CARERS RIGHTS DAY 2009

GWENDA THOMAS URGES CARERS TO BE ‘IN THE KNOW’ REGARDING THEIR INCOMES AND PENSIONS

Gwenda Thomas AM said: ’Carers fulfil a vital role in society, and the NHS and social care system would just not be able to cope without them. Unfortunately this role is often understated, Neath carers may not be getting all the help they are entitled to, and it is vital that they do so. I was pleased to introduce recently a Carers’ Legislative Competence Order, which will enable the Assembly Government to bring forward legislation on carers.
This legislation will focus on the provision of information and improving joint working between agencies to ensure that there is more effective engagement with carers.
This improved information and aid for carers will help to ensure that they receive benefits which they are entitled to, for example Carer’s Allowance or their pension rights, and enable them to plan for their financial future’.

Beware of Telephone Scams Press Release

Gwenda Thomas AM today warned of unscrupulous scammers preying on her elderly and vulnerable constituents by tricking them into divulging their bank details over the telephone.

‘I have received several calls from worried members of the community asking me to warn others of these scams. Criminals posing as staff from well known organisations are using ploys such as out of date insurance for Sky Box installations, help with debt management and promises of refunds from overpaid Council Tax bills.’ stated Mrs. Thomas.

Mrs. Thomas strongly advised, ‘If you receive a call from any organisation asking for bank details please wait for confirmation by post or ring the official telephone number on your bill, account or policy to confirm that they are indeed genuine.’.

‘If you are concerned that you have already given your details to one of these bogus callers, please contact your bank immediately to ensure that your bank account is in order.’

Surgeries

Surgeries for 2011

Banwen and Onllwyn Surgery: Thursday 24th February, 5-6pm, at The Dove Workshop

Surgeries for 2010

Gwenda Thomas AM will be holding her monthly constituency surgeries on the dates below;

January
Saturday 30th- Neath Neath Library- 10.30am-12noon


February
Saturday 13th- Resolven Resolven Library-10.30am to 12noon


March
Saturday 20th- Pontardawe Constituency Office- 10.30am to 12noon


May
Saturday 15th- Cwmllynfell Cymllynfell Millennium Hall- 10.30am to 12noon


June
Saturday 19th- Resolven Resolven Library- 10.30am to 12noon


July
Saturday 10th- Glynneath Glynneath Library- 10.30am to 12noon


September
Saturday 25th- Neath Morrisons, Angel Street, Neath- 10.30am to 12noon


October
Saturday 16th- Pontardawe Constituency Office -10.30am to 12noon


November
Saturday 20th- Neath Neath Library -10.30am to 12noon

SURGERIES FOR 2009;

Gwenda Thomas AM will be holding advice surgeries throughout the constituency for 2009 on the following dates;

January

SATURDAY 10th - Industrial Club, LOWER BRYNAMMAN - 10am-10.45am

SATURDAY 10th - Memorial Hall, CWMLLYNFELL - 11am-11.45am

February

SATURDAY 21st - Bryncoch Community Centre, BRYNCOCH NORTH - 10am-10.45am

SATURDAY 21st- Caewern Community Centre, BRYNCOCH SOUTH -11am-11.45am

March

SATURDAY 14th - Tonmawr Community Centre, PELENNA - 10am-10.45am

SATURDAY 14th - Community Centre, CIMLA - 11am-11.45am

April

SATURDAY 25th - Neath Day Centre, Orchard Street, NEATH - 10am-10.45am

May

SATURDAY 9th - Community Centre, RESOLVEN - 10am-10.45am

SATURDAY 9th - Community Centre, LONGFORD - 11am-11.45am

June

SATURDAY 20th - Town Hall, GLYNNEATH - 10am-10.45am - TO BE CONFIRMED

SATURDAY 20th - Welfare Hall, Cwmgwrach, BLAENGWRACH - 11am-11.45am

July

SATURDAY 11th - Community Centre, ABERDULAIS - 10am-10.45am

SATURDAY 11th - Community Centre, CILFREW - 11am-11.45am

September

SATURDAY 19th - Community Centre, SEVEN SISTERS - 10am-10.45am

SATURDAY 19th - Community Centre, CRYNANT - 11am-11.45am

October

SATURDAY 10th - Community Centre, RHOS - 10am-10.45am

SATURDAY 10th - Community Centre, ALLTWEN - 11am-11.45am

November

SATURDAY 14th - Trebanos Hall, TREBANOS - 10am-10.45am

SATURDAY 14th - Ynysmeudwy Hall, PONTARDAWE - 11am-11.45am

December

SATURDAY 12th - Community Centre, GWAUN CAE GURWEN - 10am-10.45am

Gwenda will also be available for appointments on Fridays at the Constituency Office.

Bydd Gwenda ar Gael Hefyd am Apwyntiadau ar ddydd gwener yn y swyddfa etholaeth

SURGERIES FOR 2008:

Gwenda Thomas AM will be holding the following advice surgeries throughout the constituency during 2008.

SATURDAY March 8th - Melin Advice Centre, Briton Ferry Road, MELIN - 10:30am-12pm

SATURDAY April 12th - Neath Day Centre, Orchard Street, NEATH - 10:30am-12pm

SATURDAY May 10th - Tonna Community Centre, TONNA - 10:30am-12pm

SATURDAY June 14th - Rhos Community Centre, RHOS - 10:30am-12pm

SATURDAY July 12th - Ystalyfera Community Centre, YSTALYFERA - 10:30am-12pm

SATURDAY September 20th - Glynneath Town Hall, GLYNNEATH - 10:30am-12pm

SATURDAY October 11th - Neath Day Centre, Orchard Street, NEATH - 10:30am-12pm

SATURDAY November 15th - Gwaun Cae Gurwen Community Centre, GWAUN CAE GURWEN- 10:30am-12pm

SATURDAY December 6th - Seven Sisters Community Centre, SEVEN SISTERS- 10:30am-12pm

Appointments to see Gwenda Thomas AM personally on Fridays can be made through the constituency office. Please contact the office on 01792 86993 to arrange an appointment.

Please also feel free to contact my office if you require any help or assistance where my staff will be more than pleased to assist you. Details are available on the "Get in touch" page above.

Gwenda Thomas AM Welcomes Child Trust Top-Up For Children

CHILDREN in the Neath Constituency will receive a top-up on their Child Trust Fund, thanks to the Labour-led Welsh Assembly Government.
The money aims to encourage saving, improve financial literacy and help tackle child poverty.

Gwenda Thomas AM today welcomed the premium and said it would provide a helping hand for children from low-income families.

The Child Trust Fund Cymru will mean that children born between 1 September 2002 and 31 August 2004 who already have a Child Trust Fund account will have £50 paid into their account.

Children from families on low incomes will be eligible for £100 on top of their Chid Trust Fund delivered by the UK government.

Mrs. Thomas said: "Reducing child poverty is one of our key priorities here in Wales and these funds will make a real difference. This money will help set these children up for life when they turn 18 and encourage them to save further funds"

“The extra investment for children from low-income families will mean they are given a financial boost when they become 18.”

Floodline Contact Numbers

Gwenda Thomas AM today urged her constituents in Neath and the surrounding valley areas to take note of the contact number for the Environment Agency’s Floodline.

Following recent heavy rains there are a number of flood warnings in place across Wales, with Environment Agency staff on 24 hour alert continuously monitoring river levels.

Environment Officers on the ground are on stand-by to check flood defences, clear river blockages and install flood barriers where necessary.

Mrs Thomas advised her constituents, ‘ We have all seen the devastation to homes and families that flooding can cause, along with the resulting road blockages and landslides that can result in serious car accidents.’

‘I strongly advise everyone to take note of the Floodline contact details where up-to-date information can be accessed 24hrs a day.’

Ends

Notes

Floodline 24 hr contact number 0845 988 1188.
More information can also be found at www.environment-agency.gov.uk/flood  

The National Pensioners Convention (NPC) Wales

I was pleased to meet with the National Pensioners Convention (Wales)recently in the Senedd.

AM supports community in questions over School Reorganisation

Gwenda Thomas AM today advised that she had received a large number of representations from Governers, parents and the wider community regarding Godre’r Graig Primary School and will be prepared to assist them in any way she can.

Mrs Thomas advised her constituents,

‘I wrote to The Welsh Assembly Government Minister for Education, Jane Hutt AM on October 2nd, requesting guidance on policies, procedures and consultation requirements, and I also contacted the Director of Education, Leisure and Lifelong Learning, Karl Napieralla, Neath Port Talbot CBC on October 5th, requesting relevant documentation and statistics.

I have no hesitation in representing and supporting the views of the children, parents, school staff and members of the governing body of Godre’r Graig Primary School and also of the wider community.

To this end, I am committed to organising a meeting at which I can meet with key people as soon as responses to the above correspondence are to hand.

I have asked my staff to arrange a meeting as soon as The Minister’s reply is to hand.’

Extra £5 million for Welsh businesses and the public sector to become energy efficient

The Welsh Assembly Government has today announced an extra £5 million to help small businesses and the public sector become more energy efficient and lower their carbon emissions.

The funding has been awarded to the Carbon Trust in Wales to support the ‘invest-to-save’ programme that provides interest free loans to pay for the installation of energy efficiency measures. The funding will be repayable over up to eight years from the savings made and the repaid money will be recycled to help others.
This brings the total Assembly Government support for the Carbon Trust Wales to £9.5 million during 2009/10 for energy efficiency projects.

A total of £4 million will go towards a loan scheme open to any public sector body in Wales, from hospitals, schools, museums and local government. The money can be used to fund 80 different energy efficiency technologies, including building insulation, boiler and lighting upgrades and IT improvements.

And £1 million will be used by the Carbon Trust to increase the money available for their existing business loan scheme for small businesses in Wales. The extra money brings the Welsh Assembly Government’s total support for the Carbon Trust Wales to £9.5 million during 2009/10 for energy efficiency projects.

Gwenda Thomas, AM for Neath today supported the Welsh Assembly Government Environment Minister Jane Davidson’s comments regarding climate change and the need for Welsh businesses to reduce their costs and become more energy efficient.
‘ Businesses and organisations, and indeed individuals, now have the responsibility to reduce their carbon footprint. This funding will assist businesses to do this, reduce their energy bills and also make them more competitive in the market place. ‘ emphasised Mrs. Thomas.

‘This is a fantastic initiative and the WAG funding will help Carbon Trust Wales to publicise and promote the interest free loans available, helping individuals organisations to become more efficient and indeed helping to push Wales forward in it’s goal to becoming a low carbon economy.’

Any organisation interested in applying for an Interest-free Energy Efficiency loan can contact the Carbon Trust helpline on 0800 085 2005 or for more information visit www.carbontrust.co.uk. Public sector organisations can also apply on line at www.salixfinance.co.uk.

Phone Scammers Target Over 50’s

Gwenda Thomas AM today supported Age Concern Cymru and Help the Aged in Wales in warning older people to be aware of thieves who steal bank details and other personal information over the phone and on the doorstep.

The most recent high-profile case is of BT customers being targeted by scammers wrongly telling them that they were in arrears with their phone bills and threatened with having their phone lines cut off unless they agreed to settle their bills. Once they have agreed to pay their bills and disclosed their bank details over the phone the criminals then use this information to steal money from their bank accounts.

Age Concern Cymru and Help the Aged in Wales is offering advice for older people so that they can take to protect themselves from phone scams.

Gwenda Thomas AM stressed, ‘Never divulge your bank and card details to cold callers as criminals will pose as salespeople or representatives and then use your personal information to steal from your bank account. Do not be afraid to put the phone down on them particularly if they become impatient or aggressive.’

Mrs Thomas also agreed with the advice given by Age Concern Cymru and Help the Aged Wales by saying, ‘If you have given your information to someone and are concerned do not hesitate and contact your bank and the police immediately. These people are criminals and need to be stopped and prosecuted.’

Do you know anyone who deserves an Award for Enterprise Promotion?
The Queen's Award for Enterprise Promotion (QAEP) celebrates and recognises the activities of individuals who have played an outstanding and significant role in promoting enterprise skills and attitudes in others in the UK.
Encouraging or facilitating the sort of skills and attitudes found in an enterprise environment - whether in a commercial business or a social enterprise - is the essence of 'Enterprise Promotion'.
Nominations for the Award may be made up to 2pm on 30 October. Anyone can put forward nominees for the Award but you cannot nominate yourself. Nomination forms can be completed and submitted electronically at www.queensaward.org ,or hard copies are available from my office.
Awards will be announced on 21 April, The Queen's birthday, and successful nominees will be informed shortly before the announcement. The names of those receiving the Award will be published in the London Gazette. Recipients will receive an engraved crystal commemorative item and a Grant of Appointment and will be invited to a reception at Buckingham Palace in July the same year.

Pontardawe Chamber of Trade & Commerce at the Pontardawe Festival

The Town of Pontardawe came alive on Friday evening and in the daytime on Saturday with craft and community stalls, the Neath Port Talbot ‘Rolling Zone’ for the youngsters, the ‘Wave’ stage for local and not so local musicians, dance teams from around Wales and Europe.
The Chamber of Trade & Commerce and Pontardawe Arts Centre worked closely with the Music Festival to produce a spectacular Torchlight Procession on the Friday evening and a breathtaking Carnival procession on the Saturday afternoon which meandered through the streets and ended up in the Pontardawe Music Festival site.
The ‘Road Train’ was a huge success, ’toot tooting’ its way from outside the Arts Centre to the Leisure Centre, ferrying the street Summer Festival goers to the Music festival and back again.
Gwenda Thomas AM said it was a wonderful event and was delighted to have supported the Chamber of Trade’s successful bid to the Awards for All Wales to hire the train to connect the two parts of the festivities in Pontardawe.

Constituency AM Praises Students Achievements

‘Once again I am delighted to congratulate the students in my Neath Constituency on another year of excellent AS and A level results,’ announced Gwenda Thomas AM today.

‘We have a wealth of wide ranging talent in this area which has been reflected in the results and I wish all of the young people well in their continuing choice of education, training and career choices.’

Mrs Thomas emphasised ‘I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate all of those who have studied vocational courses at Neath Port Talbot College and the many adult return learners who attend the extensive range of courses provided by the college and outreach centres each year. I must also thank all of the teaching and non teaching staff in the college whose dedication to their roles must be acknowledged.’

AM flags up BIG Lottery Response to Recession

Gwenda Thomas AM for Neath, today urged grant holders and new applicants to the Big Lottery Fund (BIG) to investigate new funding allocated last week to help alleviate difficulties being faced by communities and third sector organisations during the recession.

‘BIG’s UK Board has allocated £ 2.5 million to applicants in Wales and are targeting the voluntary and charity organisations who provide community advice services’ explained Mrs. Thomas. ‘During this particularly difficult time, BIG will be providing them with grants so that they can expand their services to meet the growing demand for access to advice and support from people who are struggling within their local communities. I therefore hope that any organisations within my Neath Constituency who are working hard to support the public at this time will investigate the possibility of applying for this support which in some cases will amount to £ 50,000 over two years.’

For further information about BIG’s recession package please visit www.biglotteryfund.org.uk/wales or contact their information line on 01686 611 700. Information will be available on online from Friday 14th August.

Allowances - 2009-2010

When the Allowances incurred by Assembly Members, were published earlier this year, I stated that I would be publishing details of my Allowances on a regular basis on my website.

Below is a link to the allowances that I have incurred for the first quarter of this year. Further updates will be posted here on a quarterly basis.

Expenses 2009-2010 - First Quarter

CASH BOOST FOR LOCAL PROJECTS WELCOMED

Local AM Gwenda Thomas today welcomed the news that the Labour-led Welsh Assembly Government is to provide over £ 350,000 to support the work of 2 local projects.

The funding is part of a £7 million package of support over the next three years for 48 projects across Wales through the Assembly Government’s Community Facilities and Activities Programme (CFAP). The new funding will help community and voluntary organisations to provide new facilities and activities which will promote the regeneration of communities in the local area.

Welcoming the news, Gwenda Thomas said:

“I am delighted that these local projects are to benefit from this latest round of funding from the Assembly Government. It is a big boost for local groups and I am sure that this money will make a real difference to people’s lives.

Here in the Neath Constituency initiatives like this are providing important services and activities in our communities and it is good to see the Assembly Government recognising the tremendous work that they do. It also shows yet again that the Labour-led Assembly Government is delivering on its commitment to regeneration across Wales.”

The two projects who will benefit from this particular package are DOVE Workshop Ltd, who will receive £ 299,857 for their Café Sarn Helen expansion, and Cwmgors Halls Committee who have been awarded £ 57,803 for the Cwmgors Ball Court and Play Area.

To celebrate 10 years of the Assembly

(© Eleri Griffths. The Assembly Project/Prosiect y Cynulliad)

I was delighted to be asked to take part in the Assembly Project which is to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the National Assembly for Wales. Each AM was asked to be photographed in a place in their constituency that meant something to them.

I wanted to be photographed with people that reflected the constituency. With the permission of the Chief Fire Office of Mid and West Fire and Rescue Services, the photograph was taken at Pontardawe Fire Station with members of Green Watch.

I understand that photographs taken as part of this project will be included in an exhibition at the National Assembly for Wales and National Library of Wales archive.

£ 9 MILLION SCHOOL INVESTMENT WELCOMED FOR NEATH

Gwenda Thomas AM today welcomed a massive £ 9 million Labour-led Welsh Assembly Government funding boost to improve school buildings in Neath.

This grant money, spread over three years, will facilitate the building of a new lower school for Dwr Y Felin Comprehensive School on the upper school site.

The investment is part of a £165m fund to build new schools and repair existing sites across Wales. This additional funding will enable the delivery of a total capital investment programme in education that exceeds £530 million, and is a key part of the Labour led Welsh Assembly Government’s commitment to deliver schools fit for purpose for the 21st century.

Gwenda Thomas said: “I am delighted to welcome this investment in education in Neath. This substantial funding is great news for both the students and teaching staff of Dwr Y Felin Comprehensive School.

“Having modern first class facilities is essential for improving the already excellent results achieved at this school, and this investment will help ensure that.”

NEW HOUSING DEBT HELPLINE SET UP

RESIDENTS in the Neath Constituency who are struggling to pay for their homes will be able to access a new housing debt helpline.

The Labour-led Welsh Assembly Government has launched the helpline to provide free advice for those who have mortgage or rent arrears or face eviction or repossession.
The helpline will provide free and impartial advice from experienced debt counsellors. Anyone living in Wales can access the service by ringing 0800 107 1340.

The helpline is funded by the Welsh Assembly Government with support from the UK’s leading debt charity, Consumer Credit Counselling Service (CCCS), which will operate the helpline, and the Wales Co-operative Centre which will ensure awareness of its availability among those who need it.

Gwenda Thomas AM said: “The ultimate aim of this helpline is to help people keep a roof over their heads. In the current economic climate, residents need somewhere to turn to for free, professional advice and this helpline will provide that.

“This is another example of the Labour-led Welsh Assembly Government providing a practical innovation to help those who need help.

“I welcome the efforts of the CCCS and the Wales Co-operative Centre and look forward to working with them in the future.”

Gwenda Thomas AM Salutes Armed Forces Day 2009

Gwenda Thomas AM today supported the celebrations for Armed Forces Day with members of the Pontardawe branches of the Royal British Legion and Royal Air Force Association by flying the Welsh Dragon and the Union Jack outside her constituency office in Pontardawe. The Mayor of Pontardawe, Emlyn Williams and the President of the British Legion Branch, David Robert Joseph Williams was also present along with representatives from the army, navy and air force.

A whole host of events have been planned around the country to recognise the dedication of HM Armed Forces, past, present and future on Saturday 27th June.

For the last 3 years, the nation as come together on 27th June to celebrate Veterans’ Day and to build on this success and by public demand, from 2009 the day will also celebrate and recognise the men and women still serving in our Armed Forces, regular and reserve, as well as our young cadets.

‘This is a fantastic way for us to show our appreciation to all the members of our superb Armed Forces. It must also be stressed that there are many ways in which we can support them 365 days a year, not just on Armed Forces Day. My constituents can offer help by becoming involved in service and service related charities, by supporting troops on operations and supporting wounded personnel,’ advised Mrs. Thomas.

Mrs. Thomas stressed, ‘In these difficult times, it is important that we show our Armed Forces posted all over the world, that they are not forgotten and that their service to our country and vulnerable communities globally is being celebrated back home.’

Information and links to these organisations including the Army and RAF Benevolent Funds, the Christmas Box Scheme which supplied over 24,000 boxes in 2008, Help for Heroes, Combat Stress and the Royal British Legion, can be found on the Armed Forces Website, http://www.armedforcesday.org.uk/ .

(Sent to the Press - 26.6.2009)

Lloyds TSB helping to invest in young people and sport in the Neath Constituency

Gwenda Thomas AM for the Neath Constituency has been asked by Lloyds TSB to help them promote the Lloyds TSB National School Sport Week from 29th June to 3rd July 2009.

Many schools in Neath have already registered for a free Teacher Planning Pack but Mrs. Thomas is encouraging other schools to follow suit.

Gwenda Thomas AM said, “ Lloyds TSB is partnering with the Youth Sport Trust to deliver this initiative hoping to inspire children across Wales and the UK to participate in more high quality PE and sport each week, playing an important role in getting Welsh school children to be healthier and more physically active.”

Lloyds TSB advises that working alongside the Youth Sport Trust, they will use the power of it’s partnership with London 2012 to inspire and motivate young people to take part in more sport. The week is to celebrate all that’s already been achieved in schools and they are also encouraging Welsh Olympians and Paralympians to contact their old schools and provide inspiration for both the children and the teachers.

To find out more about this initiative and to register online please look at the website www.schoolsportweek.org .

Lloyds TSB are also supporting 16 athletes from throughout Wales via their Local Heroes initiative, by providing them with a £ 1000 award towards training and competing costs, all of them being emerging Olympic and Paralympic prospects.

“Funding is always a major barrier in the development and progression of young athletes, and I am pleased to help make hopeful young athletes in Neath aware of any funding that may be available to them,” said Mrs. Thomas.

Details of this can be found at www.lloydstsb.com/localheroes .

(Sent to the Press - 10.6.2009)

Call for young people in Wales to give their climate change views to the world

Gwenda Thomas AM for Neath today added her support to the initiative being headed by Environment Minister Jane Davidson giving young people from across Wales the opportunity to have their say in what the world’s decision-makers decide to do to tackle climate change when they meet for crucial talks in Copenhagen later this year.

‘Countdown to Copenhagen’ is an event being held at the Liberty Stadium in Swansea on 1st July for young people in Wales to get together, learn about climate change and make their opinions heard about what should be done in Wales and across the world to face up to this real and serious problem.

Environment Minister Jane Davidson is looking for 300 under 25s to attend so their views can be passed on to world leaders in December at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in the Danish capital. The talks will see heads of government, such as US President Barack Obama, coming together to try and agree a new deal on climate change.

The ideas and recommendations of those who attend will be taken to Copenhagen by the Welsh Assembly Government.

The event will include the producer of the popular climate change film ‘Age of Stupid’, introducing key parts of the film, workshops, a graffiti wall and video booths where youngsters will be able to record their views.

Gwenda Thomas AM was delighted to hear that once again, Cerith Rhys Jones from Cwmgors, who was chosen last year to be a young Climate Change Champion for Wales 2009, is having direct involvement in this event and will be speaking to the attendees.

“We are indeed fortunate that Cerith worked hard to become a Climate Change Champion and is now representing the young people of this area, Wales and the UK,. He is a positive role model and is playing a vital part in the future of climate change issues in Wales,” stated Mrs. Thomas.
“I urge all young people to follow Cerith’s lead and if possible attend the event on 1st July. To be able to put forward views and ideas that will be taken directly to the United Nations in December, is a golden opportunity for the young people of Wales and my Neath Constituency to be part of the world wide debate on the way in which climate change is altering the world we live in and finding ways to solve the huge problems which world leaders and scientists now face.”

(Sent to the Press - 11.6.2009)

CWMGWRACH AND TONMAWR POST OFFICES TO RECEIVE FUNDING BOOST

Labour Neath AM Gwenda Thomas has congratulated Cwmgwrach and Tonmawr Post Offices for their successful application to the new Post Office Diversification Fund.

These Post Offices are among the first to be awarded part of a new £4.5m fund to help sub-postmasters and sub-postmistresses diversify and improve their facilities. The fund, which will run for three years and is open to every sub post office in Wales, aims to help with business and marketing advice, advertising, training and some set-up costs for new services. Funding can also be applied for improvements such as creating better access to buildings, upgrading computer equipment, improving security or providing better signs for the outside of premises.

Under the scheme 63 post offices throughout Wales have been awarded grants worth over £1.1million. 15 Post Offices have been awarded grants of up to £5,000 each for small capital projects and 48 have been awarded up to £20,000 each for larger capital projects.

19 of the Post Offices have also received up to £15,000 in revenue funding which will help employ new staff or increase staff hours to provide more services.

Labour Neath AM Gwenda Thomas said “I am delighted Cwmgwrach and Tonmawr Post Offices are to benefit from this fund. Post Offices are at the heart of the community, and are a necessary line of communication for vulnerable and disadvantaged people. This money will help us to keep Post Offices open by ensuring that they are sustainable and viable businesses, and I am delighted that two Post Offices in my Constituency have taken advantage of this scheme.”

Welsh Child Trust Fund top-up to begin in September

Labour Neath AM Gwenda Thomas has today welcomed the announcement by the Minister for Social Justice and Local Government Dr Brian Gibbons, that from September, thousands of families across Wales will be able to claim the new Welsh top-up to the Child Trust Fund.

The Child Trust Fund Cymru will mean eligible children will be entitled to a voucher worth £50 to be paid into their Child Trust Fund account. Children from families on low incomes will be eligible for a further £50. More than 32,000 children in Wales will be eligible to claim the top-up.
The top-up is a key One Wales initiative to help address the consequences of child poverty in Wales and will encourage saving, improve financial literacy and tackle financial exclusion.
Child Trust Fund accounts enable families to start saving for their childrens’ future by providing £250 at birth and again at age seven with additional payments for children from low income households. The Child Trust Fund Cymru will be in addition to this.

Gwenda Thomas AM said: ‘One of the priorities of the Labour led Welsh Assembly Government is to tackle child poverty and financial exclusion, giving a whole generation of children a better future. The Child Trust Fund Cymru will help to achieve this aim’.
‘This Child Trust Fund Cymru means that Welsh teenagers will have extra in their bank accounts when they turn eighteen, and act as an incentive to save more. They will have savings as they move into adulthood, and managing an account will also improve their financial capabilities. Hopefully the accounts will also encourage family and friends to invest in the future of Welsh children.’
The announcement is the first in a series of 24 events and engagements to mark the second anniversary of the One Wales agreement. The 24 events – one for every month since the One Wales agreement was signed - have been chosen to highlight progress made in delivering the ambitious programme of commitments.

Neath Guardian Column - June 09.

I was very pleased to recently meet Superintendent Julian Williams, the new Divisional Commander of Neath Port Talbot Police, to discuss with him the problems which the people of Neath and the surrounding areas face with regard to issues of law and order.

People have the perception that crime is increasing and getting worse. However, the latest figures released by the Home Office show that crime in Neath Port Talbot is continuing to fall.

Statistics for the last quarter of 2008 show a reduction in crime of 14.6 per cent compared to the previous year. House burglaries fell by 38.9 per cent, while violent crime was down 18.9 per cent and car crime down by 23.5 per cent.

The police’s performance in crime reduction is excellent, and they are making Neath Port Talbot a safer place to live, work and visit. They recognise that it is not all about figures, and are working hard on issues such as making people feel safer and ensuring that people’s perception of crime reflects the true figures.

Of particular interest to me was the work being done with trading standards officers to target rogue traders who prey on the vulnerable and elderly. A number of operations have been aimed at tackling bogus workmen and traders, who are often linked to distraction burglaries. Examples of this include charging for unnecessary work, damaging property deliberately in order to obtain money to repair it, leaving work unfinished or even intimidating residents in order to extort money. I ask for local residents to look out for elderly relatives or neighbours to ensure they do not become victims.

An important problem which the Police and Fire Service are tackling is the Illegal use of off-road motorcycles on roads and pavements. This is a problem which I have raised many times, and last month saw the launch of a new joint police and fire service off-road team which will now be deployed in hotspot areas.

Anti-social behaviour is taken seriously in Neath Port Talbot, and it is the only area of Wales to have a dedicated public referral telephone service for people to report individuals who commit anti-social behaviour. The Safer Neath Port Talbot Partnership, run by the Labour run Council and the Police, has resulted in a substantial reduction in the number of anti-social behaviour incidents over the past 12 months. The Anti-Social Behaviour Hotline is 01639 889709.

Residents can find latest PACT meeting information, updates on PACT priorities and contact details for their local Neighbourhood Police Officer at www.ourbobby.com

Gwenda Thomas supports plan to reduce free one-use carrier bags in Wales

Labour Neath AM Gwenda Thomas has today welcomed plans to reduce the number of free single-use plastic carrier bags in Wales, which were unveiled by Jane Davidson, Minister for the Environment, Sustainability and Housing this week.
A consultation was launched by the Labour-led Assembly Government asking for views on proposals to introduce a charge on single use carrier bags at the annual Welsh Litter summit at the Swalec Stadium, Cardiff.
Supermarket members of the British Retail Consortium (BRC) have already agreed to reduce the amount of single-use carrier bags they give out by 50% by spring 2009.
Gwenda Thomas AM said: “The voluntary agreement is excellent but it is important that we continue our efforts to improve the quality of the environment in Wales. Not all retailers subscribe to this agreement, and this means that half of all plastic bags are still used only once.
“It is vital to examine how we can further reduce the amount of single use carrier bags, and how to encourage more people to re-use bags.
“Approximately 480 million plastic bags are used every year in Wales. These bags can take between 500 and 1000 years to degrade.
Gwenda added: “The pollution caused by these bags cannot be sustained, and we must think of the legacy of environmental damage being left for future generations.”
ENDS

Gwenda opens her Books

Following the publication of AMs allowances for 2008-2009 Gwenda Thomas AM, the Assembly Member for Neath has taken the decision to publish her expenses on her website. Hard copies will also be available for public scrutiny at her constituency office.

Gwenda Thomas said “I have always felt that as elected representatives we are fully accountable to the people that we serve. In the interests of accountability and transparency, I have taken the decision to publish my expenditure for 2008-2009 and in future I will publish my expenses on a monthly basis on my website”.

She continued “The expenses that I have incurred for 2008-09 are all listed here - http://www.allowances.assemblywales.org.uk/

Full details can also be seen in the linked document;
Expenses 2008-09

GWENDA THOMAS WELCOMES NEW RIGHTS FOR RESTAURANT WORKERS

Gwenda has welcomed new rules which will make it illegal to use customers' tips to make up the minimum wage in her Neath constituency.

The UK Government announced this week that from October this year, any tips left for staff will be in addition to basic pay.

Current rules mean restaurant and pub owners can use tips to make up the minimum wage.

Gwenda said:

“Staff who work hard in our restaurants and pubs deserve tips as well as their basic wage. Waiters and waitresses who provide good service deserve to be rewarded in addition to their basic pay, and customers who give tips expect it be in addition to basic pay. Restaurant and pub owners will not now to be able to use tips to make up the minimum wage."

"People should receive fair pay for their hard work, and this is another step towards Labour's vision of justice in the workplace."

Gwenda Thomas pays tribute to Neath Port Talbot Council Leader and Chief Executive
Neath AM Gwenda Thomas has today paid tribute to Cllr. Derek Vaughan, Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council and to the Authority’s Chief Executive Ken Sawyers, who have announced their departures from the County Borough Council.
Derek Vaughan, Labour Councillor for Neath North, will be standing down as Council Leader later this month to contest the upcoming election to the European Parliament as Labour’s top placed candidate. Ken Sawyers has announced his retirement as Chief Executive after 14 years at Neath Port Talbot and 48 years in Local Government.
GWENDA THOMAS said:
"It has been an honour and a privilege to work with both Derek and Ken and I wish them both well for the future.
"Derek has been an outstanding Leader of the Council and has been a strong voice for local government in Wales. Under his leadership, Neath Port Talbot CBC has excelled.
"I have worked with Ken Sawyers since 1989, firstly as an elected member of West Glamorgan County Council then as an elected member of Neath Port Talbot CBC, and latterly as Assembly Member for Neath.
"I know Ken to be committed, compassionate, and an advocate for fair play and equality, and I wish him and his family well for the future.
ENDS

Are you Deaf Aware?

Miners’ knee victims to get government help

Thousands of miners suffering from Osteoarthritis of the knee, commonly known as ‘Miners’ Knee’ will be able to claim help from the Government, it was announced today.
Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, James Purnell confirmed that osteoarthritis of the knee would be added to the list of ‘prescribed diseases’ meaning that sufferers would now be able to apply for State compensation through the Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit.
James Purnell, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions said:
“It is right that this help should be available to coal miners who are suffering from this painful condition following years of hard work. This disease has made life very difficult for a large number of retired miners and forced others to end their working life earlier than planned, so I am pleased that we are now in a position that we will be able to offer them valuable financial assistance.”

Ministers have decided to act on the recommendation from the Industrial Injuries Advisory Council, that coal miners with the disease who have worked underground for ten years or more should be able to claim Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit.
Symptoms of the disease include pain, swelling, stiffness and reduced mobility. The change is expected to come into force in the summer.

More help with business rates

Gwenda Thomas AM has welcomed new measures which have been announced by Welsh Labour’s Local Government Minister Brian Gibbons, to help local businesses with their business rates.

The new measures will allow local businesses across Wales to opt to limit business rate increases to only two per cent this year as opposed to the 5% increase originally planned. The remaining 3% will be payable over the next two years.

Gwenda Thomas stated: ’I welcome these proposals to help local businesses. The changes are designed to give businesses a breathing space during this difficult economic period, and be ready for when the upturn comes’.

Opening of Outdoor Environment Learning Centre at Rhydyfro Primary School on 20.3.2009


Gwenda Thomas AM stated: ‘I was delighted to be present at the official opening of the Outdoor Learning Environment Centre. Congratulations are due to the Welsh Assembly Government for providing the Foundation Phase funding which has been match funded by Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council’.

‘Praise is also due to Katie Davies, a Foundation Phase Teacher and Lindy Lewis, a Nursery Nurse at the School who amongst others have taken the lead for much of this project. There has also been a significant financial and personal contribution from parents to ensure the opening of this Centre ’.
‘This Learning Centre will be an excellent resource for all the pupils of Rhydyfro Primary School. It will enable them to gain experience of the outdoor environment in a safe but stimulating way, and educate future generations about the importance of protecting the environment and enriching biodiversity in tomorrow’s world’

Gwenda Thomas AM Column for Neath Guardian April 09

Throughout the time I served as a County Councillor on the old West Glamorgan County Council, where I was Chair of Social Services, and since becoming the Assembly Member for Neath in 1999, I have taken a close personal interest in children’s issues, including tackling the underlying causes of child poverty.

Child poverty affects the lives of thousands of children in Wales, including here in Neath. It has a serious negative impact on their education, health, future employment and their life-chances.

We have done much to combat child poverty over the last 10 years, but we know there is much left to do. We are determined to do more to complete our mission to end child poverty by 2020.

Our vision is shared by everyone in the Labour movement, and by everyone who passionately believes in social justice and equality of opportunity for the many, and not the few. The Welsh Assembly Government is working closely with our Labour colleagues in Westminster to achieve this goal.

Our children are our future. Every child deserves to have the best opportunities we can possibly give them.

That’s why, since joining the Welsh Assembly Government in 2007 as Deputy Minister for Social Services, I have been working with colleagues to implement a whole range of policies and initiatives, designed to help and support vulnerable children and their families, that will be put into place over the next few years to help us on our way.

The Labour-led Assembly Government is doing its bit to give our children the flying start in life they deserve, and since 1999 we have put children at the top of our agenda. £5,900 was spent on every child in Wales during 2006-07 and this figure will rise to £7,100 by 2010-11 - as Welsh Labour continues to fight child poverty.

We have introduced a Children’s Commissioner – the first such post of its kind in the UK – to safeguard the rights and welfare of our children. We have introduced pioneering new initiatives, such as free school breakfasts, and a school uniform grant to help families from low income backgrounds. We are making leisure facilities more accessible, and have introduced popular initiatives such as free swimming for children during school holidays.

But the Government here in Wales and in Westminster can only go so far in eradicating child poverty. We need a co-operative effort from everyone in Welsh society to pledge to make sure our children are given the chance to flourish.

HELP CELEBRATE THE 1st ARMED FORCES & VETERANS DAY

Neath AM Gwenda Thomas has called on local communities, organisations and businesses across the Neath Constituency to help celebrate the 1st Armed Forces and Veterans day on 27th June 2009.

The Labour Government has announced that the 27th June 2009 will see the UK celebrate the first day dedicated to our Armed Forces personnel: past, present and future.

Welcoming the day, Local Labour AM, Gwenda Thomas said: “Our Armed Forces personnel, both past and present, have made personal sacrifices to defend the UK and its interests and contribute to international peace keeping operations; they deserve our support and recognition and I am glad we now have a day to formally thank our service men & women; past, present and future.”

If a local community group, organisation or business is planning or thinking of planning any events to help celebrate The Armed Forces and Veterans Day, they can apply for a grant to help the celebrations. Event organisers have until the 31st of March to apply for a grant, further information, contact details and updates can be found on the Armed Forces Day website at www.armedforcesday.org.uk

Gwenda Thomas AM Column for Neath Guardian March 09.

The switchover from analogue television (the service which is available now) to digital television will take place in the Neath area in August. The older analogue TV signal will be switched off in your area, and if you don’t have digital TV by the time of switchover, you will lose your TV service. But there is no need to worry. The Switchover Help Scheme will help you with this. The Labour Government realises the value that TV brings in terms of company, entertainment, education and information to people who are elderly or disabled, so this Scheme has been set up by the Labour Government and the BBC to help eligible people convert one of their TV sets to digital.

To be eligible people must be aged 75 or over, or have lived in a care home for six months or more, or get disability living allowance, or receive attendance or constant attendance allowance, or receive mobility supplement, or are registered blind or partially sighted.

If you are eligible, digital TV will be explained to you clearly and simply, you will be told about all the options available, whatever equipment you need will be installed in your home, and the Scheme engineers will make sure you are happy with how it all works. If you get more than five channels on your TV, you probably already have digital TV. If not, you may need help to go digital and you won’t even have to change your TV set. There is a charge of £40 for the standard offer, which includes: Easy-to-use equipment that meets your needs, help with installing the equipment, fitting a new dish or aerial, where possible, if it’s needed to make the new equipment work, a demonstration and someone you can call for help while you’re getting used to things. This service is free if you get pension credit, income support or income-based jobseeker’s allowance.

If you’re eligible, you will be contacted in plenty of time to ask if you want help. You may have friends or family, or someone in your local community who will need help with the switchover. If so, please pass this information on.
If you need any more help or information: Call free on 0800 40 85 900. Lines are open Monday to Sunday between 8am and 9pm. Textphone users can call free on 0800 40 85 936. Email info@helpscheme.co.uk or by writing to Freepost, Switchover Help Scheme. More information is also available from my office.

Gwenda Thomas AM Column for Neath Guardian March 09

In the current financial climate, the tackling of the problem of social inequality due to poverty is more important than ever. Many older people still live in poverty in Wales, and in order to combat this inequality, I as Deputy Minister for Social Services was pleased to launch the second phase of the Strategy for Older People in 2008. The Labour-led Welsh Assembly Government hopes to reduce poverty by targeting an increase in benefit take up, and the Strategy will address this. This re-enforces the One Wales ambition to improve access for all to comprehensive benefits advice, and our financial inclusion strategy underpins this.
In 2006-07 the Labour-led Welsh Assembly Government allocated £1.5m to local authorities to improve the take-up of Council Tax Benefit, particularly amongst pensioners, and the numbers of claimants above the age of 60 increased significantly over the year.
However, the Department for Work and Pensions research tells us that approximately £100 million of council tax benefit goes unclaimed every year in Wales, so there is a lot more work to do. If you feel that you are eligible for Council Tax Benefit please contact the Council Tax Benefits Department on 01639 764755, or by calling at the One Stop Shop at the Civic Centre in Neath or Pontardawe, or by e-mail to housing.benefits@npt.gov.ukFor people who are having problems meeting their mortgage payments, the Labour-led Welsh Assembly Government has launched a Mortgage Rescue Scheme. A budget of £9.5 million has been provided to enable housing associations to buy a share of a house in order to help homeowners struggling to pay their mortgage. There are other options for homeowners to receive help with their mortgage payments and I have produced a leaflet which explains all the help that is available. I have also produced a similar leaflet to explain all the help available for businesses to survive the recession and to be ready when the upturn comes. These are available from my Pontardawe office.

Gwenda sends her best wishes for St David’s Celebrations
Gwenda Thomas AM was delighted to hear of the St. David’s Day celebrations being organised by the National Trust at Aberdulais Falls this weekend.
‘This is a one of my favourite times of year, seeing the school children in their national costume and welsh rugby jerseys, with daffodils and leeks adorning shop displays and homes !.’
‘I wish everyone involved in this event, at a wonderful and historical venue, every success and thank them for all their hard work and effort. I hope that the local community and visitors from further afield will support them’, said Mrs. Thomas, ‘Pob dymuniad da gyda’r dathliad o Ddydd Gŵyl Dewi. Mae Rhaeadr Aberdulais yn lle addas iawn i’r dathlu. Diolch am bob ymdrech.’
Notes
Aberdulais Falls, near Neath: 28 February and 1 March
Cawl – or broth is a delicious traditional Welsh delicacy, and this will be the theme of a musical drama performed by pupils of Ysgol Tonna, together with dance groups from Ysgol Catwg (Cadoxton) and singers from Ysgol Cilfrew at Aberdulais Falls on 28 February and 1 March.
"The Waterwheel Singers", the National Trust’s own choir of volunteers at Aberdulais will also be performing a selection of songs as part of the St Davids day celebrations.
The special concert takes place under canvas at Aberdulais Falls between 1pm-3pm, but there will be plenty of family fun throughout the weekend, including quiz trails offering children of all ages the chance to learn more about the area’s early industrial heritage.


For further information please contact Heledd Jones, The National Trust Wales Press Office on 01492 860123 or 07786 278895.

Flood Risk Insurance Premiums
Gwenda Thomas received helpful news this week for the residents of Ardwyn Terrace in Resolven.
She was approached in January by Councillor Des Davies regarding concerns over a drastic increase in the house insurance quotes for residents renewing their policies due to the risk of flooding.
As a consequence of representations she made to the Welsh Assembly Minister for Environment, Sustainability and Housing, Jane Davidson AM, Mrs. Thomas has now been given information and advice for the residents.
Ardwyn Terrace has now been protected by the Environment Agency’s recent Resolven capital flood alleviation scheme. The majority of the scheme was completed in the summer of 2007, which included the Ardwyn Terrace defence. The Agency has one small element of the defences to complete this summer which will finally protect the properties in this area against floods up to the 1 % chance flood.
Jane Davidson stated that the Environment Agency has suggested that if a representative of the residents in the Terrace writes to them about the matter it will confirm the reduced risk and that this can be submitted to the insurers as evidence which should result in premiums being lowered in line with the risk’.
‘This is good news for the residents of Ardwyn Terrace and I urge them to pursue this course of action,’ said Gwenda Thomas AM , ‘It may also apply to different areas and I hope that this information may assist other residents in my Neath Constituency whose homes are now protected by improved flood defences.’

Gwenda supports Fair Trade Fortnight

Last June, Wales become the world’s first fair trade nation following a two-year campaign by the Wales Fair Trade Forum, funded by the Labour-led Welsh Assembly Government, to increase the availability of fair trade products in towns, cities and counties across Wales, and encouraging schools, businesses and other organisations to switch to Fair Trade.
Gwenda Thomas AM for Neath has urged her constituents to support the causes of fair trade when they are able and to look for the fair trade mark alternatives for products in the supermarkets. ‘It is not only consumables that are available,’ advised Mrs. Thomas, ‘Clothing and jewellrey can be purchased supporting community co operatives across the world and well known large retail outlets also carry stock with the Fair Trade mark.’
As Fair Trade Fortnight begins, two farmers from the developing world will be touring Wales to raise awareness of how they are trading their way out of poverty.
The Fair Trade guarantees farmers in developing countries a fair price for their products. Because this price is stable it allows them to plan for their future. Bernard Ranaweera, a tea producer from Sri Lanka and Bella Joachim, a banana farmer from Dominica in the Windward Isles will be visiting locations and events all over Wales to raise awareness of how Fair Trade helps them.
Their visit is being supported by the Welsh Assembly Government. Environment Minister Jane Davidson.

Column for Neath Guardian March 09

In the current financial climate, the tackling of the problem of social inequality due to poverty is more important than ever. Many older people still live in poverty in Wales, and in order to combat this inequality, I as Deputy Minister for Social Services was pleased to launch the second phase of the Strategy for Older People in 2008. The Labour-led Welsh Assembly Government hopes to reduce poverty by targeting an increase in benefit take up, and the Strategy will address this. This re-enforces the One Wales ambition to improve access for all to comprehensive benefits advice, and our financial inclusion strategy underpins this.
In 2006-07 the Labour-led Welsh Assembly Government allocated £1.5m to local authorities to improve the take-up of Council Tax Benefit, particularly amongst pensioners, and the numbers of claimants above the age of 60 increased significantly over the year.
However, the Department for Work and Pensions research tells us that approximately £100 million of council tax benefit goes unclaimed every year in Wales, so there is a lot more work to do. If you feel that you are eligible for Council Tax Benefit please contact the Council Tax Benefits Department on 01639 764755, or by calling at the One Stop Shop at the Civic Centre in Neath or Pontardawe, or by e-mail to housing.benefits@npt.gov.ukFor people who are having problems meeting their mortgage payments, the Labour-led Welsh Assembly Government has launched a Mortgage Rescue Scheme. A budget of £9.5 million has been provided to enable housing associations to buy a share of a house in order to help homeowners struggling to pay their mortgage. There are other options for homeowners to receive help with their mortgage payments and I have produced a leaflet which explains all the help that is available. I have also produced a similar leaflet to explain all the help available for businesses to survive the recession and to be ready when the upturn comes. These are available from my Pontardawe office.

Gwenda Thomas AM today applauded the achievements in the community of View Glynneath Limited and spoke of her delight at the good news with regard to the Big Lottery Fund.
' At this time of great uncertainty for the local, national and global economies, it is fantastic and timely news that View can now look forward to the next few years with a sense of security,' commented Gwenda Thomas AM. ' I am fully aware of the vital role that View play in the social and academic development of many residents of Glynneath and the surrounding communities, and have spoken to countless people who owe their new found confidence and careers to the schemes and programmes which View have provided. View and also the Dove centre in Banwen, are superb examples of how determination and dedication of local people can change the lives of so many.'

New Post Office Fund Welcomed
Local Labour AM Gwenda Thomas today welcomed the launch of a new £4.5m fund to help sub-postmasters and sub-postmistresses diversify and improve their Post Offices in the Neath Constituency and the rest of Wales.

The fund, which will be open from 1st January 2009 to every sub post office in Wales, can be used for accessing business and marketing advice, advertising, training and some set-up costs for new services. The funding, available over 3 years, can also be applied for Post Office access improvements, IT upgrades and improving security and signage.

Subpostmasters and subpostmistresses will be able to apply for up to £20,000 capital funding and up to £15,000 in revenue costs under the new scheme.

Gwenda Thomas AM said:
“Post Offices provide an essential service to our communities and this fund will help to ensure that Post Offices in Wales can remain viable and become improved and sustainable businesses. I have been approached many times over the last few years by sub postmasters and sub postmistresses concerned about maintaining the level of service they provide for the community alongside making a living for themselves, families and staff. I hope that the re launch of the Post Office Diversification Fund will provide some stability for these hardworking and essential members of our communities.”

The Labour-led Assembly Government has always recognised the social and community value of post offices, particularly in relation to supporting vulnerable people in our most isolated and most disadvantaged communities and in addressing financial inclusion.


Today’s announcement follows a 12 week consultation which closed at the end of October. Subpostmasters and Subpostmistresses will receive information shortly on how to make an application to the new fund. Information will also be made available on the Welsh Assembly Government website.

Neath Assembly Member Gwenda Thomas asks the people in her Neath Constituency to recycle their Christmas cards.
From 2nd to the 31st January 2009 The Woodland Trust will be collecting cards at WH Smith, Tesco, TK Maxx and Marks and Spencer across Wales for recycling. The collecting of cards generates income for the Woodland Trust via recycling credits – income paid by local authorities for waste that does not have to be disposed of in landfill sites.
Last year the scheme collected 4 million cards from Wales alone. Laid end to end, these would stretch from Cardiff to Holyhead and back.
Gwenda Thomas AM stressed, ‘The more cards recycled in this way, the more woodland can be planted and developed by the Woodland Trust. This in turn will create vital habitats for our indigenous and endangered species such as dormice and red squirrels. My constituency staff and I will be recycling our Christmas cards and I hope that as many of my constituents as possible can do the same.’

Gwenda Thomas AM Column for Neath Guardian January 08


On Thursday, 11th of December, I was privileged the witness the ‘Investors in Volunteers’ awards being given to Neath Port Talbot Council for Voluntary Services for their Social Services Volunteering Schemes. I heard many marvellous stories of how volunteering can benefit everybody. There are over 900 voluntary organisations with an interest in health and social care in Neath Port Talbot and approximately five thousand people volunteer. These people are the lifeblood of our communities, over fifty percent of adults volunteer in what is known as formal and informal volunteering and they are involved in delivering all sorts of services without which our life would be unbearable .Volunteers help the most vulnerable in society, delivering home care, hospital discharge schemes, information, helping those in distress or despair, running community transport or most importantly just being a friend. Without volunteers the world would be a very cold and uncaring place, a caring society just could not exist without volunteers.

Why do people volunteer? Perhaps by wanting to help, to make friends, to gain skills and experience for future employment , to help improve physical and mental health problems, or just wanting to make the world a better place by giving service. The Labour led Welsh Assembly Government is committed to supporting the voluntary sector and has recently produced Designed to Add Value - a third dimension to provide direction for the voluntary sector in health and social care, it recognises that volunteers bring considerable value to the every day lives of people and that they enhance and support health and social care services in many ways for little or no cost but bring significant gains.
Encouraging younger people to volunteer is a challenge, volunteering must be made popular and fun, and it is important to establish a pattern of lifelong engagement which is to the benefit of the individual and the local community. When I was picking the Snow Prince and Princess in the Friends of the Cabin’s party in Cwmgwrach I was proud to see all the young volunteers working there. The people of Neath and the surrounding areas will benefit as more young people are given the opportunity to express themselves as active citizens and make an invaluable contribution to society following the example of the young people of Cwmgwrach, it is important to provide adequate support and recognition for those young people already working hard to make our communities better places to live as was so vividly demonstrated to me in the Awards Ceremony in Neath.
I would like to wish everyone a Happy and Healthy New Year.
Gwenda Thomas is Deputy Minister for Social Services.