Tag Archives: community

News

Health and wellbeing events to support North Wales community post-pandemic

EVENTS designed to promote health and wellbeing, charities and small businesses will take place in Ruthin over the coming months.

Denbighshire Voluntary Services Council (DVSC) has lined up online and in-person activities – held at the town’s revamped Market Hall – to support the local community post-pandemic.

Supported by the UK Government’s Community Referral Fund, they include four virtual health, fitness and nutrition workshops beginning today (October 6) with Elen Lloyd, a certified exercise and holistic lifestyle coach with the CHEK Institute, an award-winning education provider.

“I’m a working mother and farmer’s wife so life is always busy, but I believe in a holistic approach to health by moving, eating well and finding time for yourself,” said Elen.

“Over the course of the four sessions I’ll give tips on how to live a healthy and fulfilled life – which is more important than ever given the challenges of the last few years – using the ‘Four Doctors Method’ which covers diet, quiet, happiness and movement.

“These will be simple and realistic changes which could make a big difference to people’s lives, so I hope they will join me to find out more.”

DVSC recently held business development workshops for the county’s market traders and food producers and in the run up to Christmas the Ruthin Market Hall is to host family barbecue and pizza nights, a Wear It Pink cancer awareness coffee morning and a free Halloween disco.

There will also be regular meetings with Ruthin Town Churches, who unite people concerned about their futures and end of life, as part of their Grave Matters series.

Following the unveiling of a new partnership with Ruthin Artisan Markets CIC, which will continue to develop events and exhibitions at the Market Street venue, DVSC Chief Officer Tom Barham said even more will be done to improve the local offering for residents and visitors.

“Ruthin is a vibrant town with a strong sense of community, so we are delighted to announce these upcoming activities,” he added.

“And with the market itself now open on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays we look forward to welcoming even more people and giving independent producers a platform to showcase their products.

“The Market Hall is the beating heart of Ruthin and with the plans we have for the rest of 2022 and beyond that looks set to continue for many years to come.”

Visit www.dvsc.co.uk for more on the DVSC. Alternatively, follow them on Facebook at @DVSCDenbighshire, Instagram @DVSC_Denbighshire and Twitter @DVSC_Wales.

For tickets to the online workshops with Elen Lloyd, visit www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom–denbighshire/elen-lloyd/

News

Young golfers receive boost from Clarion Wealth Planning

A financial planning firm is investing in Cheshire’s top young golfers with a three-year sponsorship of a professional junior coaching programme.

Clarion Wealth Planning is supporting the Cheshire Union of Golf Clubs as it looks to develop the county’s next generation of golfing aces.

Cheshire is the fourth largest golfing county in England and nearly 100 clubs are affiliated to the Union.

Clarion’s sponsorship means that the most promising 11-13-year-olds drawn from affiliated clubs will be offered regular coaching lessons with a professional. The programme starts this month and will be run by Mark Johnson, PGA professional at Styal Golf Club.

Sessions will take place at Styal, Marton Meadows, Mottram Hall and Formby Hall and will provide practical coaching in putting, pitching and wedge shots, trajectory and distance control, as well as areas including match preparation and the importance of nutrition and hydration.

Putting coaching will be provided by a representative from Phil Kenyon Putting Academy. Phil is renowned as a top putting coach and his team has worked with some of the world’s best golfers, including Rory McIlroy.

David Horsey, the north west golfer who plays on the European Tour, will also attend a number of coaching sessions during the programme cycle.

David Durling, chairman of CUGC, said: “Thanks to the sponsorship provided by Clarion, there are many young golfers who will have the opportunity to go through this programme.

“Previously, we have focused on the 14-18s age bracket, but we recognise by that time they need to be better if we are to compete against other counties and produce future world-class stars.

“By offering this opportunity to 11-13-year-olds, they will be on the right track working with some top coaches from an earlier age.

“Few young players make it to Tour, but learning to play golf well gives lifelong value. It teaches self-discipline, concentration, connections, social skills, and a love of fresh air.

“It is a great leveller; I can enjoy a great game with a decent county player – even at my age – with the handicap system.”

Clarion chairman Keith Thompson said: “Investing as early as possible in young players will give them the springboard to the best possible future. Clarion is committed to the concept of supporting young people early on in life so they can reap the rewards of their hard work as they progress.”

Clarion, which is based in Alderley Edge, provides lifelong financial planning to business owners and families across the north west and beyond.

News

Inspiring young carers united in song by community music studio

INSPIRING young carers have been united in song by a not-for-profit music studio.

Children from WCD Young Carers (Wrexham, Conwy and Denbighshire) are attending weekly choir practice at Wrexham Sounds, based in Rhosrobin.

The affordable sessions are held with renowned vocal coach Clementine ‘Clemmy’ Gong and proving to be a big hit with families and the community.

With plans for a possible charity performance on the horizon, spaces are still available to join the group, which is focused on fun and learning in a warm, welcoming environment.

Wrexham Sounds General Manager Olivia Gallagher said the partnership with WCD Young Carers continues to go from strength to strength.

“We’re so pleased to be able to give these talented young people a platform to share their voice and, most importantly, build their confidence,” she added.

“The feedback we’ve received from parents and the group has been glowing, they have really enjoyed the sessions with Clemmy and we’ve had nine young people taking part so far.

“We have room for more, so if there are any young carers from this area who want to come along and join in, please get in touch.”

Wrexham Sounds had already been delivering free music lessons to WCD Young Carers including Maisie Carman, a pupil at Ysgol Dinas Bran, Llangollen.

Maisie, from Cefn Mawr, helps mum Lisa and stepdad Dean look after seven year-old brother Leo, who this year completed treatment for chemotherapy and is making a full recovery while he awaits further tests for autism and anxiety issues.

Leanne Jeffreys, an Outreach Worker at WCD Young Carers, was heartened to see the partnership’s continued development.

She said: “Olivia and the team have been amazing offering the young carers opportunities to express themselves through music and we have seen how this has helped them cope with difficult life circumstances.

“One example of this was a young carer who was really nervous before a GCSE exam but got through this by using the techniques shown to her by Clemmy.

“The children love being in the studio and we see their confidence grow week by week, the sessions are open to all of our registered young carers and we are welcoming new members all the time.”

For more information on the WCD Young Carers choir or to join the team at Wrexham Sounds as a freelance tutor or volunteer, visit www.wrexhamsounds.org and follow them on social media at @wrexhamsounds.

For more on WCD Young Carers call 01597 823800 or email info@wcdyc.org.uk. Alternatively, email www.carers.cymru/wcdyc.

 

Education, Entertainment, Sport, Wrexham

Poetic pupils record rap tribute to Wrexham AFC and Hollywood owners

THAT’S A RAP! An inspiring song written by poetic pupils will live on forever thanks to Wrexham Sounds.

A talented group of more than 80 learners from St Peter’s Primary School in Rossett recorded the track – One Hotdog and a Massive Kit Kat – with representatives from the Rhosrobin music studio and Darren Hughes, director of Pivotal Sound and Lighting.

Written by and starring children from different years, the rap follows Wrexham AFC’s attempt to win the FA Trophy while paying homage to Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, star striker Paul Mullin, and referencing teachers, landmarks, and their favourite things about the city.

Wrexham Sounds General Manager Olivia Gallagher was impressed with the finished result and said: “They were so professional and only needed one take! The rap is amazing, and we were just glad to be able to visit them and record if for posterity.

“They are a credit to Wrexham and I’m sure they’ll all continue to write and produce songs that will have a positive impact on the club and their local community.”

Key Stage Two teacher Rebecca Roberts said the experience of writing and recording the rap – which went viral on social media – is one they will never forget.

“We will all remember this day forever and are so grateful to Wrexham Sounds for their support,” she added.

“The rap started with Year 6 before gaining the attention of other children, so we thought it would be nice for everyone to get involved.

“The noise levels throughout the school were very high at times as it was the first thing we had done together since the beginning of the pandemic; it was a release for the pupils in the end.

“The club is a huge part of the community and what’s happened since the arrival of Rob and Ryan has captured the imagination, which is brilliant and made it a fantastic project to be involved in.”

And finally, where did the unique name come from?

“As a family we go and watch Wrexham AFC and one of the pupils saw me there eating a massive Kit Kat!” said Rebecca.

“He said he really wanted a hot dog, and it went from there – that’s how the rap was born!”

She added: “Their energy, the lyrics, it’s all fantastic and we are so very proud of them, it’s shown them that if they put their minds to it, they can do anything.

“Because of Wrexham Sounds they’ll now be able to listen to the rap for years to come – thank you.”

Since opening its doors in February, not-for-profit Wrexham Sounds has made huge progress in forging new partnerships and securing the services of talented freelance musicians and tutors to deliver lessons and activities across multiple genres to disadvantaged young people.

As well as children and teenagers who are referred via a range of local agencies and educators there are sessions for pupils unable to access music lessons at school.

For more information or to join the team at Wrexham Sounds as a freelance tutor or volunteer, visit www.wrexhamsounds.org and follow them on social media at @wrexhamsounds.

News

Leadership programme supports growth of music studio for disadvantaged kids

A RENOWNED leadership programme hit all the right notes with a talented music studio manager.

Wrexham Sounds has gone from strength to strength since opening its doors in February, providing disadvantaged children and young people with music-based activities, courses and lessons.

Schools, agencies, charities and families use the Rhosrobin-based social enterprise, which draws on a talented team of freelance tutors to deliver its services.

At the helm is General Manager Olivia Gallagher, a member of the current cohort of CMI Level 7 learners on the popular 20Twenty leadership programme, delivered by Bangor University at Holt Lodge, Wrexham, to organisations in north Powys, Flintshire, and Wrexham.

The 26 year-old says the interactive workshops, study sessions and networking with representatives from different industries has been invaluable.

“As Wrexham Sounds grows, I am also growing professionally, learning new things all the time about this sector and gaining vital experience,” said Olivia, a former St Joseph’s High School pupil.

“I thought it would be an interesting programme that could help me develop my leadership and management skills, and that has definitely been the case.

“As well as the online and in-person seminars and workshops I’ve enjoyed interacting and sharing ideas with other members of the group, who come from a variety of backgrounds.”

A former PGCE student at Aberystwyth University, Olivia also has a degree in Interactive Arts from Manchester Metropolitan University and studied at the University of Lapland as part of the Erasmus Programme.

She added: “As an organisation we have formed strong connections in the public and private sectors, as well as with educators, third sector organisations and charities.

“Since opening we’ve made huge strides and as many have during the pandemic, navigated some challenges as well.

“Being on the programme has already given me added confidence and the lessons and guidance I’ve received have had a positive impact on how I approach my role strategically.

“With it also contributing toward an MBA (Master of Business Administration) qualification there are many USPs, and I would definitely encourage other people in leadership roles to sign up.”

20Twenty Business Development Manager Jackie Whittaker said: “It is always heartening to hear how the Leading Growth programmes affected those who take part and the organisations they represent, giving them the tools and techniques to succeed in management.

“I’m delighted for Olivia, we wish her every success with the rest of the course, and in her bright future with Wrexham Sounds.”

The next CMI (Chartered Management Institute) Level 5-7 cohort of senior managers, owners, and directors begins in September.

Places are still available for the programmes – which are 80% funded by the European Social Fund (ESF) through Welsh Government.

For more information and to sign up, email j.whittaker@bangor.ac.uk or visit the website: www.20TwentyBusinessGrowth.com.

News

New Splash Pad and Mini Golf part of £500k vision to transform landmark

A £500,000 vision to transform facilities at a much-loved park has received a boost from a scheme driving post-pandemic economic recovery in Denbighshire.

The Enhance Llangollen Riverside Project is one of 14 initiatives to secure funding from Community Innovation Denbighshire via the UK Community Renewal Fund, matched by Clocaenog Forest Windfarm Fund and led by Cadwyn Clwyd.

Chair of Llangollen Parks Community Group Jessica Evans says the money will be used to commission a feasibility study centred on proposals including a new ‘splash pad’, landscaping, mini golf, renovations to the bandstand, interpretation boards and E-bike charging points.

She thanked Cadwyn Clwyd for their support and said the grant will go a long way to helping them realise their vision.

“As a group of parents and members of the community we became frustrated with the condition of the park and its facilities, some of which are tired and dated,” said Jessica.

“The feasibility study will allow us to look at different options, primarily new play equipment and what options are available, such as the costs and benefits of a splash pad.

“We no longer have any water play or a swimming pool in the area so that will form a big part of our proposals, which will be inclusive and environmentally friendly.”

She added: “The park has a high level of footfall and is a pivotal attraction in dire need of some TLC.

“The splash pad could cost up to £300,000 and the rest of the improvements more than £200,000 so this is a huge project, but very much needed.

“Our ultimate goal is to achieve funding so we can develop the park for the many people who come here every day, and to make it more worthy of its beautiful location.

“A huge thank you to Active Travel, Llangollen Town Council and the group members for their help throughout.”

Cadwyn Clwyd Manager Lowri Owain is delighted they’ve been able to help Llangollen Parks Community Group.

“This is a project that will future-proof the park and its facilities, attracting visitors and providing families with a sustainable, welcoming environment,” she said.

Cadwyn Clwyd’s Natural Resource Officer Sarah Jones added: “We have been able to support some brilliant community organisations and businesses with their ideas, and this is definitely one of them.

“I’m sure the study will support their fantastic plans and have a positive impact for years to come – we wish them every success.”

Community groups and social enterprises can also apply for funding support up to £20,000 for feasibility studies and pilot projects which could form the basis of bids needing further support from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity fund when it launches later this year.

These can be centred around sustainability, green growth and innovations that help the local economy bounce back from the challenges of the Coronavirus.

Community Innovation Denbighshire also provides grants of up to £5,000 to enable businesses to innovate and trial new products, processes, and service delivery. 

For more information, email admin@cadwynclwyd.co.uk or visit the Cadwyn Clwyd website: www.cadwynclwyd.co.uk. Alternatively, call 01490 340500.

Follow the hashtag #UKCOMMUNITYRENEWALFUND on social media.

News

Leading lights in business and coaching to unite for inaugural Wellbeing Festival

LEADING lights in business, coaching and mindfulness will unite for a celebration of health and wellbeing.

The inaugural Wellbeing Mini Festival will be held at the Naylor Leyland Centre in Ruthin – home to Denbighshire Voluntary Services Council (DVSC) – on Wednesday June 29.

Among the speakers are The Empowered Parent Coach and Mentor, Polly O’Leary, Sian Golding, who launched Elysian Coaching gym in Rhyl during the pandemic, and Jamie Sheridan, an entrepreneur and founder of Straits Line, exploring proactive healthcare and how it can prolong working life.

A former primary school teacher, Polly will discuss how her outlook and career transformed dramatically following the birth of daughter, Mila.

Struggling with her own mental health, imposter syndrome and self-doubt, she used negativity as fuel for change and now delivers popular workshops and webinars, writes blogs and children’s books, and holds coaching sessions to help other mums and parents thrive and become the best possible version of themselves.

“My daughter was the catalyst for my own self-development journey,” said Polly, from Dwygyfylchi, near Conwy.

“I began to realise that to help her thrive in life, I was going to have to do some work on myself first, and things changed when I did.

“I look forward to sharing my story and the reason why I do what I do, the things I’ve learned along the way and hopefully some tips and guidance people will find useful.

“I work with mums in particular as that’s my lived experience, and I am passionate about children’s wellbeing, but as a mindset mentor it can be applied to anybody, especially parents who might want to look at their own confidence and self-development.

“Helping to empower them will have a massive impact on the next generation of children, so I’m looking forward to continuing on my journey and being a part of the Wellbeing Festival.”

Jamie, from Anglesey, is also hoping to make a difference to people’s lives via his work developing the ‘Ageing Curve’, a proactive health concept targeting 50-75 year olds in what is now being called the third quartile of ‘the 100-year life’.

“I’ve just turned 50 myself, and as I work in innovation and tech development with a healthcare background, healthy ageing is a really interesting space,” he said.

“With people living longer it’s more important than ever to look at life past 50. How will that time be spent? As well as the financial aspect to no longer working, how active and healthy will you be? Do you take time for yourself, as a couple, with friends or family? It’s a great conversation to have, especially here in North Wales with so many opportunities for living a healthy and fulfilling life.

“I personally don’t like the search for the ‘fountain of youth’ medical treatments but there have been vast technological advances and great innovations in age-tech that can support and enhance wellbeing.

“I look forward to exploring this further with those in attendance and am excited to be part of the event – I hope to see you there.”

Ali Carter, Enterprise, and Investment Manager for DVSC, added: “We are delighted to have such inspirational guest speakers lined up for our first Wellbeing Festival and have curated an interesting and relaxing evening of shared experience, talks and workshops that will I’m sure will be helpful and beneficial for people of all ages looking to improve and enhance their health and wellbeing.”

Visit www.dvsc.co.uk for more on the DVSC. Alternatively, follow them on Facebook at @DVSCDenbighshire, Instagram @DVSC_Denbighshire and Twitter @DVSC_Wales.

To register for the free event, visit Wellbeing Mini Festival at The Naylor Leyland Centre Tickets, Wed 29 Jun 2022 at 18:00 | Eventbrite

News

Leading lights in business and coaching to unite for inaugural Wellbeing Festival

LEADING lights in business, coaching and mindfulness will unite for a celebration of health and wellbeing.

The inaugural Wellbeing Mini Festival will be held at the Naylor Leyland Centre in Ruthin – home to Denbighshire Voluntary Services Council (DVSC) – on Wednesday June 29.

Among the speakers are The Empowered Parent Coach and Mentor, Polly O’Leary, Sian Golding, who launched Elysian Coaching gym in Rhyl during the pandemic, and Jamie Sheridan, an entrepreneur and founder of Straits Line, exploring proactive healthcare and how it can prolong working life.

A former primary school teacher, Polly will discuss how her outlook and career transformed dramatically following the birth of daughter, Mila.

Struggling with her own mental health, imposter syndrome and self-doubt, she used negativity as fuel for change and now delivers popular workshops and webinars, writes blogs and children’s books, and holds coaching sessions to help other mums and parents thrive and become the best possible version of themselves.

“My daughter was the catalyst for my own self-development journey,” said Polly, from Dwygyfylchi, near Conwy.

“I began to realise that to help her thrive in life, I was going to have to do some work on myself first, and things changed when I did.

“I look forward to sharing my story and the reason why I do what I do, the things I’ve learned along the way and hopefully some tips and guidance people will find useful.

“I work with mums in particular as that’s my lived experience, and I am passionate about children’s wellbeing, but as a mindset mentor it can be applied to anybody, especially parents who might want to look at their own confidence and self-development.

“Helping to empower them will have a massive impact on the next generation of children, so I’m looking forward to continuing on my journey and being a part of the Wellbeing Festival.”

Jamie, from Anglesey, is also hoping to make a difference to people’s lives via his work developing the ‘Ageing Curve’, a proactive health concept targeting 50-75 year olds in what is now being called the third quartile of ‘the 100-year life’.

“I’ve just turned 50 myself, and as I work in innovation and tech development with a healthcare background, healthy ageing is a really interesting space,” he said.

“With people living longer it’s more important than ever to look at life past 50. How will that time be spent? As well as the financial aspect to no longer working, how active and healthy will you be? Do you take time for yourself, as a couple, with friends or family? It’s a great conversation to have, especially here in North Wales with so many opportunities for living a healthy and fulfilling life.

“I personally don’t like the search for the ‘fountain of youth’ medical treatments but there have been vast technological advances and great innovations in age-tech that can support and enhance wellbeing.

“I look forward to exploring this further with those in attendance and am excited to be part of the event – I hope to see you there.”

Ali Carter, Enterprise, and Investment Manager for DVSC, added: “We are delighted to have such inspirational guest speakers lined up for our first Wellbeing Festival and have curated an interesting and relaxing evening of shared experience, talks and workshops that will I’m sure will be helpful and beneficial for people of all ages looking to improve and enhance their health and wellbeing.”

Visit www.dvsc.co.uk for more on the DVSC. Alternatively, follow them on Facebook at @DVSCDenbighshire, Instagram @DVSC_Denbighshire and Twitter @DVSC_Wales.

To register for the free event, visit Wellbeing Mini Festival at The Naylor Leyland Centre Tickets, Wed 29 Jun 2022 at 18:00 | Eventbrite

News

Prime Minister’s award for directors of music studio supporting disadvantaged children

LEADING lights at a popular music studio for disadvantaged young people have been lauded for their inspirational work in the community.

Chris Lloyd, Dave Gray and Caroline Richards – volunteer directors of Wrexham Sounds – are recipients of the UK Government’s daily Points of Light Award.

The programme is supported by all members of Parliament, highlighting the contributions that volunteers, charity leaders, campaigners and social enterprises are making in their regions.

The trio will also receive a letter from the Prime Minister, a certificate of achievement and feature on the Points of Light website – www.pointsoflight.gov.uk.

Announcing their success, a spokesperson for the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport said: “I am delighted to let you know that in recognition of your organisation Wrexham Sounds – which provides disadvantaged children with the opportunity to transform their lives through music – you and your fellow board of directors have been recognised as Points of Light.

“The Prime Minister would like to write to you all, personally thanking you for your work – many congratulations again.”

A delighted Chris said: “Wrexham Sounds gives disadvantaged children and young people a way to express themselves, collaborate, learn, develop, and have fun.

“On behalf of the volunteers, staff and freelancers who work tirelessly to make this happen, we are thrilled to receive this recognition.”

Since launching last summer, Wrexham Sounds has made huge progress in forging new partnerships and securing the services of talented freelance musicians and tutors to deliver lessons and activities across multiple genres.

As well as children and teenagers who are referred via a range of local agencies and educators there are sessions for pupils unable to access music lessons at school.

For more information or to join the team at Wrexham Sounds as a freelance tutor or volunteer, visit www.wrexhamsounds.org and follow them on social media at @wrexhamsounds.

News

Young carer inspired by brother’s chemo recovery shines bright with studio support

AN ACCLAIMED music studio is providing young carers and disadvantaged children with free lessons to provide inspiration and an escape from the challenges of everyday life.

Wrexham Sounds has received positive feedback from schools, community groups and health and wellbeing organisations in response to its singing and instrumental workshops.

Among those to benefit was 12 year-old Maisie Carman, a pupil at Ysgol Dinas Bran, Llangollen, who was referred by WCD Young Carers.

Maisie, from Cefn Mawr, helps mum Lisa and stepdad Dean look after seven year-old brother Leo, who has now completed treatment for chemotherapy and is making a full recovery while he awaits further tests for autism and anxiety issues.

She is loving weekly singing lessons with renowned vocal and wellbeing coach Clementine Gong and says being part of Wrexham Sounds helped rebuild her confidence after she “lost her sparkle” during lockdown.

“I absolutely love every second of it, I couldn’t wait to get started and feel so happy when I’m there,” said Maisie.

singing lessons before but really enjoy them and Clemmy is amazing! We practice warming up and she has recommended some great songs which are so much fun to sing.

“I will one hundred million per cent keep singing and in future would love to work as a carer helping other people when they need it most.

“I would definitely encourage other young people to visit Wrexham Sounds, it’s one of the best things I’ve ever done.”

Mum Lisa was so inspired by WCD Young Carers she joined them as an outreach worker.

“Maisie is an incredible little girl, she is so kind and I don’t know what I would do without her,” said Lisa.

“I’m so proud of her and the way she handles everything and supports her brother, even attending hospital visits and being there for him when he struggles with anxiety.

“The way she has thrown herself into the singing lessons and given it everything she’s got is a reflection on how she deals with everyday life. During the pandemic she lost a little bit of her sparkle, as so many children did in lockdown, but she certainly has it back now.

“She is so strong, and an amazing character and we look forward to continuing the lessons with Wrexham Sounds because they have helped her in many ways, especially in building up confidence and giving her a platform to shine even brighter – thank you.”

General Manager Olivia Gallagher said Maisie has made huge progress in the past few weeks and is a star in the making.

“She has come so far in a short amount of time and is an inspiration to us all,” said Olivia.

“Seeing how the lessons have had a positive impact on young people like Maisie is heartening and exactly what Wrexham Sounds is all about.”

She added: “We urge people to get in touch if they want to find out more about the lessons we offer and support available.

“We deliver a range of sessions including piano, drums, guitar, singing and more, and plan to roll out further sessions and workshops in the months ahead.”

For more information or to join the team at Wrexham Sounds as a freelance tutor or volunteer, visit www.wrexhamsounds.org and follow them on social media at @wrexhamsounds.

For more on WCD Young Carers call 01597 823800 or email info@wcdyc.org.uk. Alternatively, email www.carers.cymru/wcdyc.