Innovation

Led by HR Manager Ieuan Gibbon, Gofal Cymru Care developed a sustainability initiative as part of its 2025–2030 COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) corporate plan. The goal was to transition from single-use plastic cleaning and toiletry products to reusable containers and dissolvable cleaning pods. These pods, when mixed with water, create effective cleaning solutions while eliminating the need for disposable plastic bottles.

Each care service within the organization appointed a Health and Safety Champion, responsible for promoting sustainable practices and engaging staff in environmentally responsible routines. Since implementing the plan in early 2025, the company has achieved a 45% reduction in single-use plastic consumption, with a target of reaching 80% by 2030.

By embedding sustainability into everyday care operations, Gofal Cymru Care demonstrates that even small social care providers can make a meaningful contribution to global environmental goals.

Inspiration

When asked about the inspiration behind the initiative, HR Manager Ieuan Gibbon explained that sustainability was a key focus of the company’s new corporate plan:

“We have recently published our corporate plan for 2025 to 2030, and one of its main objectives is to be more sustainable as an organization. We looked at the things we use daily, such as cleaning products and toiletries, and thought about how we can reduce our impact.”

The decision was driven internally, without government or external agency involvement, showing Gofal Cymru Care’s proactive leadership. The company recognized that sustainability not only benefits the environment but also improves residents’ health and supports employee engagement. As Gibbon stated, “in each of our services, we have a Health and Safety Champion whose role is to look at sustainability and how we can be better as an organization.”

This internal motivation highlights the organization’s genuine commitment to sustainability and continuous improvement in the care sector.

Overall impact

Since introducing the sustainability initiative, Gofal Cymru Care has already reduced single-use plastics by 45%, a tangible indicator of progress toward its goal of 80% by 2030. The change has lowered the organization’s carbon footprint and reduced waste output from its nine residential services across Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan.

In the short term, the company has benefited from cost savings due to decreased product waste and reduced purchasing of disposable materials. In the long term, the innovation strengthens its reputation as a socially responsible care provider and enhances trust among clients, families, and local communities.

The impact extends beyond the organization itself. Staff and residents alike are more aware of sustainability practices, promoting a culture of environmental responsibility within the care setting. These actions position Gofal Cymru Care as a pioneer in environmentally conscious social care, setting a standard for others in the industry to follow.

Business benefit

Because Gofal Cymru Care introduced a sustainability-focused innovation through its 2025–2030 corporate plan, the business has experienced several key benefits. By switching from traditional single-use plastic cleaning and toiletry products to reusable bottles and dissolvable pods, the company has significantly reduced costs associated with waste disposal and procurement. This change has made their operations more efficient and environmentally responsible, enhancing their brand reputation in the social care industry. As a result, Gofal Cymru Care is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable care practices within South Wales, which may attract future clients, investors, and partnerships that value corporate social responsibility.

Furthermore, this innovation has had a positive internal impact on employees. The introduction of “Health and Safety Champions” across services has empowered staff to take active roles in sustainability practices, increasing their engagement and job satisfaction. Employees feel proud to work for an organisation that prioritises environmental responsibility and community wellbeing. This, in turn, can lead to improved staff retention and a more motivated workforce. By embedding sustainability into its culture, Gofal Cymru Care not only achieves environmental goals but also builds a stronger, more resilient business prepared for long-term success.

Social and environmental benefit

Gofal Cymru Care’s innovation directly benefits both society and the environment. By reducing the use of hazardous cleaning chemicals and single-use plastics across its nine residential services in Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan, the company has created healthier living environments for residents and staff. People supported by the organisation (many with mental health and disability needs) are now exposed to fewer harmful substances, improving their wellbeing and quality of life. The cleaner, greener environment also fosters a sense of community pride and encourages sustainable living among residents and employees alike.

Environmentally, the company’s actions contribute to waste reduction and pollution prevention. The switch to reusable cleaning systems and biodegradable pods has already cut single-use plastic consumption by approximately 45%, with a long-term goal of reaching 80% sustainability by 2030. This significant reduction lowers the organization’s carbon footprint and supports broader efforts to protect the local ecosystem in South Wales. Through its proactive, self-initiated sustainability measures, Gofal Cymru Care demonstrates how small-to-medium care providers can lead by example, promoting both human and environmental wellbeing without relying on external agencies or government initiatives.

Interview

Ieuan Gibbon, HR Manager

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