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Question from: County Councillor Emily Durrant Subject: Access to HWRC facilities
Question:
I am perturbed to learn that residents in my ward with mobility challenges are currently without access to HWRC facilities, owing to the lack of assistance in transferring waste from vehicles into the containers that are up a flight of steps (Brecon Recycling Centre). Residents report that staff refuse to assist which has resulted in residents returning home with their waste. Whilst staff safety is paramount, the needs of residents and compliance with the Public Sector Equality Duty (the general duty) in the Equality Act 2010, must also be met.
How will the portfolio holder work to ensure compliance with the Act and prevent the current situation which discriminates against people with mobility problems?
Minutes: Response by the Portfolio Holder:
Whilst we do understand the concerns regarding the use of the HWRCs by people with mobility issues, it is essential that we do follow our risk assessments for the safety of both site users and the staff. In order to help someone at the site, staff would need to get within 2 metres of them and also come into close contact with objects (such as car doors, etc.) which are potentially contaminated. I appreciate that the risk is minimal, but we must do all we can in these difficult times to prevent the spread of covid as per Government legislation and guidance.
Residents with mobility issues can take someone from their household or bubble to assist them although I appreciate that this is not always possible. It is also important to remember that journeys to the sites should only be made if essential and the waste and recycling cannot be collected at the kerbside. We do of course hope to be able to adjust our risk assessments as soon as we can in line with the national easing of restrictions, and we do thank residents for their patience and understanding in these difficult times.
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