Despite First Minister Mark Drakeford’s announcement last week that multi-purpose community centres including community centres, village halls, church halls and other community facilities can reopen from 3 May, people in Ceredigion are being advised to continue to meet online.

The advice comes from the county’s multi-agency panel, set up to advise and support safe reopening of facilities in-line with national guidance.

The panel has been created under Ceredigion’s Public Services Board Sub Group; Understanding our Communities.

Leading on the development of the group is Ceredigion Association of Voluntary Organisations (CAVO) and Ceredigion County Council in partnership with Dyfed-Powys Police and Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service.

The panel includes representation from health and safety, environmental health and community safety.

A statement issued by the council said: “The panel strongly advise you to make every effort to carry out your activity digitally or make contact by phone.

“If not, consider whether it is possible to hold your activity outdoors, in line with Welsh Government guidance.

“Holding your activity indoors should be considered as a last resort. If this is the only option and it’s essential that you meet then please keep the session brief and involve as few people as possible, with all necessary procedures and protocols in place.

“Those responsible for community activities should remember to maintain a social distance of two metres, wear a face covering in indoor public spaces, and regularly wash your hands for 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer provided.

“Anyone responsible for community facilities can seek advice to ensure arrangements are safe and secure, and compliance is in line with national guidance.

“Prior to reopening any community facility, those managing centres must ensure they are Covid-free zones.”

The panel aims to host a session today, Wednesday, 28 April, at 1.30pm to support those in charge of community venues.

To join, register here.

Questions and information requests can be submitted via CAVO on [email protected] or 01570 423232.