A lot of Penarth residents have been talking about 'a new normal', as we come out of lockdown. After a time of stress, sadness and loss for many, we all hope for something better coming out of it.

But what does 'better' look like?

Gwyrddio Penarth Greening has paired up with Nub News to share stories and ideas about how things may look, from the point of view of local people: individuals and organisations, businesses and schools.

This week we spoke to Karen from Umpa Lumpa about their experience during the coronavirus lockdown and how they are planning for the future as we adjust to a new normal.

How has the coronavirus pandemic affected your business?

As for many people, the beginning of lockdown was very stressful, scary and upsetting.

I'd never closed the shop before so it was rather overwhelming. However, prior to the closure we produced a home delivery leaflet and distributed it to our customers and we instigated a social media campaign to assist old customers and new.

What have you been up to during the lockdown period?

We have delivered three days a week all through lockdown and we continue to do so since reopening. We delivered on a Monday, Wednesday and Friday to Penarth, Sully, Llandough, Dinas Powys, Barry, Wenvoe and Cardiff.

We have delivered sweets, pic 'n' mix, fudge, chocolates and Slush Puppies too. We have delivered gifts to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries and just to show that someone cares. The look on people's faces has been amazing and will live with us for a long time.

What positive things have come out of this unprecedented time? Is there anything you will continue to do post coronavirus?

Penarth is an exceptional place whereby lots of businesses have diversified and taken on a delivery option. You can get your sweet treats as well as gifts, meat, bread, vegetables and fruit, groceries, cheese and so on. I am proud to be part of a business community that is so innovative. We have realised that the delivery side of the business and the online business is now an integral part of the brand and it will continue alongside the shop opening.

How has the community of Penarth supported you through these difficult times?

We have been amazed and delighted at how the people of Penarth and the surrounding area have supported our business during this difficult time. The concept of shopping local is an integral part of living here. When you shop online you can support a local business as well and order over the phone.

We now have orders via online, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, telephone and also by coming into the shop. There are many ways to support our business.

What are your hopes and plans as we move forward and out of these tight restrictions?

We hope we can survive this pandemic and remain at the heart of the local community serving the people of Penarth and beyond. It is clear that the recovery process is going to take some considerable time. Now more than ever your local business needs you to support them whether it be online, over the phone or by shopping in person.

Environmental awareness and progress have been an integral part of discussion revolving around the 'new normal'. What steps will you be taking with your business regarding the environment?

We are constantly reassessing our use of single-use plastic in the shop. We use recyclable cups for slush puppies and tubs for ice cream plus wooden spoons. We have sourced compostable cellophane bags for our fudge and small gifts and offer paper bags for sweets and pic 'n' mix.

'Shopping Local' is an integral part of the Penarth High Street scene. What are you hopes coming out of the pandemic in this respect?

I am on the steering group for the Shop Penarth Reward Scheme. We meet monthly to discuss how we can support our local businesses and offer help to fellow businesses with offers.

The scheme has been running for several years now and during lockdown we worked with Penarth Town Council, Penarth View and the Business group to create guidance to help businesses reopen, provide posters and stickers to help our shoppers feel safe when they return to the town to shop. It's been a great example of working together.

Name one thing from the lockdown experience do you think we should all keep hold of, as we move on to the next stage?

Be kind to people. The experience of being able to help someone who is shielding or not wanting to come out will stay with me always.

The shop is now open from Tuesday - Saturday 10 am - 4 pm.