Connect with us
Advertisement
Advertisement

Charity

Pembrokeshire charity receives £2,500 to bring most vulnerable together

Published

on

PEMBROKESHIRE’S veterans, most vulnerable and disadvantaged will receive much needed support from The Veterans Community Gallery, a charity working to end social isolation.

The charity has received £2,500 in grants from Tesco’s Stronger Starts scheme to fund hot meals and activities, as well as a minibus service for beneficiaries to attend events.

Beneficiaries will have the chance to meet new people and enjoy a hot meal in Haverfordwest and Pembroke Dock, ensuring they receive a balanced meal at least once a week.

The charity also offers a wraparound service with one-to-one welfare support and guidance, advocacy, and signposting.

CEO and founder, Barry John MBE, said: “We can’t thank the people of Pembrokeshire enough for their votes and Tesco for the grants.

“We work hard to create meaningful engagement, combat poor mental health and social isolation offering care and support to the ex-forces, reservists, and local communities.

“These grants from Tesco let us step it up another gear.

“Our users are often the most vulnerable in society for several reasons. Whether it be due to having mental health problems, living with dementia, learning disabilities and more, they are often marginalised because of these characteristics.

“Offering a meal every Tuesday might be the only time some of the people actually get out of the house and having our own minibus will enable us to pick up people who would otherwise not be able to commute, to meet new people, try new activities and get together with others in the same position.”

The VC Gallery was founded by Barry John MBE after his 24 years of service in the Army. Due to his background and involvement in mental health work, Barry realised the need in the community for a space for people to come and socialise.

The charity currently has over 70 volunteers, many of whom have been supported veterans or in disadvantaged situations themselves.

Claire de Silva, Head of Community at Tesco, said: “It warms my heart to know that there are people in the world who care so much about their community the way that Barry does.

“It is lovely to see that there is a space for everyone in Wales to socialise and meet new people.

“It can become lonely very quickly no matter what your circumstances so charities such as The VC Gallery are incredible in what they do, playing a crucial role in helping to alleviate loneliness and ensuring that no one has to face feeling alone.

“The VC Gallery has been voted for by Tesco customers in two different areas to receive the top grants available, which is testament to their work across Pembrokeshire.”

To find out more about Tesco Stronger Starts go to https://tescostrongerstarts.org.uk/

Charity

Angle RNLI assist in multi-agency search

Published

on

ANGLE Lifeboat was requested to launch at 7:59pm on Friday, December 20 to assist with an ongoing incident at Westfield Pill bridge, Neyland.

The lifeboat made best speed to Neyland Marina, and with a flooding tide was able to access straight through into the upper basin of the marina.

The lifeboat’s inflatable Y boat was deployed with two crew members onboard to commence a search of the shallower water within Westfield Pill up to the weir. The All-Weather Lifeboat began searching around the bridge, before covering all of the accessible marina pontoons.

Also searching were officers from Dyfed Powys Police, including their drone unit, and Coastguard Rescue Teams from Dale, Broad Haven and St Govan’s.

Following nearly two hours of searching, the crew were stood down with nothing found, while the police continued their enquiries.

The lifeboat was back alongside her berth and readied for further service by 10:30pm.

Lifeboat in action at Neyland Marina (Image: Rob Conway/Facebook)
Continue Reading

Charity

Set a New Year Challenge and explore Pembrokeshire for animals in 2025

Published

on

ANIMAL lovers in Pembrokeshire looking to set an exciting goal for 2025 can now sign up for the RSPCA’s fundraising challenges, including the iconic Tour of Pembrokeshire on 24 May 2025.

From scenic bike rides to adrenaline-fueled adventures, the RSPCA is encouraging participants to embrace a challenge that not only benefits their health but also helps animals in need.

Abi Mustard, Events Manager at the RSPCA, said: “If you’re looking for a unique challenge for the New Year, the Tour of Pembrokeshire offers a perfect blend of stunning coastal views, physical endurance, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on animal welfare.”

The Tour of Pembrokeshire is renowned for showcasing some of the most breathtaking routes in Wales, attracting cyclists of all abilities. Participants will navigate challenging climbs, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes, all while raising crucial funds for the RSPCA’s work in rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals across Wales.

Abi added: “Every mile cycled and every pound raised makes a difference. You’ll not only experience the beauty of Pembrokeshire but also become part of a dedicated team working to stop animal cruelty and neglect.”

Why Join the RSPCA Tour of Pembrokeshire Challenge?

  • Personalised support from the RSPCA events team
  • RSPCA branded cycling jersey once fundraising reaches £50
  • Access to a dedicated events Facebook group for tips and encouragement
  • Cheering packs for family and friends on event day

More RSPCA Challenges Across Wales in 2025

  • Chepstow Half Marathon: 26 January
  • ABP Newport Wales Marathon: 13 April
  • Gower Peninsula Challenge: 19–20 July
  • Snowdon Triple: 18–19 August
  • Cardiff Half Marathon: 5 October

Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a first-time fundraiser, the Tour of Pembrokeshire offers an unforgettable experience with a purpose.

To sign up or request a fundraising pack, visit the RSPCA website today and start your journey towards making a difference—for yourself and for animals in need.

Together, let’s make 2025 a year of action, compassion, and achievement.

Continue Reading

Charity

NatWest Cymru encourages customers in Wales to spread Christmas cheer

Published

on

NATWEST has introduced a new way for its customers to support Social Bite in the fight against homelessness this festive season.

Through its mobile app based MyRewards programme, customers can now easily donate their available Rewards (over £5) to buy someone experiencing homelessness a Christmas dinner with Social Bite. NatWest has also pledged to match all donations to any of its 16 MyRewards charities, including Social Bite, up to the value of £50 until 31st December, up to a total of £150,000.

The initiative comes as part of Social Bite’s ‘Festival of Kindness’ – an annual mission that aims to provide 300,000 meals, gifts, and essential items to people who are homeless and vulnerable this Christmas.

NatWest has previously worked with the Scottish charity to open a coffee outlet for colleagues and visitors in its Royal Bank HQ in the capital Edinburgh, as well as launching a public coffee shop at its site at 440 Strand, London.

Since the launch of Festival of Kindness in 2020, Social Bite has successfully distributed 1.1 million meals, gifts, and essentials to people who are homeless during the festive period.

Jessica Shipman, Chair, NatWest Cymru Regional Board, said: “Social Bite makes a positive difference to some of the most vulnerable people in our communities. The festive season often brings into focus the hardship so many face every day.

“We know that people want to help but don’t know how. We’re excited to support Social Bite’s inspiring ‘Festival of Kindness’ initiative, giving our customers a way to gift a homeless person a warm meal.

“We encourage everyone to join in and help make the festive season a little brighter for the most vulnerable in our society.”

Josh Littlejohn MBE, Founder of Social Bite, added: “Social Bite is proud to have had the support of NatWest for a number of years, and together, we’ve made great strides to help people break the cycle of homelessness.

“For many of us, Christmas is a period where we look forward to spending time with friends, family and loved ones. However, the reality is very different for people without a place to call home over the festive season. With homelessness rising across the UK, it’s more important than ever that we do what we can to help people affected by homelessness and food poverty.

“A big thank you to all the wonderful NatWest customers who chose to donate their rewards to Social Bite. Your contribution will make a real difference to someone in need, including a hot meal with all the trimmings in loving company on Christmas Day.”

To find out more about NatWest’s MyRewards and the other charities which are being supported, please visit: https://personal.secure1.natwest.com/app/MyRewards

Information on Social Bite’s Festival can be found: https://www.social-bite.co.uk/

Continue Reading

Crime3 hours ago

Police hunt driver after dog walker killed in Carmarthenshire hit-and-run

A PEDESTRIAN walking his dog has died after being struck in a hit-and-run collision on a Carmarthenshire road on Monday...

Business15 hours ago

Holyhead closure: Storm damage could delay reopening until March

HOLYHEAD port faces an extended closure following significant storm damage, with fears it may not reopen until March. The disruption...

Crime22 hours ago

Begelly man sentenced for carrying metal bar during nightclub fight

A MAN has been sentenced after approaching a Pembrokeshire nightclub armed with a metre-long metal bar. Just after 2:30am on...

Education1 day ago

Respite care facilities at Pembrokeshire school approved

PLANS for a respite care facility at Haverfordwest’s Portfield special school have been approved. An application to Pembrokeshire County Council...

Community3 days ago

Festive celebrations at St Davids Cathedral this weekend

ST DAVIDS Cathedral is set to host two special events on Sunday (Dec 22), offering a blend of joyful participation...

News4 days ago

Ferry accident causes delay on new Dublin-Fishguard route

IRISH Ferries’ Isle of Innisfree sustained damage during arrival on Friday (Dec 20) at Fishguard port. The incident occurred as...

Entertainment5 days ago

River-themed lanterns light up Cardigan in spectacular parade

THOUSANDS of people flocked to Cardigan on Monday (Dec 18) for the much-anticipated Giant Lantern Parade, hosted by Small World...

Business5 days ago

Pembrokeshire care home group hit by £150,000 budget blow

A COMPANY with six care homes in Pembrokeshire has revealed it is facing a £150,000 financial hit due to controversial...

News6 days ago

Rift between Neyland councillors now ‘as wide as Grand Canyon’

THE DIVISIONS within Neyland Town Council deepened further this week after a controversial attempt to block an Extraordinary General Meeting...

Politics6 days ago

Pembrokeshire Long Course Weekend changes could be made

PEMBROKESHIRE’S annual Long Course Weekend triathlon event could be run on a different route in future, in an attempt to...

Popular This Week