Operational Standards

We have resources available for employees and managers, to support the implementation of the operational standards.

This web page is currently being reviewed to ensure that the latest resources are available for staff including Welsh language course information and updated guidelines. This page will also provide details of the 2026 Eisteddfod that will be held in Pembrokeshire.
The page includes:

Communications Standards, Services & Resources Guidelines for Employees, and associated Fact Sheets
Welsh Language Skills Self-Assessment, and guidelines for completion. This process is currently being reviewed. Further details are provided under the “Summary of Delivery of Operational Standards” section.
Welsh language courses.
Performance Appraisal guidance and paperwork. This has been reviewed during 2024, see below.
Supplementary Guidance for Managers & Senior Officers
Internal Use of Welsh Policy. This policy is currently under review, see below.
Policy on Awarding Grants and Application Form

Policies, Procedures and Resources - Internal Policies, Procedures and Guidance (in English and Welsh as applicable)

Recruitment policy and procedure documents are provided in English and Welsh including the Recruitment, Apprenticeship, Work Experience and Volunteer policies.

HR Recruitment - guidance including Welsh Language Standards Requirements, for HR Advisors and Service Managers.

The Council’s Recruitment Policy was updated in 2024, replacing the 2023 version. It contains reference to the Welsh Language Standards when drafting the person specification for a vacancy, and that consideration must be given to the need for the ability to communicate in the Welsh language. This is especially important for posts which feature, or are likely to feature, contact with the Council’s customers. It recommends that the linguistic skill required should be clearly defined, and sufficient and appropriate weighting applied.
The recruitment process web page describes the steps required before beginning recruitment and what questions need to be given consideration. This page refers to the Welsh Language Standards and Recruitment Standard136 where you must assess the need for Welsh language skills, and categorise the skills level required:

The exception to this is reception service posts, these posts must be designated as 'Welsh Language Essential'. Details are provided regarding these posts.

We will shortly be launching our new performance appraisal process, titled Feedback, Focus, and Future. This refreshed approach is designed to foster more meaningful and forward-looking conversations between managers and employees—placing emphasis on constructive feedback, clear goal setting, and career development.
In line with our commitment to promoting a bilingual workplace and supporting our Welsh-speaking colleagues, all associated documents and resources are currently being translated into Welsh. This ensures that everyone has the opportunity to engage fully with the appraisal process in their preferred language.
By offering the process in both Welsh and English, we aim to create a more inclusive and supportive environment where all staff can reflect on their progress, celebrate achievements, and plan for the future with clarity and confidence.

A review of the Internal Use of Welsh Policy commenced during 2024-25 with reference to the Welsh Language Commissioners Internal Use of Welsh Guidance. This will continue during Q1/Q2 of 2025-26, using end of year data and any identified development areas to inform the review process and align with the review of the Welsh Language Strategy 2021-26.

Welsh language Standards Annual Report 2024-25