The new Coronavirus regulations came into force in Wales at 6pm on Friday 23 October and will remain in place until Monday 9 November. During this time, community centres may only be open to provide essential voluntary services, or to provide public services upon the request of the Welsh Ministers or a local authority.
Essential voluntary services are deemed to be foodbanks and other emergency provision, similar to the activities undertaken in March when the national lockdown was in force. The FAQ guidance confirms “ Essential means if the service was not provided during the period of the ‘firebreak’ a significant harm would result for the recipient. If the delivery of the voluntary service can be delayed until after the ‘firebreak’ period without significant harm it should be postponed. If the voluntary service can reasonably be delivered from home this approach should be taken.”
If you are delivering an essential voluntary service you are not required to seek permission from the local authority.
Email: ewaldron@wcva.cymru for further enquiries.