News
Haverfordwest: Demonstration planned to seek Crabb’s resignation as Mencap patron
PEMBROKESHIRE People’s Assembly Against Austerity are organising a demonstration outside Stephen Crabb’s office on Saturday, April 2.
Organisers have said they plan for the demonstration to take place between 1100HRS and 1300HRS in Market Street, Haverfordwest.
Activists will be demanding that Mr. Crabb recognises what they view as “public opinion” and resigns as Pembrokeshire Mencap’s patron.
Stephen Crabb recently voted to cut ESA by £30 for some disabled people.
Despite not going forward with the announced cuts to PIP and announcing there will be no further welfare cuts, Mr Crabb has stood by the cut to ESA appearing to suggest that placing claimants on the lower JSA rate would be to their benefit, but failing to take account of the purpose of ESA to support those with additional support needs for finding work.
Organisers say the reason for the demo is that as there has been no statement from Stephen Crabb’s office, nor Mencap Pembrokeshire indicating that Crabb is to resign as Mencap patron. They say that they have no other option but to press ahead with the demonstration.
An online petition calling for Mr Crabb to resign as patron of Mencap Pembs is close to reaching 12,000 signatures
Jim Scott, who started the petition told The Herald: “There is now overwhelming pressure from all quarters for Crabb to resign this post. The Mencap Facebook page has been inundated with comments requesting that Crabb be removed as their patron.
“A great many people have written and emailed Mencap locally as well as nationally.
“Many people have even said that they will be withholding their donations until this matter is resolved.
“The petition continues to grow.
“Public pressure as well as the efforts of DPAC (Disabled People Against Cuts) has already forced four MP’s to resign their patronages of other disability charities.
“It is just a matter of time now. Mr Crabb simply cannot and will-not get away with voting in Westminster for cuts such as the ESA cut which is a ‘done-deal’ now for Mr Crabb and cannot be ‘undone’ .
“Yet then masquerade as some kind of champion for disabled people while back in Pembrokshire, his game is up! These cuts have already caused widespread poverty, destitution, homelessness and many suicides among our most vulnerable and deserving members of society. Crabb, and all other ESA voting MP’s simply have to go.”
Romayne Phoenix, National Co-Chair of The People’s Assembly said: “With Iain Duncan Smith’s resignation and the government forced to backtrack on Osborne’s disastrous budget, there are many more British people now recognising the hypocrisy of having Tory patrons of these disability charities & charities which focus on care.
“The pressure is on – and Crabb’s appointment looks to have been a mistake made in a hurry that the `Tories will regret for a long time.”
Natalie Bennett – Green Party leader has publically signed the petition. Bennett was joined in by Alice Hooker Stroud – Wales Green Party leader, Chris Overton – Withybush Hospital campaigner and Kay Dearing of SOS (Save our Sixth Forms Pembrokeshire).
Organisers say that organisations who have been invited to Saturdays demonstration include, National People’s Assembly Against Austerity, DPAC (Disabled People Against cuts) and other local disability groups, Wales Green Party, Plaid Cymru, The Labour Party, The Green Party, The Lib-Dems, Plaid for Pride, Welsh Green Pride, TUSC and others.
Last week Stephen Crabb MP posted on his Facebook page following an act of criminal damage to his office in Haverfordwest.
He wrote: “A few days ago my constituency office was vandalised in response to my recent vote to approve changes to the Employment Support Allowance (ESA). This was not an isolated attack as other MPs offices were targeted by individuals involved in a social media campaign.
“I’m disappointed that some individuals choose to do this instead of making an appointment to see me to discuss their concerns. Sadly all these individuals achieved on Saturday was to create an inconvenience to my office staff, local residents, and the Police. There are lots of ways to communicate to convey concerns but criminal damage just isn’t an option.
“There has been a lot of miscommunication about this vote which I want to put right. A decision was taken by MPs to change the benefit awarded to a specific group of people who receive Employment Support Allowance. These people are in the Work Related Activity Group (WRAG) and they do have a disability or illness but are considered able to work with support in the future.
“The overwhelming majority of people in this group say they want to work, and so I think it is right that we do all we can to help them get back into work. The changes mean that this group will now access the same level of benefit as those on Job Seekers Allowance, but will be given better tailored support to help them into employment. It doesn’t affect anyone who is already claiming ESA, they will receive the exactly the same amount of benefit as they do now.
“The truth is that not all disabilities prevent people from working. A great many disabled people get enormous fulfilment from being in work. They would be extremely offended not to be considered equal in the job market, and this benefit change means that more people will be able to take these important steps from being benefit-dependent to the workplace.
“Of course we absolutely continue to protect those who are ‘too ill to work’. There is no question about that. Those with the most severe health conditions and disabilities will quite rightly continue to get a higher rate of benefit and support. And despite the political banter from Labour, the disability budget is actually going to be rising by more than £1 billion over the next 5 years which means that more money is being spent in real terms on support for disabled people than at any point under the previous Labour government.”
Thirty packs provide immediate help for families fleeing dangerous situations
A NEW initiative aimed at supporting victims of domestic abuse has seen thirty emergency bags distributed for use across the Dyfed-Powys Police area.
The bags, which contain essential items including toiletries, non-perishable snacks and emergency supplies, are designed to offer immediate practical support to individuals and families forced to flee abusive situations, often with little or nothing.
The scheme forms part of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s wider commitment to improving outcomes for victims and is being delivered in partnership with Dyfed-Powys Police and Dal i Godi, the commissioned Independent Domestic Violence Adviser (IDVA) service.
Dal i Godi provides specialist support to victims at high risk of serious harm, including safety planning and advocacy through the criminal justice process.
Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn said the initiative was already proving its value.
“This is an incredible initiative that I’m proud to support,” he said. “It provides meaningful help to those experiencing trauma and reflects our ongoing work to put victims first.
“Within just a few days of the bags being distributed to the Dal i Godi service, one was given to a victim fleeing a domestic abuse situation, along with a children’s pack to support their young family. That shows just how essential this support can be and how quickly it can make a difference.”
Detective Chief Inspector Llyr Williams, from the Dyfed-Powys Police Vulnerability Hub, said the emergency bags could provide a vital lifeline at critical moments.
“These emergency bags offer support at some of the most difficult moments in a person’s life,” he said.
“The contents provide immediate comfort, dignity and practical help for those leaving their homes in crisis. While simple, they represent an important first step towards safety and recovery.
“We are proud to be working with partners across the Dyfed-Powys area to ensure this support reaches people when they need it most.”
Anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or concerned about someone else, is encouraged to seek help. In an emergency, call 999.
Domestic abuse can also be reported online via Dyfed-Powys Police.
Support services available include Victim Support Dyfed-Powys, which offers free and confidential help to anyone affected by crime, whether or not it has been reported, and Dal i Godi, which provides specialist IDVA support for high-risk victims.
The Live Fear Free Helpline offers 24-hour support for those experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence across Wales.
If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse, please consider reporting it. If you are in danger or need support right away, please call 999.
You can report domestic abuse through the online crime reporting service here: Report domestic abuse | Dyfed-Powys Police.
Support is also available via the below support services:
Victim Support Dyfed-Powys
Free, independent support for anyone affected by crime in the Dyfed-Powys area, whether or not it has been reported to the police.
0300 123 2996
Dal i Godi (IDVA Service)
Specialist support for victims of domestic abuse at high risk, offering safety planning, emotional support, and advocacy with agencies such as police and courts.
01267 221194
Live Fear Free Helpline
24/7 support for anyone experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence.
0808 80 10 800 | Text 07860 077333
Estyn highlights strong leadership, positive attitudes and a clear curriculum vision at Ysgol Bro Preseli
A WELSH-medium all-age school in Crymych has been praised by inspectors for fostering a “happy, proud and friendly community,” according to a recent Estyn report.
Inspectors said pupils at Ysgol Bro Preseli show pride in their local area, thrive both academically and socially, and are well prepared for the next stages of their learning.
The school currently has 932 pupils on roll, including 118 in the sixth form, and has operated as an all-age school since 2022.
Estyn found that most pupils demonstrate extremely positive attitudes to learning, treat staff with respect, and listen carefully to the contributions of their peers.
The report also notes that, in almost all cases, teachers show strong subject knowledge. Inspectors highlighted the close and supportive relationships staff build with pupils, alongside the creation of a safe learning environment where pupils are not afraid to make mistakes.
It states: “As a result of a clear strategic direction and detailed planning, teachers provide beneficial practical activities that allow pupils to develop purposeful oracy, reading and writing skills in language sessions and across the other areas of learning and experience.”
Inspectors also praised the school’s clear curriculum vision, rooted in its motto Gwreiddiau a Gorwelion (Roots and Horizons).
“Leaders and teachers provide a coherent curriculum and learning experiences that bridge the primary and secondary sectors effectively,” the report said. “Staff plan stimulating activities and experiences for pupils to learn and deepen their understanding within the areas of learning and experience. This contributes positively to the sense of belonging that permeates the whole curriculum of Ysgol Bro Preseli.”
Headteacher Rhonwen Morris said the report was a reflection of the collective effort across the school community.
“As a successful all-age Welsh-medium school, we are delighted that the report recognises our commitment to excellence and the unique identity that makes Ysgol Bro Preseli so special,” she said.
“Since becoming an all-age school in 2022, our cohesive leadership team and governing body have focused on building a strong foundation based on our values of Welsh ethos, kindness, community and responsibility.
“The report highlights the excellent strategic work of staff at all levels, which is a testament to the shared dedication and vision that drives our school forward.
“It is gratifying that the report reflects what we continuously aim to achieve day in and day out. This achievement belongs to our entire community — staff, pupils, parents and governors — and together we will continue to build on this success and provide the very best education for every pupil.”
SPECSAVERS Pembroke Dock has helped raise £1,600 to support people experiencing homelessness this winter, with all funds going to The Wallich’s winter appeal.
Thirteen stores from North, South and West Wales donated £1 for every customer feedback form completed during November to help The Wallich, Wales’ largest homelessness and rough sleeping charity, continue its vital work.
Supporting more than 8,000 people experiencing or at risk of homelessness across the nation each year, The Wallich runs around 100 diverse projects across 20 local authorities to provide hope, support and solutions to end homelessness.
Funds raised by Specsavers will go directly to the Wallich’s Flexible Assistance Fund, which provides small but vital emergency grants. The grants support people at crucial turning points, helping cover essential costs such as phone credit, rent or food shops.
This initiative is a continuation of Specsavers’ wider homelessness programme, which sees over a hundred Specsavers stores and Home Visits services hold out-of-hours or pop-up clinics and invite people affected by forms of homelessness to use their services for free.
Specsavers’ North Wales regional relationship manager, Martin Lawrence, who helped organise the fundraiser, says: ‘We’re really proud to be supporting The Wallich’s winter appeal at a time when support is needed most.
‘Homelessness affects people in every community and as locally owned and run businesses, Specsavers stores are committed to raising awareness of the issue and supporting people through their toughest moments.
‘We’re excited to build on the success of this fundraiser and strengthen our partnership with The Wallich in the new year.’
Louisa Turner, head of fundraising at The Wallich, adds: ‘Winter can be an incredibly difficult time for people experiencing homelessness and this support from Specsavers will make a real difference.
‘The funds raised will help provide emergency grants at critical moments – whether that’s putting food on the table, helping someone stay connected with their loved ones or preventing someone from losing a safe place to live.
‘This kind of support creates vital turning points and helps people move towards a safer, more secure future.’
Specsavers works year-round with homelessness charities including Crisis, Vision Care and The Big Issue, to improve access to healthcare and advocate for policy change – ensuring people experiencing homelessness can receive free eye tests, glasses and hearing checks.
To find out more about Specsavers or to book an appointment at your local store, visit: https://www.specsavers.co.uk/stores.
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chizy
March 28, 2016 at 1:14 pm
Oh dear, the stratospheric rise to the top is experiencing some turbulence.
And what with his council house upbringing and Thatcher inspired views from such a tender age, I would like to say that I feel for him. But I can’t because I don’t.
And anyway, what’s Labour got to do with it? Your party is in office,your party proposed the cuts,you voted for it,you got ‘promoted’ for being a good egg,even more public opinion goes against you,you backtrack,pretend it was someone else and it didn’t really happen.
Patronising your constituents is not cool Stephen, they are way more clever that you think. People of Pembrokeshire will always recognise a wrong ‘un, like all decent minded people they don’t like being punished for not voting Tory.
Lisa
March 30, 2016 at 7:07 pm
I am exceedingly concerned by the lack of knowledge about living with disability shown in the above article by Mr Crabb.
The UK chose to be a country that supported the rights of disabled people to live, independently, in the community. Calling people ‘benefit dependent’ is erroneous. For people living with disabilities, the Government chose to support them through Disability Living Allowance and the ‘Sickness’ benefits to cover the £550 per week average costs for a disabled person to live and work in the community – rather than in residential homes. The Government has scrapped: DLA, sickness benefits (which have been replaced by smaller PIP and ESA), the Independent Living Fund – these weren’t ‘dependencies’ – these were payments that helped to keep 41% of disabled people in work. They’ve closed specialist remploy factories, got rid of disability access workers and disability access to work scheme funding.
So all these things that kept disabled people employed are gone. Instead you’re going to ‘incentivise’ people by making further cuts to their income after the bedroom tax and sanctions. Who will get their money cut? You could have Parkinsons, or a brain tumour or a learning disability or arthritis. It’ll be the luck of the WCA test.
Disabled people now are not going to think ‘we’re alright, he’ll bring it in for the newly disabled or those who reapply through job loss’. It’s cruel and unfair. Changes to health and social care are supposed to go by the ‘nothing about me without me’ consultation, discussion and planning. When you are making cuts that charities think are reprehensible and you are cutting the ability of the disabled to work, you do not get to call them ‘benefit dependent’ to justify your intolerant behaviour.