Community
‘No woman today should have to give birth in a stable’
AS CHRISTIANS celebrate the birth of a baby in a stable, a bishop is joining an appeal to help improve standards of childbirth in poor countries. The Bishop of Swansea and Brecon, John Davies, is supporting Christian Aid’s appeal this Christmas to help save the lives of women and babies in Kenya and Malawi where having a child can be perilous. It is estimated that a woman is 40 times more likely to die in labour in Kenya than in the UK with many still giving birth in dirty and dangerous places.
The UK Government has promised to match every pound raised in Wales for the appeal. Bishop John, who is chair of the Christian Aid Wales Committee and a member of the Board of Trustees of Christian Aid, says, “NHS performance in the UK seems to come under almost daily scrutiny. It’s easy, then, to overlook the fact that for millions around the world, especially many of the most vulnerable, healthcare is not a right but a scarce luxury. “Christian Aid’s Christmas Appeal focuses upon the risks faced by mothers and their new-born children in Kenya and Malawi.
It’s a particularly appropriate area upon which to focus, coming at a time of year when even people of little or no faith have at least some awareness of the stories about the birth of Jesus in a stable. The Appeal reminds us, in a crisp and clear way that birth in such surroundings, with little or no medical help, remains the dangerous and risk-fi lled norm for many. “I’m very pleased to be able to endorse the Appeal and to welcome the pledge made by the UK Government to support it so generously.”
Cathrin Daniel, Head of Christian Aid in Wales said, “This Christmas help us deliver hope by giving more than 68,000 women access to improved health services, providing life-saving immunisations to 130,000 children under fi ve and training more than 1,000 community health workers. We will also work with local authorities to enable them to provide crucial maternal and child healthcare long term.” When hospitals are far away, and transport is too expensive, or nonexistent, women are often forced to give birth in dirty and dangerous conditions.
Around 40,000 newborns die in Kenya each year, most of those deaths could be prevented with basic health education and facilities. In rural Narok County, southwest Kenya, Christian Aid’s partner organisations TRDP and ADSMKE train community health workers and traditional birth attendants to support expectant mothers, bringing new life safely into the world.
They have provided three village motorbikes and ambulances to get women safely to hospital and built three maternity wings at rural hospitals, equipping them with everything from delivery beds to incubators. Just £5 could provide a day’s training for a community health worker, £13 could buy clean sheets for two beds where new mothers give birth and £35 would pay for a motherto- mother support group session for 50 women. Up until 6 February 2015 the UK Government will double the difference each pound donated makes, up to the value of £5 million, as part of UK Aid Match.
Community
Veterans urged to register for historic VE and VJ Day events
THE ROYAL BRITISH LEGION is inviting Second World War veterans and their families to register for commemorations marking the 80th anniversaries of VE Day and VJ Day in 2025. These events aim to honour the service and sacrifice of the generation that contributed to the Allied victory.
Milestone anniversaries
This year marks 80 years since the end of the Second World War, with Victory in Europe (VE) Day on 8 May 1945 and Victory over Japan (VJ) Day on 15 August 1945. Registration is now open on the RBL website for veterans, their families, or carers to join commemorations at both national and community events.
The RBL is organising a series of events to ensure the service and sacrifice of the Second World War generation are forever remembered. The celebrations will recognise the critical role played by Allied Forces from Britain, the Commonwealth, and beyond.
National unity in remembrance
Last year, the nation came together for the 80th anniversary of D-Day, with major events attended by members of the Royal Family, political leaders, and the public. In 2025, the RBL hopes the nation will unite again to honour the generation that fought for the freedoms enjoyed in modern Britain.
D-Day veteran Jim Miller, 100, from Merthyr Vale, shared his perspective:
“2025 is an important year for my generation, with anniversaries for both VE and VJ Day. It is always an honour being part of a Royal British Legion event, joining with comrades to remember and pay tribute to those we lost. I encourage all who served to register on the RBL website to ensure they are involved.”
Preserving a legacy
Philippa Rawlinson, Director of Remembrance at the RBL, highlighted the importance of these commemorations:
“These 80th anniversaries are likely to be among the last opportunities to come together as a nation with Second World War veterans to honour their bravery and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
“Everyone in modern Britain has a connection to those who experienced the War, whether through family or community. It’s vital we mark these anniversaries with commemorations in communities across the UK and with national moments of gratitude.”
Rawlinson also emphasised the importance of sharing veterans’ experiences:
“We are inviting all Second World War veterans to register so their contributions, including ‘forgotten stories,’ can be shared and remembered. Their service shaped the world we live in today.”
Honouring contributions from all walks of life
The RBL invites registration from British and Commonwealth Armed Forces veterans and those who supported the war effort, such as munitions workers, Bevin Boys, and individuals from reservist occupations or the Special Operations Executive. Registrants will receive updates on commemorative plans and invitations to events.
A time for reflection
While VE Day 80 will reflect the celebratory street parties marking victory in Europe, VJ Day 80 will honour the conclusion of six years of global conflict.
The RBL, working with the Government and other stakeholders, is developing educational resources and community projects to ensure younger generations understand the legacy of the Second World War.
For more information and to register, visit the Royal British Legion’s website.
Community
New minibus brings hope for Pembrokeshire Mencap students
A NEW minibus, funded by South Hook LNG, has been unveiled to support Pembrokeshire Mencap’s vital work at Stackpole Walled Gardens. The vehicle replaces an aging minibus and ensures safe and reliable transport for adults and young people with learning disabilities across the county.
The minibus, purchased through South Hook LNG’s generous donation, will allow participants to continue their horticultural training and work experience at the historic Stackpole estate. Hamad Al Samra, General Manager of South Hook LNG, expressed pride in their long-standing support of Pembrokeshire Mencap.
“We have a long association with Pembrokeshire Mencap and the inspiring work they do for those with learning disabilities, as well as their families,” said Mr. Al Samra. “The purchase of this new minibus ensures the continuation of much-needed services. It is our pleasure to contribute to such a valuable community effort.”
Tony Marmara, Chair of Pembrokeshire Mencap Trustees, highlighted the significance of the donation. “The new bus will afford opportunities to access more learning and pleasurable experiences for our clients,” he said.
The presentation of the vehicle brought together South Hook LNG representatives, Mencap Trustees, staff, participants, and their families at Stackpole Walled Gardens to celebrate this milestone.
Pictured: Supporting the community: Hamad Al Samra and South Hook LNG staff join Mencap Trustees and participants at the unveiling of the new minibus (Pic: Supplied)
Community
Hamad Bin Khalifa Islamic Centre Open Day: A Warm Welcome to All
THE HAMAD BIN KHALIFA Islamic Centre in Milford Haven is delighted to invite the people of Pembrokeshire and beyond to its Community Open Days on Saturday, January 18, and Sunday, January 19, from 11:00am to 4:00pm on both days.
This annual event provides a unique opportunity to learn about Islamic culture, connect with members of the local Muslim community, and enjoy a range of engaging activities and exhibits. Highlights include:
- Exhibition of Islamic culture: Featuring traditional calligraphy demonstrations.
- Guided tours of the mosque: Explore the beautifully restored Tabernacle building on Charles Street, Milford Haven, located next to the old police station.
- Refreshments: Provided for visitors on both days.
A message of welcome
Sheikh Mohsen Elbeltagi, a leader at the centre, shared his enthusiasm for the event, saying:
“We are proud to be a part of this wonderful community and are appreciative of the support that we have received. Extensive repair and renovation of such a historic building in the town has given us a beautiful, social venue from which we extend a warm welcome to both Pembrokeshire’s Islamic and wider communities.”
Dress code reminder for female visitors
The mosque kindly reminds female visitors to adhere to the Islamic custom of dressing modestly while on the premises. This includes covering the body appropriately. For guidance on suitable attire, online resources are available to assist.
A centre for cultural connection
The Hamad Bin Khalifa Islamic Centre serves as both a spiritual and cultural hub for Milford Haven’s Muslim community and its surrounding areas. It hosts five daily prayers, a weekly Friday sermon led by Sheikh Mohsen, and is committed to fostering understanding, building bridges, and creating an inclusive environment where everyone is welcome to learn and share experiences.
Event Details
The open days are free of charge, and everyone is encouraged to attend. For more information, contact Sheikh Mohsen Elbeltagi at deputyimam@hbkic.co.uk.
Take this opportunity to explore, learn, and celebrate diversity in Milford Haven!
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