A SUMMIT bringing together key organisations from across Pembrokeshire has highlighted both the scale of local poverty and the work underway to support vulnerable communities.

Around 100 representatives attended Pembrokeshire County Council’s third Tackling Poverty Summit on Thursday (Mar 13), including local authority officers, third sector groups, and national bodies such as the Bevan Foundation.

The event aimed to shine a light on the key challenges facing the county, while strengthening collaboration and identifying practical ways to deliver support where it is most needed.

Focus on collaboration

A strong theme throughout the day was the importance of joined-up working. Discussions around issues such as food poverty and the ‘Words to Action’ project highlighted how better alignment of services and resources can deliver more effective and sustainable support.

Dr Steffan Evans, Chief Executive of the Bevan Foundation, delivered the keynote address, providing national context on poverty in Wales alongside detailed insight into local data. He outlined where targeted action could have the greatest long-term impact in building a more prosperous county.

Workshops, facilitated by Sophie Buckley of PAVS, also marked the start of a review of the county’s Tackling Poverty Strategy. First published in 2023, the strategy is now being reassessed to ensure it reflects current challenges.

Attendees were invited to reflect on progress made to date while also identifying gaps and proposing new ideas to strengthen future action.

Targeted support delivering results

The summit also highlighted practical initiatives already making a difference. In particular, the LIFT (Low Income Family Tracker) pilot has helped identify households missing out on financial support.

Over the past six months, the scheme has generated more than £300,000 in additional income for local families by connecting them with benefits and assistance they were entitled to but not receiving.

Organisers said the results demonstrate the value of a proactive, targeted approach to income maximisation.

Leaders stress ongoing challenge

Cllr Marc Tierney, the council’s anti-poverty champion and Cabinet Member for Young People, Communities and the Wellbeing of Future Generations, said: “What we learned at the summit is that the causes of poverty are complex and remain a challenge, particularly for young people and their families.

“The solutions are complex too and must involve all levels of government doing all they can to support those most in need.

“Pembrokeshire has made tackling poverty a priority, working with the third sector to focus our efforts on where we can make a real difference locally. That work continues, with a strengthened resolve to respond to the experiences of local people and shape what we do next.”

James White, Head of Engagement, Performance and Community, added: “This was Pembrokeshire’s third annual summit, and it is clearly becoming a firm fixture in the calendar.

“The discussions will help inform the refresh of our poverty strategy later this year. Key themes included income maximisation, early intervention, support for families, and making services easier to access.

“Thank you to everyone who attended and to those working year-round to tackle poverty in Pembrokeshire.”

PLANS for a new £100 million school in Milford Haven have been unveiled, but the project has not yet secured full approval and remains subject to further funding decisions.

Pembrokeshire County Council this week released details of the proposed development, alongside a professionally produced video featuring First Minister Eluned Morgan, senior council figures and school leaders outlining the vision for a modern, state-of-the-art school.

The announcement comes just seven weeks before the Senedd election.

The proposed scheme would see the development of a new, purpose-built school designed to provide modern learning environments for pupils across Milford Haven and the surrounding area. Plans include specialist teaching facilities, improved accessibility throughout the site, and enhanced outdoor learning and play areas.

Council officials say the project will also place a strong emphasis on sustainability, incorporating energy-efficient systems and modern building standards aimed at reducing long-term environmental impact and running costs.

Outline stage only

Despite the high-profile launch, the project is currently at Strategic Outline Case (SOC) stage — an early stage in the public sector approval process.

SOC approval means the scheme has been accepted in principle, but key elements — including final costs, detailed design and overall value for money — have not yet been fully assessed.

Crucially, no final funding commitment has yet been made.

Before the project can proceed to construction, it must pass through the full business case (FBC) process. This stage requires detailed financial modelling, technical planning and formal sign-off from funding bodies, including the Welsh Government.

Only if that process is successfully completed will funding be formally approved and delivery authorised.

Political and funding context

Major school developments in Wales are typically delivered through joint funding arrangements between local authorities and the Welsh Government, often under long-term investment programmes aimed at modernising the education estate.

While both council leaders and Welsh Government representatives have expressed support for the Milford Haven project, schemes at SOC stage can still be subject to revision, delay or, in some cases, may not proceed if funding or value-for-money criteria are not met.

Large infrastructure announcements are often made at this stage to outline ambition and begin public engagement, ahead of final decisions on funding and delivery.

Long-running campaign

Cllr Guy Woodham, Cabinet Member for Education, said he had been working towards securing a new school for several years.

He said: “I have been Cabinet Member for Education since 2019 and I have been fighting for a new school for Milford all that time.

“This project represents a major investment in our children’s future and will provide a safe, modern and inclusive environment where pupils can thrive.”

The Welsh Government has also welcomed the plans, describing them as part of its wider programme to improve school facilities across Wales.

Community involvement

The council has confirmed that the next phase of the project will involve consultation and engagement with pupils, staff, parents and local residents.

This process is expected to help shape the detailed design of the school before a full business case is submitted.

Not yet a confirmed build

While the plans have been presented as a significant step forward for education in Milford Haven, the project remains a proposal rather than a confirmed construction scheme.

At this stage, timelines for delivery have not been finalised, and progression will depend on the outcome of the business case process and the availability of funding.

For now, the new school remains an ambition backed in principle — but not yet a guaranteed build.

Cover image:

Delighted with announcement: First Minister, Eluned Morgan MS

PEMBROKE TOWN COUNCIL has appointed Cllr Jonathan Grimes as Mayor Elect for the coming year.

His wife, Cllr Deborah Grimes, will serve as Mayoress, while Cllr Aden Brinn has been elected as Deputy Mayor Elect.

Speaking following his appointment, Cllr Grimes said the role was a great honour.

“Becoming Mayor of Pembroke honestly means so much to me. This town has given me such a strong sense of community, and to be given the chance to serve it in this way is something I will never take for granted.

“While no community is without its challenges, what gives me confidence is the strength and character of our people. Pembroke is home to hardworking, compassionate, and community-minded individuals who care deeply for one another and for the place we are proud to call home.

“There is also much to look forward to, with the ongoing regeneration project and a busy summer ahead. We have energy, ideas, and a real sense of pride in both our history and our future.

“I am excited to get started, working with you all and doing my part to help Pembroke continue moving in the right direction. Thank you for the trust you have placed in me. I am immensely proud to call Pembroke my home, and it is an even greater honour to serve as your Mayor for the year ahead.”