Community

Welsh neighbours band together to rescue Gaza families

Published

10 months ago

March 3, 2024

A GROUP of parents from North Pembrokeshire, have taken it upon themselves to provide aid to families in Gaza, offering a beacon of hope amidst the ongoing crisis.

The community initiative, known as “Cwtch Pals,” aims to secure safe havens for families, particularly those with young children who have been caught in the relentless conflict that has stripped them of their homes, food security, and safety.

The grassroots effort is driven by a deep empathy towards the children in Gaza, with one parent reflecting, “We see our children’s faces in theirs.” The group’s motivation is rooted in a historical consciousness, drawing parallels to the Kindertransport efforts during the Holocaust, where Jewish children were saved by individuals in a similar act of humanitarianism. “It’s the least we can do,” said a mother, whose father was a Holocaust survivor, emphasising the significance of passing on the legacy of kindness and rescue.

The connection between the Welsh group and the families in Gaza is deeply personal, with relationships built over years through platforms like Amnesty International and direct educational engagement. Lara, a member of the initiative, shared her touching story of teaching one of the now-adult children in Gaza, who has since become a wounded reporter. The group is currently focusing on raising £7,000 to complete the evacuation of this family, among others, to safety.

Families that have already received assistance are finding temporary refuge in Egypt, with some members still unable to leave Gaza due to their indispensable roles in the community, such as a doctor who remains to attend to the urgent medical needs despite his family’s worries for his safety.

Cwtch Pals has its origins in Croeso Teifi, a charity response to the Syrian crisis, and benefits from the Community Sponsorship scheme in the UK, a testament to the effective integration of refugees through community-managed schemes. This initiative not only supports the immediate needs of the displaced but also ensures their long-term integration by providing access to education and employment opportunities in Wales.

Despite the dire situation and the UK government’s hesitance to open its arms to Palestinians, the group remains steadfast in its commitment to fill this gap through local action. The initiative is a poignant reminder of the universal values of democracy and humanity, as echoed by a grateful mother in Gaza, who, despite her circumstances, recognises and appreciates the efforts of the Welsh parents. Her words underscore the impact of the initiative, promising to share their stories of kindness and determination with future generations.

The group’s actions are a powerful example of how community solidarity can transcend borders, offering a glimmer of hope and a path to recovery for those in dire need.

For those looking to support or join the effort, Cwtch Pals can be contacted through Facebook or their dedicated email, emphasising the collective power of small communities to make a significant difference in the lives of others across the globe.

Community

Pembrokeshire town 4G phone mast plans withdrawn

Published

3 hours ago

December 20, 2024

Bruce Sinclair - Local Democracy Reporter

PLANS for a replacement 20-metre-high 4G phone mast tower in north Pembrokeshire, which the local town council says would have “an unacceptable adverse impact” on the national park’s beauty have been withdrawn.

In an application before Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Cellnex, through agent Telent, sought permission to replace an existing 10m high mast with a new 20m 4G tower with three Vodafone antennae and nine mast head amplifiers, and associated works, on land at Dwr-y-Felin Farm, Fford Bedd Morris, Newport.

The application for a 4G mobile base station for the mobile network operator(s) (MNOs) Vodafone Ltd in conjunction with Cornerstone. The application site is owned / operated by Cellnex UK, a radio site infrastructure provider.

A supporting statement accompanying the application said: “The proposed antenna height of 20m is essential to provide new 4G coverage and replacement 2G and 3G service provision to the surrounding area. 4G radio signals are more sensitive to physical obstructions than older technologies.

“This is because the higher the frequency band the greater the reduction in signal strength, increasing the likelihood of dropped calls and reduced data rates for internet browsing,” adding: “Generally, the higher the signal frequency the more it will be impacted by clutter. It is for this reason that there is the height of 20m is required.”

It went on to say it “should be noted that a radio base station within this location has already been considered acceptable and has become an established feature within the area and the proposed upgrade albeit different in design to support the latest equipment will not be of substantial or detrimental harm to the national park, conservation area or heritage assets”.

Newport Town Council had objected to the application, saying: “The proposed development (if approved in its current form) will have an unacceptable adverse impact on the qualities and special landscape and seascape character of the National Park and also on the special qualities of natural beauty and tranquillity.”

The application has now been withdrawn.

Community

Castle Ward Pupils Lead Anti-Social Behaviour Art Mural Project

Published

1 day ago

December 19, 2024

Tom Sinclair

HAVERFORDWEST HIGH VC SCHOOL welcomed a visit from County Councillor Thomas Tudor, who expressed his full support for the pupils’ efforts in tackling anti-social behaviour through an innovative Art Mural Project.

Councillor Tudor, representing the Castle Ward, highlighted the significance of the project, noting the area’s past struggles with anti-social behaviour in central commercial zones. “Engaging with pupils to address this issue through art is an extremely exciting venture,” he said.

The project has received a boost with £750 in funding secured from the Youth Bank initiative. Councillor Tudor commended the Youth Workers for their successful funding application, describing it as “a great achievement.”

The mural, spearheaded by pupils from the Youth Room and Haverfordwest High VC School, aims to inspire and engage the community while addressing a vital issue. “This exciting and innovative project will undoubtedly capture the imagination of those involved and reach out to all concerned,” Councillor Tudor added.

The initiative is set to bring a creative approach to community engagement and highlight the power of art in fostering positive change.

Photo caption: Castle Ward inspiration: Councillor Thomas Tudor supports the Art Mural Project (Pic: Suppled)

Community

Tips for coping with Mental Health challenges this Christmas

Published

1 day ago

December 19, 2024

Tom Sinclair

CHRISTMAS is often described as the “most wonderful time of the year,” but for many, it can be a challenging period that impacts mental health. Whether due to stress, loneliness, or financial strain, the festive season is not always a time of joy for everyone. To support those struggling this Christmas, Mind Cymru has shared carefully considered advice to help navigate the season.

Why Christmas Can Be Challenging

For some, the holiday season can feel overwhelming:

Stress and Expectations: The pressure to celebrate amidst personal challenges.
Difficult Memories: Reflecting on the past or worrying about the new year.
Financial Strain: Rising costs making the season harder to enjoy.

Sue O’Leary, Director of Mind Cymru, explains:

“Christmas is a time to celebrate, but it can also be a time of year where our feelings are magnified, and not always in a positive way. Sometimes there are other, less joyous things going on in our lives that make taking time out to be ‘merry and bright’ feel like less of a celebration and more of a challenge. There are so many reasons why someone might not feel like celebrating this Christmas, and we just wanted to remind everyone that it’s ok to feel this way and that there is support available for anyone who may be struggling with their mental health over the festive season.”

Tips from Mind Cymru

Mind Cymru has shared the following tips for managing mental health over Christmas:

Looking After Yourself

Be patient with yourself; it’s understandable to find Christmas difficult.
Set boundaries and say no to things that aren’t helpful.
Take time out to focus on non-Christmas-related activities.
Remember: the season won’t last forever.

Talking to Others

Let people know if you’re struggling.
Access online communities, like Mind’s Side by Side service, for support.
Communicate how others can help and what activities you’re comfortable with.

Managing Relationships

Plan responses to potentially difficult questions ahead of time.
Discuss budgets and schedules with family to reduce stress.
Maintain distance if you must be around people you’d rather avoid.

Planning Ahead

Prepare items that help you feel comfortable, especially in unfamiliar settings.
Avoid triggering environments if possible.
Check the opening hours of key services you may need during Christmas.
Ensure you have enough medication to last the holiday period.
Plan something enjoyable for after Christmas to look forward to.

Where to Find Support

If you’re struggling this Christmas, help is available:

Mind Helplines: Visit www.mind.org.uk/information-support/helplines/ (closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day).
Side by Side Online Community: Available 24/7 at https://sidebyside.mind.org.uk/.
Samaritans: Call 116 123 (freephone). The Welsh language line is open daily from 7pm to 11pm.
SHOUT Crisis Text Service: Text SHOUT to 85258, available 24/7.
Coping with Money Worries: Visit the Mind website for advice.