Carrier Bag Charges

The single use carrier bag charge is due to come into force on 1 October 2011, and from then on businesses will be required to charge a minimum of 5p for all single use carrier bags. The Regulations place certain duties on retailers in respect of record keeping. Working with the FSB, the Welsh Government has made exemptions for very small businesses, which will still be required to charge for bags but, if employ less than 10 full time equivalent members of staff, will not need to keep records.

Visit www.carrierbagchargewales.gov.uk to find more detailed guidance about the legislation. The website also includes details about what bags are included and exempt, has a frequently asked questions section for retailers along with the option to download the guidance and posters.  Or phone the Local Environment Quality team on 02920 826230, or e-mail :
carrierbagcharge@wales.gsi.gov.uk

The ‘Real Conversation’ between Businesses & Young People

The Real Conversation is a national call to businesses to improve work experience for young people. It is an opportunity for businesses to talk to individuals, their teachers and trainers, to improve the quality and nature of work experience on offer.  The next ‘Real Conversation’ will be taking place locally in the Liberty Stadium, Swansea, on Thursday 29 September 2011.

For more information please go to
http://careerswaleswest.wordpress.com/2011/09/19/real-conversation-in-the-liberty-stadium-swansea/

and please book your place by close of play Monday by going to :

https://secure.wales.gov.uk/topics/educationandskills/skillsandtraining/realconversation/event/?lang=en

Neath Food & Drink Festival

Now in its third year, funding has been secured to expand Neath Food and Drink Festival 2011 to a two day event over Friday 7th and Saturday 8th October.

Over 60 food producers from across South Wales will be all come together to celebrate all that is good about Welsh Food and Drink, including award winning suppliers from Neath’s famous Indoor Victorian Market which has recently appeared on BBC's 'The One Show'.

On Saturday at St. David's Church, Neath Port Talbot College and other local chefs will be demonstrating the latest recipes and techniques. There will be lots of recipe ideas with tasters and question and answer sessions.
 
Neath Town Centre Communities First will be holding a range of activities across various locations in the heart of the town.  Bay Radio will be broadcasting live from the event over the two days and will keep everyone entertained with a mixture of music, information and competions. Restaurants throughout the town will also be hosting special themed events on Friday evening.
 
For more information go to the website at http://www.neathfoodfestival.co.uk/