News

Apprentices sought for rewarding career in social care

Published

3 years ago

January 6, 2022

PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL IS launching a bespoke apprenticeship programme to boost the numbers of people entering the caring profession and provide local young people with high value work opportunities.

The Council’s Social Services and Housing Directorate is to recruit up to eight apprentices through the programme in conjunction with Pembrokeshire College.

The apprenticeships will benefit both the authority and the wider community by increasing the numbers of carers into the care workforce – an ongoing challenge across the UK – while also supporting the local community and young people through job opportunities in a highly rewarding career.

This is especially important as Pembrokeshire recovers from the Covid-19 pandemic.

The programme will see apprentices undertake two placements over a period of 18 months across Residential Homes, Day Centres, Reablement and the Council’s Community Wellbeing and Independence Team.

These services are registered under The Regulation and Inspection of Social Care (Wales) Act 2016.

Sue Thomson, the Responsible Individual (RI) for the Local Authority who is responsible for the overall management, compliance and Governance of the services said: “We are delighted to be able to offer apprenticeships. This is a great start to a career in social care where they will gain recognised Health & Social Care qualifications in a variety of rewarding roles”.

Pembrokeshire County Council Cabinet Member for Social Services, Cllr Tessa Hodgson said: “It is great to see the Council taking proactive steps to bring young people into social care with this apprenticeship programme, setting them on the path to a rewarding career that makes such a difference to people in our community.

“An apprenticeship is a great way to get an introduction into a career and to learn and study on the job.”

Pembrokeshire County Council Director of Social Services, Jonathan Griffiths, added: “I really welcome the apprenticeship programme, this will be A positive experience for people entering the social care field and for apprentices to shape the future of social care.

“We want to work with apprentices to ensure this is a rewarding experience for you and for the organisation. It is an opportunity not to be missed and we look forward to your interest and enthusiasm to make a positive difference for people who need support in our community.”

Alongside the placements, the apprentices will be supported by a development programme including an induction, orientation in the role, being supported by a mentor, undertaking a Level 2 qualification in Health and Social Care, achieving Social Care Wales registration and undertaking additional development activities including interview skills, communication skills and more.

The aim at the end of the programme will be for the apprentices to be work ready for a role within the Community Wellbeing and Independence Team (domiciliary care).

The plan is for the first cohort to be in place by February 2022.

Jason Bennett, the Council’s Head of Adult Care, Social Care and Housing, said: “I am very pleased to see the launch of the Social Care Apprenticeship programme. This presents an exciting opportunity for people to start their journey on a rewarding career in Social Care.

“Starting a career in social care in this way will open up a wide range of future development opportunities, job security, and offers people the chance to make a real difference to people’s lives.”

The recruitment and advertising campaign will be open until early February and will include engaging information events and a specialist recruitment website.

A group of new and young carers will be on hand to share their positive experiences of working in care with prospective apprentices.

Anyone who is interested in social care, considering a career in the social care field and is a school or college leaver aged over 16 is asked to make contact.

Choosing an apprenticeship is a great start to a career in health and social care and you will get paid while you study and learn and work towards a recognised qualification. For further information call 01437 776609.

Entertainment

Newport Winter Wonderland is the ideal treat for the family this Christmas holiday

Published

19 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THERE is still a chance to attend the Newport Winter Wonderland and experience a magical winter experience. Located next to Friars Walk Shopping Centre (NP20 1UH), the festive attraction opened its doors on Thursday, November 21, and will run until Sunday, January 5, closing only on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Visitors can look forward to a real ice rink under cover, ensuring skating fun whatever the weather. Alongside the rink, a large Christmas funfair offers thrills and entertainment for all ages, while stalls serving various Christmas foods promise festive treats to keep everyone warm and satisfied.

For those looking to unwind, a fire pit provides a cosy spot for roasting marshmallows, and a licensed bar offers seasonal drinks to enjoy. Entry to the Winter Wonderland is free, with tickets required only for specific attractions.

Families can also meet Santa Claus himself, making it a perfect outing for creating cherished holiday memories.

For more details, including ticket bookings and opening hours, visit www.newportwinterwonderland.co.uk.

Make sure to wrap up warm and head down to Newport Winter Wonderland for a truly festive day out this Christmas season.

Festive fun: Newport Winter Wonderland features an ice rink, funfair, and Santa Claus (Pic: Herald).

Crime

Arrest after fatal Carmarthenshire hit-and-run

Published

19 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A MAN has been arrested following a fatal hit-and-run collision in Llanpumsaint, Carmarthenshire, on Monday (December 23), which claimed the life of 38-year-old Aaron Jones.

The incident happened near Caer Salem Baptist Chapel between 6:45pm and 7:45pm while Aaron was walking his dog. Police said the vehicle involved, a blue car with noticeable damage, was travelling northbound through the village at the time of the collision.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that the vehicle believed to have been involved has now been located, and a 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, failing to stop for a collision, and failing to report a collision.

Specially trained officers are supporting Aaron’s family, who have asked for privacy during this difficult time.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have seen the vehicle or has dashcam footage from the area during the relevant times to contact us immediately.”

The road remains closed while investigations continue, and residents can expect an increased police presence in the area.

Anyone with dashcam footage, doorbell camera recordings, or CCTV footage from the area is urged to check their recordings and contact Dyfed-Powys Police immediately using the details provided in the comments.

Community

Lord Nelson Hotel refunds lucky couple the full cost of their wedding day

Published

1 day ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

WHAT an amazing Christmas present!

In an extraordinary gesture of generosity, the Lord Nelson Hotel delighted one lucky couple by refunding the full cost of their 2024 wedding. Abby and Simon Hooper, who tied the knot at the historic venue on August 3, were thrilled to learn they were the winners of this year’s giveaway.

The initiative was part of a special promotion open to all couples who celebrated their weddings at the Lord Nelson in 2024. The winners were selected through a random draw using a fair generator system, with the Hoopers emerging as the fortunate recipients.

The hotel has announced plans to continue the tradition in 2025, offering next year’s couples the same opportunity to win their wedding costs back.

A spokesperson for the Lord Nelson Hotel said: “If you’re planning to get married in 2025, it’s not too late to book with us and secure your spot in next year’s draw.

“We are thrilled to celebrate love and create moments to cherish, and this is just one of the ways we give back to our incredible couples.”

Known for its elegant venue spaces and exceptional wedding team, the Lord Nelson Hotel remains a top choice for couples seeking a perfect wedding day. This annual giveaway further cements their commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences.

Abby and Simon Hooper shared their gratitude after their special day: “From start to finish, the team at the Lord Nelson Hotel was incredibly helpful, and nothing was too much to ask.

“The day went smoothly, the food was fantastic, and the staff were polite, hardworking, and attentive. Mia and Jenna, in particular, stood out for their thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”