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RCT Libraries Update

Important Customer Notice in response to COVID-19 and the Omicron variant. The following restrictions return to all RCT Libraries:

Social distancing of 2m between all library users
One-way systems whilst in library building.
Quarantining of returned library materials (Items to be placed in green recycling bins at entrance of library for 72 hours).

We remind library users that you must wear a face covering when in the library unless medically exempt and that you must sanitise your hands on entry.

Limited numbers will be allowed in the premises at any one time and please be aware you may be asked to wait to enter the building by a member of library staff.

Please note that the ‘Order & Collect’ system is still operational.

Any changes to these new rules will be advertised in our libraries and on the Council’s social media accounts and website www.rctcbc.gov.uk/libraries


Three Welsh hospitals under "extreme pressure"

People asked to avoid Royal Glamorgan Hospital for minor injuries as pressure on staff grows

"Due to the current pressures and crowding in the Emergency Department, if you have a minor injury, we do ask you call 111 first to make an appointment in the MIU."

A hospital in Rhondda Cynon Taf is urging people not to visit for minor emergencies due to pressures on staff.

On Monday, January 10 Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board issued a notice to patients asking them not to attend Royal Glamorgan Hospital, in Talbot Green, for minor emergencies.

Instead it's advised people book an appointment at another facility.

A statement issued by the health board said: "From Monday January 10, between 7am and 5pm on a weekday, patients who attend the Royal Glamorgan Hospital Emergency Department with a minor injury will be offered an appointment in the Minor Injury Unit (MIU) in Yswbty Cwm Rhondda. This is only for certain conditions.

"Due to the current pressures and crowding in the Emergency Department, if you have a minor injury, we do ask you call 111 first to make an appointment in the MIU instead of coming to the Emergency Department. Thank you for your cooperation."

You can use the MIU for:

Children over one year old
Limb injuries
Removal of foreign bodies from ears, nose and soft tissue
Wounds
Animal and human bites
Abrasions
Cuts
Minor burns and scalds
Insect bites
Minor head and and face injuries
Minor neck injuries
Minor back injuries
Minor chest injuries

Back last month a joint letter was issued to inform residents of the "bleak picture" hospitals and care facilities are facing this winter.

The letter on behalf of Cwm Taf Morgannwg UHB, Welsh Ambulance Service and local councils detailed how stretched hospitals and social care facilities would be over the Christmas period, and what residents could do to help.

Staff in the health and social sector were said to be under "immense pressure" due to the ongoing pandemic, and locals were asked to do their part in stopping the spread.

Due to these pressures, A&E waiting times were said to be increased while they added ambulances "cannot respond as quickly as they should".