Communities First Office Festive Opening Times

The Trefechan Communities First Office will close for the festive period on Thursday 24th December 2009 and will re-open on Monday 4th January 2010.
On behalf of the Trefechan Communities First Partnership we would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year.
Nadolig Llawen a Blwyddyn Newydd Dda

Hearing Dogs for Deaf People

We are collecting used stamps at the Trefechan Communities First Office which are then used to to raise funds to train dogs to be placed with deaf recipients.
Please collect your used stamps and bring them to the communities first Office where we will be happy to send them to the Hearing Dogs for Deaf People organisation.
Thank You

Credit Union

Friday 18th December 2009 will be the last Credit Union Collection point of 2009. It will run between 12noon and 1pm from the Trefechan Communities First Office.
The collection point will resume on Friday 8th January 2010.
Should you need to contact Credit Union in the meantime please contact the main office 0n 01685 377888.

Community Carol Service 1st December 6:15pm

Trefechan Nursery School and Ysgol-y-Graig will be holding a community carol service on Tuesday 1st at 6:15pm at Trefechan Nursery School.

The service will be taken by Reverend Canon Bev John and the Salvation Army. A collection will be taken during the service support the work of the Salvation Army. Please bring a lantern or a torch.

World Aids Day 1st December 2009

World Aids Day will be held on the 1st December 2009. Over 80,000 people in the UK are living with HIV and it is important to understand the facts to fight prejudice and protect yourself and other. Find out more about HIV at www.worldAIDSday.org or for confidential information and advice call 0800 567123.

Discover the reality about HIV in the UK by accessing real stories on the World Aids Website.

Communities First also has leaflets and further information available in their offices.

Recycling for the Community - Green Horizons

Do you have furniture in good condition that you want to get rid off? Green Horizons is a local charity which aims to re-use donated furniture and makes it available at a low cost to people in need throughout Merthyr Tydfil.

Green Horizons will collect free of charge the following items:
- three piece suites other furniture items providing they have the fire resistant label still attached and in reasonably good condition (no rips or tears)
- dining tables and chairs
- single, double beds or bunk beds
- wardrobes(not over 36" wide) and other bedroom furniture
- white goods still in working order

You can also buy furniture from the depot and they will deliver bought items within the Merthyr Borough free of charge.

For more information please contact Green Horizons on
Unit 4 Viaduct House
Merthyr Tydfil Industrial Park
Pentrebach
merthyr Tydfil
CF48 4DR
Tel: 01443 693348
Email: greenhorizons@tiscali.co.uk
website: www.greenhorizonsmerthyr.co.uk

Opening Times 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Thursday
9.30am to 4pm on Friday

Rhyfel ar Wastraff

Gwasanaeth wythnosol newydd i gasglu'r ailgylchu

Rhowch y defnyddiau nesaf, yn eich bocs WOW gwyrdd, ar ymyl y palmant i gael eu casglu os gwelwch yn dda erbyn 7.00am bob wythnos.

Defnyddiau heb eu gwahanu

TUNIAU - tuniau bwyd a diod
GWYDR - poteli a jariau
PLASTIG - poteli, dalwyr bwyd, potiau iogwrt, darnau o lynlen, gaiau plastig
NWYDDAU EROSOL - poteli diaroglyddion
TETRA PAK - blychau sudd ffrwythau
FFOIL ALWMINIWM - ffoil, defnydd dal bwyd, ac ati

Defnyddiau wedi'u gwahanu

Papurau newydd a chylchgronau - pob papur arall (yn cynnwys carpion), amlenni, yellow pages a phost sothach
Cardboard - yr holl gardbord cartref h.y blychau grawnfwyd (heb y bagiau tu mewn), rholiau cegin/papur toiled (y canol yn unig), defnydd pacio cardbord
Cardbord Crych - Paciwch eich blychau'n fflat os gwelwch yn dda
Dillad ac esgidiau nad ydych eu heisaiau - rhowch yr esgidiau mewn parau os gwelwch yn dda

Gall y Cyngor roi uchafswm o ddau flwch WOW i bob aelwyd os gofynnwch amdanynt.

Os oes gennych ymholiadau neu os ydych eisiau mwy o wybodaeth, ffoniwch 01685 725138 os gwelwych yn dda.

Christmas Gifts to local serving soldiers

We would like to thank all local residents and OP chocolates for their kind donations to the christmas appeal. All parcels have been sent out this week and will be greatly received by the troops.

Are you lesbian, Gay or Bisexual, or do you have a friend or family member who is?

Stonewall Cymru need volunteers like you to help them challenge negative perceptions of LGB people in the media. Whether you've experienced discrimination, or have a positive story to share, they want to hear from you.

Stonewall cymru also needs young people to join their youth anti-homophobic bullying project. For this project you don't have to be lesbian, gay or bisexual - you just have to be committed to quality, enthusiastic about making a differenc to the lives of young people and challenging homophobic bullying.

Full training and support will be provided for both projects.

For more details please contact Ele Hicks on eleanor.hicks@stonewallcymru.org.uk or 02920 237744

Homesafe Services - Investing in a safer Merthyr Tydfil

For all aspects of domestic and commercial security including:
- intruder alarms
- CCTV systems
- PAT testing
- access control
- uPVC locking systems and lock repairs
- key cutting on premises
- master key suites
- digital door locks
- intercoms

Contact Joanna for free security survey and a quotation Tel 01685 353999

Homesafe

We would like to remind residents that Homesafe provides a free security service to victims of crime. Homesafe team consists of three experienced and highly qualified security fitters.

They offer:

A free property survey to ensure your door and window locks comply with insurance standards; we can change them if they don't comply
- door chains
- door viewers for wooden doors only
- letterbox lock that can prevent unwanted tiems being pushed into the home
- intercom systems (depending on area and funding)

Anyone wishing to receive this service sohuld call Joanna on 01685 353999 or drop in and see us at the Voluntary Action Centre.

Taff Fechan Nature Trail

The Taff Fechan Nature Reserve is located just at the bottom of Trefechan village, wihtin a valley which is marked in places by dramativ gorges, where the cascading water has cut through the underlying limestone. The action of the water has created numerous potholes in the riverbed.The beautiful Blue pool is located at the north of the nature reserve with dramatic cascades through limestone gorges (WARNING - WATERS ARE DECEPTIVELY DEEP AND COLD).

The Nature reserve is rich with wildlife:
Birds seen in the area are dippers, river wagtails, kingfishers, jays, nuthatches, tree creepers, greater spotted woodpeckers, kestrel, raven, carrion crow, buzzards plus much more.
Flowers - Wild Tyme, Birdsfoot trefoil, Fairy Flax, primroses, foxgloves, wild garlic, bluebells.
Trees - mixture of broad leaved woodland which contains oak, ash, birch, beech, dogwood, field maple and guelder rose

There is a range of areas of historical interest in the nature reserve such as:
- site of 18th century corn mill - it is thought that milling on this site dates back to the normans who occupied the nearby Morlais Castle
- Stone bridge - thought to have been a crossing point for the roman road
- remain of Gurnos Mill - orignally a corn mill, which was later converted into a "pandy" (Fulling mill)
- the 19th century Gurnos Quarry which supplied limestone for the furnaces of the Cyfarthfa Ironworks

There is a 3 mile circular route around the nature reserve. Allow 1 1/2 - 2 hours for the walk and expect muddy patches in places. The Trail is best walked in a clockwise direction.

Free copies of the walk and leaflet relating to the Nature Reserve are now available from the Trefechan Communities First office.

Rural Action Merthyr - Community Consultation Events

Rural Action Merthyr - Community Consultation Events

RDP Business Plan Two 2011 - 2013

Rural Action Merthyr are holding a series of community consultation events to give local people and organisations an opportunity to bring forward project ideas for the next stage of the Rural Development Plan (RDP).

The events are taking place on the following days:

Ponsticill Memorial Hall – Monday 16th November 2009 at 6:30pm
Heolgerrig Chapel Hall – Tuesday 17th November 2009 at 6:30pm
Bedlinog Community Centre – Wednesday 18th November 2009 6:30pm
Aberfan Community Centre – Thursday 19th November 2009 6:30pm

The consultations will provide an important way of enabling views to be expressed in relation to the future development of the Rural Action themes, that include; promoting heritage, culture, local products and improving services. Discussion will also focus on how best to attract investment and provide a sustainable future for Merthyr’s rural areas.

Please attend this important event if you can!

For further information, please contact: Rural Action Merthyr - 01685 725017

ruralaction@merthyr.gov.uk

Crime Perception Survey

We would like to thank all residents who completed our crime perception survey. Some of the issues which have come out of the survey are as follows:
- Lack of awareness of the PACT meetings (Partnerships and communities together) at which local residents can identify priorities for the local police
- Lack of awareness of where local residents can purchase low cost safety equipment
- Lack of reporting of crime incidents

We will be liaising with the relevant authorities to try to raise awareness of how local residents can raise issues with the local police and to publicise where low cost safety equipment can be purchased.

Litter Street Survey

Trefechan Youth Club and Communities First Carried out a street litter survey in october. We would like to thank all those young people who helped us take part in the survey and for giving up their time to help us.

Several problem areas were identified:
- Potholes in several streets
- Dog Fouling
- Cigarette Butts
- Litter

We have reported all problems to the relevant authorities to action. Several of the potholes have now been filled in. The Community Safety Partnership have also provided us with free dog fouling bags for local residents. Please call in to collect yours.

Card Making for Young People

Communities First held a christmas arts workshop for young people to make christmas cards and gift bags. 15 young people attended the event and all enjoyed the workshop.

New Grants and Sponsorship Available from Merthyr Valley Homes

Merthyr Valley Homes have launched a new grant and sponsorship funding scheme for local community groups and residents. The grants and sponsorship form is now available from Merthyr Valley Homes and the Communities First office in trefechan.

Keep Well This Winter

FREE EVENT

For people aged 50+ living in Merthyr Tydfil.
Free information, advice, workshops, activities, therapies and a visit to the new Integrated Demonstration Equipment Unit.
Refreshments will be provided free of charge
on 13th November 2009 at Cefn Coed Community Centre from 10.30am through to 4.00pm
Free transport is available upon request - please call Claire Morris or Lyndsey Foley on the numbers below to book, or if you require further details about the event.
Claire Morris - 01685 724636 0r Lyndsey Foley - 01685 727308

Hearing dogs for Deaf people

We are collecting used stamps for hearing dogs for deaf people at the Trefechan Communities first office, so please bring along any used stamps you have which will then be used by hearing dogs for deaf people to purchase and train dogs. Thank you

Be safe this fireworks night

Be safe this fireworks night by following the fireworks code:

• Only buy fireworks marked BS 7114.

• Don’t drink alcohol if setting off fireworks.

• Keep fireworks in a closed box.

• Follow the instructions on each firework.

• Light at arm's length, using a taper.

• Stand well back.

• Never go near a firework that has been lit. Even if it hasn’t gone off, it could still explode.

• Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them.

• Always supervise children around fireworks.

• Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves.

• Never give sparklers to a child under five.

• Keep pets indoors

Please note that you have to be 18 years old before you are allowed to buy fireworks in the shops. Never play with fireworks. More information on how to stay safe is available on www.direct.gov.uk/fireworks

Christmas Card Making Workshop

Communities First in partnership with the Heads for Art Project team ran a training course this week in christmas card making skills. The aim of the workshop was to provide local workers with skills that can then be passed onto to local community members and residents of all ages. 12 workers attended the event from a range of local groups such as Communities First, Sandbrook house, Trefechan Nursery School, Tri County Play Association, Art and Crafts group and Trefechan Youth Club.

We will be running a series of christmas arts and crafts workshops in Trefechan in the near future, so watch out for dates in the local paper and on our notice board.

World Mental Health Day

October 2009 saw a variety of events taking place across Merthyr Tydfil County Borough as part of the World Mental Health Day campaign. The events this year aimed to address the continuing need to make mental health issues a priority and stressed the all too-often neglected fact that mental health is an integral element of every individual’s overall health and well-being. Mental illnesses occur in all cultures, can happen at any stage of life
and can have a major impact on the physical health of people living with them. One in four people can have a mental illness at any one time during their lifetime.

A series of information and advice events were held across the borough to provide information to local residents on how to look after their mental health and to highlight the support available for residents, service users and their families and the role they can play in influencing services in their area.

Mental Health Publications and information was made available in a variety of community venues such as local GP surgeries and the local hospitals, which allowed 119 residents to access information and support.

One of the main challenges relating to mental health is to challenge perceptions and stigma and the often outdated perception of mental healthcare. As part of the World Mental Health Day St Tydfil’s Hospital opened their doors to the general public, providing an opportunity for 75 local residents to view facilities and gain knowledge about local health services in the borough and change perceptions about modern mental healthcare.

The Children’s primary health team also were in attendance at local comprehensive school, with 500 young people obtaining free information and literature.

During the campaign local service users, carers and families were encouraged to write about their experiences in the form of stories, short articles, poems and posters and share them with other residents and service providers to help address the stigma which is often associated with mental health. All submissions will form part of the final evaluation from the world mental health day.

The culmination event of the campaign was held on the 9th October 2009 at Merthyr Tydfil leisure Centre, which was opened and supported by a local service user and by the Mayor, his worship Councillor Glenn Price.

The main event was a resounding success with over 500 local residents attending, receiving information, advice and support from local support agencies and organisations on a variety of topics relating to mental health. There was also an opportunity to try a range of therapies on the day and information for residents on how to look after their own mental health.

Paul Turner Chairman of the World Mental Health Planning group stated that
“Merthyr Tydfil’s World Mental Health Day 2009 events were, as in previous years a great success. There was a good variety of stalls from a wide range of backgrounds including both the voluntary and statutory service providers.

The event is some thing that the people of Merthyr Tydfil can be proud of. The planning group who organised the event are looking forward to next years World Mental Health Day and hope to continue building on the success of the previous years.

We will be looking for volunteers to join the working group for 2010 and would welcome any individual who have experience or is a carer a person who has experienced mental ill health. If you would like to be a member of the working group please do not hesitate to contact me at the address below: Mr P Turner 9a Gelliwastad Road, Pontypridd, CF37 2BW.

Finally I would like to thank all those who gave their time, energy and commitment to the event that made it such a successful.

The 2009 campaign was organised by the World Mental Health Planning Group, which consists of service users, support services and agencies and community groups and was supported by the Performance Improvement Grant from MTCBC.

Halloween Activities

Communities First will be running Halloween Activities on Tuesday 27th October at the Trefechan Community Centre between 10am to 12noon and 1pm to 3pm.

All children aged 5 - 12 welcome. Free Activities include:
Arts and crafts
Mask Making and lots more!!

Welsh Events In Merthyr Tydfil

Gig Ieuenctid / Youth Gig
Dydd Sul/Sunday
Tachwedd 1 November
1.00 - 4.00
Rhad ac am ddim! / Free!
Y Ganolfan Gymraeg, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tudful
01685 722176 jamie@merthyrtudful.com

Free Dog Poop Bags

The Community Safety Partnership has provided us with free dog poop bags for residents of Trefechan. If you would like your free dog poop bag please call into the communities first office in Trefechan.

The first set of dog poop bags are free to local residents.

If you would like refills for the dog poop holder a small charge of £1 will be made just to cover the costs.

Neighbourhood Watch meeting Monday 23rd November 2009 at 6pm at Trefechan Community Centre.

If you are interested in setting up a neighbourhhod watch scheme or becoming a member of the scheme within Trefechan please come along to discuss it further.

Sally Lewis - Neighbourhood watch Co-ordinator and Communities First will also be in attendance

If you would like further information please come along to the meeting or call one of the team on 01685 383758 or call into the office

Free Xmas Arts Workshop

Heads for Arts will be delivering a free arts workshop in Trefechan Community Centre Monday 26th October 3.30pm to 5.30pm around the theme of Christmas. The workshop will deliver key skills to workers/volunteers such as Christmas card making, making gift bags etc. The aim of providing this workshop is to upskill local workers/ volunteers who can then pass on their learned skills to others.

To book a place, please contact Sally Mcintyre CF Development Officer at Trefechan on 01685 383758

Santa Appeal

Trefechan Communities First will be acting as a collection point for the Santa Appeal again this year. Please drop off all donations before the 18th December.

The Santa Appeal allows for local people to buy a present for a child from the borough who may not receive a present otherwise. If you would like to donate a present please drop it off unwrapped at the Communities First Office (no sharps please).

For more information please contact Communities First Staff at Trefechan 01685 383758.

Credit Crunch Event

Thursday 17th September 2009 saw the first credit crunch event in Trefechan. A range of organisation attended the event to give free information and advice on their services and ways in which residents could save money.

Organisations which attended were:
Trefechan fruit and veg co-operative
Pensions Service
Welsh Water Dwr Cymru
Home heat help line
Dogs trust
South East Wales Energy Advice Centre
Council Tax Benefit Take Up Campaign
Illegal money lending Unit
Care and Repair
WEA
Safe and Sound project
Credit Union

We would like to thank all the agencies who gave up their valuable time for this event.

Free golf tuition for ladies and juniors

Free Golf tuition for ladies and juniors (clubs can be loaned from clubhouse) and one to one help available on Saturday 19th September and for 5 saturdays after at 10am until noon (or later) at Merthyr Tydfil Golf Club (Cilsanws). To book or for more information please contact 01685 723308 or 01685 350265

Arts and Crafts

During August 5 local residents have had the opportunity to try their hand at Jewellery Making, making earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings learning a variety of new skills and techniques.

In the run up to Christmas we are hoping to run a series of free workshops for local residents to try techniques such as card making, jewellery making. Please keep an eye out in the local press, community noticeboards, blogsite for more information. If you would like to register your interest now, please contact the Trefechan Communities First on 01685 383758

Trefechan Nursery School

Congratulations to all at the Trefechan Nursery School for their excellent report by Estyn. The Trefechan Nursery School currently has places available for children on a part time and full time basis. For more information, please contact Mrs Diplock on 01685 721739.

Arson Rap

Twelve members of the Trefechan Youth Club have successfully taken part in the Arson RAP project, which involves educating young people about fire safety and car crime and then producing a rap on issues affecting their community. The Arson RAP is currently being put onto a CD which can then be used in the future.

Youth Action Camp

Thanks to funding from the Coalfields Regeneration Trust, 15 young people from Trefechan attended an Action Camp in Tenby in Pembrokeshire in July 2009.

The young people took part in a variety of activities from global citizenship, healthy living, child poverty, team building, budgeting skills, managing resource and physical activities. All the young people who attended the action camp came away with qualifications (OCN in participation) which can be used in the future and be included within their certificates of achievements.

Welsh National Opera 9th September

Thanks to free tickets provided by the Welsh National Opera, 37 local residents went to watch a dress rehearsal of La Traviata at the Wales Millenium Centre. We would like to thank the Welsh National Opera for providing us with the opportunity to see such an excellent and professional performance. The majority of residents had never been to see an opera before and a wonderful day was had by all.

National Older Person's Week

Join us in celebrating National Older Person's Day. There are a number of events being run for over 50s.

Tuesday 29th September 2009 10.30am to 3.00pm - Grow it! Cook it! Learn it! at Cyfarthfa Greenhouses, Cyfarthfa Park - In the morning there will be a tour of the greenhouse where you can view the flowers, fruit and vegetables that people have grown. A free buffet lunch will be provided. The afternoon is ready steady cook time. For more information or if you require transport please contact Claire Morris on 01685 724636 or Lyndsey Foley - 01685 727308

Join us in celebrating National older Person's Day on Thursday 1st october 2009 at Merthyr Tydfil Rugby Club at Merthyr Tydfil Rugby Club 11am to 6.30pm. There will be several activities taking place throughout the day such as info stands on health and wellbeing, the Terry davies dance, band and singer, tea dance, cookery demonstrations, gardening demonstrations, gentle exercise demonstrations. Come and have a go! free Buffet lunch and refreshments will be provided throughout the day. Please contact Claire Morris on 01685 724636 or Lyndsey Foley on 01685 727308 if you require transport.

Job Club

We will be starting a new job club on Thursday 15th October 2009 from 1pm to 3pm. Please come along for help with looking for a job, free internet access and access to local newspapers, help with online application forms and creating CVs.

For more information, please contact one of the Communities First Team on 01685 383758

Keep Well This Winter

Keep Well, Keep Warm and Keep Safe this Winter!!!

As the Winter fast approaches and the blustery gales increase, so to does the cost of keeping ourselves, well, warm and safe. This is a real problem for those who are aged 50+.

In order to keep the residents of Merthyr Tydfil well, warm and safe this winter, Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council, together with the valued support of its partners; will be holding it’s free annual keep well, keep warm, keep safe this winter event. The event will take place on Friday 7th November 2008 in the new Merthyr Tydfil Leisure Centre. A free buffet lunch will be provided.

The aim of the event is to raise awareness of the issues that older people face over the winter months, but; more importantly, it aims to help older people (those aged 50+) maintain good health during the winter by making a wide range of information and advice available to them on practical support, financial help and benefits which can be accessed in their communities. For those attending, there will also be an opportunity to participate in a range of interactive activities during the afternoon workshops.

Workshops:
Healthy Homes and Affordable Warmth - One of the main threats to the health and wellbeing of older people over the winter is the lack of income. With fuel poverty on the increase there is a need to work with older people to ensure that they can adequately heat their homes during the cold periods. A workshop combining healthy homes and affordable warmth will be run during the afternoon by South East Wales Energy.
Physical Activity - The moving more often programme is a new project being developed in Merthyr Tydfil to promote health and well-being. The programme includes gentle exercises and WiiHabilitation.
Nutrition – cooking over the winter months and a nutrition quiz.
Accident prevention.
Alternative therapies and its benefits.

For further information about the event, please contact the Older Persons Development Officer on 01685 724636.

Bring out the Cymraeg in you!

Your one stop shop for everything you need to know about learning welsh. Courses held at communities throughout Merthyr - daytime, evening and weekends. All levels - from complete beginners to fluent speakers - entry, foundation, intermediate, advanced, proficiency
Cyrsiau ar gael ar hyd a lled Merthyr - yn ystod y dydd, gyda'r nos a dros y Sul. Mae cwrs i bawb - o ddechreuwyr pur i siaradwyr rhugl - Mynediad, Sylfaen, Canolradd, Uwch, Hyfredredd.
Contact Angharad today/ Cysylltwch a Angharad heddiw
Ffon/Phone: 01443 483600
E-bost/E-mail: Welsh@glam.ac.uk
Gwefan/Website: www.glam.ac.uk/welsh

Coal Industry Social Welfare organisation

The Coal Industry Social Welfare Organisation (CISWO) provides a range of services and support to people in South Wales who have links with the mining industry. They focus on providing support and practical assistance to individuals and groups in the broad areas of health, financial and personal problem solving. Among the services that are offered to former miners and their families are:
- Assistance with convalescence and holidays
- Counselling and support at times of personal difficulty
- benefits advice and help
- access to funds for those facing financial hardship
- help with independent living
- bereavement support
- information on health and disability issues

Requests for their services can be made by anyone. For more information please contact CISWO on 01443 485233
or by post at
CISWO
Unit 5 Maritime Offices
Woodland Terrace
Pontypridd
CF37 1DZ
or via the website at www.ciswo.org.uk

Merthyr Tydfil LGB Group

There is a new LGB group in Merthyr Tydfil which is set up to
- promote the welfare and interest of lesbian, gay and bisexual people within Merthyr Tydfil
- act as an information access point, social networking and peer support resource for LGB people within Merthyr Tydfil
- provide a safe opportunity for matters of concern to LGB people to be raised and discussed at monthly meetings
- provide a safe avenue for experiences of homophobic hate crime to be reported to South Wales Police and the Merthyr Tydfil Hate Crime officer
- promote a positive view of LGB people to counteract stereotyping

Meetings are held monthly in a friendly and welcoming location within Merthyr Tydfil. For dates and venue of meetings please contact the LGB Group at
Merthyr Tydfil LGB Group
c/o VAMT
Voluntary Action centre
89-90 High Street
Pontmorlais
CF47 8UH
website: www.merthyrtydfillgb.org

Trefechan Food Co-operative (Run by the Trefechan Community Association)

The Trefechan Community Association has just launched their new project which aims to provide local food products at low cost to local residents. The food co-operative is currently providing the following:
Fruit Packs £2.50
Vegetable Packs £2.50
Stew Packs £1.50
Salad Packs £2.50
Free Range Eggs (Half Dozen) 90p


If you would like to place an order or volunteer for the Food Co-operative please contact the Trefechan Community Association either by visiting the cafe or by phoning David Walsh (Food Network Co-ordinator) on 01685 386146 or 07754 811212.

Senior Citizens are encourage to request delivery to their door.

49th Annual Horticultural Show

Trefechan and Cefn Gardeners Association will be holding their 49th Annual Horticultural show at Cefn Coed Community Centre on Saturday 5th September. Doors open at 2.30pm and the event will be officially opened by Stephen Price MBE.

Admission on the door is 50p.

Schedules are available from Mr Baker (Hon Sec) on 01685 377751

Macmillan Coffee Morning

We will be holding a Macmillan Coffee Morning on Friday 25th September from 10.30 to 12noon in the Trefechan Community Centre. Please come along and support this very important cause.

National Play Day

The annual National Play Day organised by the Tri County Play Association was held yesterday in Cyfartha Park. The Communities First team along with local volunteers supported the day and activities. We would particularly like to thank Daniel Lewis for all his help at the event, and for volunteering his time to help make the event a great success.

Over 1,000 children and families from across the borough attended the event with activities such den building, water slides, climbing wall. arts and crafts, climbing wall, circus skills, grafitti wall plus much more!

We would like to thank all the volunteers who helped out on the day and for the families from Trefechan who came along and support this event.

Summer Fun Day

Trefechan Communities First Partnership held their summer fun day on Thursday 30th July 2009 in Trefechan, with great success with over 140 residents attending the event.

There was a range of free activities for the whole family to enjoy such as bouncy castles, climbing wall, face painting, try your hand at calligraphy, music and magic shows throughout the day.

A range of local community groups, organisations and services were also in attendance and had information stalls on the day to promote and market their services and work to the community. Organisations which attended on the day were the Trefechan Wednesday Club (Health and Fitness Group), Crossroads, Merthyr Valley Homes, Trefechan Community Association, Jobs match, Road Safety Team and Recycling Team from MTCBC, Gofal Cymru, Contact the Elderley, VAMT Volunteering Team, Glamorgan Gates, Safer Merthyr Tydfil and the Community Neighbourhood Policing Team.

“We would like to thank all the organisations and groups who attended the event, and in particular the volunteers who gave up their time to help make the event such a great success. It was a fantastic opportunity for the community to come together and we would like to thank the residents for turning out and supporting the event, despite the rain at the beginning of the funday. If anyone would like to find out more about the work of the Trefechan Communities First Partnership or would like to get involved in future community events, please contact the Communities First Team in Trefechan on 01685 383758. ” Sally Mcintyre Communities First Development Officer

World Mental Health Day 2009

The World Mental Health Day is an annual global awareness campaign which aims to promote the needs and rights of residents and help to reduce stigma and discrimination around mental health issues.

Our mental health can vary according to our circumstances and can change across our lifetime, in the same way as our physical health.

Mental health problems are among the most common of all health conditions, and directly affect about a quarter of the population in any one year. Depression and anxiety are the most widespread conditions.

In support of World Mental Health Day 2009, a series of events have been planned across the Borough which aim to raise awareness of mental health and offer an opportunity for people to speak with service providers and gather information about all forms of support for maintaining good mental health. Importantly it also offers support for carers, friends and family of those experiencing mental ill health.

A series of information stalls will be held at which residents can access free information on how to look after their mental health. These will be held at:

Prince Charles Hospital
14th September 9am to 12 noon
28th September 9am to 12 noon
Ty Morlais Surgery Ty Berry Square
1st October 9am to 12noon
Aberfan Surgery Cotrell Street
5th October 9.30am to 12noon
Merthyr Market Stall
6th October 9am to 3pm
Pontcae Surgery, Georgetown
9th October 9am to 12 noon
Merthyr Tydfil Leisure Centre (old Rhydycar)
9th October 10.30am to 3pm

The series of events will culminate in a main event which will be held on Friday 9th October from 10.30am to 3pm at Merthyr Tydfil Leisure Centre. The main event will be officially opened by His Worship the Mayor Glenn Price, and further supported by a local service user and Paul Turner Chair of the World Mental Health Day Planning Group.

A free buffet, refreshments and transport are provided at the main event on Friday 9th October. To book free transport, please contact the Admin Team at Interlink on 01443 485337.

The World Mental Health Day Main Event is a way of working collaboratively towards addressing the needs of our local communities. This day will provide opportunity for service users to engage with providers of services, and will also be a chance for local organisations and partners to showcase the quality and quantity of services available within the County Borough.

All events are free and open to all..

As part of World Mental Health Day 2009, we are also looking for service
users and carers who would like to share their experiences of their lives and mental health. This can be in the form of poems, stories or any
written article. Please forward all articles to: Sian Thomas, Integrated Adult Services, Ty Keir Hardie, Riverside Court, Avenue De Clichy, Merthyr Tydfil, CF47 8XE. Deadline for submission for articles is the 31st August 2009 and all articles will be displayed at the service users and carers’ Writing Library at the World Mental Health Event at Merthyr Tydfil Leisure Centre on Friday 9th October 2009.

For more information on the World Mental Healthy Day Event please contact Sian Thomas on 01685 725269.

Canolfan a Menter Gymraeg Merthyr Tudful

Canolfan a Menter Gymraeg Merthyr Tudful
Gweithdai Cerddoriaeth Gwerin - Oes diddordeb gyda chi mewn cerddoriaeth draddodiadol? Ydych chi’n canu offeryn yn barod ac eisiau dysgu alawon Cymreig? Neu ydych chi’n ddechreuwr pur sydd eisiau dysgu’r pibau Cymreig?

Fe fydd cyfres o wersi/gweithdai gwerin yn cael ei rhedeg hyd at Nadolig yn y Ganolfan Gymraeg, yn rhad ac am ddim.


Cysylltwch â’r Menter nawr i arbed eich lle.

Yn: Y Ganolfan Gymraeg, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tudful, CF47 8UB

Dydd Mawrth Wythnosol Am: 6.00-8.00

Am wybodaeth bellach ffoniwch
Swyddfa Menter Merthyr Tudful 01685 722176


Canolfan a Menter Gymraeg Merthyr Tudful
Folk Music Workshops - Do you have an interest in traditional music? Do you play an instrument already and would like to learn Welsh folk tunes? Or are you a complete beginner who would like to play the Welsh pipes?
A series of folk workshops/lessons will be running up until Christmas at the Welsh Centre.


The sessions will be bilingual and free of charge with a warm welcome to everyone.

At: Y Ganolfan Gymraeg, Pontmorlais, Merthyr Tudful, CF47 8UB

On: Tuesday Weekly Time: 6.00-8.00

For further information contact Menter Merthyr Tudful 01685 722176

School Transport Update from Councillors !

Councillor lisa Mytton and Councillor Howard Barrett will be holding a meeting to update all concerned parents / carers on Monday 27th July 2009 at 9.30am at the Trefechan Cafe.

Swine Flu

We have had a number of enquiries relating to Swine Flu from local residents. Please find below the latest information which has been circulated by the Local Authority.

What is Swine Flu?

The A/H1N1 influenza virus (swine flu) is the term being used to describe a respiratory illness which has been reported in parts of Mexico and which is now being reported from other Countries in the world including the UK. The main symptoms of Swine Flu are sudden onset of fever, shortness of breath or breathing difficulties. Other symptoms can include headache, sore throat, tiredness, aching muscles, chills, sneezing, runny nose or loss of appetite. If during this period you develops a feverish illness accompanied by one or more of cough, sore throat, headache and muscle aches, then you should contact your GP by phone or seek advise from the NHS Direct (0845 46 47).
What measures can I take to prevent infection?
It is always good practice to follow respiratory and hand hygiene such as:
· Covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, using a tissue when possible.
· Disposing of dirty tissues promptly and carefully.
· Maintaining good basic hygiene, for example washing hands frequently with soap and water to reduce the spread of the virus from your hands to face or to other people.
· Cleaning hard surfaces (e.g. door handles) frequently using a normal cleaning product.
· Helping your children follow this advice.

If you have returned from an affected area and have flu like symptoms, stay at home, phone your GP or NHS Direct Wales and you will be assessed and receive treatment if necessary. Do not go into your GP surgery or Accident and Emergency department unless you are seriously ill, as you may spread the illness to others.
Please see the useful websites and telephone numbers listed at the top of this page.
Symptoms of Swine Flu

The symptoms of swine flu are broadly the same as those of ordinary flu, but may be more severe and cause more serious complications.
The typical symptoms are sudden fever and sudden cough.
Other symptoms may include:
· Headache
· Tiredness
· Chills
· Aching muscles
· Limb or joint pain
· Diarrhoea or stomach upset
· Sore throat
· Runny nose
· Sneezing
· Loss of appetite
Most people who have contracted swine flu recover within a week and do not suffer complications, even without being given antiviral medication.

However, experts point out that as this is a new virus, its behaviour cannot be predicted with certainty.
Swine flu is different from seasonal flu in that most serious illnesses have been in younger age groups, as happened in all three 20th-century influenza pandemics.
A doctor faced with a symptomatic patient cannot yet predict with certainty the course of illness and whether or not they will be in the small proportion who may become more seriously ill.
This is why antiviral medication is still being given to all those with swine flu, subject to their doctor’s discretion.

Further information including health advice can be found at:
www.nphs.wales.nhs.uk
www.hpa.org.uk
www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk/article.aspx?name=swinefluQA
wales.gov.uk/topics/health/news/mexicanflu09/?lang=en
www.wales.nhs.uk/sites3/home.cfm?orgid=719
www.dh.gov.uk/en/index.htm
www.nhs.uk/conditions/pandemic-flu/Pages/Introduction.aspx
www.who.int/en/

Healthy Minds, Healthy Bodies Event 30th September 2009

Trefechan Communities First Partnership will be running a special event on September 30th to promote healthy lifestyles and mental health as part of the National Mental Health Day Activities. This special free event will be held at the Trefechan Community Centre from 4pm to 7pm on September 30th
Free information and guidance will be available on a number of subjects including:
• How to look after your mental health
• How to look after your health and well being

Free taster sessions in complimentary therapy will be available for local residents during the event.
The event is free and open to all to attend. Provision for children is also included with a variety of activities for children during the event.

Credit Crunch Day - 17th September

Trefechan Communities First Partnership will be running a special Credit Crunch Day on September 17th from 3pm to 8pm at the Trefechan Community Centre. Free information and advice will be on offer to help local residents prepare and protect themselves during challenging economic times.
Free information and guidance will be available on a number of subjects including:
• How to reduce your household bills
• Pensions and planning for your retirement
• Benefit advice and claiming benefits
• Savings, low cost loans and child trust funds
• Support and training available to help you manage your money
• Help with returning to work
• Advice for carers
• Help with adaptations to homes
• Help with low cost gardening services and handy person service
• Support to help deal with debt and money worries
• Advice and support on how to deal with illegal money lenders
The event is free and open to all to attend. We would encourage all residents to come along and find out how to make the most of their money.

Provision for children is also included with a variety of activities for children during the event.

Trefechan Fun Day - Thursday 30th July

Trefechan Fun Day Thursday 30th July 11am to 3pm at Trefechan Community Centre. Please come along and join in the fun.

there will be a range of activities such as:
Bouncy Castles
Climbing Wall
Street Entertainment
Magician
Face Painting
Stalls,
plus much more!!

If you would like to volunteer to help on the day, please pop into the Communities First office for a chat.

Nursery School Uniforms

We have various recycled trefechan nursery school uniforms from jumpers, to hats, to tshirts available for free from the Communities First Office. Please pop into the office and have a look at the uniforms available.

Worried about Housing Debt?

HOUSING DEBT HELPLINE WALES

0800 1071340

Worried that you might lose your home? If you are finding it difficult to pay your mortgage or rent then help is a free phone call away. The Housing Debt Helpline Wales offers support to home owners and those in rented property who are finding it difficult to meet their mortgage or rental payments. The helpline is operated by the Consumer Credit Counselling Service, a registered charity whose purpose is to assist people who are in financial difficulty by providing free, independent, impartial and realistic advice

The Helpline is available free of charge to those living in Wales. It is operated between 8am and 8pm Monday to Friday.

If you only have access to a mobile phone, please call into the Communities First Office to access the free phone number at any time

Help with paying energy bills

HOME HEAT HELPLINE

0800 336699

The Home Heat Helpline is a free service to help people who are worried about paying their energy bills and keeping warm. Calls are answered by friendly, expert advisors who are trained to give quick and clear information on energy efficiency, grants for home insulation, reduced tariffs, benefits and payment schemes. You can call yourself, or ring on behalf of a friend, relative, patient or client.

The Home Heat Helpline is open 9am – 8pm Monday to Friday and 9am – 3pm on Saturdays – and it won’t cost you a penny to ring.

If you only have access to a mobile phone, please call into the Communities First Office to access the freephone number at any time.

Trefechan Funday

We will be holding a funday on Thursday 30th July from 11am to 3pm at the Trefechan Community Centre. There will be a range of activities from climbing wall, bouncy castles plus much more. Please come along and join us on the day!

Pontsticill Carnival

Pontsticill Carnival is being held on Saturday 11th July starting at 1.30pm from the Red Cow. The procession will then go through the village ending at the Carnival Field, where there will be a range of activities from stalls, children activities etc
Prices are as follows:
Adult: £1
Children: 50p
Car: 50p

Recycle Clothes Week June 29th to July 3rd

We will be collecting clothing items from shirts to skirts, trainers to trousers, even soft toys on behalf of the Salvation Army.
Please bring any unwanted clothing and soft toy items you have along to the Trefechan Communities First Office and Trefechan Community Centre where your kind donation will be passed on to the Salvation Army for recycling, all these items will be put to good use for clothing or making items such as mattresses, your gift will be helping others and the planet.

Jewellery Making Workshops

The Trefechan Communities First Partnership is partnership with Glamorgan Gates will be running a series of Jewellery Workshops on the following dates in the Trefechan Community Centre:
Wednesday 15th July 1pm - 2.30pm
Tuesday 21st July 1pm - 2.30pm
Tuesday 4th August 1pm - 2.30pm
Tuesday 11th August 1pm - 2.30pm

Spaces are limited so please call into the office to book your place.

Apprenticeships Available

Safer Merthyr Tydfil is looking to recruit 2 apprentices (aged 16-24)to work to deliver on the priorities of children and young people in Merthyr Tydfil.
Salary : Minimum Wage Commensurate with Age
Part Time: 30 hours per week

This scheme will allow two people with the opportunity to under a training programme in the field of participation. As an apprentice in this area, no two days will be the same - every young person is unique and you will need to come up with creative ways to reach them and build relationships that empower them to value their community and the contribution they can make to it. There is also an administrative side to the role as well.

Safer Merthyr Tydfil will support you by provigin you with excellent on the job training and mentoring and at the end of the 18 month Apprenticeship you will have gained a minimum qualificaiton of NVQ level 2 in Youth Work but this will be supplemented by an individual training and development package to meet your personal needs.

For further information and an application pack, please contact:
Joanna Williams
Safer Merthyr Tydfil
Voluntary Action centre
89-90 High Street
Pontmorlais
Merthyr Tydfil
TEL 01685 353999
email: jo@smt.org.uk

Closing date for applications is Friday 10 July 2009

Help for Lone Parents

If you are bringing up children on your own, Working Links can help you find the job you want. They provide dedicated support through one to one support, CV writing and interview tips, helping finding childcare solutions, confidence building and help with transport and interview clothing costs.

To join our programme and benefit from our specialist support, make sure you register with us by 26 June 2009. You may receive £40 worth of high street vouchers for signing up!

terms and conditions apply. For more information, please contact Karen on 07989161950.

Trefechan Nursery Summer Carnival

Saturday July 4th at 11am at Trefechan Nursery School, followed by Carnival procession. Admission by programme only - 50p

Please come along and support your local school. There is a range of activities available on the day from face painting, stalls, plus much more!

For more information please contact a member of staff at the Trefechan Nursery School.

Police Priorities

The Communities First now have a sealed postbox which local residents can use to raise priorities for the local police to look at. The post box is located in the Communities First office, if you have any issues/ priorities for the police please come into the office.
This is a confidential service which can be used anonymously by local residents. ANy comments / issues raised will only be viewed by the local police.

Children Summer Activities

Every Wednesday throughout the summer holidays we will be running a bus to the Dowlais Engine House for young people's activities.

The bus will pick up outside Trefechan Community Centre at 10am returning back at 4pm. The cost is £1 entry to the engine house and you must be 8 years or over

You will also need to bring a packed lunch or money to purchase refreshments.

Places on the minibus are limited to 14 young people, so please book your space in the Communities First office. If demand is high we will put measures in places to ensure that young people have the opportunity to access the activities at least once.

Lets Walk!

CANCELLED DUE TO UNFORESEEN CIRCUMSTANCES - THIS WILL BE RECONVENED SO IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN THE NEXT WALK PLEASE CALL INTO THE OFFICE
Would you like to join us for a walk at the Brecon mountain centre or Bryn Back Park on Wednesday 17th June. Departing Trefechan at 11am returning at approximately 2.30pm. Please book your seat in the Communities First office. Please wear suitable clothing and bring a packed lunch and refreshments.

Outdoor Summer Open Access Play Scheme

There will be an open access play scheme every Tuesday and Thursday from 10am to 3pm throughout the summer holidays starting 21st July ending 20th August.

Please being a packed lucnh or moeny to purchase food and refreshments.

*8 years and over only*

National Playday 2009 - Wednesday 5th August 11am to 3pm Cyfartha Park

Make time to play on Wednesday 5th August 11am to 3pm at Cyfartha Park.

Come along and play. To include:
Den Building,
Messy Play
Clmbing wall,
Dance
And much more...


Organisers will not be responsible for

- The supervision of children

- The pick-up or drop-off of children

- Any child leaving the event at any time

- Loss or damage

Parent/Carers are asked to ensure that

- children under the age of 8 are supervised at all times

- children are provided with snacks, lunch and refreshments

- There is a good chance that your child will get dirty/ wet, so please ensure that they are dressed appropriately

Please note that we will be taking photographs during the event, if you do not wish your child to participate, please notify a member of staff

Credit Union

There is a new credit union collection point in Trefechan which is run by volunteers to help local residents to access a service which allows for regular saving, christmas saving club, affordable low cost loans and Child Trust Fund.
The collection point runs from the Communities First office on a Friday from 12noon to 1pm.
Please note that we do not have an input or decision making role in the allocation of loans or call in of low cost loans. The collection point only provides a local paying in point.
If you would like more information on the services, please call into the Communities First Office.

Innovation Awards and Market Place Event 25th June 2009

Come to the Innovation Marketplace Event and Presentation of 2009 heads of the Valleys Innovation Awards on Thursday 25th June 2009 at the Engine House in Dowlais. Exhibition 4pm to 8.30pm Awards and Guest Speaker 6pm to 7.30pm

3 great opportunities for you and your business:
1. register as a visitor - entry is FREE
Source new products, find new suppliers, make new contacts
2. Enter the awards - cash prizes!
Raise your business profile, shie above your competitors, celebrate your success
3. Book an exhibition stand - excellent value for money
Expand your customer base, boost your sales, launch new products/services

For more information visit www.hovip.org.uk and register now.

This event is run by the Heads of the Valleys Innovation Programme

Information Day Monday 8th June

Information Day - Monday 8th June 10am till 2pm at Hafal Merthyr Unit 16 Pant Industrial Estate

Hafal is running an annual information day where they will be showcasing Hafal's summer Campaign. They will also be offering the chance for you to print your own t-shirt designs on the day as part of the campaign as well as view the activities currently on offer. You will also have the chance to win a prize in our raffle.

For more information please contact Shan Davies on 01685 373322.

Fishing in the area

Want to know where you can fish locally? Need to purchase a permit?

Why not have a look at the Merthyr Tydfil Anglers Association Website at http://www.mtaa.co.uk for more information.

Improve a Child's Life

There are children in Merthyr Tydfil who need your help and support. Do you have the time to help make a difference to the lives of these children?

Did you know that Merthyr Tydfil has over seventy foster care households within the County Borough. These foster carers are people from different backgrounds and experiences who have a commitment to developing a child’s abilities and strengths to fulfil their potential.

Could you be one of these people who is able to devote the time to care for and stimulate the lives of children and young people?

Fostering provides the care and attention that will help children grow and learn and Merthyr Tydfil needs a wide range of people with different skills and abilities to meet the varying needs of children and young people.

There are no upper age limits to becoming a foster carer and one can be married, single, divorced or living together. In Merthyr Tydfil we expect people to be sufficiently mature to work with children, and fit enough to provide for the child’s needs.

"Our foster carers talk about the rewards for them in being able to make a child’s life better and seeing them bloom in their care."

Looked after children are best cared for by foster carers and Merthyr Tydfil is hugely grateful to the people locally who share their lives with a child who needs to be looked after and make them special, as a part of a loving foster family.

It is important to recognise, that the children our foster carers ‘look after’, are ordinary children who in some cases may have suffered extraordinary circumstances and this has resulted in separation from their parents. Many of these children, as with any other child, need nurturing and somebody to have aspirations for their future.

Are you that person to help promote the interests of our children and make a real difference to their lives?

For further information please call Freephone:0800 678 3798/email: foster.adopt@merthyr.gov.uk or visit the Council's website on www.merthyr.gov.uk.and follow the link from the homepage.

Digital Switchover

Digital switchover is less than a year away and with Merthyr Tydfil set to start the switch on 3 March, 2010, here’s how we need to prepare for going digital.

Many of you will already be enjoying digital TV through your aerial (Freeview), via satellite, with cable in some areas or through broadband. However, it’s important to make sure every TV set and recorder that you plan to use after switchover is capable of working with digital signals.

Virtually all households will be able to receive around 20 of the most popular Freeview channels, as opposed to the five currently available on analogue TV. Many households will be able to receive more than 40 channels.

Most viewers in Merthyr Tydfil are served by the Wenvoe transmitter group which will switch over between 3 March, 2010 and 31 March, 2010.

Information and help on switchover is available on the Digital UK website at www.digitaluk.co.uk. Here you can find your options for switching to digital, check whether you live in an area that can currently receive digital television via an aerial, and find out which transmitter group you’re most likely to be receiving your terrestrial TV signal from.

If you haven’t got a computer or access to the internet, information is also available on the phone. Simply call the Digital UK helpline on 08456 50 50 50. Welsh Language help and advice is available by calling 08458 48 48 48

Heritage Lottery Fund

Heritage Lottery Fund is looking for potential project in Merthyr Tydfil. There are several grants available:

Young Roots (£3,000 to £25,000)

Providing grants of between £3,000 and £25,000, the Young Roots Programme aims to involve 13-25 year-olds in finding out about their heritage, developing skills, building confidence and promoting community involvement. Young Roots projects stem directly from young peoples' interests and ideas, harnessing their creativity and energy and helping them work with others in their local community

Your Heritage (£3,000 to £50,000)


Your Heritage provides grants of between £3,000 and £50,000 to support projects that relate to the local, regional or national heritage of the UK. We welcome applications that help people to learn about, look after and celebrate heritage in a fun and enjoyable way.

Heritage Grants (grants of more than £50,000)


Heritage Grants is our main grants programme offering grants of more than £50,000 for projects that relate to the national, regional or local heritage of the UK.

For more information or for help completing a Pre-application enquiry form please contact the office.

Indian Beauty Session

Last night saw 20 local residents taking part in an Indian health Session as part of the run up to the main Global Village Event on Sunday. A range of residents had the opportunity to learn about henna tattoos and their role in indian culture, indian/bollywood make up and reiki and indian head massage.

All residents who attended reported that the event was excellent and that they would welcome the opportunity to try the activities again.

We would like to thank the Global Village Committee for providing the workshop and for Dashna and Poonam from Ridhi's Beauty in Cardiff for providing hands on beauty activities.

Swine Flu

We have received a number of residents asking for advice on Swine Flu. For residents who are concerned about Swine Flu , Health Advice is available from:
National Swine Flu Information Line: 0800 1 513 513 for recorded information (freephone) Or NHS Direct Wales on 0845 46 47 for health advice.

Communities First Trust Fund

The Communities First Trust Fund is now open for applications.

The Communities First Trust Fund (CFTF) aims to support any type of activity that involves local people, through small community organisations, that benefits their community. Applications are welcome from a range of community projects including music and the arts. The activities must provide some measure of economic, environmental, social or cultural benefit for people living in a Communities First area.

If your group is interested in applying for the Communities First Trust Fund and needs support to fill in the application form etc please contact Sally Mcintyre at the Communities First Office in Trefechan.

Indian Beauty Session

Come along and have a go at Threading (Hair removal), Indian Make Up and watch the Henna Hand Tattoo Demonstrations.
This session is free as part of the Global Village Event and will be held 4pm to 6pm on Wednesday 6th May at the Trefechan Community Centre. Free Refreshments will be provided.

Easter Events

Easter saw a series of events being held during the half term. The Easter Bunny visited local children and an easter egg hunt was held in the grounds of the Community Centre.


Adults also had an opportunity to take part in an easter shopping experience, with a range of local businesses attending the event. Residents were able to order from Virgin Vie, Body Shop, handbag suppliers and flower decorations. The Local Health and Fitness Group also had a stall, along with Macmillan Cancer Care providing Easter Chicks and small eggs.

We would like to thank the Trefechan Community Association and the Trefechan Health and Fitness Group, in particular volunteers Leanne and Rose and the ladies from Macmillan for their help on the night.

Gardening Handy Person Service

Do you need help to maintain your garden? Merthyr Care and Repair can provide a reliable, trustworthy and low cost service for older people who find it difficult to maintain their gardens.
they can:
- mow lawns
- Clear and make safe pathways
- Minor paving / Path repairs
- Strim Lawns / Borders
- Hedge Trimming
- Minor Fence Repairs
- Weeding
- Remove Moss/ Leaves
- Tidy areas to prevent "trip hazards"
For more information contact Merthyr Care and Repair on 01685 723771

What does heritage mean to you?

The Heritage Lottery Fund is one of four distributors of Lottery Funding in Wales and they want to know what is important to you.

The Heirtage Lottery Fund is inviting residents to come along to an event and tell them what it is that makes your community special or unique and they will tell you how you can apply for some funding to keep it special and help you share its story with other people in your community..

The event will be held on Friday 15th May 2009 from 10.30am to 12.30pm at Llancaiach Fawr Manor, Nelson.

If you would like to attend the event, please email Stephen Barlow at stephenb@hlf.org.uk or telephone 02920 234165.

They are particularly interested in funding projects in Merthyr Tydfil

Trefechan Community Shopping Event Wednesday 8th April 5 - 7pm

The Trefechan Community Centre will be host to an evening of fantastic shopping opportunities on Wednesday 8th April from 5 -7pm. The body shop will be here along with a fantastic selection of handbags, jewellery, make up and Macmillan will be selling knitted chicks with a chocolate egg to raise funds for Macmillan. Food and refreshments will be available to enjoy from the Cafe so why not come along and enjoy a bite to eat, a little retail therapy and show your support to the community projects and Macmillan.
The event is free to attend and open to all. We look forward to seeing you all on the evening

Bedlinog Welsh Festival

Cymdeithas Gymraeg Beddllwynog/Canolfan a Menter Gymraeg Merthyr Tudful
Bedroc 2009 - Bedlinog Welsh Festival -
3 days of music and more.


Before tickets officially go on sale on Monday we are offering you the chance to get the first ones.


With many of the biggest names in Welsh music playing (see poster) it is expected to sell out fast.


Friday £6

Saturday £6

Weekend Ticket £10

(all other events free of charge)


Tickets can be ordered from the Menter now.

At: Bedlinog, Merthyr Tudful

On: Friday 19/06/2009 for 3 days Time: 7.00

For further information contact Menter Merthyr Tudful 01685 722176

Cymdeithas Gymraeg Beddllwynog/Canolfan a Menter Gymraeg Merthyr Tudful
Bedroc 2009 - Gwyl Gymraeg Beddllwynog - 3 ddiwrnod o gerddoriaeth a mwy. Cyn i docynnau cael ei rhyddhau yn swyddogol ar ddydd Llun rydym yn rhoi'r cyfle i chi bachi'r rhai cyntaf.
Gyda nifer o fandiau mwyaf y sin Gymraeg yn cymryd rhan (gweler poster) mae disgwyl i'r tocynnau gwerthu mas yn gyflym.

Nos Wener £6

Nos Sadwrn £6

Tocyn penwythnos £10

(Pob digwyddiad arall yn Rhad ac am Ddim)


Gallwch archebu tocynnau nawr trwy gysylltu a'r Menter

Yn: Beddllwynog/Bedlinog, Merthyr Tudful

Dydd Gwener 19/06/2009 am 3 dydd Am: 7.00

Am wybodaeth bellach ffoniwch
Swyddfa Menter Merthyr Tudful 01685 722176

Changes to residential care Services

Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council will be holding a series of public consultation events on the proposed changes to residential care services for older people and how this will impact on the four residential homes that are directly managed by the Local Authority.

The event for Trefechan will be held on the 28th April 2009 from 6pm to 8pm in the Trefechan Community Centre.

Please come along and have your say as this will affect all of us in the future.

Engagement Gateway

Are you a local organisation which works with people outside of mainstream employment and furthest from the labour market e.g people facing specific disadvantage such as
- women who want to return to work
- black, asian and minority ethnic people
- people with a work limiting health condition or disability
- mental health service users
- people over 50 yeas of age
- people in receipt of incapacity benegit
- lone parents with children of all ages
- young people not in employment , education or training
- economically inactive people throughout wales?

The Gateway is a scheme under the European Union's Convergence programme, which aims to reduce economic inactivity in Wales and improve the employability of disadvantaged people furthest from the labour market.

If you are interested in finding out more, please call into the office for further details.

Grants available to the Vaynor Ward

Are you a local farmer, business or community group that is looking for funding?

Two new grant funds are available which can provide individual grants of either capital or revenue for between £1,000 to £15,000, which must be fully spent within the period January 2009 to February 2011. All prospective project applicants will be expected to contribute a minimum of at least 20% match funding towards the cost of projects (can be in kind match funding e.g time spent by volunteers etc)

Grants can be made to eligible organisations in the form of:
- Enterprises within the farming and land based sector requiring support to promote non-agriculturally related diversification activities
- Small business looking to extend their activities in ways that support the local economy, improve employment capacity or are related to tourism promotion
- community groups seeking to engage in enterprise or improvement focused activities that add value to services or local features

If you are interested in finding out more, please contact Chris Collins at Rural Action Merthyr on 01685 725017

Cleaner, Greener Trefechan

The Communities First Team in partnership with Keep Wales Tidy and the Cleaner Greener Team from Groundwork Merthyr and RCT held a waste amnesty today in Trefechan. Local Residents were able to deposit unwanted bulky waste and electrical items for free in a skip provided. A free pick up service was also provided for Senior Citizens. Many of the items were taken for recycling at the local recycling point.

The event was a great success and it is hoped that future clear ups will be held
later in the year. We would like to thank all residents and Keep Wales Tidy and the Cleaner Greener Team from Groundwork merthyr and RCT for their support for this event.

New Year, New You !

The New Year, New You Health Week was held in the week beginning the 23rd February 2009, with a range of activities being held from Smoothie making with young people, relaxation and indian head massage, smoking cessation. The Trefechan Health and Fitness Group also ran a series of stalls on the main event.

Do you have items of furniture you no longer want?

Trefechan Communities First alongside Groundwork and Keep Wales tidy will be providing a free skip for local residents to deposit any unwanted items.
If senior citizens would like some items removed please contact the communities first office on 01685 383758 to arrange a collection two weeks in advance.
The free skip will be available on Thursday 5th March between 10am and 1pm outside the Communities First Office.

St Fagans Museum

33 residents attended a recent visit to St Fagans Museum of Welsh Life. For 25% of the residents this was their first visit to St Fagans and all rated the visit as very good.

83% of residents reported that they had learnt something new during the visit, with several residents being expecially interested in the old cottages which previously had stood on the old Rhydycar site in Merthyr Tydfil and the communal bakehouse/oven which stood in Georgetown. Some of the attendees had family that used to live in the area so were particularly interested in some of the exhibits.

There was something of interest to all with several of the young people taking part in pottery tasters and dressed up in costumes in the costume exhibition.

Smoothie Making

11 young people took part in our healthy smoothie making event last night on the 24th February 2009 in the Trefechan Youth Club. The young people made up a range of tasty smoothies using fresh and tinned fruit that is easily available from local stores. 81% of the young people said that they had learnt something new and several tried fruit that they had never tasted before.

Several of the young people also requested more information on health issues that were affecting their lives such as healthy eating, smoking etc

Funding Fair

Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council will be holding a funding fair at the Summit/Taff Bargoed Centre in Trelewis on Wednesday 25th March 2009 from 10am to 3pm.

There will be advisors from a range of funding organisations available to help you. So if you a voluntary or community group please visit the funding fair to chat to a funding advisor.

Job Vacancy - Food Network Coordinator

The Trefechan Community Association, who are a local community community group in Trefechan has a vacancy for a food network coordinator. The post is a fixed term contract for two year working 18 hours per week. Salary of £9300 per annum. If you are interested in applying for the vacancy please contact Joe Maddison at the trefechan Community centre, 15 The Green, Trefechan, Merthyr Tydfil on 01685 386146.

Closing date for applications is the 13th march 2009.

The post is funded by Rural Action Merthyr.

Please note that this post will be reporting and working for the Trefechan Community Association.

Rural Grants Information Events

Are you a :
Community group or social enterprise?
Local Business?
Farmer or working in the Land Based Sector?

As such you may be interested in finding our about grant funds that have recently been launched under the Rural Action merthyr Programme, where consideration will be given to projects that:
- create new business opportunities that promote local products and activities, improve skills and enable economic regeneration
- support farmining enterprises that seek to move away from traditional agriculture as a means of diversifying incomes
- promote local festivals, events and cultural activities
- improve access to environmental and heritage features and local interpretation
- promote investment in tourist infrastructure and services for visitors

The event for Vaynor will be held at 10.30am 27th February at the Cefn Coed Community Centre. Refreshments and a buffet lunch will be provided at all events. To confirm attendance or request further information, please telephone 01685 725017

Opera Trip - Cancelled

Due to the bad weather conditions, we have been forced to cancel the opera trip for today. We will look to run the trip later in the year.

Trefechan Partnership Meeting

The date of the next Trefechan Communities First Partnership meeting will be held on Tuesday 3rd March 2009 at 4.30pm at Trefechan Community Centre.

Waste in the Community

We will be holding a skip / waste amnesty on the 5th March from 10am to 1pm. If any residents have any unwanted items / waste e.g old furniture etc that they would like to dispose of we will be providing a free skip outside the community during this time (Business Waste will not be allowed).

Please bring along proof of address, as this we can only provide this scheme for local residents only.

If you are a senior citizen we will provide a free collection service. However, please book a collection by Friday 20th February.

New Year, New You!

A series of events will be held in Trefechan to promote healthy living in our community in February. Why not come along and join in and help make this year your healthiest yet!

Monday 23rd February - We will be making yummy healthy fruit smoothies with members of the Trefechan Youth Club. For more information, please see our youth worker Chris Tarbuck.

Tuesday 24th 12.30 to 2.30pm in the Trefechan Community Centre - Why not come along and join us for a free taster in relaxation and indian head massage.

Wednesday 25th 3.30 to 7.30 in the Trefechan Community Centre - The Trefechan Health and Fitness Group will be running their first health event promoting their group and encouraging others to try new activities. They will be a range of free activities such as indian head massage, reflexology plus much more!

Want to get healthy?

Why not join the Cefn Coed and Trefechan 50+ Dance and Leisure Group for dance lessons at the Cefn Coed Community Centre every Thursday Afternoon from 1pm until 3pm. The weekly lessons covers modern, salsa and sequence dancing.

The Cefn Coed and Trefechan 50+ dance and leisure group is a new group which is made up of local residents which look to improve their health through leisure and dance and provide an opportunity to socialise locally. If you are interested why not come along and join them for a very entertaining afternoon. No previous experience of dancing is required and all levels are catered for.

The dance sessions are funded thanks to a small grant by Age Concern England Small Grants Programme.

Free Trip to St Fagans

Trefechan Communities First are running a free trip to St Fagans on Wednesday 18th february. A free coach will be provided departing from Trefechan Community Centre at 9.20am and returning back at Trefechan around 5.15pm. Please bring a packed lunch and wear suitable clothing. Tickets are limited so please book your place by calling into the office or telephoning on 01685 383758.

St Fagans is one of Europe's foremost open–air museums and Wales's most popular heritage attraction. It stands in the grounds of the magnificent St Fagans Castle, a late 16th-century manor house donated to the people of Wales by the Earl of Plymouth. During the last fifty years, over forty original buildings from different historical periods have been re-erected in the 100-acre parkland.
There are a range of activities to take part in, with workshops where craftsmens still demonstrate their traditional skills.Native breeds of livestock can be seen in the fields and farmyards, and demonstrations of farming tasks take place daily. Visitors gain an insight into the rich heritage and culture of Wales, and the Welsh language can be heard in daily use amongst craftsmen and interpreters.There are also galleries with exhibitions of costume, daily life and farming implements. Special exhibitions are also held regularly. Throughout the year, St Fagans comes to life — literally — as traditional festivals, music and dance events are celebrated.
For keen gardeners, there are wonderful gardens to explore and there will be a display of hotbeds and how they were used on the date that we are visiting.

Free Diversity Training

We will be holding free diversity training for members of the Communities First Partnership on the 12th February 2008 Starting at 12noon finishing no later than 5pm. If you are interested in attending please contact us for more details.