Adult social care services across Powys continue to face huge pressures, council leaders have warned today.

Despite the easing of Coronavirus restrictions in Wales, the pandemic and its after-effects continue to have a major impact on the ability of Powys County Council and its partners to deliver vital adult social care services to those who need them.

Demand for social care services has reached unprecedented levels with referrals significantly higher compared to previous years. In some instances, the demand for social care has more than tripled.

The council continues to prioritise those adults who need vital social care services as a matter of urgency but is now asking residents for their patience and to support the council during this difficult time.

Adult Social Care leaders are keen to point out, however, that if any adult is at risk of harm or where their situation is unsustainable, that people should contact the council.

Cllr Myfanwy Alexander, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: “We are not out of the woods yet. Here in Powys, response to the COVID-19 crisis has been a huge success, highlighting the strength of our partnerships and communities but at the moment, our exhausted staff are dealing with huge pressures.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to ask for patience at this critical time and to assure all our residents that keeping vulnerable people safe remains the priority which we will always deliver, no matter how challenging the circumstances.”

Ali Bulman, the council’s Executive Director for People and Organisational Development and Director of Social Services, said: "Adult social care services are not yet back to normal. Our business continuity plans for social services are still in place because coronavirus continues to impact social care across the county and we are also experiencing a high level of demand for services not directly linked to Coronavirus.

"As we continue to face these huge pressures, we will prioritise vital adults social care services to those who need them the most. It is important that people consider self-help options first before they contact us but if this is not suitable and adults are struggling, then please get in touch with us immediately.

"This has been an extremely difficult period and I would like to pay tribute to staff in Adult Social Care and Children’s Services for their hard work and efforts to provide these vital services in challenging circumstances."

If you or someone you know needs practical help with daily living, there are organisations that can provide help and support. Visit https://en.powys.gov.uk/article/1536/Practical-Help-with-daily-living to search for organisations that can help support you.

AskSARA is an online self-help guide providing expert advice and information on products and equipment for older and disabled adults. Answer some questions about yourself and your environment and you'll receive a free personalised report, providing clear, tailored advice written by experts on ways to help with your daily activities.

If you want information or advice about your well-being – or you want to know how you can help somebody else, visit Dewis Cymru’s website https://www.dewis.wales/

If you are concerned about an adult and that you think they are at risk, report it immediately by calling the council’s ASSIST helpline on 0345 602 7050.