County Council measures the impact of coronavirus on Powys

A comprehensive report on the initial impact of the pandemic on the county’s residents, communities, economy and the county council has been presented to the cabinet and will now be shared with partners.

Council Leader Councillor Rosemarie Harris said: “We know the COVID-19 outbreak has had a devastating impact on every aspect of the county’s social and economic well-being. The report examines the impact in detail covering key areas of operation and will be crucial in our recovery planning.

“The information collected during the first three months of the pandemic makes bleak reading, residents, businesses, communities and the county council have been severely affected and the repercussions for everyone will be felt for many years to come.

“The report ‘Understanding the Impact of COVID-19 in Powys’ identifies key areas of operation, the impact felt so far and the county council’s response. The insight gained as part of the impact review will be important in planning our recovery and will be crucial in lobbying Welsh Government for their continued financial support.”

The impact assessment will be will sent to all councillors, Welsh Government, WLGA, the Public Service Board and Wales Audit Office for information on Monday, July 6.

Key Findings

Business Support - £46.6m paid out to 4,020 businesses (as of June 11 – the second highest in Wales)

Employment - 23 per cent of county workforce furloughed (13,100)

Unemployment - increased 156 per cent to 2,225

Nearly 400 volunteers recruited

More than 5,000 vulnerable residents contacted

16 childcare hubs established with more than 300 pupils attending

881 IT devices distributed to help pupils access learning

14 per cent (290) extra pupils access free school meals

600 homeless presentations made – 300 per cent during busiest period

Council projecting £16m deficit as result of Coronavirus

201 council staff furloughed

Most staff home working

634 per cent increase in online meeting use