Welsh councils acted as the country’s “hidden frontline” during Covid‑19, the UK Inquiry has heard, stepping in to protect vulnerable residents, house people experiencing homelessness overnight, and keep essential community services running under extreme pressure.
Module 10 of the inquiry focuses on the social impacts of Covid-19, examining the pressures faced by frontline staff, vulnerable groups, housing and homelessness services, bereavement provision, and community-level leisure and cultural activities. Councils in Wales were central to responding to these challenges, providing essential services and emergency accommodation.
In his evidence to the Inquiry, Dr Llewelyn highlighted the dedication of local government staff, commenting that they worked sustained long hours, faced higher risk of infection, and managed significant mental health pressures. Councils redeployed staff, implemented safety measures, and provided personal protective equipment, wellbeing support, and flexible working arrangements.
Dr Llewelyn said that local authorities knew their towns, communities and businesses well, which meant they could target help accurately. Funding from Welsh Government, supported by processes designed jointly with local government, meant councils were able to get financial support out to businesses quickly.
The evidence also emphasised how local authorities protected vulnerable residents, including those experiencing financial hardship, digital exclusion, or social isolation. Housing and homelessness services were expanded under the “No-one Left Out” strategy, with hotels and other facilities repurposed to provide emergency accommodation. Bereavement services were adapted with live-streamed funerals, outdoor ceremonies, and virtual support groups to assist grieving families.
Community services and leisure facilities were maintained where possible, with virtual fitness classes, online library and museum resources, and continued support for voluntary organisations helping sustain social connection and wellbeing during lockdowns.
The Chair of the Inquiry, Baroness Hallet in summing up the day’s evidence session, said she hoped that the Inquiry process helped to shine a spotlight on the local government workforce and paid tribute their impact and to their collective contributions during the pandemic.
Dr Chris Llewelyn, WLGA Chief Executive, said:
“Covid-19 placed unprecedented pressures on local government, our workforce, and the communities we serve. Key workers faced long hours, risk to their own health, and emotional strain, yet they responded with professionalism and unwavering dedication.
“Councils in Wales worked tirelessly to support vulnerable residents, provide emergency housing, adapt bereavement services, and maintain community services and leisure opportunities. Our workforce showed remarkable resilience, and the partnership between councils, Welsh Government, and social partners was critical in delivering timely, targeted support.
“Their strong understanding of their communities, combined with close partnership with Welsh Government, meant support reached businesses and residents quickly when it was needed most. None of this would have been possible without the dedication of our workforce and the trust built through our partnership arrangements.
“As we reflect on the evidence presented to the UK Covid-19 Inquiry, our focus is on what we learned, how we can improve public services, and ensuring future emergency planning reflects the lessons of the pandemic. Above all, we remember those who lost their lives and the families who continue to live with that loss.”