Robs Weekly Round Up

09 August 2024

Hi everyone,

As another weeks draws to a close, I think it’s important to address a significant issue that has been affecting the UK over the last 10 days or so.

Following the horrific and tragic incident in Southport, we have seen a pattern of racially motivated disorder across the Country, including, I’m sad to say, some areas of Wales.

The Leader and I communicated with staff on this subject earlier in the week, spelling out our absolute opposition to the disgraceful episodes of lawlessness and violence, but I think it’s worth reiterating that message here.

Such appalling scenes in which buildings and individuals, including members of the Emergency Services, have been attacked by a minority motivated by racism are completely unacceptable and cannot be justified.

Thankfully, we have not seen such sickening behaviour in the Vale, but I want to stress that I and key colleagues within the Strategic Leadership Team (SLT) remain in regular contact with the Police and other agencies as we closely monitor the situation around the UK and how it may impact on us here.

Our County is one that looks to celebrate the diverse range of people that make up its communities. They add an invaluable vibrancy and richness to our towns and villages.

As a Council, we are utterly committed to the principles of equality, tolerance, acceptance and understanding.

That is why we have applied to become a County of Sanctuary, because we welcome those who have been forced to leave their countries to avoid violence and persecution.

County of Sanctuary status equally applies to everyone already living in the Vale. We are working to make the Vale an inclusive place to live for all citizens, whatever their background or characteristics.

Bullying, harassment, intimidation and discrimination can affect anyone and are behaviours we will always condemn.

A significant proportion of our staff come from the Global Majority, and I appreciate this might be a particularly distressing time for these individuals.

We are also acutely aware that many colleagues work on the frontline within our communities and at times like this such work can be challenging. 

The riots of the last week are not political protests, they are attacks on vulnerable people and the Police who are looking to protect them.

The Prime Minister has promised that those responsible will face the full force of the law and the Council completely supports that stance.

This organisation is about tolerance not hatred, peace not violence and respect not prejudice.

Please do not be afraid to ask for support and guidance whenever you need it, either from colleagues, your line manager or our Occupational Health Team.

It is important to be clear about the Council position on issues such as this. The Leader, SLT colleagues and I will continue to stand against violence and all forms of discrimination.

Switching tac, and on a much lighter note, I’m pleased to point out a couple of new benefits that have been added to the Staff Rewards Hub.

Pugh’s Garden centre is providing an exclusive discount package to those employed by the Council.

With a focus on sustainable gardening practices, there will be different offers available each month.

During August, Council staff can enjoy an exclusive 10 per cent discount on bark purchased in either the Wenvoe or Cardiff store.

To take advantage of this offer, simply present your ID badge at the till when making a purchase.

Roseland Childcare in Barry is another business offering a staff perk.

Council employees can get five per cent off childcare services, with no registration fee.

Owned by local resident Tara Roseland, the nursery opened in 2019 with the aim of supporting progression and development in a safe, fun, and homely environment, ensuring that the needs of each individual child are met.

It offers half and full-day services for children aged up to five and has a Quality in Care (QiC) award.

Based in a two-story building in Lombard Street, a five-minute walk from the Civic Offices, the nursery offers a sensory room, separate space for different age groups and a secure private garden.

Parents, who receive daily updates through the ‘Nursery Story’ app, can find out more by visiting the Roseland Childcare website.

These are the latest two benefits to be added to the My Vale Rewards Hub, with many more available.

Earlier this week, the Sport and Play Team hosted an event at Gladstone Park to mark National Playday.

Celebrated each year on the first Wednesday in August, Playday is a UK-wide event designed to help Children’s health, happiness and creativity.

This year’s theme was the culture of childhood - supporting play, fun and friendships.

That aimed to celebrate the rich and lively culture of children’s play, a distinct feature of behaviour across generations and countries.

There were a variety of stalls and attractions available on the day and it looks like a good time was had by all.

Thanks to everyone who attended from the Council. Diolch i chi i gyd.

Yesterday, I was delighted to join an event with the Leader to mark the Council being named in Stonewall’s top 100 inclusive Employers.

We met Stonewall founder Lisa Power and members of the Glam network in the Civic Offices.

Stonewall is Europe’s largest charity for lesbian, gay, bi, trans and queer (LGBTQ+) rights, and each year it releases a list of Top 100 employers.

This recognises those who are committed to supporting their LGBTQ+ staff and customers.

I’m very proud to say that the Council featured among the 2024 group, joining a number of top construction, legal, health, finance, and education organisations across the UK.  We are one of only two Local Authorities in Wales and one of seven in the UK to make the list.

Over the past 12 months, the Council has taken further significant strides towards creating an inclusive working environment.

These include championing LGBTQ+ staff, supporting local pride events, and ongoing promotion of its LGBTQ+ staff network, GLAM.

This work matters and to put it simply, it matters because it is important to be able to work in an environment in which you can be your true, authentic self without fear.

I would like to thank Members of GLAM for helping the Council achieve this status and everyone for making the Vale of Glamorgan Council such an inclusive and welcoming environment.

Thank you very much for your efforts this week - I and the rest of SLT really appreciate them.

Have a relaxing and enjoyable weekend,

Diolch yn fawr iawn,

Rob