A BIG thank you is being sent to staff at Carmarthenshire’s care hubs set up to look after children of essential workers during the coronavirus crisis.

During the first week more than 700 children attended the hubs and were looked after by almost 800 members of staff who have gone above and beyond to support Carmarthenshire’s young people.

Without the support of both the headteachers and all the staff involved, it would not have been possible to set up these hubs so quickly and effectively.

Staff are being thanked for the way in which they have responded to this crisis; for their continued co-operation and support, and their willingness to work under such difficult circumstances.

This not only includes school staff, but everyone who has been involved in making the hubs a success and at such short notice – officers from the education department, catering, cleaning, and all the other employees that have been brought in from other departments to help.

Feedback from parents, the majority of which are health and care workers and police officers, has been very positive; allowing them to continue with their critical work knowing their children are in safe hands.

Executive Board Member for Education and Children’s Services Cllr Glynog Davies said: “I would like to thank and congratulate all the staff at the care hubs for everything they have done during the past couple of weeks in response to this crisis.

“We appreciate that this is a difficult and unsettling time for everyone including staff and their families; and I have nothing but admiration for the dedication and professionalism they have shown.

“Reports from parents with regards to the support their children are receiving is very positive, testament to all your hard work.

“Going forward, we will continue to review what we have in place to ensure that you continue to play a valuable role at these especially troubling times.”

More information on the care hubs including how to book can be found on at newsroom.carmarthenshire.gov.wales