

However you go online, Gwynedd Council services are safe, secure and easy to use:4 If you have a smartphone or a tablet

computer (such as an iPad or Tab) - go to the Apple App Store or Android Play Store and

download the free ‘apGwynedd’ app;

4 On your laptop or home computer, go to www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/MyAccount and follow the

instructions;

4 Don’t forget that there are free public computers at all Gwynedd Council libraries.

Don’t currently use online services? Help is at hand! Pop over to your nearest Siop Gwynedd (Pwllheli, Dolgellau or Caernarfon) and the staff can show you how to set up an account. Or telephone the Council on01766 771000 and one of our customer care staff can talk you through how to get stated on your own computer or smartphone.

Gwynedd online services

Opening RecyclingCentres at:

- Ffridd Rasus- Bangor- Bala- Caergylchu- Pwllheli

Opening RecyclingCentres at:

- Dolgellau- Blaenau Ffestiniog

Opening theGwyriADfacility to treatfood waste

CollectingResidualWaste EveryTwo Weeks

IntroducingWeeklyRecyclingCollections

CollectingFoodWaste

IntroducingCartgylchu

Garden waste collectionsWith spring almost upon us, many of you might well have been busy tidying your gardens and beginning to think about starting to mow the lawn.

Thousands of Gwynedd households have already signed-up again this year to receive a fortnightly garden waste collection 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 garden waste collection can do so using theCouncil’s safe, secure and convenient online service. Simply visitwww.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/gardenwaste and follow the online instructions, or alternatively you can use the ‘apGwynedd’ app on your smart phone or tablet device.

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.

4 Access a number of other services such as paying for school dinners or check recycling services

4 Search for planning applications

4 You’ll soon be able to track your Council Tax bill (see page 9)

apGwynedd: making life easier

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Spring 2019 NEWYDDION

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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

Libraries, Leisure & the Arts

Care for Adults & Older People

Fire Service, Snowdonia National Park & Others

Planning & Environmental Services

Housing & Homelessness Economic Development Other Costs

£103 million

£6 million

£57 million

£7 million £5 million

Care for Children & Families

£16 million

£5 million £2 million £2 million

Recycling & Refuse

£18 million

Highways & Transportation£16 million

Rent & Council Tax Relief

£11 million

continued from page 1

We asked...?

How you have shaped Gwynedd’s Financial Strategy

You said...

You said...

You said... You said...You said...

We did: 4

We did: 4

We did: 4

We did: 4

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

The Council is protecting the public transport budget from any cuts in 2019-20.

Councillors have decided to:

l maintain the mobile library service at its current level;

l protect the library services to schools;

l maintain the books fund budget at its current level.

The Council has decided not to introduce any changes to the current arrangements.

The Council will not be asking schools to contribute to the further savings needed in 2019/20 and will limit the contribution of the care service area to efficiency savings or savings that will only have a marginal effect.

Young people under 25 and older people over 65 said that bus services are very important to them.

That library services were important and should be protected as much as possible from cuts.

Residents should not be charged to replace damaged bins.

The Council should protect education and care - the two areas on which around two thirds of the Council’s budget is spent.

You said...

You said...

We did: 4The Council is limiting the cuts that effect the business sector to a minimum. Councillors have also decided not to end the free parking scheme set-up to promote local shops in the run-up to Christmas.

Gwynedd’s business community said that budget cuts that have a negative impact on local companies should be kept to a minimum.

The Council should protect contributions to Women’s Aid and the Youth Justice Service.

We did: 4The Council will not be reducing the financial contribution provided to these organisations in 2019/20.

You said...

The Council should protect strategic grants for the arts.

We did: 4Councillors have decided to protect funding at its current level for the 12-months ahead.

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

Between October and December 2018, Gwynedd Council carried out a public consultation to find out which local services are most important to you. This helped us decide where we should look for savings.

Then, during January 2019, we asked for your views on 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.

More than 3,100 Gwynedd people returned one of the two survey questionnaires. This is how your views have shaped the Council’s plans:

Gwynedd Council

NEWYDDION Spring 2019

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With Direct Debit, you can pay your Council Tax in more manageable monthly or weekly instalments. Once you have chosen the option that suits you, the payments simply transfer from your account on the date you agreed.

If you don’t already pay by Direct Debit, setting it up is easy. Simply contact Gwynedd’s Council Tax Service on01286 682 700 to discuss the option that best suits you.

Direct DebitOver 75% of Gwynedd households pay their Council Tax bill by Direct Debit - it’s the simplest and safest way for you and for the Council.

Online ServicesDuring April the online services or the ‘apGwynedd’ app will be introduced to enable you to check your Council Tax bill and see how much is due.

Go paperlessIf you’re not quite ready to do everything online, you could choose to receive your Council Tax bill by email. This is a quick and efficient way of receiving your bill and you can keep a copy on file. Sign up to ensure your Council Tax is invested in services, rather than needless postage and paper.

Council Tax discounts may be availableIf you’re having difficulty keeping up with your Council Tax payments, please contact Gwynedd Council immediately to discuss your situation. Gwynedd’s Revenues team offer friendly professional advice.

You may qualify for a discount or an exemption. To find out, call the team on 01286 682 700, or visit one of Gwynedd’s three Siop Gwynedd one-stop-shops at: Castle Street, Caernarfon; Ffordd y Cob, Pwllheli or Cae Penarlâg, Dolgellau.

Even if legal action has been taken, you can still discuss the matter and try to come to an arrangement with the Council. To contact the Council Tax Recovery Team on email: counciltax@gwynedd.llyw.cymru, or call 01286 682 706.

Council Tax ReductionIf you receive Universal Credit, Income Support, Job Seekers Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance or you are on a low income, you could be entitled to a reduction in your Council Tax bill. In some circumstances you may be entitled to a reduction of up to 100% of the amount payable.

To find out if you’re entitled to be part of the Council Tax Reduction scheme, apply online at www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/counciltaxreduction

For further information or to request a paper form, contact the Council’s Benefits team on email: ctreduction@gwynedd.llyw.cymru or call 01286 682689.

l Gwynedd’s Benefits team are here to help

Applying onlineYou can use an online calculator to work out whether you may be entitled to a reduction in the amount of Council Tax you pay. Go to www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/benefitclaim to see if you’re eligible.

If you are entitled to money off your bill,

you can then go on to make an on-line application from the same page.

Remember though, if you already receive a reduction, it is very important that you let the Council know about any changes in your circumstances. You can do this on-line here:

www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/changeofcircumstances

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 information you need quicker. This option is also better for the environment and the public purse as it cuts out the need to pay for sending out paper bills.

If you’re interested in receiving your Council Tax bill via e-mail, visit: www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/ElectronicBilling - you will need your Council Tax reference which is noted on any bill that has been sent to you.

Paying onlineYou can use the secure pages on Gwynedd Council’s website 24 hours a day to pay your bill. Visit:www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/pay and pay using your bank debit or credit card.

Remember even if you don’t have internet access at home, you can go online for free at your local Gwynedd library or use the free wi-fi facilities at any Council building where you see the Digital Gwynedd logo.

Help is available There are 61,630 households in Gwynedd. Of these, around 9,600 receive some element of help towards paying their Council 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.

Help at-handThere are a number of independent organisations that can offer you free advice.

Your local Citizens Advice Bureau office can help with all sorts of questions you may have about money matters including advice about dealing with debts. Contact them by phone on 0345 450 3064 or visit their website: www.cabgwynedd.org

Age Cymru Gwynedd & Môn offers free, impartial advice to older people on the benefits they can claim. They can also help to deal with paperwork. Contact them on 01286 677 711 - lines open weekdays 9am-5pm - or visit: www.agecymru.org.uk/gwyneddamon

Taking the stress out of your Council Tax bill

Gwynedd Council

Spring 2019 NEWYDDION

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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

COMMUNITY COMMUNITY COUNCIL PRECEPT 2018/19

£

COMMUNITY COUNCIL PRECEPT 2019/20

£

COMMUNITY COUNCIL BAND D EQUIVALENT

£

BAND D COUNCIL TAX 2019/20

£

GWYNEDD COUNCIL BAND D EQUIVALENT

£

NORTH WALES POLICE AND CRIME COMMISSIONER BAND D EQUIVALENT

£

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 North Wales Police 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%.

Your Council Tax - community by community

Aberdaron 15,000 15,000 27.12 1,376.22 278.10 1,681.44 Aberdyfi 34,955 35,829 36.65 1,376.22 278.10 1,690.97 Abergwyngregyn 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 Arthog 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 Beddgelert 8,900 9,500 30.01 1,376.22 278.10 1,684.33 Betws Garmon 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 Botwnnog 5,500 5,500 12.29 1,376.22 278.10 1,666.61 Brithdir & Llanfachreth 6,000 6,000 14.13 1,376.22 278.10 1,668.45 Bryncrug 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 Clynnog Fawr 12,000 15,000 33.55 1,376.22 278.10 1,687.87 Corris 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 Dolbenmaen 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 Dyffryn Ardudwy 29,742 35,000 43.10 1,376.22 278.10 1,697.42 Y Felinheli 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 Ganllwyd 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 Llanaelhaearn 25,000 25,000 56.36 1,376.22 278.10 1,710.68 Llanbedr 14,193 14,193 43.95 1,376.22 278.10 1,698.27 Llanbedrog 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 Llandwrog 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 Llanddeiniolen 26,500 31,800 17.31 1,376.22 278.10 1,671.63 Llandderfel 9,000 9,000 18.08 1,376.22 278.10 1,672.40 Llanegryn 5,000 5,000 31.30 1,376.22 278.10 1,685.62 Llanelltyd 7,500 7,500 26.00 1,376.22 278.10 1,680.32 Llanengan 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 Llanfrothen 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 Llangywer 4,000 4,000 29.13 1,376.22 278.10 1,683.45 Llanllechid 7,500 8,000 23.47 1,376.22 278.10 1,677.79 Llanllyfni 40,360 48,826 34.60 1,376.22 278.10 1,688.92 Llannor 16,660 18,160 20.13 1,376.22 278.10 1,674.45 Llanrug 42,000 50,000 44.02 1,376.22 278.10 1,698.34 Llanuwchllyn 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 Llanycil 4,000 4,000 19.95 1,376.22 278.10 1,674.27 Llanystumdwy 15,000 15,000 17.32 1,376.22 278.10 1,671.64 Maentwrog 6,051 6,051 21.54 1,376.22 278.10 1,675.86 Mawddwy 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 Pennal 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 Pentir 50,000 50,000 42.06 1,376.22 278.10 1,696.38 Pistyll 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 Talsarnau 20,000 20,000 62.14 1,376.22 278.10 1,716.46 Trawsfynydd 18,000 18,000 35.43 1,376.22 278.10 1,689.75 Tudweiliog 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 Waunfawr 12,000 12,000 21.40 1,376.22 278.10 1,675.72