Latest news with #AngelaSandles
South Wales Argus
3 days ago
- General
- South Wales Argus
Abergavenny Town of Sanctuary wins award for refugees work
Abergavenny Town of Sanctuary (AToS) received the Nation of Sanctuary Award at the Nation of Sanctuary Awards held at the Coal Exchange in Cardiff on Monday, June 16. The award recognises the group's dedication to supporting sanctuary seekers and refugees in Wales and their efforts to help families access vital services and settle into the community. Mary Ann Brocklesby, leader of Monmouthshire County Council, said: "The Nation of Sanctuary Award not only honours AToS's impactful work but also underscores the importance of community collaboration in supporting refugees and asylum seekers. "Abergavenny Town of Sanctuary is committed to its mission, and Monmouthshire County Council looks forward to supporting its vital work in the coming months and years." Founded in 2016, AToS helps individuals access healthcare, employment, and educational opportunities. One of its key programmes is the English Language Cafe, which offers refugees a chance to improve their language skills and form connections in a welcoming environment. The group also runs a range of social activities, including coach trips, iftars, sports sessions, and the friendship quilt project. In addition to social support, AToS assists refugees in gaining qualifications in sectors such as construction, food service, and driving, and helps refugee-led businesses grow through mentorship and resources. The organisation is also a registered food bank agency, ensuring families receive culturally appropriate food supplies. Cllr Angela Sandles, Monmouthshire County Council's cabinet member for equalities and engagement, said: "It was a privilege to be at the Coal Exchange to see Abergavenny Town of Sanctuary win this well-deserved award. "The expressions on the group members' faces when their name was announced will long stay in my memory." The group has also supported young refugees in achieving GCSE and A-level qualifications, university placements, and sporting success.
South Wales Argus
3 days ago
- General
- South Wales Argus
Survey responses to shape Monmouthshire council services
The feedback was gathered through Monmouthshire County Council's latest residents' survey, carried out in autumn 2024, which asked about everyday life, satisfaction with council services and areas for improvement. A total of 1,465 responses were received. The survey, hosted by Data Cymru, formed part of the National Residents Survey to help councils better understand public perceptions and performance. Councillor Angela Sandles, Monmouthshire County Council's cabinet member for equalities and engagement, said: "Thank you to all the residents who took the time to complete the survey. "Your feedback allows us to better understand what you find the council is doing well and what we need to do to improve our services. "We are committed to engaging with and listening to residents across Monmouthshire." In January 2025, the council launched Let's Talk Monmouthshire, a new engagement platform designed to serve as a central hub for consultations, discussions and other engagement activities. The scheme includes face-to-face events, forums, people's panels and printed materials, aiming to make engagement accessible to all residents and partners. Ms Sandles said: "It's been fantastic to see the number of people registered on Let's Talk Monmouthshire increasing weekly. "By registering, you'll be updated with all the latest opportunities to provide the council feedback through surveys, polls and discussion boards."
South Wales Argus
5 days ago
- General
- South Wales Argus
Free training for Monmouthshire volunteers and groups
Delivered through the BE Community initiative, these sessions aim to empower individuals by providing essential skills and knowledge. The training, which is accessible to all, can be attended either online or in person. In-person training encompasses HABC Food Safety Level 2, PAT Testing, and an Introduction to Social Media with ProMo Cymru, as well as the newly introduced Tummler School. Tummler School is a fun, practical session that aims to help grow a community of volunteers, reduce burnout and bring new energy to a group. In collaboration with ProMo Cymru, BE Community also offers digital skills training, focusing on enhancing digital communication and content creation—essential for today's community groups. Monmouthshire County Council's cabinet member for equalities and engagement, councillor Angela Sandles, said: "Volunteers and community groups play a vital role within our communities, providing services and activities that can enrich our residents' lives. "I've been fortunate to complete several of these courses and have truly enjoyed them. "If you want to enhance your skills to support communities further, please take a look at the courses available." For more information or to register for sessions, visit the Monmouthshire County Council's community training webpage or contact BE Community directly.
South Wales Argus
7 days ago
- Sport
- South Wales Argus
Monmouthshire County Council hosts Playmaker Conferences
More than 650 primary school children from across Abergavenny, Chepstow and Caldicot attended Monmouthshire County Council's annual PlayMaker Conferences, led by the MonLife Sports Development Team. The programme supports primary school pupils as they begin their leadership journeys and celebrates their progress through the PlayMaker scheme. Councillor Angela Sandles, Monmouthshire County Council's cabinet member for engagement and equalities, said: "The PlayMaker Conference is a wonderful opportunity to engage with our young leaders. "It's so fantastic to see these young people develop and grow from Playmakers in year 5 to volunteering in youth work in secondary school and then often starting their careers in sports development in Monmouthshire. "It's an inspiring journey, and a joy to see." Workshops at the conference focused on key topics including play development, active travel, pupil voice, healthy eating, sustainability and water safety. The events were supported by MonLife, the MonLife Leadership Academy, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board and County in the Community, with facilities provided by local comprehensive schools and Abergavenny Rugby Club at Bailey Park. The MonLife Sports Development Team has delivered the Sports Leaders PlayMaker Award throughout the academic year, involving nearly all primary schools in Monmouthshire. Pupils who complete the award contribute to the wellbeing of their school communities by supporting positive activities and leadership. A total of 43 Leadership Academy volunteers supported the events throughout the week, contributing 172 hours of service. The Monmouth Cluster Primary Schools' session was postponed for this academic year due to the weather.
South Wales Argus
13-06-2025
- Business
- South Wales Argus
New train stations for South Wales after major funding boost
Monmouthshire County Council has welcomed a £445 million allocation from the UK Government for rail infrastructure upgrades across Wales. The investment will support recommendations from the South East Wales Transport Commission, including upgrades to the South Wales Mainline and the creation of five new stations. Among the new stations is Magor Walkway, a project championed by the Magor Action Group on Rail (MAGOR), with support from Monmouthshire County Council and councillors John Crook, Angela Sandles, and Frances Taylor. Mary Ann Brocklesby, leader of Monmouthshire County Council, said: "This is a hugely welcome investment that recognises the urgent need to upgrade our transport network here in Wales. "Magor Walkway Station is a project with strong community backing from local councillors, residents, and campaign groups. "I'll continue working with all partners to make sure Monmouthshire sees the benefit of this long-overdue rail project." The new stations are expected to improve connectivity between Cardiff and Bristol for both commuters and leisure travellers. The council said it will continue working with the Welsh Government and neighbouring authorities to deliver other recommendations from the Lord Burns Commission. These include a proposed link road between the M48 and B4245 to enable a park and ride facility at Severn Tunnel Junction railway station. Monmouthshire County Council said it is awaiting further details from the UK Government's Infrastructure Strategy, due to be published next week.
