Press Release: Voluntary organisations benefit from £13 million festive funding boost

Voluntary organisations across Wales in the health and social care sector are set to benefit from a bumper Christmas package of over £13 million in grant funding over the next 3 years, the Deputy Minister for Social Services Gwenda Thomas announced today (Wednesday, 19 December).

The grants will go to a range of organisations in the physical and/or sensory disabilities, learning disabilities, mental health, carers and older people sectors.

Said Gwenda Thomas: “The awarding of these three year grants is a demonstration of our continuing commitment to the voluntary sector.”

“ This latest round of three year funding awards will give these organisations the financial certainty they need to enable them to effectively plan ahead.

“ All Wales voluntary organisations within health and social care provide a valuable contribution to both helping inform and shape our policies and providing ongoing help, advice and support to some of the most vulnerable people in our society.

“ This £13 million in funding will ensure this important work continues over the next three years”.The grant will be made available on a three-year basis from April 2008.

For Further Information, click here: http://new.wales.gov.uk/news/presreleasearchive/1876092/?lang=en

Press Release: Improved care for stroke patients

Improved support for stroke patients was announced today by Deputy Minister for Health Gwenda Thomas at a summit in Cardiff.

A new requirement will mean that, by March 2009, all stroke patients will be admitted to dedicated beds staffed by a specialist team.

The announcement follows a recommendation from a partnership set up by the Welsh Assembly Government to advise on improving care.

The Government sought their views after an audit by the Royal College of Physicians (RCP), published last May, concluded that there was not enough specialist beds and support for stroke patients.

Although the numbers of people in Wales dying from a stroke have been falling in recent years, a total of 2,380 people died in 2005.

Gwenda Thomas said:

“The Government is committed to improving stroke services in Wales.

“Currently, those people who survive a stroke are often left with varying degrees of disability and rehabilitation needs.

“The RCP report was a damning commentary on our stroke services. When the Health Minister met the Stroke Association in June, she assured them that this was one of her priorities.

“The NHS across Wales has now been required to work with social services departments to map current services against the stroke standards set out in the National Service Framework for Older People.

“To ensure these improvements are implemented promptly – and as part of the One Wales commitment to improve services for long-term conditions such as stroke – £2.5 million is being made available from 2008-09. Decisions on the use of this funding will be made in the light of the mapping work the local NHS is doing.

“To oversee and co-ordinate improvements to stroke services at a national level, we have also established an independent panel, the Stroke Partnership. This partnership will encourage, advise and support the NHS and social services in their efforts to provide the quality of care that stroke patients need.

“We need our doctors, nurses and other health professionals to champion and lead the change programme. That’s why we have established the Wales Stroke Alliance, led by Dr Anne Freeman, a physician and a Trustee of the Stroke Association, to directly underpin the Stroke Partnership and input into and support its work.

“We intend this programme of work to act as a firm and positive driver and a focus for the improvements we need to achieve. The programme will be reviewed periodically in the light of progress.”

Trish Hughes, General Manager for Wales, the Stroke Association, said:

“We welcome this announcement by the Deputy Minister and look forward to working in partnership with the Welsh Assembly Government to improve stroke services in Wales.

“As the Minister acknowledges, stroke care in Wales has lagged behind that of the rest of the United Kingdom. Stroke is a long term condition and will need long term funding. There is a long way to go, but we feel reassured that the Assembly Government is now addressing what is the third biggest killer in Wales.”

Western Mail Article: A merry Christmas for everyone in Wales

Look out for each other, says Deputy Minister for Social Services, Gwenda Thomas

For most of us the festive season is a happy time for families to gather around the Christmas tree. But for some of the more vulnerable people in our community – the children and older people who need care and support – Christmas can unfortunately be the hardest and loneliest time of year.

That is why it’s important that as a caring society we help support and keep an eye on these vulnerable groups not only during Christmas but throughout the year.

It’s also important that as an Assembly Government we help support vulnerable groups which is why we have made several One Wales commitments that echo this thinking.

Improving the lives of older people is one of the key aims of the Welsh Assembly Government. To reflect this commitment we will be shortly announcing in the new year the appointment of the first ever champion for older people.

The Commissioner for Older People will not only benefit older people but also sets a standard for other parts of the UK, Europe and the world to follow.

The Commissioner will ensure that the interests of older people in Wales, who are aged 60 or more, are safeguarded and promoted.

As an ambassador and authority on older people’s issues, the Commissioner will speak up on behalf of older people and help them to resolve problems when things go wrong.

We will make an announcement about the appointment of the Commissioner early in the new year.

I am delighted Wales is setting an example and that this adds to the work already started through the Welsh Assembly Government’s 10-year action plan to deal with things that matter most in the lives of older people in Wales.

Demographics are changing and by 2026 about 29% of people in Wales will be over 60 years old. This appointment will mean that older people are put at the centre of all policy making.

To complement the work of the Older People’s Commissioner we will shortly be announcing the appointment of the new Children’s Commissioner to make sure that the children and young people of Wales have a stronger voice.

To further strengthen the voice of children we sought extra powers over the summer to improve the welfare of children and young people in Wales.

Vulnerable children and tackling child poverty are central to the Assembly Government’s programme for children and young people.

Although we have made good progress in recent years, with poverty rates for children in Wales now below the UK average for the first time, we are not complacent. There are still some 28% of children in Wales living in poverty.

Assembly Government budgets have provided increased investment in children, especially in the early years and a lot has been done through our anti-poverty programmes like Cymorth and Communities First. This year will see the continued roll-out of Flying Start, which is targeted at the 0-3 age group in the most deprived communities in Wales . About £46m is being made available between 2006 and 2008 to support disadvantaged children in their early years, £15m in 2006-7 and £31m in 2007-8.

There are 4,800 children in local authority care in Wales and some 1,600 young people who have left care. The Assembly Government and local authorities, as corporate parents, have a unique responsibility to ensure that the experience of children in care is positive and they get the right opportunities and support so that when they leave care they have the right skills and confidence to allow them to live independent lives as responsible adults.

I am pleased that the Vulnerable Children and Child Poverty Legislative Competence Order (LCO) that we introduced over the summer aims to allow the Assembly to make a real improvement in their lives.

The LCO aims to empower the Assembly to implement changes in the law relating to the welfare of children and young people that could see free child care for two-year-olds in greatest need and top up payments to Child Trust Fund accounts of children in Wales, with more for those living in poverty.

We issued another LCO at the end of last month that sought further powers for the Assembly to secure a fairer deal for vulnerable people who need care in their homes across Wales.

The charging for home care and other non-residential social services is currently at the discretion of individual local authorities. This has resulted in significant variations in charging policies for similar services across Wales.

Under the current system weekly charges for a similar service can range from a maximum of £16.20 to £185.

This new LCO – Charging for Non-Residential Social Care (Domiciliary Care) – aims to enable the Assembly Government to legislate against such disparity and help produce a fairer and more consistent system to close the gap.

As the Deputy Minister for Social Services and Carers I’m proud to say how the Assembly Government places such an emphasis on the needs of vulnerable people in our community.

Having taken a brief look back at the year I’m confident that, although our work is far from done, we are certainly moving in the right direction.

But there is still more that we can do as a Government and that we can all do as individuals.
We could offer practical support, like writing Christmas cards or getting some shopping in, putting up decorations or even something as simple as dropping by with a neighbour regularly for a chat.

And if we have some time on our hands, we could always invite an elderly neighbour or relative around for a Christmas lunch in the week leading up to Christmas.

This will help make sure they have a good meal and company and you may find you make a friend.

Carers take centre stage on Carers Rights Day

Assembly Government Deputy Minister for Social Services and Carers Champion, Gwenda Thomas, today visited Rhydycar Leisure Centre at Merthyr to help raise the profile of carers in Wales as part of Carers Right Day.

During the event, the Carers Champion met carers and witnessed first hand the ‘Telecare’ technology that is now available and currently being rolled out in Merthyr Tydfil to support older people and those with long-term needs live independently.

Carers Rights Day, arranged by Carers UK and co-ordinated in Wales by Carers Wales, is an annual event with the aim of raising carers awareness of their rights, increase the take-up of benefit entitlements and guide carers towards practical support.

It’s estimated that only 30,000 of the 340,000 carers in Wales currently take up the Carers’ Allowance. It’s hoped that today’s series of events throughout the country will raise carers awareness of the support – both financial and practical - that they could access.

Said Gwenda Thomas: “Family, friends and neighbours have a crucial role in supporting people in the community who are frail, sick or vulnerable.

“ The Assembly Government’s Carers’ Strategy recognises that people who plan, provide and commission services have to be aware that carers have needs of their own and may need help to look after their loved ones.

"Equally, we know that many carers do not even think of themselves as carers and may not therefore know about their own rights and entitlements. So I commend the events that are being organised across Wales today and am confident that the vital role that carers play – and their rights - will be highlighted as a result."

Interview in Community Care Magazine: Gwenda Thomas: carers' champion for Wales

Gwenda Thomas talks to Natalie Valios about her role as the Welsh assembly's carers' champion and deputy minister for social services.

Interview can be read here - http://www.communitycare.co.uk/Articles/2007/12/05/106697/gwenda-thomas-carers-champion-for-wales.html

Press Release: Christmas Card Winner Announced

Earlier this year, I invited every primary school in my constituency to take part in a competition to design my Christmas card for 2007.

All of the entries contained an important message, some were of an extremely high standard with a few that would outdo some professionally made Christmas cards in terms of quality, effort and imagination. It just goes to show that our children, given the opportunity, support and encouragement, really can achieve their full potential.

I’m delighted to be able to announce that the winner this year is Cerys Stanton, of Clyne Primary School. Congratulations to Cerys, and my heartfelt thanks to all the children, their teachers and parents who helped make the competition the big success it has proven to be.

(Photo used with kind permission of Cerys' mother. Proof on file.)

Neath Guardian Column: Thomas Talks - 5 December 2007

"Last week in the Assembly, I began the process to devolve the power from the UK Government in Westminster to the Welsh Assembly Government to enable changes to be made to the way that older people and vulnerable adults pay for social services in their own homes.

"As Deputy Minister for Health and Social Services in the Labour-led Assembly Government, this is the second legislative competence order (known as an LCO) that I am I taking through the Assembly, using the new, enhanced powers that the Assembly now has. As well as the LCO on vulnerable children and child poverty I am taking through, other ministers are, or will be seeking powers over services for children with special educational needs; on environmental protection and waste management; affordable housing and the welsh language.

"At the moment, charges for home care and other non-residential social services are currently at the discretion of each of Wales’ 22 local authorities. This has resulted in significant variations in charging policies for similar services across Wales. Current local authority maximum weekly charge rates for home care services range from £16.20 per week to £185 per week. This LCO, if approved, will enable the Assembly to pass Welsh laws to make sure that users of home care services and other non-residential social services pay a fairer charge for services - based on their individual needs, and not on where they live. We could also look at exempting certain services, and certain groups of people from charges altogether.

"A fairer charging policy will help older people and the disabled get the services they need. More people are choosing to remain in their own homes and value their independence. For this to become a reality many need the invaluable day-to-day support they receive from the committed and hard working staff that work within social services, as well as from their own carers.

"If you wish to contact me for advice or assistance with any matter for which the Assembly has responsibility for, please contact my constituency office in Pontardawe on 01792 869993 or e-mail gwenda.thomas@wales.gov.uk. You can also keep up-to-date with my activities as your AM by logging on to www.gwendathomas.com

£1.9M FACELIFT FOR LOCAL HOUSING RENEWAL AREAS

- AM backs action on local regeneration

REGENERATING communities is at the heart of Welsh Labour’s plan to improve housing and supply more affordable housing in the Upper Amman Valley.

Amman Valley's Labour Assembly Member Gwenda Thomas has welcomed the Assembly Government’s announcement of grants totalling £1.9m to improve the housing and environment in Neath Port Talbot, including in the Housing Renewal Area in Lower Brynaman and Gwaun Cae Gurwen.

The money has been set aside to fund street repairs and the uplifts to houses and shop fronts in these areas with the aim of kick starting local investment and regeneration.

Gwenda Thomas AM said:

"This regeneration money from the Labour-led Assembly Government is great news for Lower Brynaman and Gwaun Cae Gurwen. The money can be used to repair and renovate housing, shop fronts, pavements and gutters or even fund traffic calming measures to make our roads safer.

"The housing renewal scheme is already giving the area a facelift, improving the quality of housing and give local people a sense of pride in their community.

"I would like to thank Cllr's Arwyn Woolcock and Lynda Williams for their hard work to bring housing renewal area status to the Upper Amman Valley, which will dramatically Improve the quality of housing in the area.

Press Release: CASH BOOST FOR AIR AMBULANCE

- Welsh Labour outlines review of ambulance services

NEATH AM Gwenda Thomas has today welcomed the extra investment by the Welsh Assembly Government in the Air Ambulance service in South Wales.

Welsh Labour Health Minister Edwina Hart has outlined a £337,000 boost for the service next year and outlined a review of the service and patient transport services across Wales.

The extra money follows a £77million Assembly Government modernisation fund for the ambulance service. £55 million has already been made available this year to upgrade ambulances, air ambulances and control centres with state-of-the-art digital radios to help improve response times.

People in Neath will also benefit from a £16 million investment for an extra 119 emergency ambulances and 67 patient care service vehicles.

Neath Labour AM and Deputy Health Minister Gwenda Thomas said:

"I'm very pleased that we have been able to make this extra money available for the air ambulance service – which further proves Welsh Labour’s commitment to modernising the ambulance service in Wales.

"Patients in my constituency and across Wales are going to benefit from extra ambulances and better response times thanks to the investment in new vehicles and state-of-the-art digital radios.

"I am also pleased that the Health Minister Edwina Hart has announced plans to review the air ambulance service by the end of year so that the Assembly Government can look at ways of funding this important service in future.’’

The AM also welcomed a review into the patient transport services. The review will bring local health and volunteer organisations to look at ways of improving the experience of patients who use the service.

Press Release: AM WELCOMES SMALL CLASS SIZES IN NEATH SCHOOLS

NEATH Labour AM Gwenda Thomas has welcomed figures published today [Wednesday 28 November 2007] which show that schoolchildren in Neath continue to benefit from small class sizes.

Thanks to Welsh Labour’s record investment in education since the Assembly came into being in 1999 - the percentage of junior classes in Wales with over 30 pupils stands at only 3% of the total, compared with 25% in 1999. Only 1% of infant classes in Wales contain more than 30 pupils.

Neath Labour AM GWENDA THOMAS said:

"I am delighted that schools in my constituency and Neath Port Talbot Local Education Authority have continued to work to keep class sizes down so that virtually all infant and junior classes in my constituency have 30 pupils or under. Thanks to the Labour-led Welsh Assembly Government's investment in our schools - smaller class sizes are benefiting our youngest children by giving them more teacher time and a better chance to improve their reading and numeric skills.

"And through the new and innovative 'Foundation Phase' for early years education this Labour-led Assembly Government is committed to giving the very youngest children the best possible start.

"The roll out of the new Foundation phase in our schools from September next year will offer a radical new learning experience for 3 – 7 year olds. International evidence reveals that children do better if they start formal education later on and that children are put off learning altogether if they are tested too early.

"It will move early years education away from a rigid desk and blackboard style of teaching and place an emphasis on learning through play.

"Active involvement and participation in learning improves children’s speaking and listening skills. Improving the personal and social skills of young children will encourage a more positive attitude towards learning throughout the rest of their school days and beyond.’’

Press Release: LABOUR MINISTER SEEKS TO END POSTCODE LOTTERY FOR HOMECARE CHARGES

- Deputy Minister Gwenda Thomas outlines plans for Assembly power over homecare charging

OLDER people and vulnerable adults who rely on social care in the home will be charged based on their circumstances and not where they live, Neath AM and Deputy Minister for Social Services Gwenda Thomas announced today.

Plans outlined today in the National Assembly by Welsh Labour's Deputy Minister for Social Services Gwenda Thomas will see the power to set maximum charges for social care in the home and to exempt groups from charges being devolved to the Welsh Assembly Government from the UK Government.

Currently, charges for homecare and other social services are decided by locally by each of the 22 local authorities in Wales. This has resulted in wide variations across Wales. With new legal powers over charging for these services, the Assembly Government will be able to deliver a fairer and more consistent charging policy for all adult users of homecare services.

Neath AM and Deputy Social Services Minister Gwenda Thomas said:

"Welsh Labour is committed to helping the most vulnerable people in our community.

"The Labour-led Assembly Government fully recognises the need to end the postcode lottery that exists for the charges for homecare, and that's why I'm leading the Assembly Government’s effort to deal with this issue so that people in my constituency and throughout Wales who rely on homecare get a far fairer deal.

"A fairer charging policy will help older people and the disabled to get the services they need to help them in their day to day lives.

"The Labour-led Assembly Government wants to shift social care away from residential care so that more people can remain in their own home and still get the day-to-day support they need.

"Access to personalised care gives older people and the disabled who use these services more independence in their daily lives even when they have to rely on support from others.’’

-Ends-

Notes to editors

The charging for homecare and other non-residential social services is currently at the discretion of individual local authorities. This has resulted in significant variations in charging policies for similar services across Wales.

The Legislative Competence Order (LCO) - Charging for Non-Residential Social Care (Domiciliary Care) - will enable the Assembly Government to legislate against such disparity.

LCOs are an Order in Council made under section 95 of the Government of Wales Act 2006. The Order is submitted by the Assembly in draft to Parliament for approval. Once granted it will extend the scope of the Assembly to pass an Assembly Measure at any time within the subject matter of the Order.

The Order is restricted to charges imposed by local authorities in respect of non-residential social care. It would not enable the Assembly to legislate in respect of charges levied by private care providers for non-residential social care. A significant amount of research and consultation with stakeholders will be undertaken in order to determine how best to achieve a fairer and more consistent approach.

Press Release: EXTRA BOOST OF EARLY YEARS EDUCATION IN NEATH

- AM welcomes funding boost for childcare and early years education

THE YOUNGEST children in Neath are set to benefit from the Labour-led Welsh Assembly Government’s extra investment in early years education and childcare.

Neath Labour AM Gwenda Thomas has welcomed Welsh Labour Education Minister Jane Hutt’s announcement that £45 million extra has been set aside for the innovative new education scheme for all 3 – 7 year olds’ in Wales.

The 'Foundation Phase' is a new approach to teaching the youngest children based on learning through play, active involvement and practical activities. The extra £45 million will allow the roll out of the scheme across Neath Port Talbot from September next year.

Funds for the Flying Start childcare scheme will increase by £8 million over the next three years. Flying Start provides high quality free childcare for two year olds – and allows parents to save money and keep working – and the extra money will allow a 10% increase in the number of childcare places.

An additional £3m over the next three years will be made available to meet the requirements of the Childcare Act 2006, which comes into force in April 2008. This funding will enable local authorities to research and map the availability of childcare available to decide what interventions are necessary. In addition, an extra £4.2m will be ring-fenced for community focussed schools over three years for out-of-hours childcare.

Neath AM GWENDA THOMAS said:

"The education and welfare of our youngest children is one of Welsh Labour's main priorities. This extra money is going to give the youngest children in my constituency the flying start in life that they deserve.

"Extra money for childcare is going to make a real difference in the lives of local families. I am delighted that more children will benefit from this scheme and that local mums will be able to keep their jobs or go back to work without worrying about paying for quality childcare.

"The new Foundation phase will offer a radical new learning experience for 3 – 7 year olds. International evidence shows that children do better if they start formal education later on and that children are put off learning altogether if they are tested too early.

"Welsh Labour’s Foundation phase will move early years education away from a rigid desk and blackboard style of teaching and place an emphasis on learning through play, both inside and outside.

"Active involvement and participation in learning improves children’s speaking and listening skills. Improving the personal and social skills of young children will encourage a more positive attitude towards learning throughout the rest of their school days and beyond.

Press Release: HEALTHY SCHOOL MEALS ACTION PLAN

- Welsh Labour to target child obesity and unhealthy diets

MORE healthy food is on the menu in local schools thanks to the Labour-led Welsh Assembly Government’s Action Plan to give schoolchildren a balanced and nutritious diet.

Neath AM Gwenda Thomas is backing Welsh Labour Education Minister Jane Hutt’s seven point action plan to improve food and nutrition in Neath's schools. The Appetite for Life Action Plan will see a £6.6 million investment in healthy school food across Wales over the next two years.

The seven point plan includes:

• Setting new nutrient, food and drink standards – including offering more fruit
• Improving catering staff training on healthy foods
• A school wide approach, involving pupils and staff and strengthening food education in the curriculum
• Raising awareness over healthy diets in schools
• Looking at sourcing healthy food locally
• Calculating the costs of a healthy school meal
• Establishing a regular review to monitor progress in delivering more healthy food

GWENDA THOMAS AM said:

‘’The Labour-led Welsh Assembly Government wants to see healthier food on offer in local schools. Improving the health of our children is one of the Assembly Government’s top priorities. All of us know the importance of a balanced diet and how essential it is to children and young people if they are to grow into healthy adults.

‘’That is why I am backing this action plan – we need higher standards of nutrition in school meals to improve children’s diets.

‘’This plan will look at the best way of delivering healthier school meals and improving the diets of our children. Training staff, strict health standards, using healthy local food sources and raising awareness about healthy foods are all essential in combating the problems of child obesity and poor diets.

‘’Good progress is already being made in some schools with the free healthy school breakfast scheme and an increase in the number of fruit tuck shops and water coolers on offer.

‘’I look forward to seeing these plans in action in schools across my constituency.’’

Neath Guardian Column: Thomas Talks - 15 November 2007

"On Sunday, I was once again honoured to be able to represent the people of Neath and the surrounding valley communities at the annual remembrance Sunday service and march in Neath. The Deputy Mayor and Mayoress of Neath Port Talbot Cllr. Malcolm and Mary Gunter, and the Council Leader Cllr. Derek Vaughan, who layed a reith on behalf of Peter Hain MP were also present, along with other senior dignitaries, including county borough councillors and Neath town councillors. Members of my staff attended similar services on my behalf in Pontardawe and Glynneath.

"This is the time of year the nation as a whole stops and remembers the sacrifice that the many who lost their lives gave serving their county in both world wars and the many other conflicts since then. We all owe them a tremendous debt of gratitude, and the best way I believe we can repay that debt is by never forgetting the tremendous courage that our armed forces, past and present display throughout the world as they strive to bring peace and stability in areas of the world that suffer from instability and conflict.

"The Royal British Legion, who arrange the remembrance services each year deserve to be congratulated not only for arranging the annual parade, but also for the work they do throughout the year in supporting and assisting armed forces’ veterans in many ways, and I would like to thank them for all their hard work locally.

"I was delighted to be able to visit Crynant Primary school last Friday to officially open their new adventure trail. From September 2008, every primary school in Neath will begin teaching every child between the ages of 3 and 7 under a new scheme known as the ‘foundation phase.’ Emphasis will be placed on developing children’s knowledge, skills and understanding through experiential learning, - learning by doing and by solving real life problems both inside and outdoors. This is a very exciting development for education in Wales, and is a distinctive welsh policy for schools in Wales.

"In the last few weeks, I have launched my new website. As Neath’s AM, I think it’s vital that I use every possible way of communicating with my constituents. You can find my website by logging on to http://www.gwendathomas.com/

Press Release: TIME TO CONFRONT BULLYING SAYS NEATH AM

- Anti-bullying week targets bullying in and out of school

Neath Labour AM Gwenda Thomas has added her support for the Labour led Assembly Government’s anti-bullying week (November 19th- 23rd).

Following last year’s successful campaign Welsh Labour’s Education Minister Jane Hutt has said this year’s campaign will aim to raise awareness over bullying outside the classroom.

Welsh Labour wants to see local schools focus on tackling the increasing problem of bullying over text messages or on social network websites and also wants schools to focus on racist and homophobic bullying.

Neath AM Gwenda Thomas said:

’’We’re becoming increasingly aware of bullying over the internet or on mobile phones which is why this year’s campaign will raise awareness over bullying in and out side of the school environment .

‘’Welsh Labour wants to help children, parents and pupils stamp out this sort of behaviour.

‘’Bullying takes many forms, which is why it is vital that we address the issue of cyber-bullying and look at ways to tackle racist and homophobic bullying.

‘’The most important thing is that young people who are being bullied talk to someone. Teachers, parents and fellow pupils can help. I hope that schools across my constituency will get involved in this year’s anti-bullying campaign. We have to all work together and tackle bullying every day in whatever form is takes.’’

Press Release: NEATH AM WELCOMES NEW REGENERATION INITIATIVES IN NEATH

Neath AM Gwenda Thomas has today welcomed the announcement by the Welsh Assembly Government that Communities in Neath will benefit from an extra £582,000 of Communities First funding.

The funding, which was announced by the Deputy Minister for Regeneration, Leighton Andrews AM today, means that three new areas in Neath will now join the the Communities First programme.

The inclusion of these areas follows their identification in the Welsh Index of Multiple Deprivation 2005 as being in the 10% most deprived communities in Wales, but currently without Communities First Status.

A new partnership will be created in the Neath North ward covering the town centre area. Similarly a new partnership has been created in Neath South.

The funding will pay for professional staff to work with the community to develop new community projects and to build existing regeneration initiatives.

GWENDA THOMAS AM said:

"I'm very pleased that the Welsh Assembly Government has made this extra money available for regeneration initiatives in Neath town centre and for communities in the Neath south ward. This announcement today, and the £80m regeneration of Neath town centre already announced by Neath Port Talbot council is a significant and welcome boost for the town.

"Excellent examples of how the Communities First initiative has benefited communities in Neath are all too visible in Fairyland and in the Melyn, where people have come together to make a real, lasting and positive difference to their communities.

The Deputy Minister, LEIGHTON ANDREWS AM said:

“The funding I’ve announced will enable Communities First to become established in these areas in preparation for Communities Next – the second phase of the Welsh Assembly Government’s community regeneration programme.”

Press Release: NEATH AM WELCOMES KEEP WALES TIDY PRIZE FOR LOCAL GROUP

NEATH AM Gwenda Thomas added her congratulations to the Dyffryn Clydach Volunteers for their success in the Keep Wales Tidy Awards 2007.

Gwenda Thomas AM praised the local volunteers for their efforts, which have been recognised with the Tidy Wales Award Trophy - presented to the group by the Minister for Environment, Sustainability and Housing, Jane Davidson AM.

They also received the Rhiannon Bevan Award which was presented for the first time last year. The award is in memory of Rhiannon who until her recent death had served as chairman of the Keep Wales Tidy Board for many years.

The Dyffryn Clydach volunteers were formed in 1987 and over the past 20 years they have been removed hundreds of tonnes of rubbish in their locality. They have also converted numerous littered and vandalised locations into safe, local amenity areas.

During the past year they have been working at 20 different locations. In addition to removing 56 tonnes of litter they joined forces with Crynant School to create bird boxes and constructing fishing platforms for the disabled.

GWENDA THOMAS AM said:

‘‘It’s great to see so many people, especially young people, getting involved to clean up our communities.

‘’People are concerned about the rubbish they see on their streets, parks and rivers – and they want something done about it.

‘’That’s why it is so important that the Labour led Welsh Assembly Government is behind local efforts all the way so that we can all be proud of the comminities that we live in.

‘’Under Labour the amount of rubbish we recycle in Neath has increased dramatically and tougher fines have been introduced to combat dog-fouling, littering and fly-tipping. But there is always more that we can all do to help make the local environment that much cleaner and healthier.

‘’Welsh Labour is already taking steps to ensure that the Assembly Government will be able to make Welsh laws over these issues so we can give local people and Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council all the power they need to clean up our streets.’’
-Ends-

Hilary Benn visits Neath

I was delighted to be able to welcome The Rt. Hon Hilary Benn MP, Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs to Neath last week.

Pictured along with myself are the Deputy Mayor and Mayoress of Neath Port Talbot Malcolm and Mary Gunter, Neath MP Peter Hain, Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council Cllr Derek Vaughan and the President of the Neath Constituency Labour Party, Mr. Clive Phillips.

Championing the cause of carers

This is an article I wrote for the Western Mail in my role as Deputy Minister for Health and Social Services, which was published today.

Deputy Social Services Minister Gwenda Thomas explains plans to improve the lives of people looking after loved ones

"AS SOMEONE who has been a carer myself for more than nine years, I know how demanding and rewarding it can be.

Like many carers, it was something I wanted to do. As a result I have a greater understanding of the invaluable role that carers play in looking after loved ones. It has highlighted how different people cope with different situations.

I was extremely lucky I had the help and support of my family and friends but not all carers are in that position.

A great deal has been done to raise awareness of the role that carers provide and more needs to be done to build on the achievements so far.

Carers make a huge difference to the lives of so many people in Wales, providing much needed support to family or friends.

It is essential that the social services, the NHS and other service providers recognise carers’ key role and engage with carers as partners.

To mark the importance placed on carers, in January 2000 we published a carers’ strategy to improve the health and well-being of carers and the people they care for.

Much work has already been done to improve the situation for carers, but a re-focused strategy was published in March this year backed with an extra £1m a year for carers’ services.

Between 2000 and 2006, the Assembly Government provided more than £28m in specific grants to local authorities to develop services for carers. This money has now been mainstreamed into local authorities’ revenue support grant.

Projects approved under the carers’ grant included respite services, help around the house, young carers’ projects and information services. This was boosted in 2006-07 by the mental health carers’ grant and by the announcement of an extra £9m capital funding over two years to support around 10,000 people with telecare technology, which will help vulnerable people to be safe at home and £3m a year to provide extra support for carers of people who have mental health problems.

Before joining the Assembly, I chaired the social services committee at the former West Glamorgan County Council and later at Neath Port Talbot Council. Before that I worked for the Courts Service and Benefits Agency. This made clear to me that there was often a cycle of poverty, debt and dependence on benefits and that this was an intergeneration issue for many vulnerable people. We are working to address this.

In June last year, the then deputy Health and Social Services Minister John Griffiths was appointed as carers’ champion. I was pleased to assume this role in May this year.

In his short time as champion, John achieved a lot with the publication of the action plan for carers. He highlighted the importance of wider carers’ issues within the Assembly Government and focussed attention beyond health and social services.

I intend to build on John’s achievements. Next year, as a result of the One Wales document, we will be reviewing the UK Government’s carers’ strategy and looking to bring forward legislation to cover carers’ rights.

Each local health board in Wales also has a carer member. The involvement of carers on LHBs is intended to ensure that carers’ issues are better understood and are taken into account in local service planning and commissioning.

December 7 will mark carers rights day and this is an excellent opportunity to make carers aware of their rights.

Later this year, we hope to appoint a new Children’s Commissioner following the death of Peter Clarke earlier this year and also to appoint the first Older Person’s Commissioner. Both will have a role to play for championing the rights of carers.

By working closely with colleagues in government, the health service, local authorities and the voluntary sector I am determined to improve the quality of life for carers and those they care for.

Gwenda Thomas presents £1,000 cheque to Breast Cancer Care

I was delighted to present a £1,000 cheque earlier today to Breast Cancer Care. The money was raised by staff and customers at the "Hair Design by Pat" salon in Herbert Street, Pontardawe.

Hair by Gail in Gwaun-cae-Gurwen has also presented a cheque of £1,500 to Breast Cancer Care today.

Breast Cancer Care’s vision is that everyone affected by breast cancer will receive the highest standards of treatment, support and care, and I'm sure the money raised here locally will go towards ensuring this is realised.

For more information on Breast Cancer Care's work, please visit http://www.breastcancercare.org.uk/

Column: Neath Guardian - Thomas Talks - 31 October 2007

My column in the Neath Guardian, 31 October 2007:

"The fire which devastated the Gwyn Hall in Neath last week is a bitter blow and this is, without a doubt, a very sad time for the town and everyone associated with Neath. The Gwyn Hall has been an iconic landmark in Neath ever since it was built during the reign of Queen Victoria during the 1880’s, and has been a much loved venue for musical events and amateur dramatic productions in Neath ever since. It was, of course, the venue which saw much of Neath’s young talents begin their rise to stardom. It also served as Neath’s town hall for many years, and played host to many of the major political events in Neath’s modern history.

"I was made aware of the blaze late last Thursday evening, and visited the scene of the fire the following morning. I had the opportunity to thank the emergency services personally during the morning, but I would like to take this opportunity to publicly thank and praise the efforts of all the emergency service personnel, including the approximately sixty two fire-fighters from the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue service that attended the fire. Their efforts, skill and bravery during the night ensured that the fire did not spread to nearby buildings. Fire-fighters attended the scene from across Wales, some from as far as Llandrindod Wells. Their commitment and bravery is very much to be commended. The biggest relief of all is that nobody was killed or injured as a result of the blaze.

"It is far too early to say yet what the future is for what remains of the Gwyn Hall, but as Neath’s AM, I’m fully committed to working alongside the County Borough Council in whatever way I can and I will be keeping in close contact with the leader of the council Derek Vaughan to see what if anything the Welsh Assembly Government can do to assist the council in the weeks and months ahead. Derek Vaughan has already said that the events of last week will pose a significant challenge. I’m sure we will all rise to that challenge together.

Press Release: Deputy Minister urges people to consider adoption

Deputy Minister for Social Services Gwenda Thomas is encouraging people to consider adopting or fostering children in Wales ahead of National Adoption Week, which starts on Monday, 5 November.

The week runs until Sunday, 11 November and aims to raise awareness of adoption and calls on people from all walks of life to find out about adopting a child. This week aims to build on the achievements of Fostering Fortnight in May which highlights the benefits of fostering. Latest figures show that there has been a 2.5 per cent increase in the number of children looked after by local authorities in Wales. Of those looked after, 13 per cent had three or more placements in a year.

The Deputy Minister, Gwneda Thomas said:

“We recognise and value the important role that foster carers play in caring for vulnerable children and young people. Whether people are currently foster carers or would like to find out more information about foster care or adopting a child, their local authority can give them all the necessary help, advice and support.

"Fostering and adopting can be extremely rewarding and benefit both the parent and child. Adopting a child can provide the long-term stability and love that a child needs to improve their quality of life and have the best start in life.

"While local authorities and their staff work hard to give the necessary care and support to the children in their care, they cannot give the love and attention that a foster carer or adoptive parents can. Whether you are single, married, or a couple, fostering or adoption can be for you. Your local authority can give you all the information you need to go through the application process in your effort to provide a child with a loving and caring home.”

Press Release: AM WELCOMES LIFE SAVING VACCINE

Vaccination against cervical cancer to be introduced in Wales

All 12 and 13 year old girls in Wales are to be vaccinated against the virus that causes most types of cervical cancer thanks to the Labour led Assembly Government.

Neath AM Gwenda Thomas has welcomed Welsh Labour Health Minister Edwina Hart’s announcement that the vaccination against the virus will be available from September 2008. There will also be a two-year catch-up vaccination campaign starting in Autumn 2009 for all girls up to the age of 18.

Neath AM and Deputy Health Minister GWENDA THOMAS said:

‘’Tackling cancer is one of Welsh Labour’s top priorities. The immunisation of girls from next year is a long-term investment in cancer prevention.

‘’Prevention is always better than cure and this vaccine will prevent many women from catching the virus in the first place and will save hundreds of lives.

‘’Women in Neath and their families are going to benefit from this vaccine for generations to come.

‘’This is an ambitious programme and I am pleased that the Health Minister is committed to working closely with the Neath Port Talbot LHB to ensure its success.’’

STATEMENT ON PONTARDAWE FIRE STATION

Responding to the Fire Authority's decision this morning to continue with the downgrade of Pontardawe fire station from a whole-time station to a day-crewed station, Gwenda Thomas AM said:

"I'm very disappointed that the Fire Authority has this morning taken the decision to downgrade Pontardawe fire station, despite receiving strong representations against such a move from myself as the local AM, by councillors in both the Swansea and Amman Valleys and also by the over 2,500 local people who signed the petition against the downgrade which was organised by the FBU.

"The evidence that has been presented by the FBU to me and to the Fire Authority against the downgrade is compelling. The figures used by the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue service to justify the downgrading of Pontardawe did not seem to include the number of cases where the appliance at Pontardawe is called out to back-up other fire appliances at emergency calls outside of its area of responsibility, such as at the incident a fortnight ago at the Gwyn Hall in Neath. The strategic importance of Pontardawe fire station should have been recognised.

“I will now be seeking an urgent meeting with Dr. Brian Gibbons AM, the Assembly Government minister with responsibility for the fire and rescue services in Wales to see what if anything the Assembly Government can do following this morning’s decision.

Press Release: NEATH AM WANTS SMARTER SAVING IN SCHOOLS

An extra £20 million every year could be freed up for education in Wales if schools saved money when buying everyday equipment such as stationary and computers.

Neath Labour AM Gwenda Thomas is backing Welsh Labour’s Finance Minister Andrew Davies in his drive to get schools to link up with the rest of the public sector when buying materials and facilities. Schools would then save money by buying in bulk.

Schools in Wales have already saved around £1.3 million through the School Revenue Project. Getting better value for money will mean schools in Neath have more money for teaching and better equipment.

Neath Labour AM Gwenda Thomas said:

‘’Welsh Labour wants to free up more money for teaching in Neath.

‘’Our schools should be making every effort to save money through smarter purchasing.

‘’Our schoolchildren will be the first to benefit if schools can get better value for money when buying everything from pens and pencils to computers.

‘’I would urge all schools in Neath Port Talbot to join this scheme.

‘’The project is part of the Labour led Assembly Government’s drive to reform public services in Wales and get better value for money.’’

Notes

It’s estimated that 1800 Welsh schools spend around £200 million every year on items such as stationery, exercise books, paper, photocopiers, whiteboards, computers, and other teaching materials.

A saving of just 10 per cent on this spend would translate into an annual windfall of £20million – or on average over £11,000 per school.The drive includes the recruitment of two senior teachers to spread the message to Welsh schools.

David Bullock – former Deputy Head Teacher of Llantwit Major School in the Vale of Glamorgan – is covering South Wales and Gwilym Hughes – Head Teacher at Ysgol Eifionydd, Gwynedd – is covering North Wales.

Press Release: Neath AM searches for Welsh ‘Climate Change Champion’

A search for four outstanding young Welsh people who will act as global ambassadors on climate change has been welcomed by Neath's Labour AM Gwenda Thomas.

The AM is calling for young people in Neath to enter the Assembly Government’s 'Climate Change Champions' competition and persuade their friends, families and communities to do their bit to tackle climate change.

The champions will spend a year 'in office' spreading the word in Wales and Europe about how people can take simple but effective steps to reduce their carbon footprints.

Neath Labour AM Gwenda Thomas said:

‘’Welsh Labour is committed to tackling climate change. We owe it to future generations to do all we can to teach people about the benefits of making small changes to their lifestyle to help stop climate change.

‘’Young people have a vital role to play as champions amongst their friends, families and communities. I would be delighted to see one of our own young people here in Neath representing Wales on the most important issue facing the world today.’’

Notes

The competition is open to any young person in Wales aged between 11 and 18 years at secondary school or college. Entrants will be required to submit a news report demonstrating how they would encourage their friends, family, school or community to make positive steps to reduce their carbon footprint. This could take the format of a newspaper front page, web design, TV or radio recording. The deadline for entries is 9 November 2007.

More information about the competition and climate change can be found at http://new.wales.gov.uk/topics/environmentcountryside/climate_change/champions/?lang=en or by emailing climatechampions@wales.gsi.gov.uk.

Young people who want to discuss climate change and ideas with their peers can log onto www.myspace.com/ccc4w.

Press Release: KIDS SPLASH OUT FOR FREE THIS HALF TERM

KEEPING the kids occupied and active over half term doesn’t have to cost you a penny extra if you send them swimming, Neath AM Gwenda Thomas said today.

Local leisure centres are offering FREE swimming sessions and lessons to children and young people under 16, thanks to the Welsh Assembly Government’s highly popular school holiday free swimming scheme.

The £2.5m idea has proved a great success - with more than two million swims taken up around Wales since Labour introduced the scheme in 2003.

Neath AM Gwenda Thomas said:

‘’This half term, and every school holiday, it’s the kids who can splash out so Mum and Dad and other members of the family don’t have to. Children can get fit, stay active and have fun over the school holidays without parents getting hit in the pocket.

‘Swimming pools and leisure centres across Neath Port Talbot are offering free swimming sessions and lessons during the holidays and I’d encourage as many parents and children as possible to get involved .

“As a government, we want to see more children and young people using their local leisure centre. Free swimming is a way of making sure every local child gets a chance to use the pool or even learn to swim over the holidays.

‘‘It sends out all the right messages to children about the importance of staying fit and active. Labour is committed to encouraging healthy lifestyles which are so important for the health of the nation.

‘’The whole point of this Welsh Labour inspired scheme is to help families that might have been put off by the cost to use and enjoy their local leisure centres. I am delighted the scheme has proved to be a huge success in my constituency and hope this continues.’’

Learning disabled are full citizens

Wales is committed to making sure all people with a learning disability are full citizens, equal in status and value to other citizens of the same age, with the same rights as every other person in the country.

A team of learning disability professionals, parents and people with learning disabilities headed up by a professor from Cardiff University School of Medicine has guided the Welsh Assembly Government in developing a learning disability policy for the 21st Century.

The Learning Disability Implementation Advisory Group, co-chaired by Professor David Felce, Director of the Welsh Centre for Learning Disabilities in the Department of Psychological Medicine, advised the Assembly on the implementation of a new Statement on Policy and Practice for Adults with a Learning Disability.

“It sets out a vision for the future for people with a learning disability and will guide the future design and delivery of Wales’ health and social services to people with learning disabilities”, explains Professor Felce.

The Learning Disability Implementation Advisory Group was established in 2003 by the Welsh Assembly Government to advise on the implementation of the All Wales Strategy for People with Learning Disabilities.

The Group’s ongoing advice and guidance of was praised by the Deputy Minister for Health and Social Services, Gwenda Thomas AM, during the official launch of the Statement at the Senedd.

She said:

“This group has provided helpful and thoughtful advice to the Welsh Assembly Government on a wide range of issues that affect the lives of people with learning disabilities. It has played a key role in developing our new contemporary statement.

“I am sure that these new principles will be absorbed and embraced quickly by all learning disability stakeholders and will soon become an integral part of the cultural and philosophical approach that will help guide the future design and development of service and support arrangements for adults with a learning disability.”

The Advisory Group is working on an Action Plan to follow up the policy statement.

Statement: DEVASTATION OF THE GWYN HALL

On Friday morning, having visisted the scene of the devestating fire at the Gwyn Hall in Neath, I released the following statement:

“I have visited the scene of the blaze at the Gwyn Hall this morning, and I’m shocked and saddened that such an iconic and much loved building by everyone in Neath has suffered such severe damage. It is especially sad considering that the hall is currently undergoing a significant multi-million pound refurbishment.

“I would like to praise the efforts of the fire-fighters of the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue service for their excellent work during the night, and their effort has ensured that the fire did not spread to nearby buildings. Fire-fighters attended the scene from all across Wales, from as far as Llandrindod Wells. Their commitment and bravery is very much to be commended.

“I also hope that this incident will trigger further consideration of the risk reduction plan of the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Authority. The appliance from Pontardawe, as well as the main appliance and a specialist vehicle with a high pressure water pump from Ammanford, played a vital role in tackling the blaze, which proves categorically that both stations play a vital strategic role.

“I will, as Neath’s Assembly member, do all I can to assist the Local Authority in whatever way I can in the days and months ahead.

Press Release: NEATH AM TELLS YOUNG PEOPLE TO ‘GET INVOLVED’

YOUNG people can offer so much to their local community if they’re given the chance, Neath AM Gwenda Thomas said today as extra money was announced to develop youth volunteering in Neath Port Talbot.

Welsh Labour Social Justice Minister Brian Gibbons AM has announced over £800,000 to encourage more young people in Wales to take up volunteering. The extra money has been earmarked to pay for volunteer projects and organisers to support young people to get involved in the local community.

Money has also been set aside to encourage young people who don’t traditionally volunteer to take up the opportunities that the extra funding will provide.

Neath's Labour AM Gwenda Thomas said:

‘’I have a great deal of admiration and respect for young people who volunteer and I am delighted that the Labour led Assembly Government has made this commitment to give more support to our young people.

‘’Young volunteers in Neath already make a huge contribution to our community. Local schools, hospitals, youth clubs, scouts, guides, sports clubs and environmental groups all benefit from young volunteers.

‘’And in turn young people get a great sense of satisfaction from volunteering and from making a positive contribution to their community.

‘’I want all of our young people to benefit from this extra funding – which is why I am keen to see more young people from disadvantaged or ethnic minority communities to get involved.’’

Press Release: NEW CURRICULUM FOR NEATH'S SCHOOLS ANNOUNCED

-WELSH LABOUR FOCUSES ON KEY SKILLS

Neath's schoolchildren are set to benefit from a new and improved learning experience thanks to the Labour led Welsh Assembly Government’s new school curriculum.

Neath's Labour AM Gwenda Thomas has welcomed the announcement by the Assembly Government's Minister for Children, Education, Lifelong Learning and Skills, Jane Hutt AM, that a distinctive Welsh curriculum for 3-19 year olds will be introduced in September 2008. It comes after four years of expert, public and local consultation.

The new curriculum will;

• Transform early years education through the Foundation Phase, 3 – 7 year olds will learn from interactive educational play inside and outside the classroom;
• Focus on developing children’s key skills in key subjects from the age of seven including communication, numeracy and information technology skills;
• Offer a full range of personal and social education to cover diet, health, sustainable living and active citizenship.

Gwenda Thomas AM said:

‘’I am delighted that once again Welsh Labour is taking the lead on transforming education for children in Neath.

‘’Welsh Labour is committed to meeting the aspirations of our young people and this new curriculum will equip our schoolchildren with the skills they will need later in life.

‘’This new education plan will transform early years education and will ensure that from the age of seven our children will be equipped with the personal, social and new technology skills they need for the twenty-first century.

‘’The Foundation phase will move early years education away from a rigid desk and blackboard style of teaching and will help young children to develop their speaking and listening skills.

‘’This new curriculum and Welsh Labour’s promise to end child poverty by 2020 proves that Welsh Labour has the ideas, vision and commitment to make sure every child in Neath reaches their full potential.’’

Press Release: NEATH AM BACKS TOUGH ACTION ON ARSON

- Welsh Labour announces £2.5m fund for arson hotspots and fire protection for local schools.

A MAJOR new drive to reduce arson attacks in Neath and protect local schools against fires in underway thanks to the Labour led Assembly Government.

Neath AM Gwenda Thomas has welcomed Welsh Labour Social Justice Minister Brian Gibbons’ announcement of a £2.5m fund over the next three years for the Arson Reduction Team in Neath Port Talbot.

The teams are made up of police and fire service personnel who use educational and crime prevention measures to reduce arson attacks, such as deliberate school fires. The extra money will allow the teams to undertake a full crime reduction survey of local schools and offer grants for extra fire protection.

Since the Arson Reduction Teams were set up in 2005 there has been a 30% reduction in deliberately set fires attended by the Fire and Rescue service of Wales – saving the Welsh economy almost £24m.

Gwenda Thomas AM said:

‘’Welsh Labour is on the side of local parents, teachers and pupils with our zero tolerance approach on arson.

‘’Extra funding for the Arson Reduction Teams will cut the number of arson attacks and prevent the devastating impact arson attacks can have.

‘’Arson attacks on schools cause widespread damage and disruption to our students and local community.

‘’The local Arson Reduction Team will be able to undertake a crime reduction survey of local schools and offer funding for security measures like secure fencing and secure bin storage.

‘’Thanks to Welsh Labour’s tough action on arson attacks our communities and schools are much safer.’’

Column: Neath Guardian - Thomas Talks - 17 October 2007

My column in the Neath Guardian, 17 October 2007:

"Since becoming Neath’s AM in 1999, I have always represented my constituents on many of the controversial issues that have stoked public opinion, based on their views and their opinions. This was the case with the proposed secure unit in Glynneath, the proposed residential development at the site of the Cimla Court Hotel, and the opposing of the relocation of the Neurological Unit from Morriston Hospital to Cardiff.

I am very much aware of the deep sense of resentment within the community regarding the proposals to build wind farms across the Neath and Dulais Valleys. I’m also aware that there are many people who welcome such developments, and actively promote wind turbines as a means of tackling the causes of climate change.

As your Assembly Member, I feel it is my duty to listen to your views, and I remain fully committed to doing so. I will be holding advice surgeries this Friday evening between 5pm and 6pm at my Constituency Office at 7 High Street, Pontardawe, and on Saturday morning between 10:30am and 11:30am at the Co-op store in Glynneath, where I would be delighted to meet with anyone who has an issue they would like me to help them with, or for a chat about issues that you feel that you want to raise with me as your AM.

Last week in the Assembly, my colleague Ann Jones, the AM for the Vale of Clwyd became the first member of the Assembly who is not a member of the Welsh Assembly Government to begin a process that could allow for the introduction of a law that would require all newly built houses, from 2010 onwards to be fitted with a sprinkler system. This has been welcomed by the three Fire Services in Wales, and would dramatically cut the number of deaths caused by fires in the home.

It was also announced last week that the Assembly Government have given Swansea University the go-ahead to establish a full four year medical degree at its Medical School. This is excellent news and is yet another significant boost for the university.

Neath

About the Neath constituency....

The Neath constituency is a mixture of both industrial and rural communities, running in a north-south strip along the dips, ridges and folded landscape of South Wales. It includes most of the Neath and Dulais valleys, and some of the Upper Swansea Valley as well as the Upper Amman Valley.

(Image produced from the Ordnance Survey Election-Map service Image reproduced with kind permission of Ordnance Survey and Ordnance Survey of Northern Ireland)

History...

The town of Neath is at its southern end and is a medium-sized town which started life as a Roman Nidum. The lower reaches of the valley are almost entirely given over to industry. To the west, is the constituency's second largest town, Pontardawe.

The constituency boasts historical places of both industrial and natural forms. Neath and the surrounding areas were industrialised very early in Britain's history. Copper smelting was already happening here in the late sixteenth century.

When Neath Abbey (now a magnificent ruin) was founded in 1129, it was the richest of all Welsh monasteries, and in writings of the sixteenth century was described as the 'fairest Abbey of all Wales'. At its height it owned extensive lands and property, from Glamorgan to Somerset; had almost 5,000 sheep, as well as horses and cattle; it owned a ship and a landing-place, and worked mills, fisheries and coal-mines. But it suffered greatly during the many skirmishes between the Welsh and English (or Normans), and by the 1530s had only eight monks left. The ruins date mostly from the late thirteenth century. It has been in turn, a prosperous Abbey, a Jacobean Mansion (painted by Turner), an iron foundry (which explains the Abbey's position bang in the middle of an industrial area) and now an historical monument.

There are many beautiful natural sites in Neath, though the most famous must be the Aberdulais falls, painted by Turner during the year he spent in Neath in around 1795/96. He also sketched many other areas of beauty including Melincourt Falls in the Vale of Neath.
The canals running through the constituency are also a legacy of its industrial past, though now enjoyed by locals and visitors alike after their restoration. Throughout the area are many spectacular aspects as it nestles almost up to the foothills of the Brecon Beacons.

The constituency was heavily mined and the small communities that grew up around these mines were devastated by the collapse of the mining industry in the 1980s. Many are still fighting to retain their communities. The result is that the valleys are returning to their natural beauty. Though on the edges of many of these communities there are now "Industrial Villages" springing up, helping to replace the jobs lost by the demise of the mining industry, and so helping to keep young people in these communities.

A legacy to Neath's political history is the memorial stone in Victoria Gardens to the five Neath citizens killed during the Spanish Civil War of 1936-38.

Politics & Government...

More here soon...

Currently, Neath's Member of Parliament is the Rt. Hon Peter Hain MP. Peter has been Neath's MP since the 1991 by-election, replacing the late Donald Coleman.

Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council is currently controlled by the Labour group, led by Cllr. Alun Thomas (Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council) and a cabinet executive of nine other councillors.

The Neath constituency consists of the electoral divisions of: Aberdulais, Alltwen, Bryncoch North, Bryncoch South, Blaengwrach, Cadoxton, Crynant, Cimla, Cwmllynfell, Dyffryn (Neath Abbey), Glynneath, Gwaun Cae Gurwen (and Cwmgors), Godre'rgraig, Lower Brynaman (and Tai'rgwaith) Neath North, Neath South, Neath East, Onllwyn, Pelenna, Pontardawe, Resolven, Rhos, Seven Sisters, Trebanos, Tonna, Ystalyfera.

Culture and Sport...

Neath has a strong Rugby and cricket playing tradition and the Neath RFC (known as the "All Blacks of Wales") play in the Principality Premiership. The area is also served by the Ospreys regional Celtic League rugby team.

The actor Richard Burton was born in the constituency, and both he and Ivor Emmanuel (who led the rendition of 'Men of Harlech' in the 1964 film Zulu) were both brought up in Pontrhydyfen, a village located a few miles to the east of Neath. Bonnie Tyler, the internationally renowned contemporary classical singer Katherine Jenkins, classical pianists Gordon Back and Andrew Matthews-Owen, the international sopranos Rebecca Evans and Gail Pearson are all originally from Neath. Gareth Edwards, considered by many to be the greatest rugby player in the history of the game, was born in Pontardawe and brought up in Gwaun Cae Gurwen.

The constituency remains a strong Welsh-speaking area, with approximately 29% of the population of Neath Port Talbot (Census, 2001) reported as Welsh speakers - ranking 9th out of the 22 local authority areas in Wales. Neath has hosted the National Eisteddfod of Wales in 1913, 1934 and most recently in 1994.

The Pontardawe International Music Festival takes place annually in the constituency. It is a week of Folk and Rock music and dance. Made up of both performances and workshops, it is an international affair and transforms the constituency during its week. In the town of Neath dancers and singers perform in the streets in the run up to and during the festival. It is a celebration of the area's international ties. (Information on the Pontardawe Festival, whether for participating or visiting, can be had from, The Pontardawe Inn, Pontardawe, Swansea, SA8 4ED. Tel: 01792 830791.

The Cwmtawe Sevens Rugby Tougnament has, since its inception in 1983, become one of the most prestigious and well supported events of its kind in the rugby calendar in Wales and is officially approved by the Welsh Rugby Union. It is set amongst the lovely surroundings and first class facilities at Parc Ynysderw, Pontardawe, Swansea.

Contact Gwenda

As your Constituency Assembly Member, I can help and assist you with any problems you may have with any of the Assembly's areas of responsibility.

These include:

• Health and social services (including the NHS, dentistry, public health, food safety, children & adult social services, carers, older people);
• Children and Young People
• Education (schools, further and higher education), lifelong learning and skills, employability and careers.
• Local government;
• the strategic delivery of public services;
• The Heritage of Wales (the welsh language, culture, the arts, sport, tourism);
• The environment, town and country planning, Energy policy, sustainable development;
• Housing;
• Rural affairs (farming, conservation, the countryside);
• Business support, economic development, and issues relating to the European Union (Convergence funding, etc)
• Transport (roads, public transport, etc);
• Community regeneration (Communities First);
• Community safety, substance misuse, domestic abuse and youth justice, the fire & rescue service;
• The Voluntary Sector;
• Equality and diversity issues.

If you live in the Neath Constituency, and wish to contact me as your local Assembly Member, please contact using:

Postal Address:

Gwenda Thomas AM
Assembly Member for Neath
Constituency Office,
7 High Street,
Pontardawe,
SWANSEA
SA8 4HU

Tel: 01792 869993
Fax: 01792 869993

e-Mail: gwenda.thomas@wales.gov.uk

My constituency office is open to the public Monday to Friday between 10am and 12pm (excluding Bank Holidays). You are of course welcome to contact my office to arrange an appointment at a time that is more convenient for you if you are unable to call by between these times. Dates and times of advice surgeries will be posted on the "Surgeries" page.

If you do not live in the Neath constituency, or are unsure who your local Councillor, AM or MP is, please click here to find out.

If you wish to organise a visit to the Assembly in Cardiff bay, please contact my Cardiff office. This office is not open to the public.

Gwenda Thomas AM
Assembly Member for Neath
National Assembly for Wales
Cardiff Bay
CARDIFF
CF99 1NA

Tel: 029 2089 8750
Fax: 029 2089 8380

e-Mail: gwenda.thomas@wales.gov.uk

To contact me as the Deputy Minister for Health & Social Services, please contact:

Gwenda Thomas AM
Deputy Minister for Health & Social Services
Welsh Assembly Government,
Cardiff Bay,
CARDIFF
CF99 1NA

e-Mail: correspondence.gwenda.thomas@wales.gsi.gov.uk

(Please allow at least 17 working days for a reply to any correspondence sent by post or by e-mail to me as Deputy Minister for Health and Social Services.)

About Gwenda

Gwenda has been Neath's Labour Assembly Member since 1999. She was appointed the Deputy Minister for Health and Social Services following the elections to the National Assembly in May 2007.

She was born in Neath in 1942, and was educated at Pontardawe Grammar School. She lives in Gwaun Cae Gurwen, and is married to Morgan. They have one son, Geraint. She was previously a Civil Servant, having served in the County Courts branch of the then Lord Chancellor's Department as an Executive Officer, and then at the Benefits Agency.

She represented her home village of Gwaun Cae Gurwen as both a Community and County Councillor for many years. She was appointed Chair of the Social Services Committees of West Glamorgan County Council and, following local government reorganisation, of Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council - becoming the first woman to chair a major committee. She is a former Community Councillor, and was, until her ministerial appointment in 2007, the Chair of the Governing Body of Ysgol Gynradd Gwaun Cae Gurwen Primary School.

She was also Chair of "West Glamorgan Campaign for a Welsh Assembly" and Vice Chair of "Yes for Wales", Neath. Her political interests include health, social services and the rights of carers, children, local government and the voluntary sector. She is a fluent Welsh speaker.

In the first Assembly (1999-2003), she served as a Labour group whip, before being appointed as Chair of the Local Government and Housing committee (2000-2003). She was also a member of the Health and Social Services committee (March 1999- March 2000).

In the second Assembly (2003-2007), she was Chair of the Equality of Opportunity Committee. She was also a member of the Local Government and Public Services Committee.

She has also been a member of the Voluntary Sector Partnership Council, the South West Wales Regional Committee (July 1999-April 2003), South West Wales Regional Committee (July 2003 - March 20005) and the subsequent South Wales West Regional Committee (March 2005 - May 2007), and the Assembly's Standards of Conduct committee in both the First Assembly (1999-2003) and then in the Second Assembly (2003-2007)

In December 2003, Gwenda was appointed by the First Minister, Rhodri Morgan AM and the Minister for Children Jane Hutt AM to chair the Safeguarding Vulnerable Children Review. The review's report - Keeping Us Safe - was published on May 3rd 2006.

In the third Assembly, following the election in May 2007, Gwenda was appointed by First Minister Rhodri Morgan AM as the Deputy Minister for Health & Social Services in the Welsh Assembly Government.

In this role, she has particular responsibility for:

• The activities of the Food Standards Agency in Wales;
• Policy on care in the community;
• Policy on the provision of social services for children and its oversight;
• Adoption and fostering services in Wales, but not adoption of children by UK residents abroad;
• Oversight of all other social services activities of local authorities in Wales including the issuing of statutory guidance;
• Oversight of the Care Council for Wales (which is an AGSB);
• Regulation of residential, domiciliary ,adult placements, foster care ,under 8`s care provision and private healthcare in Wales;
• Receiving and responding to reports from, the Care and Social Services Inspectorate for Wales and the Health Care Inspectorate for Wales ; directing specific inspections when required;
• Inspection of, and reporting on, the provision of social services by local authorities in Wales (via the Care and Social Services Inspectorate for Wales), including joint reviews of social services;
• Cross cutting responsibility for health improvement and older people and carers;
• Older’s People Commissioner for Wales;
• CAFCASS (the Child and Family Court Advisory and Support Service);
• Supervised Child Contact Centres.

She is also a member of the Cabinet Sub-Committee on Children and Young People.

Welcome to GwendaThomas.com

Welcome to my new website....

This website will be updated in the coming days and weeks….please check back soon for updates.