South West Rhyl Communities First

Get Connected

2012-01-23T10:32:00.003Z

Would you like to know more about social networking?

Then come to our FREE introductory session at G2G Communities CIC Unit D2, Marsh Road, Rhyl

Monday 30 January 2012, 09.30am to 12.30pm.

Hurry, only six places available!

To book your place contact Moira on 01745 334482 or e-mail info@g2gcommunities.org

Getting artistic in the great outdoors

2012-01-23T10:16:00.001Z

A free five week programme is on offer for women in Denbighshire interested in getting involved in environmental arts.

Participants will learn how to create willow sculptures for the garden, use natural resources to express their artistic side, help improve the look of the local environment and have their environmental work exhibited in the county.

This course is being run by BTCV Cymru, in association with Denbighshire Countryside Service.

For more information, please contact Alex ay BTCV on 01978 261538 or e-mail: a.fairclough@btcv.org.uk

Mae yna raglen pum wythnos am ddim i ferched sydd â diddordeb mewn celfyddydau amgylcheddol yn Sir Ddinbych.

Bydd y cyfranogwyr yn dysgu sut i greu cerfluniau helyg ar gyfer yr ardd, sut i ddefnyddio adnoddau naturiol i fynegi eu dawn artistig, yn helpu i wella edrychiad yr amgylchedd lleol ac yn cael arddangos eu gwaith amgylcheddol yn y sir.

BTCV Cymru sy’n cynnal y cwrs, mewn cydweithrediad â Gwasanaeth Cefn Gwlad Sir Ddinbych.

I gael mwy o wybodaeth cysylltwch ag Alex yn y BTCV ar 01978 261538 neu e-bost: a.fairclough@btcv.org.uk

South West Rhyl Communities First - Woodlands day

2012-01-17T15:24:00.000Z

Venue: Glan Morfa woodland (Car park outside marsh tracks).

Date/Time: Tuesday Feb 14^th, 11am to 3.30pm.

Lots of free activities including:

Willow weaving.
Build an insect house.
Willow lanterns.
Scavenger hunt.
Elder beads.
And help build a huge sculpture out of plastic that will live at Rhyl Adventure Playground.

This is a joint initiative between: -

South West Rhyl Communities First
Rhyl Adventure Playground
Denbighshire Countryside Services
Marsh Tracks

Free food includes hotdogs, burgers and a hog-roast.

Hot drinks will be available all day.

This activity will take place inside a huge heated marquee so even if its cold and wet please come along and join in the fun.

Energy Best Deal presentaions

2012-01-17T10:30:00.000Z

Denbighshire Citizen’s Advice has recently been funded to deliver Energy Best Deal presentations.

They will be one hour PowerPoint workshops, with accompanying handouts and booklets.

The content of the presentation will be; how to compare different deals/tariffs, how to switch suppliers, how to reduce energy bills etc.

The presentations will all be FREE.

If you or your organisation would be interested please contact us for more details. Phone Maria on 01745 332528 or email Maria.Mielczarski@co-operative.coop.

Fed up with the cold?

2012-01-03T12:14:00.003Z

Are you struggling to heat your home because of poor housing conditions or low income?

Check out the following contacts for free, friendly and effective advice.

North Wales Energy Advice Centre

Free energy advice line: 0800 954 0658

DCC Welfare Rights Team
Free phone advice line: 0800 169 6625

Rhyl Benefits Advice Shop
Free Phone: 0800 074 333

Age Concern

Phone: 01745 816 947

Care and Repair

Phone: 01745 814484

Shelter for Housing Advice

Free phone: 0808 0800 444

Denbighshire Citizens Advice Bureau Rhyl

Phone: 01745 334 568

Nest, Welsh Government’s fuel poverty advice

Free phone: 0800 512012 (landlines) or on 0300 4562655 (mobiles)

Do you want to become a local councillor?

2012-01-03T10:41:00.001Z

Find out more about representing your community. A series of information road shows for people thinking of becoming a councillor is being arranged by Denbighshire County Council next month.

Representatives of the Council will be at each of the venues to explain how the Council works and what is involved in being a councillor. The road shows have been arranged in different locations, but people are welcome to come along to any of them, regardless of where they live in the county.

The road shows will be held at the following locations:

Monday, January 16, Llangollen Council Chamber -6pm.
Wednesday, January 18, Rhyl Town Hall (Conference Room) – 6pm.
Monday, January 23 Eirianfa Community Centre,
Factory Place
, Denbigh – 6pm.

You can be a candidate if:

You are over 18.
You are on the electoral register for Denbighshire and your home (for at least the past 12 months) is in the county OR.
You work in the county (and have done so for the past 12 months) OR.
You own a property in the Denbighshire area (and have done so for the past 12 months).

The Council has also produced an information booklet: ‘Thinking of Becoming a Councillor?’ which is available on the Denbighshire website: www.denbighshire.gov.uk/elections.
Alternatively, please contact the Corporate Communications Team on 01824 706222 for a copy.

Project Manager Vacancy - Community Resource Centre

2012-01-03T09:55:00.002Z

Salary: £24,650 - £25,000.
Hours: 37 per week (Full time).
Location: Based in Rhyl.
Duration: Fixed term 3 years.

How to apply: Application forms are available from Bedford Street Community Company Office, 38 Bedford Street, Rhyl or by phoning 01745 339779 and quoting ref PM/1.

Closing date: 06/01/2012.

This post is funded by the Big Lottery.

Need help with debts post Christmas?

2011-12-31T13:31:00.000Z

CAB advice to Get help early for debt problems

Post Christmas is a stressful time for many people who are struggling with their debts. More and more people every year have trouble making ends meet and covering the most essential household bills.

Money troubles don’t go away by themselves, so if you're getting into trouble, act quickly and seek advice about how to deal with it.

You shouldn't have to add to your debts by paying for debt advice. There are several organisations that offer free, confidential advice to help you get your finances back on track. And you can get that advice in lots of different ways.

If you would like to see someone face-to-face about your debts, you can make an appointment at your local Citizens Advice Bureau. To find your nearest bureau, go to http://www.adviceguide.org.uk/elnk_www_citizensadvice_org_uk_index_getadvice-3.

If it's difficult for you to see someone face-to-face, the Consumer Credit Counselling Service (CCCS) offers a free phone helpline 0800 138 1111, open 8am to 8pm, Monday to Friday.

They also operate Debt Remedy, a 24-hour anonymous online counselling service at http://www.cccs.co.uk/.
Alternatively, you can call National Debtline on 0808 808 4000 or visit their website at http://www.nationaldebtline.co.uk/ to find out how you can get email advice.

National Debtline also offers free, confidential and independent advice for people with business debts. For more information, call 0800 197 6026.

Source - http://www.adviceguide.org.uk/wales/whats_new_jan12_get_help_early_for_debt_problems.htm

Music Activity Scheme (Denbighshire, Conwy, Gwynedd, Anglesey)

2011-12-12T13:32:00.000Z

The project is targeted at 16- 25 year olds who are not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET’s).

Each course will have 6 participants will be supported by 2 trained and experienced Community Music Wales tutors who will guide them through music activities, individually and as part of a group. The project will be client led with activity tailored to suit each individual participant.

The project length is 15 weeks or a 30 hour block of activity that can be arranged to best suit the participants needs.

At the end of the course each participants will have produced original pieces of music and gained accreditations for their achievements through Agored Cymru.

Travel to and from the workshops will be covered for participants.

For more information please contact Osian Rhys Roberts on 01286 685248.

The 58th Welsh Chess Championships 2012

2011-12-07T15:02:00.000Z

GOOD FRIDAY – EASTER MONDAY

April 6th – April 9th, 2012

PARK INN HOTEL

CARDIFF NORTH

CIRCLE WAY EAST

LLANEDEYRN, CARDIFF.

CF23 9XF.

Tel 029 2058 9988

http://www.cardiff.parkinn.co.uk

Thanks to the WELSH ASSEMBLY for their continued support to juniors in Welsh Chess.

The Tom Weston Memorial Open/Major Championship is open to registered members of the WCU, EC, or other National body.

The John Bishop Memorial Minor Championship is open to registered members of the WCU, ECF, or other National body with a published grade of 1650 (ECF 125) or below.

Championship Secretary:-

Andrew Trickey, 6 Springfield Close, Pendre, Bridgend. CF31 1HR.

Telephone (01656) 712227

email : andrew.trickey@email.com

The Launch Programme 2012

2011-12-05T10:30:00.000Z

The Launch Programme is a 3 week pre-employment training programme to give young people a taster into the Catering and Hospitality Industry, which will start 4th January 2012.

The Course will include:

Employability Skills
Soft Skills
Taster sessions in Catering & Hospitality
Qualifications in BTEC ‘Jamie’s Home Cooking Skills’, BTEC in Work Skills & Food Hygiene Certificate.

This is a 3 week programme, Monday to Thursday from 12.30pm – 4.00pm.

Referrals must be aged 16 - 24 years living in the Denbighshire area. They must show an interest to want to work in this industry and be committed to attend the whole 3 weeks. There will be allowance of up to £40 a week per young person to support with lunch and transport.

Upon completion of the course the group will be invited to an end of programme celebration meal at the Taste.academy. Each individual will be given an opportunity for an interview for a possible ILM placement with Taste.academy. Exit interviews will be conducted with each individual, with progression support for each participant to assist with helping to find employment or further training.

Everyone interested in the programme must attend a one 2 one information session on the 15^th December 2011. This will include an overview of the programme with an informal interview for the course. There are 12 places for the course therefore there maybe a selection process. All successful candidates will need black trousers and non-slip steel cap boots or shoes to be able to take part in this course.

For more information please contact:

Sian Deal

07587880835

Sian.deal@rathboneuk.org

Rathbone Cymru, The Hub,

69-75 Wellington Road, Rhyl, LL18 1BE

South West Rhyl Communities First Network Lunch - 7th December 2011

2011-11-28T14:51:00.008Z

Date: 7th December 2011
Time: 12pm - 2pm.
Venue: Communities First Main Hall, 82 Marsh Road, Rhyl.

Guest Speakers
Sandra Jones & Vicky Hoban - Health Social Care & Wellbeing - 1.15pm.

Andrea Fisher - Houseproud scheme - 1.30pm.
Unfortunately Garry Davies from Countryside Services has had to cancel his presentation. We are sure he will attend a Network lunch in the New Year.

Buffet will be first come first served. Please let us know if you will be attending for catering purposes.

For more information please call Lisa on 01745 332528.

Rhyl Town Centre Manager - Job Vacancy

2011-11-22T11:53:00.000Z

Are you:

Up for a challenge?
Capable of taking a lead role in transforming Rhyl Town Centre?
Experienced, dynamic and resourceful enough to be Rhyl's first Town Centre Manager?

We are looking for someone who:

Has an understanding and experience of town centre management.
Can work independently with partners to develop plans and initiatives for the town centre.
Possesses excellent communication and organisational skills.

If you think you can meet these expectations then we want to hear from you.

Salary: Circa £30,000 per annum.

Contract: Initial 3 Year period, commencing 1st April 2012.

Employer: Rhyl City Strategy.

For details on the application process and information pack contact:

Susan Jeffrey on 01745 343605 or susan.jeffrey@rhylcitystrategy.co.uk

Closing date for all applications: Noon on 19th December 2011.

Urgent - Mystery Shoppers required

2011-11-17T15:47:00.000Z

Do you wear a hearing aid or know someone who wears a hearing aid?

We are looking for people to help us check loop systems throughout November and December. Travel expenses will be paid.

If you or someone know would like to get involved please contact:

Gemma Finch
gemma.finch@hearingloss.org.uk
Telephone: 029 2090 7503
Textphone: 029 2033 3036

Please let us know immediately if you are available.

Thank you.

VIP Official Opening of Ty Ebbw Fach

2011-11-16T11:00:00.000Z

The Official VIP Opening of Ty ebbw Fach
(the former Coach & Horses in Six Bells)

By HRH The Prince of Wales

On Monday 21st November

All welcome at the marquee and surronding areas. All who wish to attend are asked to be in the area by 10am.

Limited parking available on the lower plateau of the colliery. A road closure will be in place from 9am between Chapel Road and Alexandra Terrace.

Public toilets and refreshments available at Bethany, St. Johns and the Community Centre.

Any enquiries please call 01495 320497.

Denbighshire Advice Network Meeting (CLSP)

2011-11-16T10:41:00.003Z

The main part of the meeting will consider a range of actions for the winter stemming from Denbighshire's Affordable Warmth Plan.

Date: Friday 2nd December 2011.
Time: 10am - 12pm.
Venue: Eiranfa Community Centre, Factory Place, Denbigh, LL16 3TS.

Chairperson: Richard Jones Abbas - DCC Welfare Rights Manager.
Minutes & Apologies: Rebecca Connor - 01824 712371.

Keep Well this Winter

2011-11-15T14:11:00.000Z

Keep Well

Flu jabs are free for people aged 65 and over and can prevent or lessen the effects of flu – ask your doctor for an appointment. It is especially important in the winter to eat healthily and stay as active as possible.

Keep Warm

Set your heating to the right temperature (between 18°C and 21°C,) and you can keep your home warm and lower your bills.

Nest is the Welsh Government’s fuel poverty scheme. Nest provides free, impartial advice on saving energy, money management, benefit entitlement and whether you're eligible for home improvements at no cost under the scheme. If you’re worried about the cost of heating your home, you can call 0800 512 012 free from a landline or 0300 456 2655 from a mobile phone. www.nestwales.org.uk.

Keep Safe

Avoid slips and trips in the home by using stair rails and keeping passages well lit. Fire Safety is especially important during the Winter. Your local Fire and Rescue service will carry out a free home fire safety check for you and fit smoke alarms if you do not already have them. Call them on 0800 169 1234 for more information.

Keep an eye out for any older people who may need your help during the cold weather.

The Keep Well this Winter campaign aims to provide help and advice to those aged over 60 to

ensure they maintain good health during the winter. These top tips are some of the best ways

to keep your home warm, keep on top of your bills and keep healthy.

For further information about the Keep Well this Winter campaign contact Age Cymru on 029 2043 1555.

Minister sets out his vision for Communities First

2011-11-14T10:10:00.002Z

Local Government and Communities Minister, Carl Sargeant outlined how the Welsh Government will continue to support Wales’ most deprived areas when the new Communities First programme begins in April 2012.

Speaking at the programme’s annual conference the Minister praised those involved in delivering Communities First and said that despite working in uncertain and testing times, the current programme was delivering positive change in Wales’ most disadvantaged communities.

The Minister said:

"As we shape the way forward for the Communities First Programme, the Welsh Government is committed to building on what has already been achieved. I also recognise that it is important that we take time to listen to people’s views before moving forward. We have done this through an initial analysis of the 300 plus responses to out recent consultation on the programme.
"As well as building on the achievements of the current programme, I want the next phase of Communities First to be clearly seen as a community-focussed Anti - Poverty programme. All projects will need to demonstrate how the Welsh Government’s investment supports the programme’s aim of tackling poverty. Any work that does not support this aim will not be funded by Communities First.

"In addition to delivering on our Anti-Poverty agenda, the new programme will focus on good governance and community involvement. Our funding will be channelled through Lead Delivery Bodies (LDBs) for a Cluster Area, with Regional Boards overseeing the work. Many existing Grant Recipient Bodies can become LDBs but all will need to pass stringent checks and demonstrate their commitment to community involvement.
"It is important that that the community’s voice is heard. To this end, each Cluster will need to develop a Plan to increase community involvement, especially among people most affected by poverty. Only by putting citizens at the heart of our services can we make a real difference to people’s lives and build resilience into communities."

The Minister also highlighted that those working with the programme will need to collaborate with others. He added:

"I am already working closely with other Welsh Ministers to join up our policies and programmes and to explore how we can build on what is already happening.
"A good example is the Integrated Children’s Centre Pilot, where working with Job Centre Plus we have helped over 100 workless families back into work. Looking forward, one of the Welsh Government’s five key commitments is to provide 500 additional Police Community Support Officers. I will be looking for these officers to interact with Communities First since their deployment is firmly grounded in a community engagement approach to policing.
"In conclusion, I am committed to Communities First and to ensuring that strong governance and community involvement are at the heart of the new programme. By working together I am sure that we can tackle our anti poverty agenda and deliver for our poorest communities and individuals."

Listening to views on leisure

2011-11-14T10:04:00.002Z

Denbighshire County Council’s Leisure Services are holding the second of the twice-yearly round of Leisure Locality Forums across the county.

There will be one held in each of the seven areas where there is a council-run leisure centre; Rhyl, Prestatyn, St Asaph, Denbigh, Ruthin, Llangollen and Corwen.

Dates are as follows and all will take place from 6.30pm to 8.00pm.

Prestatyn - Tuesday 8 November at Jubilee Community Centre
Llangollen - Wednesday 9 November at Llangollen Library
St Asaph - Wednesday 16 November at St Asaph Youth Centre
Rhyl - Monday 21 November at Rhyl Library
Denbigh - Wednesday 23 November at Margaret Morris Centre
Corwen - Tuesday 29 November Corwen Sports Pavilion
Ruthin - Wednesday 1 December at Ysgol Brynhyfryd

The forums bring together representatives from the local area with an interest in leisure. On the agenda will be a presentation from the Coach and Volunteer Development Officer, opportunities to share information and open discussions on local leisure issues.

Denbighshire's Leisure Services are always looking for interested parties to join the Leisure Locality Forums. No previous experience is necessary and the meetings are informal.

For further information, please contact Leisure Services, on 01824 708233.

North Wales will be hit hard by benefit reform

2011-11-08T11:25:00.001Z

The number of people on sickness benefits in North Wales will be cut by 13,000 within three years, a report claims today. The study says Wales will be hit harder than any other part of Britain by the UK government’s controversial reforms of incapacity benefit (IB).

Research by academics at Sheffield Hallam University suggests the 181,370 people on IB in Wales will be reduced by 75,000 by 2014. They say 45,000 are set to be pushed out of the benefits system altogether and some 23,000 will be moved onto Jobseeker’s Allowance.

In Britain as a whole, 6.6% of the working age population claim IB, but the average for Wales is 9.5%. In North Wales, Denbighshire’s figure is 9.5%, while it is 9% in Conwy, with Anglesey at 8.3%, Wrexham 8.1%, Gwynedd 7% and Flintshire 6.8%. It is estimated 2,900 Wrexham people will be affected, with 2,600 in Flintshire, 2,300 in Conwy, 2,000 in both Gwynedd and Denbighshire and 1,500 in Anglesey.

The report, from the Centre for Regional Economic and Social Research Centre says across Britain as a whole by far the largest impact will be on the older industrial areas in Wales, Scotland and the north of England. In these areas the prospects of former claimants finding work are weakest.

Report co-author Professor Steve Fothergill said: “The large numbers that will be pushed off incapacity benefits over the next two to three years are entirely the result of changes in benefit rules – the introduction of a tougher medical test and, in particular, the more widespread application of means-testing from next April.

“The reduction does not mean that there is currently widespread fraud, or that the health problems and disabilities are anything less than real. In terms of the numbers affected and the scale and severity of the impact, the reforms to incapacity benefits that are under way are probably the most far-reaching changes to the benefits system for at least a generation. They will impoverish vast numbers of households and cause untold distress in countless more.”

IB is paid at different amounts depending on which group people are in, but many of those who will be affected receive around £97 a week, while current average JSA payments are £61.73.

Employment Minister Chris Grayling said: “It’s clear that millions of people have been written off for years left on incapacity benefit with no real support to get into work. That’s why we are re-testing people to see if they have the capacity to work.

“Our changes will make sure those in genuine need get more support and those who could and should be working are given the opportunity to do so.”

Job Vacancy - Dispenser - Rowlands Pharmacy

2011-11-02T16:06:00.002Z

Wage: Meets National Minimum Wage.
Hours: 35 per week.
Location: Prestatyn.
Duration: Permanent.
Date posted: 19-10-11.
Closing date: 11-11-11.

Rowlands Pharmacy require a qualified Dispenser with a minimum of Level 2 NVQ, to work in their busy pharmacy. Duties include assisting the pharmacist in the dispensary, handling scripts, labelling, stock control, general housekeeping.

For further details on how to apply please call into the Branch at:

Rowlands Pharmacy,

53 High. Street,

Prestatyn,

Denbighshire,

LL19 9AH.

Design a recycled statue competition

2011-11-02T15:22:00.000Z

Open to all Rhyl schools or groups that work with children aged 5-16 yrs.

Design a 6-8 foot statue, which will be made out of recycled plastics (i.e. Pop bottles, bubble wrap, drinking cups, plates, packaging etc.)

Individuals must submit entries and full contact details (including phone number) must be on the back of the entry. Entries to be submitted on A4 plain paper, in either pen, pencil or crayon. We are not looking just for pictures but designs stating what materials to be used.

The winning design will be built in February 2012 as part of a big environmental day over at Glan Morfa, Rhyl. The statue will live at Rhyl Adventure Playground. An independent panel will meet the week of 12th December to select best entries. Winner will be announced on 19th December at SWRCF Xmas fayre and notified by telephone that day.

All entries must be received by Friday 9th December to:
South West Rhyl Communities First,
John Davies Community Facility,
82 Marsh Road,
Rhyl, Denbighshire,
LL18 2AE.

If submitting entries by hand, please come in through the rear of the building, via the staff offices.

SWRCF Christmas Fayre

2011-10-26T15:30:00.001+01:00

South West Rhyl Communities First are holding a Christmas Fayre.

19th December, 11am - 3pm.

John Davies Community Facility, 82 Marsh Road, Rhyl.

Stall holders welcome.
Home-made produce.
Toys and games.
Christmas gifts.

Each stall holder will be given one raffle ticket and the chance to win a £100 bike voucher to be spent in Cycle Life, Bodfor St, Rhyl (stall holders must bring in at least 10 customers to the fayre). If the stall holder is representing a local organisation they must donate the bike voucher to a family in need within the local area, or raffle it off for their organisation.

South West Rhyl Communities First Free Network Lunch

2011-10-25T15:05:00.001+01:00

South West Rhyl Communities First would like to invite you to our FREE Network Lunch (first come first served on buffet) on Wednesday 9th November.

Open to all community members, organisations and businesses within the area.

John Davies Community Facility (Communities First building), 82 Marsh Road, Rhyl, 12 - 2pm.

Speakers on the day - 1pm - Ray Worsnop from Denbighshire Enterprise Company.

1.15pm - Judith Samuels speaking about a ship wreck in Foryd Harbour. Come along and listen to what they have to say.

December Lunch - Wednesday 7th December, 12 - 2pm, same venue as above.

Speakers from DCC - 1pm - Garry Davies - Countryside Services.

1.15pm - Sandra Jones & Vicky Hoban - Health, Social Care and Wellbeing.

1.30pm - Andrea Fisher - House Proud scheme.

All welcome.

Personal Independence Payment

2011-10-19T10:30:00.002+01:00

From 2013 the Government is proposing to introduce a new benefit called Personal Independence Payment for eligible working age people aged 16 to 64 to replace Disability Living Allowance (DLA).

The intention is that Personal Independence Payment will focus support to those individuals who experience the greatest challenges to remaining independent and leading full, active and independent lives.

Disability Living Allowance was introduced in 1992 and has not been fundamentally reviewed or reformed since. There is confusion about the purpose of the benefit, it is complex to claim and there is no systematic way of checking that awards remain correct.

We are putting disabled people at the heart of the development of Personal Independence Payment. This includes:

Working with disabled people and their organisations as we develop the new claims and assessment processes
Seeking feedback on our proposals for the draft assessment criteria, which consider an individual’s circumstances and the impact of their health condition or impairment on their everyday life.

What the change means

From April 2013 to March 2016 everyone aged 16 to 64 receiving DLA will be reassessed to see whether they are entitled to the new Personal Independence Payment.

People entitled to Personal Independence Payment will have their claims smoothly transferred over and their DLA will stop.

Those not found to be entitled to Personal Independence Payment will be informed and their DLA will stop. They may be able to claim other benefits.

There are no current plans to replace DLA with Personal Independence Payment for children aged under 16 and people over the age of 65 who are already receiving DLA.

£75 million scheme to create 12,000 jobs in Wales announced

2011-10-12T12:32:00.001+01:00

Starting in April next year, Jobs Growth Wales will create 4,000 new job opportunities a year across Wales for unemployed young people, aged 16-24, for a 6-month period.

First Minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones, said:

“Jobs Growth Wales is a flagship policy in our commitment to boost economic growth and jobs in Wales.

“Not only will this scheme create opportunities for unemployed young people, who have suffered more than most in the recession, but these posts will also be new jobs, helping Welsh businesses to expand.”

Participants will be paid at or above the National Minimum Wage for a minimum of 25 hours per week. The programme will cater for those that are job ready but can’t find employment. It will be funded by £25m per year over the term of government.

Minister for Education and Skills, Leighton Andrews, today gave Assembly Members details of the scheme and announced the start of a pilot to test the scheme ahead of its start next year.

“The current financial climate has led to the emergence of a growing number of 16-24 year olds who have fallen outside work or education,” he explained.

“Jobs Growth Wales will enable individuals to gain good quality work experience to progress into sustained employment or where appropriate an apprenticeship.

“It is envisaged that the majority of jobs will be generated within the private sector, although there will also be some available within the public and voluntary sectors. Businesses that take part in the scheme will need to demonstrate that the jobs we support are new ones.”

Mr Andrews said they would run a small pilot this autumn to test the approach within the private sector and to fully inform the wider programme implementation from April next year.

He added:

“Jobs Growth Wales also provides an opportunity to tackle some specific issues within the Welsh economy. There will three specific streams targeting graduates, micro business and green jobs.

“A specific strand will be developed to target graduates building on the existing Go Wales Programme.

Often micro businesses are reluctant to take the plunge of employing for the first time or growing for fear of the risk and bureaucracy. So we have developed a strand to help this critical sector of our economy develop.

And another strand will be developed to create jobs within the energy sector, helping to meet our commitment to reducing carbon emissions.”

Robust eligibility criteria and quality standards will be established prior to the implementation of Jobs Growth Wales. A moderating panel will be established from January 2012 to ensure these are being met. Membership of the panel will include employers, Job Centre Plus and Wales TUC.

South West Rhyl Communities First Halloween Party

2011-10-12T10:35:00.000+01:00

South West Rhyl Communities First are having a Halloween Party on Saturday 29th October, at John Davies Community Facility, Marsh Road, Rhyl. 1.00pm - 4.00pm.

The party costs £2.50 per child and adults can come for free. All children must be supervised by an adult at all times.

Come and join in the spooky fun!

Thinking of becoming a councillor?

2011-09-28T12:33:00.002+01:00

Have you ever thought about representing your community by becoming a member of Denbighshire County Council?

The Council is launching an information campaign to encourage people to consider becoming councillors when the county’s residents go to the polls on May 3, 2012.

There are 47 councillors on Denbighshire County Council. Councillors make sure the council delivers good services; decide on things that the council should be working on; help people in their area and get involved with their local communities.

Other key responsibilities include discussing and agreeing major policies to determine how services are run; agreeing how much will be spend by the Council each year; agreeing how much you pay in council tax and listening to the views of other councillors.

An easy guide on becoming a councillor is available on the council’s website: www.denbighshire.gov.uk/elections
You can also receive a copy by phoning 01824 706222 or by e-mail: public.relations@denbighshire.gov.uk

The campaign will also promote the need for residents to ensure their names appear on the electoral register, to allow them their right to vote.

In January 2012 the Council will be hosting roadshows across the county where you have the chance to come and speak with representatives of the council about what is involved in becoming a councillor.

You can always log on to Facebook and type in 'Elections Denbighshire 2012' in the search engine or sign up to 'Denbighshire County Council' on Twitter for the latest feed of information and election news.

Ambitious Programme for Government announced by First Minister

2011-09-28T11:12:00.000+01:00

Increasing apprenticeship opportunities for young people, ensuring universal access to next generation broadband and introducing 50+ health checks were among the priorities announced by the Welsh Government today (Tues 27th Sept).

In an address to Assembly Members in the Senedd, First Minister Carwyn Jones set out his Programme for Government for the current Assembly term. It outlines Welsh Ministers’ priorities and comes ahead of the Welsh Government’s Draft Budget, which is published next week.
The Programme includes actions Ministers will be taking, how progress will be measured and what outcomes we want to see for the people of Wales. It is a programme for all of Wales and sets out which organisations will be involved in delivering the programme with the Welsh Government.

The Programme for Government will be updated annually and a progress report published every year. Key commitments include:

Establish a Welsh jobs fund.
Increase access to GP services.
Funding 500 new community support officers.
Increasing frontline spending in schools.
Doubling the number of children benefitting from the ‘Flying Start’ programme.
Introducing a statutory Literacy and Numeracy Framework, supported by national reading and maths tests.
Moves to release more public land for affordable housing.
An anti-poverty action plan by next year that will bring together all the devolved policy levers.
Increase the number of organ donors in Wales.
Create new marine conservation zones.
Press for an independent review for S4C.
Publish a five-year Welsh Language Strategy.

The First Minister said: “Our Programme for Government is an ambitious agenda for Wales. It translates the manifesto on which we were elected into action - and my government is determined to deliver it in full.

“Our focus is on benefiting people – on working together to create a fairer and more prosperous country – and a society in which everyone has the opportunity to contribute.

“Our decisions are not only about creating a ‘better today’, but look forward to ensure a ‘better tomorrow’ – delivering improvements for the lives of our children, and for the lives of our children’s children.

“We will create more apprenticeships for young people to offer them a better start to their working lives; we’ll establish new health checks for the over 50s and focus on a healthier society; and we’ll strengthen communities through Wales, funding 500 more Police Community Support Officers.

“These improvements will be firmly grounded in our uniquely Welsh approach to fairness and sustainability - a commitment that goes beyond the narrow concept of ‘greenness’, and delivers our vision for the economic and environmental wellbeing of our communities.

“Once a year we’ll be reporting back on progress so people can see what we’ve delivered, and how these changes have improved their lives. We need the energy and commitment of the whole country - the public sector, the third sector and our business community. If we pull together we’ll go further and get there faster.

“This is what devolution is about - working together to create the future we want for Wales, a future that’s prosperous and a future that’s healthy.”

For more information please call the Welsh Government press office on 029 2082 1823
The full Programme of Government can be found at:
http://wales.gov.uk/programmeforgovernment

An opportunity for young people to have their say

2011-09-22T10:03:00.000+01:00

Rhyl City Strategy is looking to have input from young people about employment, training and skills issues affecting them.

They are looking for young people aged 16 - 25yrs old and particularly those from West and South West Rhyl, but not exclusively those areas. As we want participation to be meaningful we are looking to the young people to help shape their involvement, so an initial space for a meeting has been booked for 4.15pm - 5.30pm on Wednesday 12th October at the Apollo Cinema in their new bar area overlooking the sea.

If you know any young people who would be interested please could you let me know or just encourage them to attend. If transport is required Gerry Frobisher and Suzanne Bradley are able to assist with this and can arrange pick up points. Should this be required, please can you contact them directly.

Gerry@dvsc.co.uk or suzanne@dvsc.co.uk

It would be great to see young people able to make the difference.

Internet safety Training

2011-09-15T10:31:00.003+01:00

Denbighshire County Council are holding a training session on Internet Safety for Children, it is aimed at anyone working with children and families including childminders and childcare staff.

The training day will cover the following issues:

How young people use the internet, how they communicate and what are the dangers. Sharing concerns. Overview of the work of CEOP's.
File sharing, social networking, cyber bullying, risks and dangers.
Overview of legislation that covers this arena.
Online "pay to view sites".
Female offenders.
Emerging Technologies.

There will be opportunity to ask questions and developing understanding of the technologies currently being used.

Date: 29th September 2011.

Time: 9.30am - 4.30pm.

Venue: Oaktree Centre, Fforydd Las, Rhyl, LL18 2DY.

Closing date: 23rd September 2011.

(Maximum of 25 candidates).

Please send names of those who wish to attend to:

oaktree@denbighshire.gov.uk

c/o Oaktree Centre, Fforydd Las, Rhyl, Denbighshire, LL18 2DY.

Telephone: 01745 360129.

DVSC September Newsletter

2011-09-14T13:37:00.000+01:00

Denbighshire Voluntary Services Council have released their September Newsletter, containing plenty of volunteering opportunities.

To view the full newsletter please click here.

Ladder of Life - Free Training Session

2011-09-14T12:39:00.001+01:00

Ladder of Life are holding free training taster session available to anyone over 16 living in Denbighshire who is economically inactive (unfortunately we are unable to cater for people claiming JSA or ESA).

The free administration session will take place on Wednesday 21st September 10am - 12pm.

Venue - John Davies Community Facility, 82 Marsh Road, Rhyl.

There will be a presentation on -

Qualities of an administrator
Working conditions
Skills needed
Minute taking
Communication
Diary systems
Plan and manage your workload

Ideal for those who would like to pursue admin as a career, residents associations, school leavers etc.

To reserve your place please contact Helen Kemp on 01745 332528 or helen.lolproject@fsmail.net.

Ladder of Life - Free Taster Session

2011-09-14T12:18:00.006+01:00

Ladder of Life are holding free training taster sessions, available to anyone over 16 living in Denbighshire who is economically inactive (unfortunately we are unable to cater for people claiming JSA or ESA).

Venue - John Davies Facility, Marsh Road, Rhyl.

There will be an 'Introduction to Computers' session is on 21st September at 1:30pm – 4:30pm.

The course will include:

Basic introduction to computers.
Using the mouse and keyboard.
Opening and closing files.
Saving information to the computer.
How to access and use the BBC ‘first click’ materials.

For more details please contact Helen Kemp on 01745 332528 or helen.lolproject@fsmail.net

Communities First Information Services - Information Bulletin 33 - September 2011

2011-09-13T12:16:00.001+01:00

Communities First Information Services have released an Information Bulletin for Septemeber, it shows what work Communities First have been doing throughout Wales.

To view the full Communities First Information Bulletin please click here.

Community Network Event - 22nd September 2011

2011-09-13T11:53:00.000+01:00

South West Rhyl Communities First are holding a Community Network Event on 22nd September at John Davies Community Facility (82 Marsh Road, opposite Good News Mission) in Rhyl.

There will be a presentation on Ladder of Life Project Taster Sessions, such as; Childcare, Woodwork, Sewing, Digital Photography and many more. So come along and see if you are eligible to apply.

The Communities First Step Up Bus will also be on site, offering information, advice and support on any issues or concerns you may have. The bus has a confidential area for people who wish to use the service.

A buffet lunch will be available from 12pm (first come, first served).

You will also get a FREE watch, mouse mat or beauty product (limited availability).

Council Tax help for pensioners

2011-09-08T11:09:00.000+01:00

Denbighshire County Council has been successful in securing £145,482 as part of the Welsh Government’s grant for helping pensioners with council tax.

People will qualify for a part of this grant if they are in receipt of a state pension, are liable to pay council tax in Denbighshire and their address they are claiming for is their main home.

Anyone wishing to apply should write to the:

Pensioner Grant Scheme, Revenues Department,
Denbighshire County Council,
Russell House,
Churton Road,
Rhyl, Denbighshire, LL18 3DP.

The closing date for applications is 1st December 2011 when the Council Tax department will arrange to credit the council tax accounts of all applicants - this credit will be based on the number of applicants.

Unemployment in Wales rises 10,000 to 8.4%

2011-08-18T12:45:00.000+01:00

Unemployment in Wales has risen by 10,000, taking the total to 122,000, new figures show. The jobless rate is now 8.4%, which means Wales continues to have the highest percentage of the four UK nations, say Labour Market Statistics. The figures coincided with the closure of Newport department store TJ Hughes with the loss of 50 jobs.

Welsh Secretary Cheryl Gillan said the figures demonstrated an urgent need for growth. The rise is 0.7% between April and June, although the total is 5,000 lower than in the same period last year.

Claimant count has risen by 2,100 in the past month and now stands at 77,000. Across the UK, unemployment rose by 38,000 in the three months to June to 2.49m. The UK jobless rate is now 7.9%, in England it is 7.9%, Scotland 7.7% and Northern Ireland 7.3%.

Mrs Gillan said: "Today's statistics are disappointing for Wales. We are not complacent about the task ahead and have been dealing with an extremely choppy economic climate."

Meanwhile, a South Wales valleys-based insurance broker has announced the closure of seven of its branches, with the loss of 10 jobs. Motaquote will close offices in Cwmbran, Mountain Ash, Aberdare, Ebbw Vale, Neath, Treorchy and Risca due to a "loss in footfall". Five workers opted for voluntary redundancy and 30 were given new roles at the firm's head office in Williamstown, Rhondda Cynon Taf.

But five head office roles were lost in the restructuring of the company, which was set up in 1991 and is part of nationwide group Cullum Capital Ventures. Managing director Nigel Lombard said: "Unfortunately, due to the economic downturn it was no longer commercially viable to keep these branches open."

Employment Minister Chris Grayling said the figures across the UK were disappointing. Mr Grayling said: "Clearly this has been a difficult few months with a range of one-off factors and a slowdown in the world economy having an impact on the UK. This is why is we are focused on taking steps to increase growth, support the economy and encourage businesses to invest and create jobs."

Gold Standard for Rhyl City Strategy

2011-08-17T13:50:00.000+01:00

Rhyl City Strategy has achieved the first Gold Small Workplace Health Award in Wales, for its work to maintain and improve the health and well-being of its staff.

The Small Workplace Health Award is funded and accredited by the Welsh Government, as part of its Healthy Working Wales programme to support improvements in the health of the working age population.

As the Chief Medical Officer, Dr Tony Jewell, explains:

"The Welsh Government launched the Small Workplace Health Award in 2009 to specifically engage businesses and organisations with less than 50 employees in our healthy workplaces initiatives. We are delighted to see the first employer progress to the prestigious Gold award and congratulate Rhyl City Strategy on their achievement."

Alongside developing health-promoting policies for staff, Rhyl City Strategy organised ‘lunch and learn’ sessions on healthy eating and alcohol awareness, a session on techniques for managing pressure and stress and a team-building adventure event in Betws-y-Coed. Staff members have each developed a set of personal health and well-being goals.

On achieving the Gold award, Jo Howes, Operational Manager for Rhyl City Strategy said:

"We are delighted with our success in achieving the Gold Small Workplace Health Award. The team have truly embraced the ethos around a healthy workplace and all of the benefits this has on our working lives. We are all very proud of the accomplishment and aim to keep the healthy workplace flag flying for all those small enterprises throughout Wales. The whole experience, from achieving the Bronze and Silver awards and now the Gold award, has made the team stronger and more determined to not only practice what we have learnt within the workplace, but also in our own personal lives at home and with our families. Rhyl City Strategy would like to thank all those who have supported us with this vision."

Rhyl City Strategy has been supported with its health and well-being work by Paula Jenkins, Workplace Health Advisor of Public Health Wales. As Paula highlights:

"Safeguarding and improving the physical and mental health and well-being of employees at Rhyl City Strategy is of utmost importance to the business. The positive culture within this organisation shines through as it is clear that staff have increased morale as they feel valued and motivated."

The independent assessor, Ava Fine, said:

"This is a well-deserved award. Rhyl City Strategy is an exemplar employer where the health and well-being of staff is firmly embedded in the organisation’s culture. It is proof that such an enlightened approach helps boost the morale of employees and produces a happy workplace. We commend their example to other SMEs across Wales."

Benefits boost for Denbighshire residents

2011-08-17T12:08:00.000+01:00

Latest figures show how advisers in Denbighshire’s Welfare Rights Advice Partnership have helped 2756 local people gain an extra £8.6m million in social security benefits and tax credits during the 12 months to April 2011. This brings the running total to £88.5 million over the past 15 years since the start of Denbighshire County Council.

Rick Abbas, Denbighshire’s Welfare Rights Manager, said: “These results reflect the dedicated work of advisers in Denbighshire’s Welfare Rights Advice Partnership: independent and quality marked services which include Denbighshire’s Citizens Advice Bureau, Rhyl Benefits Advice Shop and the Council’s Welfare Rights Team.

“This extra money is really good news for local people, the Council and the local economy when we are all living with the effects of the recession. Securing this extra income helps people to into work, manage on low wages, prevents and reduces poverty and helps with essential outgoings like Council Tax, rent and mortgage payments.

“More claims for benefits like Pension Guarantee Credit and Disability Benefits leads to a larger grant to the Council from the Welsh Government. These extra millions spent locally on goods and services will have stimulated demand and created many jobs.”

“Questionnaires returned from people who used the service showed how it improved their independence, health and reduced their need to see a doctor. This partnership is the first in the UK to track the number of children and adults it has lifted above Government poverty lines: 1057 in 12 months. Other Councils and advice partnerships across the UK are now following our lead.”

Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) and Inland Revenue figures show that an estimated £22m in benefit and tax credits are unclaimed or underpaid each year in Denbighshire alone. Help to claim this extra income will mitigate the effect of the UK Government’s Welfare Reforms which will result in and estimated loss of £57.5m in Denbighshire over 4 years.

Denbighshire residents who want independent advice or help with benefit and tax credit claims, disputes and appeals can contact the Council’s Welfare Rights Helpline on Freephone 0800 1696625 on weekdays between 10am and 4pm.

All calls are free and confidential. More information on Council funded advice can be found under Welfare Rights on the A to Z of the Denbighshire’s website: http://www.denbighshire.gov.uk/

Building strong, responsible communities is a priority – First Minister

2011-08-17T11:52:00.000+01:00

The First Minister of Wales, Carwyn Jones, has said that building strong and responsible communities has been and continues to be a priority for the Welsh Government.

He re-iterated the commitment following the Prime Minister’s announcement that he is ordering a review of every UK government policy following last week's riots in England, to make sure they are bold enough to tackle a 'moral collapse'.

The First Minister also called on the UK Government to re-think proposals to cut spending on police, and to reconsider plans to cut public sector jobs in Wales.

Mr Jones said the Welsh Government’s approach to tackling some of the most serious underlying issues facing Wales and its people illustrates the powers of devolution in taking action to improve public services and outcomes for children, families and communities in Wales.

The First Minister highlighted the Welsh Government’s innovative and unique programmes to support families, such as the Integrated Families Support Service, Families First and Flying Start programmes, which empower families to make the necessary lifestyle and other changes. Through these programme key professionals and agencies will intervene earlier and work intensely with families to effect positive change.

First Minister Carwyn Jones said:

“While Wales is not immune to the social and economic problems faced by communities elsewhere in the UK, the Government I lead is already taking decisive action to tackle the underlying problems that many of Wales’s most disadvantaged and deprived communities suffer. These issues have always been at the top of our agenda.

“We are determined to doing all that we can to rebuild and regenerate Wales’s communities. Our Communities First programme has been instrumental in improving our communities for the better.

“Our newly-established Integrated Family Support Service is providing invaluable support for our most vulnerable families with drug and alcohol abuse issues to ensure families prioritise the welfare of their children and are supported to do so. IFSS should stabilise home life and help children and parents stay together where this is in the child’s best interests."

The First Minister added:

“What hurts Welsh families the most is the scourge of unemployment. As a government, we are determined to do all that we can to get people into work, and trying to keep people in their jobs. However, the UK Government’s decision to cut public sector jobs in Wales severely undermines our efforts.

"In stark contrast to the UK Government which has ended their Future Jobs Fund, we are committed to improving the opportunities for young people who are not in education, employment or training in Wales. In April 2012, the Welsh Government will introduce a Welsh jobs fund. It will create 4,000 jobs for unemployed young people aged 16-24 across Wales for a 6 month period. We are also creating more apprenticeship opportunities for young people in Wales. We have announced new arrangements to take forward our Apprenticeships and Traineeships programmes, which will focus more closely on our priorities to provide more opportunities for young people and deliver the skilled employees our economy needs.

“Cuts to police numbers will hurt our communities. A report published this morning by Cardiff University shows that UK Government grant funding for local policing will fall by £1.36 billion, or 14%, over the next four years – meaning 16,000 frontline posts could be lost. What the people of Wales want to see is more, not fewer police out on the street keeping our communities safe.

“While policing is not devolved, we are determined to do what we can to make our communities safer. That’s why we’re committed to introducing 500 additional police community support officers over the next five years. But they will not be there to replace frontline police officers - they’ll be there to support them.

“The UK Government needs to be bold, and accept that they now need to re-think their decision to cut the policing budget.”

Rhyl's Fit For Work Service helps 153 back to work!

2011-08-17T11:04:00.000+01:00

A pilot project to help people in deprived areas back to work after sickness claims to have helped around half who joined to keep their job.

The Fit For Work Service was launched in Rhyl, Denbighshire, in May 2010, and has helped 153 people back to work with 125 (82%) remaining in those jobs. It is the only such project in Wales, although 10 others were also launched in England and Scotland. The north Wales scheme has now expanded and had funding extended for two years.

The project sees people assessed and offered treatments or physiotherapy, as well as advice.

It was initially a year-long pilot, and manager Bridgette Handley said more than 500 people had been referred to the service by GPs and local employers, all seeking help to return to work while in the early stages of sickness absence.

It aims to get them back to work as soon as possible and keep them in work, "so reducing the risk of job loss and the need to claim benefits". She added: "Of the 500-plus referrals, we have registered 318 on to the service.

Psychological counselling

"Some referrals have been ineligible, either due to the nature of their illness being more chronic/long term or the individual being unemployed."

Of the 318 people registered, 153 have completed the course and 125 have remained in work.

Funded by the Department for Work and Pensions, (DWP), the pilot was originally intended to help people living or working in Rhyl, Abergele and Colwyn Bay, and it has now extended to Prestatyn, St Asaph and Kinmel Bay.

The service works by appointing a case manager to assess clients, and, if appropriate, the client can be referred for treatments including physiotherapy and psychological counselling.

The service can also help provide information on issues such as debt, housing, drug, alcohol or relationship advice.

Ms Handley said: "Ours has been a very successful pilot, and DWP has extended our funding by a further two years. We were one of only seven of the original 11 pilots that have received further funding from DWP."

The UK minister for welfare reform, Lord Freud, said too many people, through no fault of their own, have fallen out of work due to sickness absence.

"The Fit for Work Service has played a vital role in helping people stay in work or return more quickly than they otherwise would have done." He said as well as benefiting workers, employers and the taxpayer, it helped reduce pressure on GPs and other health services.

Rhyl exhibition ‘helps us to be healthier’

2011-08-16T09:52:00.002+01:00

An exhibition will open next week showing different approaches to looking at health and wellbeing through the arts.

Many of the artists have enjoyed arts workshops over the last few months. Their exhibits will appear alongside work by professional ceramics, textiles and mixed media work artists.

The show has been set up with the aid of a grant from the Arts Council of Wales. Denbighshire Arts Service had worked with South West Rhyl Communities First, Count Me In and the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board to run the recent workshops. The main aim was to improve participants’ wellbeing.

The exhibition has three parts. One is called Held with a selection of work from a touring exhibition created by Start at Manchester Mental Health & Social Care Trust. Another is by Alison Mercer Textiles with results from local workshops. A third section is by Sue King Ceramics, alongside results from recent workshops.

A spokesman said: “The exhibition is about how we manage the tensions of living and draw on our inner strength to fulfil our hopes and dreams. The ‘Held’ section is an exhibition about keeping a balance in life, about managing stress and building fulfilment.”

The Arts In Health and Wellbeing exhibition runs at Rhyl Library Arts Centre, Church Street, Rhyl from August 20 until October 8.

Ladder of Life Information Days

2011-08-15T10:24:00.004+01:00

Ladder of Life is an individual coaching and Personal Development Programme available to develop and maintain your confidence and self-esteem. We will be holding FREE accredited courses, short courses and fun activities in the following areas:

Arts and Crafts
Sports Development
Sewing
Catering
Digital Photography
Woodwork
Office Administration

Find out more information by dropping in to one of the information days:

St. Mary’s Church, Wellington Road. Thursday 18th August, 11:00am—2:30 pm

Rhyl Library. Monday 22nd August, 10:30am—3:00 pm

South West Rhyl Communities First. Thursday 25th August, 11:30am—3:00pm

Botanical Gardens. Friday 9th September, 10:30am —3:00pm

Free food, free advice and free raffle at each of the information days.

Need information? Want advice? Wish you had support? Contact Meic

2011-08-11T09:59:00.000+01:00

Meic is a new helpline service for children and young people up to the age of 25 in Wales. From finding out what's going on in your local area to help dealing with a tricky situation, Meic will listen when no-one else will. They will give you quality information, useful advice and the support you need to make a change.

Contact them in Welsh or English – it’s up to you! They are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can contact them by phone, email, SMS text and instant messaging. Meic is confidential, anonymous, free, and just for you.

Phone: 080880 23456

Text: 84001

Online: http://www.meiccymru.org/

SWRCF Lunch Clubs

2011-08-09T14:03:00.007+01:00

This month South West Rhyl Communities First are holding Lunch Clubs for people in the local community. They will take place at John Davies Community Facility, 82 Marsh Road, Rhyl (opposite Good news Mission) from 12pm until 2pm.

Dates of future lunches: 11th August & 25th August.

Admission: £3.00 per adult, to include 1 main meal, a cup of tea/coffee, a raffle ticket and a small food hamper (hampers are on a 1st come 1st served basis).

Kids eat free – up to 2 children under 14, with a paying adult. £1 for extra children.

Menu

Adult menu: Sandwich & salad, OR choice of hot meal (varies each week), OR cheese & bacon toastie with salad. With a choice of tea or coffee.

Kids smiley meal for children under 14: meal consists of sandwich, drink, crisps OR yogurt OR a piece of fruit.

For more information please call 01745 332528.

Communities First Trust Fund

2011-08-04T13:44:00.000+01:00

Just to remind you that there are only 16 weeks left for eligible groups to submit an application to the Communities First Trust Fund.

To date we’ve received over 470 applications which is a great uptake – but to date 234 + of these have been returned to groups for information that is missing/ End of Project Report not completed for previous grants etc.

However, because they have been returned early in the process it means that these groups do have time to resubmit their application within ample time before the deadline.

Therefore I would urge to you encourage as many groups as possible to do the same and submit an applications as soon as possible so that funding allocated to your ward / area is spent and not returned to Welsh Government at the end of the year. The later you leave it the less chance we have of sorting any problems!

Can you also make sure that the groups read and understand the CFTF guidelines themselves when submitting an application - We’ve had some incidents recently where groups are blaming Co-ordinators for mistakes they are making when not spending / accounting for the grant award properly. They have stated that they were not made aware of any guidelines when they were told to fill in applications.

Finally – if you want a member of the CFTF to visit your area / assist with groups submitting an application, please do not hesitate to contact us – 0800 587 8898.

Home Fire Safety Survey - South West Rhyl & West Rhyl

2011-08-04T13:39:00.002+01:00

Most fires in homes in Wales are accidental. Because they are accidental, things can be done to help stop them from happening. And if you do have a fire in your home, having working smoke alarms and a planned escape route can help you and your family to escape without harm.

Some areas of Rhyl have many more of these accidental house fires, compared to other areas in North Wales. The North Wales Fire and Rescue Service work to protect communities before emergencies occur and they are keen to see this situation improve for the people of Rhyl.

Wards	Unitary Authority Area	Accidental House Fires	Injuries
West Rhyl	Denbighshire	114	32
Glyn	Conwy	50	24
South West Rhyl	Denbighshire	48	9
Rhiw	Conwy	42	17
Tudno	Conwy	39	13
Hermitage	Wrexham	35	6
Llandrillo yn Rhos	Conwy	34	15
New Broughton	Wrexham	34	5
Queensway	Wrexham	33	12

(The table above shows the 9 highest wards in the region for accidental house fires during the period 2001 - 2007).

Why is this survey being done?

The survey is being done as part of a project to improve home fire safety in South West Rhyl and West Rhyl. We are looking to get the views of people who live in these areas, to understand more about what needs to be done.

Who is doing the research?

This research is being carried out by Firebrake Wales, the Welsh fire safety charity, along with North Wales Fire and Rescue Service and Communities First

Who is the survey for?

This survey is being carried out in Rhyl and we are keen to get the views of people living in the areas of West Rhyl and South West Rhyl.

About the Survey itself

All answers you provide will be strictly confidential
There are no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ answers – we are interested in your views
We do not ask for your name or your address
Taking part in the survey is of course completely voluntary

We really appreciate you taking time to complete the survey. Your feedback is important and will help inform the project to improve fire safety in your community.

Rhyl Football Club In The Community Courses

2011-08-01T14:34:00.003+01:00

Rhyl Football Club In The Community have the following courses available to book, each course costs £50 per person (price includes tea and coffee).

Emergency First Aid at Work

Available dates - Friday 19th August 2011

Friday 18th November 2011

Friday 24th February 2012

Friday 25th May 2012

Friday 17th August 2012

CIEH Level 1 Health & Safety in the Workplace

Available dates - Friday 23rd September 2011

Friday 20th January 2012

Friday 20th April 2012

Friday 20th July 2012

CIEH Level 1 Food Safety Awareness

Available dates - Friday 21st October 2011

Friday 16th December 2011

Friday 16th March 2012

Friday 22nd June 2012

All courses start at 9am and finish at 4pm.

Venue - Rhyl Football Club, Belle Vue, Grange Road, Rhyl, LL18 4BY.

Zumba Fitness with Roxy

2011-08-01T14:15:00.001+01:00

Fun Classes and a Great Atmosphere to suit all fitness levels.

Classes £4 per session.

Monday - Ysgol Cynfran, Dolwen Road, Llysfaen. 6pm - 7pm, 7pm - 8pm.

Tuesday - Craig-Y-Don, Community Centre, Queens Road. 6pm - 7pm, 7pm - 8pm.

Wednesday - Village Hall, Llysfaen (Starting 7^th September). 6pm - 7pm.

Thursday - Llanfairfechan Sailing Club, Promenade. 7pm 8pm.

For further details please contact Roxy on 07743827962

Work Programme provides tailored support as latest figures show people are being found fit for work

2011-07-28T12:04:00.001+01:00

New statistics published by DWP today show that over a third (39 per cent) of those who claim Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) are assessed as fit for work. The figures also show that a further 17 per cent can do some work with the right help and support.

People who are found fit for work will now be supported through the new Work Programme, which rolled out across Britain last month. The Work Programme provides tailored support for people to get into sustained employment. People who are found too sick or disabled will continue to receive unconditional support and a higher rate of benefit.

DWP Minister Steve Webb said:

"These figures show that many people are able to work with the right help. We have strengthened the support now available tailoring it to individual needs so they can overcome whatever barriers they face.

"Those who cannot work will always receive our unconditional support but for those who can work it’s right that they get the help they need to get into employment.

"We are continuously improving the medical test to ensure that it is as fair and effective as possible."

The Work Capability Assessment (WCA), which determines whether someone is fit for work, has been substantially improved – the majority of Professor Harrington’s recommendations are now in place. Changes have been made including making improvements to the decision making process. A second Independent Review of the WCA is now underway and will be published before the end of the year.

For all new ESA claims from 27th October 2008 to 30th November 2010, the result of the initial WCA is as follows

Support Group – 7%
Work Related Activity Group – 17%
Fit for Work – 39%
Claim closed before assessment complete – 36%
Assessment still in progress – 1%

Delivering the Work Programme private and voluntary sector organisations are investing £581m upfront in the biggest welfare to work programme this country has ever seen to provide tailored support built around the needs of individuals. Organisations will be paid by results and allowed to develop support that really addresses the needs of jobseekers.

The full Employment and Support Allowance: Work Capability Assessments statistics are available here: http://research.dwp.gov.uk/asd/workingage/index.php?page=esa_wca

£15 million to unlock the 'Potential' of young people in North Wales

2011-07-28T11:40:00.000+01:00

More than 4,000 young people across North West Wales who are at risk of falling out of school or further education are set to benefit from a new £15 million scheme to improve their chances of success, First Minister Carwyn Jones announced today.

The Potensial (Welsh for Potential) initiative will target 11-16 year olds who are facing difficulties such as under achievement or absenteeism. It will help target 16-19 year olds who are already in college but are at risk of dropping out.

Backed with almost £9 million from the Convergence European Social Fund through the Welsh Government, the scheme is being led by Gwynedd Council in collaboration with Anglesey, Denbighshire and Conwy councils along with Coleg Menai, Coleg Llandrillo and Careers Wales.

Aimed at reducing the number of young people becoming NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training), Potensial will provide alternative curriculums and innovative training to motivate students who are experiencing problems learning.

Tailored to the needs of each individual, a range of techniques will be used such as vocational training, one-to-one intensive support and activities to raise self-esteem to encourage them to remain in education and improve their skills.

The project will also provide specialist support for young people with disabilities or who are in care as well as young carers to help them achieve their full learning potential.

Denbighshire Hydro Power Event

2011-07-12T13:33:00.005+01:00

Denbighshire Hydro Club - Cadwyn Clwyd

Venue: Ruthin, Llanfwrog Community Centre

Friday 15^th July 2011

Registrations and Tea and Coffee - 9:30 – 9.55 am

Welcome and Introductions

Silas Jones, Cadwyn Clwyd - 9.55 – 10:15 am

A summary of Denbighshire’s Hydro Power Potential

Simon Taylor,

Renewable Design Consultants (RDC) - 10:15 – 10:45 am

Hydro Power and Abstraction Licences - an Environment Agency Perspective

Jacques Sisson, Environment Agency TBC - 10:45 – 11:15 am

A summary of the Hydro Club member schemes

Simon Taylor, RDC - 11:15 am – 12:00 pm

LUNCH BREAK 12:00 – 12.45pm

(A buffet lunch and refreshments will be provided)

Informal Session - 12:45 – 14:00pm

This gives you the chance to ask any questions of the experts available on the day.

Money health check

2011-07-09T20:06:00.000+01:00

Whatever the situation with your finances, it’s good to know where you stand and that you are making the most of what you have. The health check, a new online money planner from the Money Advice Service, is for everyone.

The Money Advice Service is independent and it’s here to help everyone understand and manage their money better.
It takes just 10 minutes to answer some straightforward questions and the health check will give you a personalised action plan which identifies the top three things you can do to make the most of your money right now, and to plan for future goals.
Best of all - it’s free and it’s unbiased. The Money Advice Service won’t recommend a particular product or provider or try to sell you anything.
Click here to take the health check now. https://healthcheck.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/?

BTCV Engagement Gateway Project – Lone Parents

2011-07-06T10:21:00.000+01:00

This FREE course is aimed at lone parents who are looking for a career in the outdoors, want to learn more about conservation, gain accredited training, or simply gain confidence and improve their health and fitness. We are offering a 5 week course where participants will take part in horticulture and environmental activities in a friendly, sociable setting. The course will also include Skill Build sessions, with help and support into further learning and employment.

Over the 5 weeks participants will:

1. Gain practical environmental and horticulture skills, including environmental art, willow weaving, allotment activities, habitat creation, healthy eating, etc, in various sites around Denbighshire.
2. Improve health, fitness and confidence, meeting new people in a relaxed and friendly environment.
3. Work towards accredited training.
4. Improve job search skills, including CV writing, applications and interview techniques.
5. Receive access to further volunteering opportunities, career advice and training in the local area.

Applicants must be:
- A single parent – living alone with primary responsibility for a child.
- Aged 16 and above.
- Unemployed or economically inactive.
- Reside in Denbighshire.

For more information please contact Alex Fairclough at BTCV on 01978 261538 or email a.fairclough@btcv.org.uk.

North Hoyle Off Shore Wind Farm

2011-07-06T10:12:00.001+01:00

Operated by RWE npower Renewables Limited and Rhyl Community Partnership, Prestatyn and Meliden Community Partnerships Community Fund.

Is your group in need of a grant?
Are you based (or deliver a service) in Rhyl or Prestatyn and Meliden?
Is your group a formally constituted body?

If you have answered yes to the above questions why not apply to the Rhyl or the Prestatyn and Meliden Community Partnerships, who are distributing a total of £45,000 for Rhyl and £30,000 for Prestatyn and Meliden on behalf of the North Hoyle Offshore Wind Farm Community Fund owned and operated by RWE npower renewables.

If your group has a project which will make a lasting difference to the community and you want an application pack, please call in and pick one up:

For: Rhyl Community Partnership, c/o The Clwyd Coast Credit Union, 17-19 Bodfor Street, Rhyl, LL18 1AS.

or

For: Prestatyn and Meliden Community Partnership, c/o First Class Clothes, 12 High Street, Prestatyn, LL19 9BB or the Pop In, Meliden Road, Prestatyn, LL19 9RT.

Or email: rhylcommunitypartnership@yahoo.co.uk

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS is 31st August 2011 and should be returned to:

For: Rhyl Community Partnership, c/o Tynewydd Community Centre, Tynewydd Road, Rhyl, Denbighshire, LL18 3RD.

For: Prestatyn Community Partnership, Pop In, Meliden Road, Prestatyn, Denbighshire, LL19 9RT.

PLEASE DO NOT RETURN THE COMPLETED APPLICATION FORM TO CLWYD COAST CREDIT UNION OR FIRST CLASS CLOTHES.

Flintshire Care & Repair Vacancy

2011-06-29T10:52:00.000+01:00

Senior Administrator
Temporary 6 month contract (initially)
Salary: £16,355

Flintshire Care & Repair require a Senior Administrator for a developing and busy office that provides services to older people and younger disabled adults. The contract will be for 6 months with the potential of a long term contract. The post holder will be expected to oversee a team of administrators whilst providing administrative and finance support. This is a varied position within a fast pace and developing Agency where we are committed to providing a quality service. If you are interested in learning more about this exciting opportunity please contact, Laura Bennett on 01352 758700 or by email laura.bennett@flintshirecr.co.uk. Application forms are available by email or by phone at sharon.harrold@flintshirecr.co.uk or 01352 758700.

£100,000 boost for North Wales coast communities

2011-06-29T10:01:00.000+01:00

Community projects along the North Wales coast are benefiting from over £100,000 of funding as a result of the latest grants from the North Wales Coast Community Fund, Minister for Housing, Regeneration and Heritage Huw Lewis announced
The Community Fund is available for projects in the regeneration area which covers the coast from Mochdre to Prestatyn. The fund amounts to over £1m over the next three years and is the result of a unique partnership between RWE npower renewables (RWE NRL) and the Welsh Government, which offers local groups easy ‘one stop’ access to the fund.

The RWE NRL element of the fund is specifically available to communities between Mochdre to Kinmel Bay as a direct result of the operation of Rhyl Flats Windfarm and is managed by the Welsh Government.
Projects benefiting from this round of funding are:

AFASIC Cymru (All Families Affected by Speech Impaired Children). The group has applied for support for a youth project which helps 11 – 19 year olds with a speech, language and communication need so they can take part in social activities. £2,942 and £7,980 from Rhyl Flats Fund.

Colwyn Bay FC Football in the Community – This not for profit company provides healthy lifestyle courses, afterschool clubs and support employment programmes through the motivational power of football. Since September 2009 they have involved 75 adults and 912 children in their activities. Funding will go towards the purchase of their own portacabins and two computers. £17,024

Colwyn Bay Town Council - The funding will go towards a Participatory Budget scheme which will allow residents to make decisions about funding for their community. £20,000 and £10,000 from Rhyl Flats Fund.

Abergele Youth Action – The group, which has worked with young people since 2001, would like to improve its facilities by providing additional training rooms, an office, community music studio and fully equipped IT training suite. £20,000.

The Benefits Advice Shop – This registered charity has provided a specialist welfare benefit advice and advocacy services for 20 years. It now plans to provide an outreach service to Kinmel Bay, Abergele and Mochdre. £26,100 from the Rhyl Flats Fund.

Huw Lewis said:
“All of the projects which are benefiting from this funding today are providing an important service for their communities and have a positive impact on the area. What makes the Community Fund special is that it is local people who decide where the funding should go. Local people are at the heart of decision-making.
“The Regeneration Area is about working with the communities who are in the area, and know what that area needs. I look forward to seeing the impact this fund has on the coastal area, and I look forward to seeing how these projects develop.”

Kathryn Hall, Community Investment Officer for RWE npower renewables, which built and now operates Rhyl Flats Offshore Wind Farm, said:
“We’re delighted that through the operation of our Rhyl Flats Offshore Wind Farm, and our partnership with the Welsh Government, we’re able to help local communities bring such vital and important projects to life.“These latest awards demonstrate our continuing commitment to supporting the local communities in which we work and operate, and in a way that really works for them. We’re also very pleased to see the level of local engagement in taking up the opportunities available through this fund, and the success of the single application process.”

Access Denbighshire County Council services now on your TV, Mobile, Wii or PC

2011-06-28T18:37:00.001+01:00

You can:

Look for a job
Report a pothole or broken street light
Check leisure centre opening times
Get local news

Find out about Council services
Sky

Go to Community channel (539) and press the RED button.

Virgin Media

Press the Interactive button
Select News & Info
Select Looking Local

Mobiles*

Wii & PC

Insert the following url into your browser:

lookinglocal.gov.uk/denbighshire

* usual mobile network charges will apply

Money issues -cccs is here to help

2011-06-28T18:07:00.000+01:00

If you’re worried about debt, The Consumer Credit Counselling Service Debt Remedy will help you find the best solution. The service is completely free, you don’t have to provide your name and all the advice you receive will be based on your situation. Once you have completed your CCCS Debt Remedy we will provide you with:

Tailored advice from our expert debt counsellors
A personal budget showing your income and outgoings
Practical help to make the most of your money
All you need to do is answer a series of questions about your household, income and outgoings. To do this go online at https://debtremedy.cccs.co.uk/start.aspx

Home Start Fund-raising Evening

2011-06-22T14:13:00.000+01:00

Home Start are holding a fund-raising evening on Friday 24th June 2011 at Brookhouse Mill Marquee, Denbigh. The event will take place from 7.30pm- 11pm.

Join us for an evening celebrating our work in Denbighshire for the last 10 years

Hog Roast, Jazz Band, Auction of Promises, Sale of Hats and Handbags- new and gently used!

Tickets £15- includes food and entertainment.

For more information or to book your ticket, please call 01745 814819.

Denbighshire County Council using art to promote good health

2011-06-22T10:46:00.000+01:00

A COUNCIL and a community group have joined force to use the arts as a way of promoting health and well-being.Denbighshire County Council’s community Arts Service and South West Rhyl Communities First have signed up artist Alison Mercer, who's work challenges and explores the diversity of parental relationships.She has been working with a variety of groups in Rhyl, the Bookstart Parent and Baby and Parent and Toddler groups.With Alison’s help, the Bookstart group members have been busy creating small keepsake quilts, altered babygrows and fabric books. They have also been using safe inks to make prints of their children’s feet and letter stamps to personalise their quilts, along with techniques such as embroidery and stitch.All parents and children who took part in the scheme will return to a workshop with the artist at Rhyl Library today.All of the artwork produced during the workshops will form part of the Arts in Health and Well-being exhibition being held at Rhyl Library Gallery from August until October 2011, alongside Alison's own pre-selected artwork.Community arts development officer Sian Fitzgerald, said: “The work will look amazing and the project is a fantastic opportunity to prove that textile arts and skills can create unique benefits for all participants, whatever their age and ability."

End Wales free school meal stigma, says Joyce Watson AM

2011-06-22T10:02:00.000+01:00

Wales should put an end to the "stigma" children face for claiming free school meals, an assembly member claims.
Joyce Watson, Labour AM for Mid and West Wales, backs a fingerprint ID system of cashless payments to help poorer children.

She is due to launch a debate on the issue in the Senedd on Tuesday and says some pupils are going hungry to avoid being seen to claim free meals.
She says there is a mixed picture on the use of cashless payment systems.

Her office's research indicates that in Denbighshire, for example, all secondary schools use some sort of cashless system, whereas in Anglesey none do.

Most commonly, in schools where children still pay with cash for their dinners, pupils eligible for free meals are given tickets.

The AM believes this makes it easy for such children to be identified and put at risk of bullying.

She recommends rolling out a system by which children have accounts to pay for school dinners which can be topped up either by their parents or by the local authority if they qualify for school meals.

All pupils would then pay for their meals by a biometric reading of their fingerprint at the till without anyone knowing how their account was funded.

Ms Watson said: "68% is the average take up of free school meals where we have a system that identifies against a near 100% where we have a system that doesn't identify those who have free school meals and those who don't.

Sugar levels

She claimed that in schools without a cashless system there were "an awful lot of children simply going hungry" to avoid being seen to have free meals.

"[They] can't concentrate. Their sugar levels fall and their behaviour is also adversely affected by what's happening," she said.

Ms Watson intends to use her short debate during the assembly plenary to remind fellow AMs of a government commitment to roll out such cashless systems.

She said: "[Education Minister Leighton Andrews] did commit to rolling this out by September 2012.
"I want to know that that is happening. And I really think that this archaic practice of identifying children has to stop."

Addressing security concerns, Ms Watson said pupils' fingerprints were stored securely by the company that installed the biometric technology away from the school and could not be accessed by authorities.

One disincentive to move to a biometric system may be the cost, which the AM estimates at up to £30,000 for installation and £2,000 a year for maintenance.

However, Stephen Jones, head teacher of Ysgol Glan-y-Mor in Burry Port, Carmarthenshire, said its piloting of a biometric payment system over the last four years had delivered results.

He said it had cut the time pupils queued for lunches as well as removing any stigma attached to free school meals.

"The children like it," he said.

"It's almost a fun element to having their lunch, the fingerprints.

"It's much quicker so they're happy about that.

"The offshoot, I suppose, would be that parents can actually have computerised printouts of all the food and drink that their children consume and they can keep an eye on whether they're having a healthy diet or not."

My Way, My Life is coming to an area near you!

2011-06-21T11:41:00.001+01:00

On Thursday 21st July 2011, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm, My Way My Life is coming to the Royal Pavillion in Llangollen.

Do you sometimes feel that time is passing you by?

Do you feel you could do more?

Would you like to have more control over your life?

Would you like to have the confidence to just “go out and do it”?

Would you like to find the new you?

Would you like help with training, volunteering or employment opportunities?

If the answer to any of these questions is “YES” then come along to the Pavilion, Llangollen and see what My Life My Way has to offer. Find out how you, like others, can change your lifestyle for the better.

If you would like more information regarding My Life My Way please contact Vicky Hoban or Sandra Jones on 01745 334976.

OCN Music Course

2011-06-17T11:54:00.001+01:00

South West Rhyl Communities First will be holding an OCN accredited music course, open to any 16-25 yr old's living within the Rhyl area, who are not in employment, education or training.

There will be two trained and experienced Community Music tutors, guiding and supporting the beneficiaries through the activity. At the end of the course the participants will have produced original pieces of music and gained accreditation for their achievements.

The music workshops will be available in both English and Welsh.

For more information please contact Sarah Breeze Project Officer on 014286 685248, or by email on sarah.breeze@communitymusicwales.org.uk.

To view the flyer for this event please click here.

* You will be charged for non attendance (£25), if you reserve your place and do not to turn up to the sessions.

Get on your bike!

2011-06-08T12:03:00.002+01:00

Marsh Tracks cycling facility is now officially open. If you would like to book the track for use for your groups please contact Justin Lewis on 01745 353335 or email justin@marshtracks.co.uk.

There are a range of cycles and helmets available for use.
Let's make the most of this fantastic facility in Denbighshire

Can a welfare-to-work scheme get Rhyl back on the job?

2011-06-07T10:56:00.002+01:00

Panorama's Vivian White visited Rhyl on the north Wales coast to meet some of the people affected by the government's planned welfare reforms. In one area of Rhyl, half of the adults are on out-of-work benefits - one of the highest figures in the UK.

Plumb in the centre of this seaside town that was once a popular holiday destination, there is a pub called Last Orders. It is a somewhat challenging name because it happens to be right in the middle of an area where things have gone badly, depressingly wrong. The dire unemployment numbers here are what brought us to Rhyl.
We came to meet some of the people affected and to see what the town itself has done to try to solve its welfare problem.

This month sees the launch of the Work Programme, which pays organisations - from voluntary groups to public and private organisations - incentives if they get people off welfare and into work, as long as they stay in work.

Other changes proposed include replacing six income-related work-based benefits with a single universal credit from 2013.

The government says it will make sure people are always better off in work, there will be an annual benefit cap of about £26,000 per family and those refusing to work face a loss of benefits for up to three years.

Labour MP Chris Ruane was raised in Rhyl and is involved in local back-to-work initiatives.

He arranged for Ray Worsnop, who has worked in markets all his life, to set up the new open-air market in the town centre, where he ran a course which aims to turn people on benefits into market traders.

"I was brought up when there were lots of jobs and I was brought up with work ethic," Mr Worsnop said. "And now that we have two or three generations of unemployed, I'm really worried that the work ethic isn't there."

Mr Worsnop said he hoped teaching others the life of a market trader might make a difference and encourage them to not give up on finding work.

Christine Ibbotson is one of his students in the market experiment.

She is on incapacity benefit as she waits for an operation to treat a chronic wrist problem and says she would much rather be working.

"I'm not staying on the sick, no way, I don't want to," she said, although she added that after being out of the workforce for a long time, she was daunted by the government's move to reassess everyone receiving incapacity benefit with an eye to returning many to work.

"It's not the thought of getting up or anything like that. It's just, I don't know, it is a bit frightening," she said of being reassessed.

'Complete revolution'

MP Mr Ruane was also a key player in creating Rhyl's "City Strategy" which helped to fund a new cafe and restaurant on the waterfront called the Taste Academy.
At the cafe, you will likely be served by, and your food prepared by, people recently on benefits. It is a six-month training scheme and new eatery all in one. It should turn out people poised to find employment in the sector.

But Mr Ruane has a bleakly critical view of the plan for welfare reform: "If you get the big stick out too soon, too early, when there's no jobs there or even worse, when the job opportunities are diminishing, you'll be driving people back on the streets."

Employment Minister Chris Grayling disagrees: "There's absolutely no reason for anyone to end up on the streets as a result of what we're doing."

In the ward of West Rhyl, half of adults are on out-of-work benefit.

Mr Grayling called the government's plans "a complete revolution in welfare to work" and defended the new approach to providing benefits, including the three years' loss of benefit if someone repeatedly turns down jobs that are on offer.

"The only people who put themselves in danger of finding their benefits stop are those who are capable of doing so and wilfully say 'I refuse to engage with the system,'" Mr Grayling said.

Steve Falvey, 21, father to a baby girl, has taken part in the local football club's Strikers programme that aims to boost self-confidence and life skills and get the long-term unemployed used to being on time and organised.

He has already had his benefits reduced under the existing rules for not applying for a job that he did not like the sounds of.

He said he wants to work, but added: "Not any job. I'd have to like the job, like I said."

Panorama: A Job to Get Work, BBC One, Monday, 6 June at 2030BST and then available in the UK on the BBC iPlayer.

Rhyl is still unemployment capital of Wales - North Wales News - News

2011-05-20T18:53:00.000+01:00

According to the Daily Post today, Denbighshire County Council say's that parts of Rhyl are still the unemployment capital of Wales. Click the link below to read more
Rhyl is still unemployment capital of Wales - North Wales News - News

Women Making a Difference - Engendering Change Summer Courses

2011-05-17T15:59:00.002+01:00

For women who want to ‘make a difference’ in their communities and in public life in Wales

Following the success of our previous Engendering Change courses we are delighted to announce the dates and venue of a number of new courses to be held across Wales this summer.

This unique training programme gives women, particularly those women who are currently underrepresented in civic society because of race, religion, disability, sexuality or age the confidence and skills to take a more active role as leaders in their in their community as well as public and political life in Wales. Giving women a voice in the decision making process.

The training is FREE, a crèche is provided (or childcare costs covered) and transport and access costs reimbursed.

May 2011:
Young People’s Engendering Change, Mold, Flintshire
Four consecutive days : 31 May to 3 June (inclusive) between 9.00am - 4.00pm
For young people between the ages of 16 and 21, both male and female.

June 2011:
Engendering Change, The Lighthouse, Llanelli
Tuesdays, 9.30am – 3.00pm starting 7th June for five weeks.

Engendering Change, WEA Swansea
Wednesdays, 9.30am – 3.00pm starting 8th June for five weeks.

July / August 2011:
Engendering Change, Adamsdown Resource Centre, Cardiff
Saturday mornings, starting late July and running through the summer holidays.

Do you have any contacts who would like to enrol on any of these courses? Please feel free to circulate this information to any women (or young men where applicable) you think would be interested in taking part.

For more details and an application form please contact Jane Fisher either by e-mail: wmad@btconnect.com or phone 029 2022 1965.

Closing dates apply and are usually two weeks before the start date of each course. Places are limited - there will be a maximum of 20 on each of the training courses - so it is recommended that places are booked early.

Communities First backs campaign to bring back nit nurses at local school!

2011-05-10T19:28:00.000+01:00

The Step up Project & Staff from Communities First have been supporting a local girl campaigning to bring back the nit nurse. A partnership comprised of communities first, The step up project, Christchurch school, Local parent Kelly Payne and the school nurses raised awareness of the problem at an event today at the school.
To see coverage of the event by ITV Wales go to http://www.itv.com/wales/nit-nurse-return10395/

Saving Money - Energy Best Deal

2011-04-18T20:14:00.000+01:00

Ofgem and Citizens Advice have produced a series of seven short films covering - how to reduce your energy costs and what help is available from both suppliers and Government if you are struggling to pay your energy bills.
The short videos include

•Shopping around for the best energy deal
•How to be energy efficient
•Avoiding debt and disconnection
•Dealing with sales people
•How to make a complaint
•Getting help with your energy bills
•More money in your pocket – consumers talking about the savings they have made thanks to Energy Best Deal
Read more & view the videos at: http://www.ofgem.gov.uk/Consumers/smebd/Pages/smebd.aspx

Is your property at risk of flooding?

2011-04-15T13:29:00.001+01:00

HOW DO I FOUND OUT?
You can check by phoning Floodline on 08459 881188.
Alternatively, you can visiting our website:
www.environment-agency.gov.uk/floodwales and enter your postcode.

I’M AT RISK OF FLOODING, WHAT CAN I DO NOW?
There are many things you can do to prepare your property for flooding. The first step is to sign up to our free Floodline Warnings Direct service either by phone (08459 881188) or online. This enables you to receive a warning of flooding in your local area via phone, text or email. However, it is important to regularly monitor the weather forecast for your area.

There is also information online about how you can protect your property from flooding, or contact Floodline on 08459 881188 for further advice.

WHAT IS THE ENVIRONMENT AGENCY DOING?
We have been given government funding to work with local residents to produce a community flood plan and we are identifying volunteer flood wardens from within the community. The role of volunteer flood warden involves being part of a communication chain between the Environment Agency and the residents of Rhyl. Flood Wardens are not expected to enter flood water or put themselves at risk in any way.

We are looking for community spirited people to help us.

If you wish to become a volunteer flood warden, or are interested in learning more about the role, feel free to contact Sabina Dunkling on 01248 484029 or by e-mail: sabina.dunkling@environment-agency.wales.gov.uk

Denbighshire’s Adult Placement Scheme

2011-04-08T14:07:00.000+01:00

Have you ever considered giving support to a vulnerable person? Throughout Denbighshire, there are men and women who need support and guidance for a variety of reasons. The adult placement scheme is all about finding people who want to be adult placement carers.

The scheme provides a range of services from promoting independence to providing full care and can include: providing somewhere to live, somewhere to stay for a short break, somewhere to go for support during the day or someone to offer support to a vulnerable adult to allow them to live in their own home.

Potential carers will be assessed to make sure they understand what is involved and have the skills to support people. Training may be given if carers feel they would benefit.

In turn, the adult placement team ensures that service users, both carers and cared for, are matched with both sets of needs taken into account. The process is facilitated through introducing both parties and arranging visits, including overnight stays where appropriate.

Once a placement is secured, continual practical and emotional support is given via an Adult Placement Officer, who will visit regularly to make sure things are going well and to help with any potential issues. They will make sure that placement review meetings are held regularly to discuss any concerns.

If you would like to offer your time and support to a young person, or you would like further information about Adult Placements, please contact: Sue Parry, Adult Placement Officer, email: sue.parry@denbighshire.gov.uk or Jacqui Bryan, Registered Manager, email: Jacqui.bryan@denbighshire.gov.uk or write to: Adult Placement Scheme, Unit B7, Trem y Dyffryn, Colomendy Industrial Estate, Denbigh, LL16 5TX. Phone: 01824 712750

More information can also be found on Denbighshire County Council’s website: www.denbighshire.gov.uk.
Service users need to be eighteen and over.

Disability Living Allowance to be replaced with new benefit

2011-04-05T09:07:00.000+01:00

Disabled people will continue to be able to rely on a non-means tested cash benefit as Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is replaced with a new Personal Independence Payment.

The new benefit will continue to help disabled people live independent lives and will for the first time include regular reassessments to ensure that people are getting the right level of support when they need it most.

This follows one of the biggest ever consultations at the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) with more than 5500 responses from disabled people and disability organisations.

Responding to the consultation today, Maria Miller, Minister for Disabled People said:

"Disabled people are at the heart of our welfare reform plans and severely disabled people who need extra help and support will always get it. That’s why we have spent the last few months working closely with disabled people and disability organisations to make sure we are making the right changes to DLA.

"We’ve listened to what they have told us and we will be working with them to make sure that the new Personal Independence Payment does what it should.

"We have also said that we won’t remove the mobility component from care home residents in 2012 and instead we are reviewing the mobility component as part of our wider reforms of DLA."

DLA is paid to help people who cannot do things like walk or wash and dress themselves.

It provides a contribution to the extra costs severely disabled people incur.

DLA is claimed by 3.2 million people at an annual cost of £12bn.

Currently more than 2 million people get the benefit indefinitely which means there is no way of knowing if their condition has changed or if they actually need more help and support.

Nearly a quarter of all working age people on DLA have not had any review of their claim in 10 years.

The Personal Independence Payment can be claimed by disabled people whether they work or not. It will also:

Introduce a more objective assessment of need, which will be developed with the help of disability organisations and disabled people

Allow disabled people to be reassessed over time – something that is lacking in the current system - to ensure everyone receives the correct support if their needs change.

Source - Department for work & pensions

Government asks voluntary organisations to provide work experience placements

2011-03-30T11:30:00.001+01:00

Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Chris Grayling , has called on the voluntary sector to provide work experience placements for young people as part of the government’s Budget pledge to fund 80,000 placements over the next two years.

The government announced in last week’s Budget that it would provide 100,000 work experience places, 80,000 more than at present, to help combat the youth unemployment crisis. Yesterday in Parliament, Grayling called on private, public and voluntary sector organisations to be open to providing these placements.

“We already have apprentices working in the Department (for Work and Pensions), but we as a department will take a lead in providing work experience places - including something like 4,000 throughout the Department per year,” said Grayling.

“We will also actively go out and encourage organisations to come forward and take part in the work experience programme. I hope every company in the country - private, public and voluntary sector organisations - will give young people the chance to take those first steps in the workplace.”

The Department is to spend £20m in the first year and £20m in the second year on funding the placements.

The training of 50,000 apprentices will also be funded by the government in its Budget reforms, and a spokesperson at the Department for Business Innovation and Skills advised that civil society organisations were encouraged to participate.

“It’s not for voluntary roles, they have to be paid, but absolutely, we want apprenticeships to become popular in all disciplines,” he said when asked if the sector was welcome in the new apprenticeship scheme.

Rhyl radio station is one of seven community radio stations to receive grant

2011-03-25T10:24:00.002Z

Seven community radio stations in Wales have received a share of £100,000 from the Welsh Assembly Government’s Community Radio Fund.
The seven stations were chosen for their commitment to their communities in a number of areas, including; encouraging healthy lifestyles, promoting training and social enterprise for excluded and vulnerable people and strengthening cultural and linguistic identity.

Heritage Minister, Alun Ffred Jones said:

“These radio stations play a valuable role reflecting the issues affecting people living in their communities. They also provide opportunities for residents to gain new skills and in some cases employment. Many are doing good work in promoting healthy lifestyles, the Welsh language and social enterprise. I’m very please to announce these grants and to congratulate the stations on the important role they play in their communities.”

The seven community radio stations that were awarded grants are:

GTFM in Pontypridd receives £15,899.
BRFM in Blaenau Gwent receives £16,500.
XS in Neath Prot Talbot receives £10,000.
Tudno FM in Llandudno receives £15,222.
Point FM in Rhyl receives £10,000.
Calon FM in Wrexham receives £16,500.
Bro Radio in the Vale of Glamorgan receives £15,899.

Number of lone parents in Wales who are out of work soars

2011-03-22T09:42:00.000Z

THE number of jobless single parents in Wales has increased by 69% in a year, Government figures have revealed. Figures from the Department of Work and Pensions shows that the number of lone parents claiming jobseekers allowance increased from 2,575 in January 2010 to 4,345 in January 2011.

Charities have called for more help for parents, at a time when there are 6.3 claimants for every job advertised in the job centre.Some of the growth is likely to be down to a change in rules in October, which means lone parents whose youngest child is aged over seven can no longer claim income support, instead of 10 or 11 as it was previously, means new claimants are more likely to have issues with childcare.

Read More http://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/2011/03/19/number-of-lone-parents-in-wales-who-are-out-of-work-soars-91466-28364507/#ixzz1HGZBhSEd

Zoo project to create new jobs in Wales

2011-03-22T09:21:00.001Z

Job seekers hoping to find local employment opportunities could benefit from a new initiative at the Welsh Mountain Zoo.

The Welsh Assembly has announced funding for a new project that will provide new jobs, training opportunities and community facilities at the attraction, as well as adding a new exhibit for visitors.

Work on the new Wales Centre for Wildlife Skills and Education could be set to begin in 2012, thanks to funding from the Welsh Assembly Government’s North Wales Coast Regeneration Area programme.

Additional external investment is also needed to fund the new centre, to be run by the National Zoological Society of Wales, in partnership with Coleg Llandrillo Cymru.

The initiative will feature an all-weather tropical house and science discovery exhibition, alongside a training, skills and education centre. Employment opportunities in teaching and zoology will be created as a result.

In addition, nearby Llandrillo College will run courses in animal and life science in the centre, utilising the space as a community facility for schools and other groups.

Deputy minister for housing and regeneration, Jocelyn Davies says regeneration aims to make the most of what an area has to offer.

She said: "The zoo is already a big feature of the North Wales coast and can therefore play a big role in regenerating the area by providing new jobs, training opportunities and community facilities as well as boosting the tourism industry.

"The National Zoo’s development plans look very interesting and I commend them for their intention to develop a facility that will benefit the local area in so many ways. The educational side of the development will provide excellent new training opportunities for people across North Wales in a field where opportunities are limited at the moment."
Boosting the number of tourists visiting the area will also help to benefit the local economy, she added.

The zoo's co-director, Chris Jackson, says growing demand for training and skills in life sciences can open up a range of employment opportunities for people.

He confirmed that the project will create at least 12 new jobs at the attraction, and increase job security for existing employees.

The Wales Centre for Wildlife Skills and Education will add to the zoo's recent development programme – investment in Sea Lion Rock, a new Condor aviary and its Safari Restaurant.

Growth in Wales' manufacturing industry could also boost employment opportunities in the country.

Deputy first minister Ieuan Wyn Jones has told industry leaders that the Welsh Assembly is committed to the future of manufacturing in Wales.

He said Welsh economic policies will focus on the skills of the workforce, which could help create new jobs in the sector.

In addition, he admitted that intense competition from Eastern Europe, China and India means research and development and further training opportunities are essential to continued growth.

Recently firms including Schaeffler, Nuaire in Caerphily, DMM in Llanberis and Control Techniques Drives Ltd in Newtown have all proved successful.

Potential expansion of firms in the sector could be good news for job seekers hoping to secure new employment opportunities in manufacturing.

For more information about the Welsh Mountain Zoo, visit the official website. www.welshmountainzoo.org/

People Power Saved Blue Bins

2011-03-16T09:14:00.000Z

In the face of responses from over 5,000 Denbighshire residents, the Welsh Assembly Government has reversed plans to make the Council ditch its extremely successful Blue Bin recycling service.
In its report published today, Assembly officials said that 4,237 individual responses were received in response to a suggestion that Councils with recycling services different to that suggested could receive cuts in their funding. It reports that, “The majority of these responses originated from a single Local Authority”.
In addition to these individual responses, the Assembly also received a further 16 petitions comprising 1,173 signatures.
The report went on to say that just 14 of the 4,237 responses favoured the Assembly position, but it did not indicate whether these responses were from Denbighshire residents, or not.
A Denbighshire County Council spokesman said: “Thousands of Denbighshire residents contacted the Assembly to say exactly how highly they rated the Council’s recycling scheme. We wish to thank every single person who wrote, telephoned or e-mailed the Assembly in support of the Council’s approach. We hope they are as pleased as we are that their recycling service is safe. It is to their credit that Assembly officials have taken notice of this overwhelming show of public support.”
Denbighshire County Council reported the highest recycling rate of all Welsh Councils in 2009/10 with a rate that was recently revised upwards to 52%. A recycling trade journal reported recently that Denbighshire had the third lowest levels of residual household waste (waste that is not recycled) out of more than 400 United Kingdom Local Authorities.
Coming to the end of this financial year the recycling rate in Denbighshire has increased to around 55%, which could quite possibly make residents the best recyclers in Wales for a second time. With extensions of the x2 service planned for 2011, it is possible that recycling rates could peak at over 60% during the summer.
Welsh Assembly Government’s Response to, and Analysis of, the Consultation of the Draft Municipal Sector Plan Part 1
http://wales.gov.uk/docs/desh/consultation/110310municipalwasteresponseen.pdf

Wales gets volunteering boost

2011-03-09T11:23:00.000Z

Volunteering in Wales has been given a boost with confirmation that a leading grant scheme has been extended to 2012.

WCVA’s Volunteering in Wales Fund has received continued support from the Welsh Assembly Government meaning that organisations will be able to apply for funding to support projects for the next year.

The Fund can offer grants of up to £25,000 to support and develop new volunteers through covering the cost of the volunteer expenses and training; contributions to organisations’ running costs and the recruitment of specialist staff to help support new volunteers.

The deadline to make a grant application is Friday 15 April 2011.

The Fund is currently supporting a diverse range of charities ranging from Women Connect First, Home-Start St Mellons, Pedal Power and Crest Cooperative to Menter Y Felin Uchaf, while helping to widen access to volunteering for under-represented groups.

Mark Bendon, Senior Grant Assessor for the Fund said: ‘We are delighted that the funding has been agreed – the Volunteering in Wales Fund makes a real difference to so many charities in Wales and such a wide-ranging number of charities.

‘These organisations rely on volunteers who need training and support so that they can offer maximum support to their communities and service users.

‘The Fund is helping to ensure that there is professional support for these volunteers. Increasingly many of the organisations we fund offer accredited training and there are numerous examples of volunteers finding employment as a result of their volunteering.

‘In the last year alone, the scheme has helped recruit over 2,000 new volunteers who have contributed more than 200,000 hours to the benefit of Welsh communities.

‘This work would otherwise cost over £3m in economic terms.

‘Demand is always high for this grant and we carefully consider the outputs likely to be achieved by supported groups.

‘Additionally, we encourage applications that support the recruitment of volunteers from the following groups: 16-25 years; 50 years plus; people with disabilities; BME groups and unemployed people.

For further details and an application pack, contact the WCVA Helpdesk on 0800 2888 329 or email help@wcva.org.uk.

Hwb i wirfoddoli yng Nghymru

Cafodd gwirfoddoli yng Nghymru hwb wrth glywed bod cynllun grant blaenllaw wedi cael ei ymestyn tan 2012.

Mae Cronfa Gwirfoddoli yng Nghymru WCVA wedi derbyn cefnogaeth barhaus gan Lywodraeth Cynulliad Cymru, sy’n golygu y bydd mudiadau yn gallu gwneud cais am nawdd i gefnogi prosiectau ar gyfer y flwyddyn nesaf.

Gall y Gronfa gynnig hyd at £25,000 i gefnogi a datblygu gwirfoddolwyr newydd drwy dalu am gost hyfforddiant a threuliau gwirfoddolwyr, cyfrannu at gostau rhedeg mudiadau a recriwtio staff arbenigol i helpu i gefnogi gwirfoddolwyr newydd.

Y dyddiad olaf ar gyfer gwneud cais am grant yw dydd Gwener 15 Ebrill 2011.

Ar hyn o bryd, mae’r Gronfa’n cefnogi amrywiaeth helaeth o elusennau’n amrywio o Women Connect First, Home-Start Llaneirwg, Pedal Power a Chydweithfa’r Crest i Fenter y Felin Uchaf, tra ar yr un pryd agor drws gwirfoddoli i grwpiau nad ydynt wedi’u cynrychioli’n deg.

Dywed Mark Bendon, Uwch Asesydd Grantiau’r Gronfa: ‘Rydym wrth ein bodd bod y nawdd wedi’i gadarnhau – mae’r Gronfa Gwirfoddoli yng Nghymru yn gwneud gwahaniaeth gwirioneddol i gynifer o elusennau yng Nghymru ac elusennau mor wahanol eu naws.

‘Mae’r mudiadau hyn yn dibynnu ar wirfoddolwyr y mae angen hyfforddiant a chefnogaeth arnynt er mwyn iddynt gynnig cymaint o gefnogaeth ag y bo modd i’w cymunedau a’u defnyddwyr gwasanaeth.

‘Mae’r Gronfa yn helpu i sicrhau bod yna gefnogaeth broffesiynol ar gael i’r gwirfoddolwyr hyn. Mae mwy a mwy o’r mudiadau a noddwn yn cynnig hyfforddiant achrededig, ac mae yna enghreifftiau lu o wirfoddolwyr yn dod o hyd i waith cyflogedig yn sgil eu gwaith gwirfoddol.

‘Y llynedd yn unig, mi helpodd y cynllun i recriwtio dros 2,000 o wirfoddolwyr newydd sydd wedi cyfrannu dros 200,000 o oriau er budd cymunedau Cymru.

‘Byddai’r gwaith hwn, fel arall, wedi costio rhagor na £3m mewn termau economaidd.

‘Mae galw mawr am y grant yma bob amser ac rydym yn rhoi ystyriaeth fanwl i’r canlyniadau y mae’r grwpiau a gefnogir yn debygol o’u cyflawni.

‘Ar ben hynny, rydym yn annog ceisiadau sy’n cefnogi recriwtio gwirfoddolwyr o’r grwpiau canlynol: pobl ifanc 16-25 oed; pobl 50 oed a drosodd; pobl ag anableddau; grwpiau BME a phobl ddi-waith.

I gael mwy o fanylion a phecyn ymgeisio, cysylltwch â Desg Gymorth WCVA ar 0800 2888 329 neu anfonwch e-bost at help@wcva.org.uk

Changes to crisis loans - protecting the vulnerable.

2011-03-07T10:13:00.001Z

Urgent restrictions on Crisis Loans have been announced today in order to protect the discretionary Social Fund budget, which could run out before Christmas if current spending levels continue.

Crisis Loans were set up to meet immediate short-term needs in an emergency. Yet in the last seven years there have been over seven million claims from 400,000 regular users applying for 10 or more crisis loans. Since telephone claims were introduced in 2006 daily spend on the loans has tripled to £1million a day.

From April, the Department for Work and Pensions will no longer pay Crisis Loans for items such as cookers and beds, will limit the amount paid for living expenses and will set a cap of three Crisis Loans for general living expenses in a rolling year.

Minister for Pensions, Steve Webb said:

"It is clear that the system is acting as a sticking plaster that isn’t addressing the real problems that people are facing. We need to ensure that crisis loan support is correctly targeted at those who need it most and ensure we can still afford to pay Budgeting Loans. That’s why we’ve taken urgent action today to protect the budget.

"We don’t want to leave people on low incomes without the safety net of interest-free Budgeting Loans and then turning to loan sharks for help."

Budgeting Loans are intended to help long-term income-related benefit recipients cope with the cost of essential items like furniture and household equipment. If spending continued, money for them would run out by Christmas.

The planned changes to the Crisis Loan system from April 2011 are:

No longer paying Crisis Loans for items such as cookers and beds. There will be some residual support for people following a disaster such as flooding.

We will reduce the rate paid for living expenses from 75 per cent down to 60 per cent of benefit rate. This will align with the position for Jobseekers Allowance cases paid at the hardship rate.

We will implement a cap of three Crisis Loan awards for general living expenses in a rolling twelve month period. This policy was tested by Jobcentre Plus in 2009-10.

Social Fund: the current scheme

The Social Fund currently consists of a discretionary and a regulated scheme.

Discretionary Scheme: Community Care Grants, Budgeting Loans and Crisis Loans.

Regulated Scheme: Cold Weather Payments, Funeral Payments, Sure Start Maternity Grants and Winter Fuel Payments.

Social Fund: reform

We have already announced as part of wider welfare reform that the discretionary elements will be reformed from 2013.

The Welfare Reform White Paper announced that local authorities in England will deliver reformed support to replace Community Care Grants and Crisis Loans for general living expense.

Crisis Loan alignment payments, interim payments of benefit and Budgeting Loans will be replaced by a system of payments on account integrated into benefits.

Replacing Community Care Grants and Crisis Loans with provision tailored to local services and integrated with wider support will ensure support properly targeted at those in the greatest need.

Charities attack new limits on emergency welfare loans

2011-03-07T10:03:00.000Z

Crisis loans for the poor, small cash awards that tide over people in dire need, are to be cut, in a move criticised by charities, with one describing it as "cutting holes in the final layer of the safety net for families".

Averaging £100, the loans are meant to help the poorest people on benefits through difficult times. From April, the Department for Work and Pensions will limit the number of crisis loans in a year to three and no longer provide cash for items such as cookers and beds. It will cut the amount of money available to claimants from 75% to 60% of the total benefits they can be paid.

Ministers say the system has become unaffordable and claim the loans are not being used by people to lift themselves out of trouble. Instead, people keep coming back for more cash. In the past year, 2.7m crisis loans were given, with more than 17,000 people receiving 10 or more such loans. The daily bill to the taxpayer for emergency credit is £1m.

Borrowers are expected to repay the loan only after their crisis is over, with the money being deducted from their weekly benefits at either 12%, 10% or 5% interest over two years.

Steve Webb, the minister for pensions, said: "It is clear that the system is acting as a sticking plaster that isn't addressing the real problems that people are facing. We need to ensure that crisis loan support is correctly targeted at those who need it most. That's why we've taken urgent action to protect the budget."

Charities said the government was attempting to cast the loans as "sticking plaster" rather than "a vital part of the welfare state" in an attempt to cut costs. The result, say campaigners, will be misery for poor families.

Alison Garnham, chief executive of the Child Poverty Action Group, said she was shocked that ministers would "cut holes in the final layer of the safety net for families hit by a crisis".

She said: "Most worrying of all is the lack of any mention in the minister's statement of how the wellbeing of children will be protected when families are left in utter destitution by the removal of their right to a crisis loan."

Garnham said people often needed the loans because of delays in benefit payments. "Ministers have to accept more responsibility for the rise in crisis loan applications. It is under their instructions that people are told to apply for a crisis loan when delays happen to benefit claims," she said.

Many charities had feared cuts to cash loans would be made after ministerial sources briefed the tabloid press that the system was being abused by people using the money to pay for nights out. There were also claims that the money was never repaid.

Helen Dent, chief executive of Family Action, said: "Cracking down on crisis loans is another nail in the coffin of the welfare safety net for families in crisis. We know from our welfare grants scheme that cookers and beds are vital for women fleeing domestic violence or patients waiting in a hospital bed so that they can move to safe independent living."

£1.17m to redevelop Rhyl’s cinema and surrounding area

2011-03-07T09:49:00.000Z

Filmgoers in Rhyl will soon enjoy 3D digital technology and more luxurious surroundings thanks to £1.17m of funding from the Welsh Assembly Government’s North Wales Coast Regeneration Area programme.

The money has been awarded to Denbighshire County Council to support the redevelopment of the Apollo Cinema and surrounding area of Rhyl Promenade, Deputy Minister for Housing and Regeneration, Jocelyn Davies AM has announced.

Improvements at the 5 screen Apollo Cinema will include new seating and modernised, all 3D-enabled auditoria as well as upgraded digital technology. The public areas of the cinema will also be upgraded to include concession outlets and two new terraces will be created which will be open to the public.

The funding will also cover works to the promenade area which will include a refurbishing the public parking area outside the cinema and Skytower and enhancing the public realm. An entertainment plaza which will be used for a variety of events, such as open air cinema, live entertainment, a ‘Winter Wonderland’ Christmas festival, and community activities will also be created.

The Deputy Minister said:

“I am delighted to announce this funding for the Apollo Cinema in Rhyl and the surrounding area.

“This project is very important to Rhyl as it will provide a catalyst for investment and attract other businesses to West Rhyl, which is recognised as the most deprived area in Wales as well as securing the jobs of people currently employed at the cinema.

“The public areas around the cinema will also be improved, and will provide facilities for large scale events which will help to attract visitors to the town.”

Denbighshire’s Cabinet Lead Member for Regeneration, Councillor David Thomas, said:

“This is excellent news for Rhyl as a whole and will greatly improve the visitor offer for tourists and residents alike. Regeneration is one of Denbighshire’s top priorities and the Authority has contributed £237,000 to the scheme which will play an integral role in regenerating the town.”

Rob Arthur, Managing Director, Apollo Cinemas, adds:

“This landmark partnership with the Welsh Assembly and local council will allow us to bring the cinema into the 21st century and offer the very best entertainment to the local community.

“We have always believed that to best serve Rhyl’s entertainment needs, it is key that we develop not only the cinema, but also the surrounding area. This redevelopment will enable us to build an unrivalled entertainment complex at the heart of Rhyl’s community.”

The cinema will close its doors on Sunday February 27th and the work, which is expected to take 18 weeks, will begin on Monday February 28th, with the cinema reopening in July 2011.

The money has been awarded to Denbighshire County Council to support the redevelopment of the Apollo Cinema and surrounding area of Rhyl Promenade, Deputy Minister for Housing and Regeneration, Jocelyn Davies AM has announced.

Improvements at the 5 screen Apollo Cinema will include new seating and modernised, all 3D-enabled auditoria as well as upgraded digital technology. The public areas of the cinema will also be upgraded to include concession outlets and two new terraces will be created which will be open to the public.

The funding will also cover works to the promenade area which will include a refurbishing the public parking area outside the cinema and Skytower and enhancing the public realm. An entertainment plaza which will be used for a variety of events, such as open air cinema, live entertainment, a ‘Winter Wonderland’ Christmas festival, and community activities will also be created.

The Deputy Minister said:

“I am delighted to announce this funding for the Apollo Cinema in Rhyl and the surrounding area.

“This project is very important to Rhyl as it will provide a catalyst for investment and attract other businesses to West Rhyl, which is recognised as the most deprived area in Wales as well as securing the jobs of people currently employed at the cinema.

“The public areas around the cinema will also be improved, and will provide facilities for large scale events which will help to attract visitors to the town.”

Denbighshire’s Cabinet Lead Member for Regeneration, Councillor David Thomas, said:

“This is excellent news for Rhyl as a whole and will greatly improve the visitor offer for tourists and residents alike. Regeneration is one of Denbighshire’s top priorities and the Authority has contributed £237,000 to the scheme which will play an integral role in regenerating the town.”

Rob Arthur, Managing Director, Apollo Cinemas, adds:

“This landmark partnership with the Welsh Assembly and local council will allow us to bring the cinema into the 21st century and offer the very best entertainment to the local community.

“We have always believed that to best serve Rhyl’s entertainment needs, it is key that we develop not only the cinema, but also the surrounding area. This redevelopment will enable us to build an unrivalled entertainment complex at the heart of Rhyl’s community.”

The cinema will close its doors on Sunday February 27th and the work, which is expected to take 18 weeks, will begin on Monday February 28th, with the cinema reopening in July 2011.

Looking to go into work or start your own business?

2011-03-07T09:39:00.000Z

A project that supports women who are out of work, to gain the confidence and skills to help them into employment or set up their own business starts soon. Childcare and transport costs are funded, subject to criteria.
See flyer below:

MAES RHYL MARCH

17,000 children in North and Mid Wales in deep poverty

2011-02-24T10:40:00.000Z

AROUND 17,000 children in North and mid Wales are living in the deepest poverty, a shocking study has found. Gwynedd and Denbighshire are worst hit in the region with a staggering 15% of children living below the poverty line.Severe poverty for youngsters is also high in Anglesey and Conwy, where 14% of families are too poor to give a decent childhood.
The study estimates 13% of children in Wrexham and 11% in Flintshire are affected.

Save the Children called on the Chancellor to draw up an emergency plan to in the next budget to channel new jobs into the poorest areas, as well as increase financial support for low-income families.

Andrew Chalinder, head of Save the Children in Wales said: "Children up and down the country are going to sleep at night in homes with no heating, without eating a proper meal and without proper school uniforms to put on in the morning.

“No child should be born without a chance. It is a scandal that so many children in Wales are growing up in severe poverty."

Families in severe poverty, added Mr Chalinder, are going without the things many take for granted such as separate bedrooms for older boys and girls, not being able to properly celebrate birthdays or special events and not being able to build friendships by having children round for tea.

At present, the UK government has no official way to measure how many children are caught up in severe child poverty.

Save the Children said they classes severe poverty as being a lone-parent family with one child aged under 14 living on an income of less than £7,000, or a couple with two children under 14 on less than £12,500.

The Welsh authority with the highest rate of severe child poverty is Blaenau Gwent, where the estimate is one in five children (20%).

Mr Chalinder added: "If the UK government is to fulfil its commitments on child poverty, it must find a way of counting these children in greatest need. At the moment, the needs of these children aren’t fully recognised. If these children are to have a future, we must acknowledge their desperate need and urgently target government help towards them.

“Here in Wales we welcome the Welsh Assembly Government’s commitment to end child poverty by 2020 through the launch of the Child Poverty Strategy.

“But we further urge the Assembly government, local authorities and public bodies to establish a severe child poverty focus as part of their local child poverty strategies. This will help ensure that policy benefits those children experiencing the most intense and severe poverty"

North Wales Ambassador Club

2011-02-22T11:05:00.000Z

Whizz-Kidz is about giving disabled children and young people the independence to enjoy an active childhood – at home, at school and at play. We focus on each disabled child’s individual needs, taking into account their clinical, social, educational and developmental needs. Being independent and in control of when and where they want to go takes young disabled people from isolation to inclusion and gives them the chance to enjoy a more active childhood and realise their true potential.

The ethos of the Ambassador Clubs is ‘fun and friendship’ and they run from 10am to 3.30pm on Saturdays and during school holidays. Each day is based on a key theme such as healthy living, creativity or leadership. The programme is designed so that young people can learn key life skills, manage their own regional campaigns, play sports, develop wheelchair skills, take part in drama and music activities, whilst making new friends and having fun. All activities are free and we can also help families by providing reasonable travel expenses.

The project has been designed in consultation with our Ambassador Network. Most clubs are ‘parent free zones’, although we will encourage parents to attend the first club to learn about the activities on offer and to meet Whizz-Kidz staff, PAs and volunteers. All staff are CRB checked and all activities risk assessed prior to the commencement of each club.

Club activities are aimed at young disabled people with no or mild-moderate learning difficulties.

For young disabled people with severe learning difficulties we will offer support and advice, as well as signposting to other relevant organisations and the chance to attend other Whizz-Kidz events.

Whizz-Kidz has secured funding from BIG Lottery to run these clubs across the country over the next four years. The dates for the North Wales Ambassador Club for the next year are overleaf. We hope you will be able to help us promote this exciting opportunity to children and young people in your area.

Why would a young person join?

The Kidz Unlimited programme is designed so that young people can get the most out of being a member of their club. As well as learning new skills and making new friends, young people will have the opportunity to get a work placement, go on days out and even have a chance to attend an awards ceremony at the House of Commons in London!

When they attend for the first time they will receive an Ambassador Club welcome pack including a ruck sack, tee shirt, stickers, and loads of other goodies. All we ask for in return is that young people try and attend as many meetings as possible so they get the most from being an Ambassador. If they attend all eight meetings they will receive some gift vouchers and will automatically be entered into the grand prize draw for an iPod Touch!

Dates & Themes

4th April - Fun and friendship.

21st May - Future Leaderz.

2nd July - Campaigning Day.

13th August - You choose!

24th September - Going for Gold.

29th October - Go Team!

TBC - Healthy Living.

We want to make sure that as many young people as possible have the chance to be part of the Ambassador Network. We hope that you will be able to pass this information on to other colleagues working with children and young people.

If we can send you more leaflets, posters or application forms please email: ambassadors@whizz-kidz.org.uk or call us on 0800 151 3350.

Alternatively you can contact the Wales Ambassador Club Co-ordinator on 07919 066 085 or email z.quraishi@whizz.kidz.org.uk

More than 50,000 in North Wales targeted in welfare reform

2011-02-18T16:38:00.000Z

MORE than 50,000 people in North Wales will be targeted in the most radical shake-up of the welfare system in 60 years.

David Cameron admitted the reforms would be painful, but promised to end the “insidious” benefit culture and slammed the current system.
The Prime Minister’s controversial measures will see benefits stripped from claimants who repeatedly turn down job offers and ensure people are only classed as disabled if they really cannot work.
Critics warned the blueprint will hit vulnerable families – and questioned how it could succeed at a time of rising unemployment in Wales.
The latest government figures show more than 56,000 people in North Wales on out-of-work benefits, including 11,810 in Wrexham, 11,320 in Flintshire and 9,550 in Conwy. There are 8,930 in Denbighshire, 8,660 in Gwynedd and 6,140 in Anglesey.
However Denbighshire has the highest proportion of the population aged between 16 and 64 on benefits, at 15.2%, followed by Anglesey (14.7%), Conwy (14.6%), Wrexham (13.8%), Flintshire (11.8%) and Gwynedd (11.7%).
TUC general secretary Brendan Barber said: “Making low-income working families thousands of pounds worse off through welfare cuts over the next two years to claim that they will be slightly better off in 2013 is an absurd argument that will ring hollow as families suffer the toughest income squeeze for nearly a century.”
But the Prime Minister said: “We're finally going to make work pay – especially for the poorest people in society."
The proposals include replacing nearly all existing benefits with a universal credit - designed to ensure people are always better off when they are employed, and close the loophole where some couples receive more living apart.
Those who refuse to take up job offers face losing their handouts for up to three years.
Mr Cameron also announced moves to tackle the UK's "sicknote culture".
But ministers ditched controversial proposals to cut housing benefit by 10% for anyone on jobseeker's allowance for more than 12 months.
Mr Cameron said the reforms would slash £5.5 billion from the welfare bill in real terms over four years.
Welsh Secretary Cheryl Gillan said thousands of Welsh households would be better off, and lift many of its poorest families out of poverty.
“Too many families in Wales are caught in the trap of benefit dependency,” she said.
“This is bad for the benefit recipients, bad for Welsh communities and bad for Wales.”
But Vale of Clwyd MP Chris Ruane MP slammed the reform plans: “It’s a policy that doesn’t make sense at a time when the government is planning enormous job losses in the public sector, which employs 46% of people in the Vale of Clwyd and 45% in Clwyd West.”
Plaid Cymru spokesman Hywel Williams, Arfon MP, welcomed the U-turn on housing benefits, saying it was a “callous” proposal.
But he added: “While the ConDem coalition pushes ahead with slashing public sector jobs too, it cannot expect jobs to just magically appear.”
Lynne Evans, Head of Supported Housing for North Wales Housing Association, said: “Many of our residents work hard to try to get jobs and our staff work hard to support them to succeed. Lots of them give their time and efforts as volunteers, attend training programmes, and make great efforts to improve their job prospects.
“It would have been so unfair if they had lost housing benefit, and potentially lost their home, if they still had not got a job after 12 months trying.”
Business chiefs have welcomed the controversial proposals.
Regional director for the Welsh CBI David Rosser said: “We welcome the government’s plans to get people off benefits and into long-term employment, and to tackle long-term sickness.”
Rhyl City Strategy board chairman Barry Mellor gave a cautious welcome to the plans.
He said: “There is a small, hardcore minority who could work but don’t want to work and if these reforms get them into jobs I would support that. But, there are people who have been out of work, some for a long time but, need a bit of help and encouragement.”

Welfare Reform Bill: restoring the welfare system to make work pay

2011-02-17T20:01:00.000Z

Launching the Welfare Reform Bill with the Prime Minister today, Iain Duncan Smith hailed what promises to be the biggest shake up of the system for 60 years.

Central to the Bill will be the introduction of Universal Credit, which will simplify a benefits system that has become unmanageable, make work pay and help release millions of people from the misery of welfare dependency and break intergenerational cycles of worklessness.

These changes will mean:

2.7 million households are better off.
Over 1 million households seeing an increase in their weekly income of £25 with 85 per cent of this increase going to the poorest families in the country.
Nearly 1 million people out of poverty including 350,000 children.
The Bill will radically reshape Britain’s welfare system for the next sixty years by:

sweeping away the patchwork of benefits and credits and replacing them with a Universal Credit to make work pay;
introducing a proper system of conditionality and make sure that unscrupulous individuals are not able to abuse or defraud the system;
a Personal Independence Payment for disabled people targeting support at those who really need it;
a new system of child support which puts the interest of the child first;
introducing new powers to tackle the problem of fraud and error.
From this summer Ministers will also bring in the biggest back to work programme since the war helping millions of people get into jobs. Delivered by private and voluntary sector organisations, the Work Programme will end the culture of a one size fits all approach.

Announcing the Bill Iain Duncan Smith said:

"The welfare system was created to meet the demand for a fairer society. Today, this Bill will seek to restore the welfare system to those founding principles."

"Our reforms will end the absurdity of a system where people too often get rewarded for doing the wrong thing, and those who strive to do the best by their families get penalised.

"The publication of the Welfare Reform Bill will put work, rather than hand-outs, at the heart of the welfare system. It will ensure that we continue to provide appropriate support for those genuinely unable to work, as we must and as we should. And it will provide a fair deal for the taxpayer."

Alongside the publication of the Bill, the Prime Minister and Secretary of State announced a review into the sickness absence system. With 300,000 people off work every year claiming sickness-related benefits, the Government has asked David Frost and Dame Carol Black to consider whether with the right help and support more people could stay in work in some form.

The Welfare Reform Bill will include:

Universal Credit, which will make more than two and a half million of the poorest people in Britain better off. At its heart, the Universal Credit has a simple ambition – to make work pay, especially for the poorest. This will finally make it easier for people to see they will be consistently and transparently better off for each hour they work and every pound they earn.

The Personal Independence Payment which will replace Disability Living Allowance with a new, more transparent and sustainable benefit fit for the 21st century. It will be supported by a new assessment which makes greater use of evidence, enabling us to more accurately and consistently assess individuals to determine who will benefit most from additional support.

By 2012 we will also have new powers to tackle the problem of fraud and error, which under the current system is highly susceptible – costing the taxpayer around £5.2bn a year. The new measures include, tougher one-strike, two-strike and three-strike rules, with a benefit ban of 3 years for people who offend repeatedly. A single investigation service and a new mobile regional taskforce will be set up to investigate each and every claim in high fraud areas, along with Civil Penalties - £50 for more minor offences.

With Housing Benefit expenditure spiralling out of control for over a decade, it’s absolutely vital that we take urgent steps to return fairness to the system to make sure that people on benefits make the same choices about the homes they rent as hard working families have to make.

It is not reasonable that households on out of work benefits should receive a greater income from the state than the average working household receives in wages. We will therefore introduce a cap, linked to average weekly earnings, which will limit the amount of benefits a household can receive.

The Welfare Reform Bill will time-limit contributory Employment Support Allowance to 12 months for those who are able to prepare for work. Those with low or no other sources of income would qualify for income-related Employment Support Allowance once their contributory ESA had ended. This underlines the principle that ESA claimants are expected to move towards the workplace and will reduce long-term inactivity or benefit dependency.

The bill is published at:
http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201011/cmbills/154/11154.pdf

http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201011/cmbills/154/en/11154en.pdf

Protection of Freedoms bill announcement

2011-02-15T10:08:00.004Z

You may now be aware that the government has today unveiled its Protection of Freedoms Bill which aims to clarify the process of vetting for those who work with children and vulnerable adults.
The Bill seeks to scale back the vetting and barring scheme and criminal records regime to common-sense levels while ensuring vulnerable groups are appropriately protected and the proposals include:

merging the CRB and ISA to form a streamlined new body providing a proportionate barring and criminal records checking service
a large reduction in the number of positions requiring checks. Only those working closely and regularly with children and vulnerable adults will need them
portability of criminal record checks between jobs to cut down on needless bureaucracy
an end to a requirement for those working or volunteering with vulnerable groups to register with the VBS and then be continuously monitored
stopping employers who knowingly request criminal records checks on individuals who are not entitled to them.

The press release is available at http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/media-centre/news/criminal-record-checks
To access the Protection of Freedoms Bill http://services.parliament.uk/bills/2010-11/protectionoffreedoms.html

Other relevant information:
http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/crime/vetting-barring-scheme/
http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/publications/crime/vbs-report
http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/publications/crime/criminal-records-review-phase1/

Justice for All - Love Legal Aid

2011-02-15T10:01:00.000Z

Justice for All is the campaign to ensure everyone is treated fairly under the law, no matter who they are, how much money they have or where they live. We believe free, independent advice and representation on legal matters is essential to achieve justice for all. We are a coalition of legal and advice agencies, politicians, trade unions, community groups and members of the public.

What we're about:

We value justice for all because community legal and advice services help the most vulnerable in a community get treated fairly.
We value justice for all because the right advice early on can save £10 for every £1 invested and keep families together in their homes, and in work and education.
We want justice for all, yet demand for advice is outstripping supply.
We want justice for all, yet it is becoming increasingly difficult to get expert advice and representation.

To achieve Justice for all:

•We need advisers to be free to advise on any problem, where and when they are needed.
•We need adequate levels of government spending on legal aid, but spent on services not on wasteful systems.

Contact us

Want to get in touch with Justice for All?
Email us at: campaign@justice-for-all.org.uk
Press enquiries e-mail: press@justice-for-all.org.uk

or call Justice for All's press spokespeople:
Citizens Advice - 020 7833 7078 (Press enquiries only)
Law Centres Federation - 0207 842 0736 (Press enquiries only)

Who am I contacting?

The Justice for All coordinated by a steering group comprised of founding members and representative organisations who believe in justice for all. The steering group shares responsibility for responding to all enquiries. For more information on the steering group, please email us.

Blue badge drivers face new medical tests

2011-02-14T18:55:00.001Z

Disabled drivers face tough new medical tests before they can get Blue Badges for parking, in a Government clampdown on abuse of the scheme.
Around 2.5 million people currently pay councils in England and Wales for the badges, which allow free parking in pay-and-display bays, at meters and even on single- and double-yellow lines.

However, ministers estimate that around half of the users are not really entitled to the badges - and the fraud costs town halls millions of pounds a year in lost parking fees and fines.
Under the Government's plans, to be announced within days, councils will be given additional powers to impose checks on applicants similar to those undergone by people claiming disability benefits.
At the same time, ministers will announce an increase in the price of a badge from £2 to £10. The price rise for the badges, which last up to three years, is the first since 1983.
Source: The Telegraph http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/politics/8320554/Blue-badge-drivers-face-new-medical-tests.html