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Category: Featured

Featured posts

Ysgol Clywedog pupils take the stage at TEDx talks
In the run up to COP26, pupils from Ysgol Clywedog took to the stage at the famous Tedx Talks, where they were invited to express their concerns about climate change and their worries for the future of the environment.
They decided to spread the word about the importance of bees.
A number of schools across North Wales school took part with Ysgol Clywedog representing Wrexham. They worked with colleagues from GwE and Glyndwr University to articulate why we should advance the need to address the global warming crisis.
Nicholas Brown, head of geography at Ysgol Clywedog, said: “The school’s eco-taskforce decided to take part in the project as, for our Year 11s, this is the culmination of 3 years of hard work trying to improve the environment for our school and community.
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“The group had to submit a test video to GwE, and from this they were selected to take part in the TEDx talks. This was an amazing experience for all five pupils and, even more importantly, they have inspired many other pupils in our school. Their video has been played in front of world leaders and is now on the official TEDx site.
“Our entire school community is incredibly proud of all they have achieved.”
One of the pupils who took part in the talk, Maddie Salisbury, said: “Climate change will be the defining issue of our generation and many yet to come and we felt it was our duty to stand up and tell our leaders that we want change.
“We chose to talk about bees and biodiversity as this is something we are focused on in the eco-taskforce and something we can have the power to improve in our homes, schools and communities. We have worked hard since 2019 to boost the local biodiversity and will do this further when we introduce an apiary to school with three hives and thousands of bees. We ask the people of Wrexham to help our bees and other pollinators thrive by planting lots of wild flowers and trying not to mow the lawn or weed the garden as often as they usually might.”
Cllr Phil Wynn, lead member for education, said: “We are very proud of these pupils and applaud them for representing Wrexham with such an important message on internationally renowned stage. They have worked very hard within their school community to improve the environment and biodiversity, and have projects coming up that mean they will continue to do so during their remaining year at Ysgol Clywedog.”
You can see the Ysgol Clywedog eco-taskforce’s appearance at the TEDx Talks on You Tube, where you can also see a video introducing all the North Wales schools that took part.
If you’re looking for a new career and want to help people in your community, a job in social care could be the right move.
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December 6, 2021
Covid-19 briefing note – vaccination is key to getting us through winter
Much of Europe is feeling the effects of high Covid numbers at the moment – with countries like Germany, Austria and the Netherlands introducing new restrictions.
With the emergence and potential for rapid spread of the new ‘Omicron’ variant, no one can be sure that the UK will not feel the full brunt of a ‘fourth wave’ of infection.
This underlines the increased importance of vaccination. So if you’re offered a jab – whether it’s a first dose, second, or booster – please take it.
Omicron variant
Over the past week, the newly identified Omicron strain has provided another twist in the tale of this dreadful pandemic.
It’s thought to be more infectious than previous variants and we won’t know for several weeks if it’s as bad as, or even worse than, the Delta variant, which has been bad enough.
It again underlines the importance of getting jabbed, wearing a mask in the right places and being cautious.
Wear a mask
Remember…unless you’re exempt, you still need to wear a mask in most indoor spaces in Wales – including shops and on public transport.
Masks in secondary schools
As a precautionary step (while we wait to learn more about Omicron) Welsh Government has said that face coverings should be worn by secondary school pupils in all indoor areas where physical distancing cannot be maintained.
Face coverings also continue to be recommended on school transport.
Drop-in clinics for 12-15 year olds
An up-to-date list of drop-in clinics for 12-15 year olds to receive a first dose is available on the Betsi Cadwaladr website.
Remember that even if you’ve had Covid-19, it’s still recommended that you come forward for your first dose.
Those under 18 who’ve recently had the virus should ideally wait 12 weeks until they get their vaccination, unless they’re in a group that’s at greater risk of serious illness.
We want young people to make an informed decision about vaccination, based on up to date information available from trusted sources.
A good place to start is the Public Health Wales COVID-19 Vaccination Guide for Children and Young People.
Lateral flow tests – latest guidance
The Welsh Government recently updated its guidance on when to take lateral flow tests if you don’t have symptoms.
If you’re over the age of 11, you’re now encouraged to take them twice a week (every three or four days) if you don’t have Covid-19 symptoms.
You’re also encouraged to take a test:
- If you’re going to be in higher risk situations, including spending time in crowded or enclosed spaces.
- Before you visit people who are at a higher risk of severe illness from Covid.
- If you’re travelling to other areas of Wales or the UK.
Reminder – how to get your Covid pass
If you’re over 18, you must show the NHS Covid Pass to enter theatres, cinemas and concert halls – in addition to nightclubs and similar venues.
You can get your pass from the NHS UK website (you can’t use the NHS app to get the pass if you live in Wales). The NHS Covid Pass can be downloaded and printed.
You must be:
- Aged 16 or over.
- Registered with a GP in Wales.
You will need to upload a photo of one of the following:
- Passport
- Full UK driving licence
- Full European driving licence
(If you don’t have photographic ID or a relevant smart device, you’ll need to request a paper NHS Covid certificate.
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Useful links
- How to book a Covid test
December 3, 2021
Give someone the best gift this Christmas by giving blood in North Wales
Guest Article: Welsh Blood Service
A mother who needed in-the-womb blood transfusions during her pregnancy and a man who depends on regular, lifesaving blood donations are encouraging communities across Wales to give ‘the best gift’ this Christmas by donating blood.
The Welsh Blood Service is preparing to face Winter pressures on its services and is hoping their new Christmas campaign, ‘the best gift’, will raise awareness about the importance of donating blood and the lifesaving difference it makes.
These donations play a vital role by supporting a range of treatments from helping recovering accident victims and patients with blood cancers to supporting mothers and new-born babies during childbirth.
“We can look forward to Christmas together”
Blood donations were needed during both pregnancies for mother of two, Shelley Parry. After her own life was saved during her first pregnancy, Shelley received several more blood transfusions directly into her womb to keep her youngest daughter alive.
Shelley explains: “Receiving blood is truly the best gift we have ever received. We’re forever indebted as a family to those who have taken the time to donate. Without the generosity of blood donors, quite simply, we wouldn’t be parents. Thanks to their selfless act, we can look forward to Christmas together as a family.
“It only takes one hour of your time to donate, if you can, please consider donating.”
Also supporting the campaign is blood recipient Giggs Kanias. Since birth, Giggs has received over 1,000 blood transfusions as part of his treatment for beta thalassaemia major, a severe blood disorder. Thanks to blood donors, Giggs is looking forward to celebrating Christmas with his family.
“Receiving blood is truly the best gift anyone could ever receive”
Giggs said: “I am so thankful to the incredible people who give blood. When I’m in hospital, I stare at the bags of blood being transfused into me and always wonder, who is the person that has helped me?
“I know the difference these people have made to my life and I’m so grateful to each and every one of them. Without their generosity, I wouldn’t be here today, I wouldn’t be a dad, or have had the opportunity to see my daughter grow up. Receiving blood is truly the best gift anyone could ever receive.”
Alan Prosser, Director of the Welsh Blood Service, said: “For patients like Giggs, receiving blood will be the best gift they receive this Christmas. It truly is the best gift you can give.
“Blood products have a short shelf life and is needed by hospitals 365 days a year, including Christmas day, to help support patients in need, which is why we can’t stop collecting.”
The Welsh Blood Service provides lifesaving blood products to 20 hospitals across Wales and four Wales Air Ambulance aircraft for use in emergencies.
“The best gift this festive season”
Alan continues: “It is critical the service prepares. We need to build up blood stocks ahead of a potentially challenging winter, where seasonal illnesses and Covid-19 may exacerbate the usual winter pressures faced by the NHS.
“We are reaching out to communities across Wales to ask them to make a lifesaving blood donation and give ‘the best gift’ this festive season.”
Give the best gift you can this Christmas https://wbs.wales/WrexhamCouncilNovDec or call 0800 252 266 today.
December 3, 2021
Fly Tipping – how we’re tackling it
Tackling fly tipping differently in Wrexham is beginning to make a difference and in a forthcoming scrutiny report, Lead member for Environment and Transport, Cllr David Bithell, will be reporting on the progress since April including behaviour change.
He detailed that 40 investigations had taken place which resulted in fines of between £225 and £600 to nine people being issued. Seven cases are currently being prepared for court, six cases are already lodged with the court and ten are still being progressed with a view to fines or court action.
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CCTV has also been authorised for use and has been used in four areas. They’ll continue to be used throughout the county borough as our officers take a firm line with offenders.
Cllr David A Bithell, Lead Member for Environment and Transport, said, “Fly tipping remains one of the biggest concerns to our residents. There’s no excuse for it.
“We have 3 household recycling centres that can be used and we alert householders regularly about their duties and responsibilities.
“The vast number of householders are very responsible and dispose of their household waste correctly and legally but there are those that continue to blight our environment with their waste. We’ll take tough action with either Fixed Penalty Fines or court action against anyone we find fly tipping.
“We’re also supporting Keep Wales Tidy’s Caru Cymru campaign to ensure our environment is no longer blighted by fly tipping, littering or dog fouling.”
If you’re looking for a new career and want to help people in your community, a job in social care could be the right move.
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December 3, 2021
#Wrecsam2025
Together let’s raise the bar on our ambition #Wrecsam2025
Wrexham is awesome!
From singing under the massive floodlights at the Cae-Ras, to multi-cultural dancing at Ty Pawb – Wrexham is awesome!
From crowd-surfing watching Neck Deep at Focus Wales to taking in a sunrise along our Unesco World Heritage site-Wrexham is mint!
We have so many amazing businesses on our doorstep, including a factory manufacturing the covid vaccine -Wrexham is awesome!
We want to tell the world how awesome we are- and – well – we can’t do it without you.
Becoming UK City of Culture 2025
Wrexham is the only region in Wales through to the longlist of areas competing for UK City of Culture 2025 title.
The next stage of the UK City of Culture competition is in February when the longlist will shrink from 8 to 3…but our ultimate goal is to progress even further and win this competition for Wrexham!
During this period (and beyond) we need to be SHOUTING about how awesome Wrexham is so that the judges can hear us.
Winning the competition would be a once in a lifetime opportunity for a transformational change, bringing investment, jobs, pride and an international audience to see how awesome we are- as well as having a long lasting legacy once our year of hosting is finished.
From Pontfadog to Pentre Broughton, Rhosnesni to Rhosllanerchrugog and even the remote summit of Cadair Berwyn (the highest point in Wrexham) – we want to make sure that every community has the chance to participate and benefit from Wrexham becoming UK City of Culture
Industrial past and diversity
As part of our bid we have commissioned a logo- one that represents everyone.
The ‘colour splash’ represents coal dust as a nod to our industrial past, while the colours used are to represent the vibrancy and diversity of every single one of us who lives, works and plays in Wrexham.
Our logo also prominently features the Welsh spelling of ‘Wrecsam’ – We’re Welsh, we speak Welsh, and always encourage its use.
We’re encouraging individuals to share their experiences of what they think’s awesome about Wrexham by using the #tag #Wrecsam2025
This could really be an “I was there” moment for the region.
Speaking about the Wrexham 2025 bid, Joanna Swash, Group CEO of Moneypenny said;“By supporting the Wrexham UK City of Culture bid 2025 we can put our community first and highlight our enthusiasm for what Wrexham has to offer. We have deep roots in the town, and are passionate about supporting our people and the wider community that we are a part of.”
Hugh Jones, Lead Member for Communities, Place and Partnerships at Wrexham County Borough Council added;“The endless possibilities presented to Wrexham County if we succeed in winning the UK City of Culture title in 2025 are so exciting. Not only would we be able to deliver a year of world class events here in the County, but we’d also be able to open more avenues and creative opportunities for our community to tell their stories, recognise what makes us proud and undoubtedly provide more employment and prosperity whilst also raising our aspirations.”

If you are a business, charity, community organisation or foundation operating within Wrexham County Borough and would like to know more, you can email wrecsam2025@wrexham.gov.uk to find out how you can get involved and champion the bid to become the UK City of Culture in 2025.
We are also on the lookout for:
AMBASSADORS
- Local businesses who would like to support our bid to become the UK City of Culture 2025-championing Wrexham County’s bid to your customers, staff and online followers
- Please send an expression of interest to wrecsam2025@wrexham.gov.uk with the word ‘Ambassadors’ in the subject line for more information
STAKEHOLDERS
- Like ambassadors, but with the ability and footprint in the County to be a key consultee over the next few months.
- Help feedback and review the bid ahead of submission
- You will receive visual marketing collateral to display and use to actively champion Wrexham’s bid
- Please send an expression of interest to wrecsam2025@wrexham.gov.uk with the word ‘Stakeholders’ in the subject line for more information
Keep following our social media and #Wrecsam2025 for more news and information
Did we mention that Wrexham is AWESOME!?
December 3, 2021
Please Pre-Book your taxi to avoid disappointment
Taxi companies in Wrexham are reporting there’s fewer drivers available than usual for the time of year and their advice is to make sure you pre-book your taxi before you want to leave.
As a result of the driver shortage some disappointed customers have had to cancel meals and appointments as they couldn’t secure a taxi in time.
Work in social care and be the lifeline your community needs.
Don’t let this be you – whatever your plans if you intend to use a taxi please take the time to pre-book it to make sure you get there on time.
You’ll also need to wear a face covering in taxis so don’t forget to pop in your pocket or bag before you leave.
If you’re looking for a new career and want to help people in your community, a job in social care could be the right move.
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December 2, 2021
Funding to help regenerate empty town centre units
Investment into vacant properties is a priority for the regeneration of the town centre.
Work in social care and be the lifeline your community needs.
A new and exciting project will allow us to link up empty property owners with new businesses and organisations looking for grow on space.
Leisure, destination and cultural spaces could be developed from previously small or large scale retail units that currently sit unoccupied on the high street.
Businesses looking at investing in Wrexham town centre can now apply for a grant for up to 90% of the cost of a building structural feasibility study- when looking at converting a vacant property.
Eligible items through the grant will include, but not limited to:
Staff Costs
Contractors and consultants
Surveys on a building
Feasibilities on a building
Market research on a building
Before the Covid 19 pandemic, we saw a positive decline in Wrexham town centre’s vacancy rate that was in part due to investment from property owners incentivised by grant contributions.
Economic benefits
Leader of Wrexham Council, Cllr Mark Pritchard said: “We’ve all worked tirelessly within the political arena and found a way forward to give free car parking after 11am to help support businesses in Wrexham.
“I would like to thank the coalition members who all supported this initiative-helping support the town centre.”
“We’re now looking further afield and working on attracting more investment into Wrexham and the town centre, meaning less empty building and more reasons to visit- including exciting City Status and City of Culture 2025 bids.
Cllr Terry Evans, Lead Member for Economic Development and Regeneration, said: “The aim of this project is to help bring current empty properties in the town centre back into use – the reduction of empty units will have knock on benefits such as bringing in increased investment to the town centre, increasing footfall and dwell time, job creation as well as improving the look and confidence in the town centre.”
If you’re looking for a new career and want to help people in your community, a job in social care could be the right move.
Expression of interest can be submitted via a 2 page document that provides details on your project in relation to the criteria of eligible works as listed above, and how your project will benefit the long term, sustainable, regeneration of the town centre through empty property investment, including some of the economic benefits that may be delivered as a result of your project.
For more information please contact: Leanne.Taylor@wrexham.gov.uk
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December 2, 2021
We all have a duty to care what happens to our rubbish
Removing household waste has become a bit of a money spinner for some unscrupulous people who are taking people’s money by promising to remove their waste responsibly then promptly fly tipping rubbish across the county borough.
As householders we all have a “duty of care” to make sure that anyone we use to remove our rubbish has an official Waste Carrier Licence and you can check anyone out on the Natural Resources Wales website.
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Most legitimate companies will happily show you their Licence and assure you that they will dispose of it responsibly at a properly designated waste site.
If they don’t have one then it’s very likely that your rubbish is going to be fly-tipped and if it’s traced back to you risk a fine of up to £5,000 and prosecution.
Our officers can also issue the householder with a £300 fixed penalty notice as an alternative to prosecution.
Cllr David A Bithell, Lead Member for Environment and Transport, said, “It’s a sad fact of life that some people just don’t care and will happily fly tip your rubbish, scamming you out of your money and causing unacceptable amounts of litter in our countryside.
“Please take the time to check that anyone you are using to remove your rubbish has a Waste Carrier Licence.”
If you’re looking for a new career and want to help people in your community, a job in social care could be the right move.
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December 2, 2021
Rogue Trader Warning following Storm Arwen
Trading Standards is asking everyone to be aware that rogue traders and cold callers may try to take advantage of the damage caused by Storm Arwen to con people out of their money.
In Wrexham, there are many reputable tree surgeons, roofers, and builders who have been operating for years and work off recommendations. You may have to wait for someone good.
STAY SAFE – GET THE LATEST ALERTS ON SCAMS, PRODUCT RECALLS AND OTHER PUBLIC PROTECTION ISSUES
Here’s some general good advice for you to follow:
- Do not deal with someone who turns up at your doorstep.
- Be very wary of leaflets and of using Facebook Market place or websites such as Bark.
- Make sure you have more than a business name. Get contact details and get a quote and check with neighbours, friends or family if it’s reasonable.
- If someone cold calls and points out work you may need doing such as loose tiles on the roof, consider the possibility you may actually have no damage or need the work carrying out.
- People who cold call are opportunists and want your cash. Don’t keep cash in the home and don’t ever get in a vehicle and be taken to a bank or withdrawal point. Reputable businesses would not do this.
Who to contact
If you see anyone acting suspiciously or if you’ve been the victim of a rogue trader yourself, contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 03454 04 05 06 (or 03454 04 05 05 for the Welsh Language service).
If you are concerned about traders working or leafleting in your neighbourhood, contact your local policing team through 101. If a trader becomes abusive or you feel threatened, contact police on 999.
Trading Standards’ advice is that you never agree to work being offered by a cold-calling trader. If you feel work is needed, always try to obtain a number of quotes from reputable traders before going ahead.
Get the latest info on scams, product recalls and other public protection issues.
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December 1, 2021
Singing Penguins and more at Tŷ Pawb this December 🎤🎵🎄
There’s some very special visitors to Tŷ Pawb this December as life size Singing Penguins are set to take centre stage and are sure to be a hit with old and young alike.
There’s three in total all singing festive songs in beautiful harmony 🎤🎵🎄
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The food court will be holding music on 3 and 10 December and there’s Frosty Face Painting on 4 December.
A Comedy Night will be held on 10 December and there’ll be a Wrexham Makers Market on 11 December.
To complement the penguins there’ll be Penguin Crafts on 11 December and a screening of children’s favourite “Happy Feet on 18 December.
All the above events are free to enter and you can find out more details on the Tŷ Pawb website.
For £3 per person there’s Winter Print Making on 18 and 23 December.
There’s also a Christmas Party Night with popular band Rhythm Train. This takes place between 7.30 and 12 midnight and tickets cost £12 per person.
Rhythm Train hail from Wrexham and the five highly experienced musicians guarantee a unique, lively and polished event!
November 30, 2021