A new report has praised the way local authorities in Wales worked with the third sector to protect vulnerable people during the pandemic.

The Welsh Government report found councils responded rapidly to support non-shielding vulnerable groups and individuals.

It also found the pandemic led to an increase in volunteering at a local level, with new forms of volunteering emerging.

Minister for housing and local government, Julie James, said: ‘Support workers in local authorities and the third sector have been working tirelessly to support some of our most vulnerable people during this pandemic.

’While it’s clear that some challenges remain, it’s encouraging to see that new and existing partnerships have worked so well in mobilising local support.’

The report does recommend that more support is needed to improve digital skills and access among vulnerable and disadvantaged groups.