Councillors in Ceredigion have been told they need to encourage EU nationals in their areas to apply for settled status post-Brexit.

There are around 2,000 residents in Ceredigion from other European countries and as the Brexit deadline passes, they need to apply for settled status.

Ceredigion County Council’s scrutiny co-ordinating committee were updated on the authority’s progress in preparing for exit from the EU including what it may mean for residents, farmers, schools and the council itself.

Officer Alun Williams told a council meeting that the 31 January deadline for leaving was “mostly symbolic” and work would continue to negotiate a suitable deal for leaving by December, if this deadline is not met the UK will leave without a deal.

Cllr Mark Strong said he had spoken to many people in Aberystwyth – older EU residents – who have been in the country for 40 years who now faced difficulties over residency.

“They find that their status now is more uncertain than the time we joined the EU in the ’70s,” said Cllr Strong, highlighting the need to ensure vulnerable people needed support to apply.

The committee heard that there were ‘hard to reach’ people and the council would work to ensure they were helped, there would also be support for looked after children and those in care homes.

Anyone who wishes to book an appointment to use the EU Settlement Service, can call 01970 633580.

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