WASHING machines have been installed at a primary school in South Wales to help parents and the surrounding community as energy bills continue to rise.
Cadoxton Primary School in the Vale of Glamorgan, public service union UNISON Cymru/Wales and key grant funders have teamed up to tackle the ever-worsening cost-of-living crisis by providing a unique, pay-as-you-feel washing service on site.
Two washing machines, a tumble dryer and washing lines have been installed at the school as part of the Cadog’s Corner project, which also operates a foodbank service.
Project organiser Hannah Cogbill is part of the senior leadership team at Cadoxton Primary School and said the school wanted to help parents and the surrounding community with their energy bills.
Hannah said: “At Cadog’s Corner, we have just launched our pay-as-you-feel community laundrette.
“We have two washing machines, a tumble dryer and washing lines. UNISON and other grant funders have supported us in making this happen.
“We recognised as a school we were entering a time of the unknown – the cost-of-living crisis with the cost of energy rising and many families not knowing if they could afford to pay their bills.
“We didn’t know how this would impact our community, but we wanted to make sure that we could support our community to have their basic needs met – food and personal hygiene – all at a pay-as-you-feel price.
“This should not be a luxury for families.
“This asset has proven hugely popular with our families as they pop up, wash, and have a cup of Welsh coffee while waiting.
“Together, we can make a difference in our community and support the wellbeing of our families to thrive.”
Glenn Pappas, secretary of UNISON’s Vale of Glamorgan branch, said: “The branch got involved because several of our members have children who go to the schools served by the project.
“We thought it would be a good way to help our community. With the cost of bringing up children rising, we decided to help fund the project.
“Hopefully, we can get a second laundrette up and running next year.”
