A NEW community hub will open in Abertridwr later this year for Bryn Aber residents.
Caerphilly-based United Welsh has won planning permission to convert one of the flats there into a new hub for local services.
“We’re delighted to be opening a community-led hub at Bryn Aber,” said Sarah James, a customer involvement manager at United Welsh.
“Our team will be available three days a week to help with housing queries, volunteering and employment opportunities and to offer rent and money advice.
“It’s important that the events at the hub benefit the community, and are things that residents want to participate in. We are encouraging people to get involved and suggest ideas for activities and share any changes they’d like at Bryn Aber.”
Work on the new hub is under way and the facility is expected to open in the summer.
Planning documents submitted to Caerphilly County Borough Council show activities will “predominantly” be held during daytime hours on weekdays, although groups may also be able to meet there in the evening.
Activities such as coffee mornings and peer support groups will be aimed at increasing residents’ wellbeing, and there are plans for reuse and recycling initiatives for school uniforms and a “library of things”.
United Welsh plans to provide guidance on housing, money, and employment – and for children possibilities include an after-school homework club, seasonal events and outdoor activities.
Ms James said the organisation had already hosted some pop-up activities at Bryn Aber – such as cake decorating, arts and crafts, first aid courses and cooking classes – which she said “have been a success”.
Donna, a Bryn Aber resident, said those pop-up events “have given me confidence to try new activities and talk to the other residents, which has helped me with my anxiety”.
She added: “My children also enjoy the activities, and it’s encouraged them to play with the other children on the estate. I’ve seen their confidence grow loads.
“It also helps with the communication between residents and United Welsh, and gives us an opportunity to talk about any housing issues or questions we have. I love going and I’ve even started volunteering, which I really enjoy.”
Aber Valley ward councillor John Roberts has also praised the plans for the new hub, which he said would have a positive impact on the area.
“I welcome what they are doing – it should be congratulated,” he said. “We should be bringing communities together.
“It will make the most of the space. Hopefully it will take off and the residents will buy into it. It’s not just for them, it’s theirs.”
