News

Families fined for holidays in term time

Published

12 years ago

July 9, 2014

PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY Council are set to clamp down on families who take their children out for term time breaks. The measures could include severe fines, and if the full power of the law is exercised, potential custodial sentences.

In a letter to parents and guardians, Jake Morgan, Director for Children and Schools, stated that parents were taking a ‘risk’ if they ‘consider booking term time holidays now’. This comes on the back of several cases that have been highlighted in the media recently, not least a story of a head teacher, who himself, took an authorised absence during term time to attend the World Cup in Rio. The parenting website, ‘Mumsnet’, complained that the Welsh Government policy was ‘disingenuous’ and left parents in a difficult position because holidays are so much more expensive during school holiday time. But the National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT) welcomed tighter council policies. The Welsh Government said in a statement: “Upon receiving a request the school should consider a range of factors such as the time of year and length of the proposed trip, impact on continuity of learning, family circumstances as well as the overall attendance pattern of the child.” Education Secretary Michael Gove has condemned holiday firms for trying to “fleece parents” by ramping up travel prices when schools are out. His comments come as a poll for ITV News found a third of adults said they have gone on a family holiday during term time, when costs are significantly lower. Mr Gove, though, said parents “should not take children out of school during the school term”. However, The Herald spoke with a travel agent and parent, Kate Reid, who explained the reasons for price differences: “It’s not just the tour operator’s fault, price rises in holiday times come about because airlines have to sell seats, car hire firms have to rent cars, hoteliers have to sell rooms. It’s basic supply and demand: in peak times there are only a certain number of plane seats, and hotels need to make up for the quiet periods. This inflexible new policy on term time holidays will have a devastating knock on effect, further driving up prices in peak holiday times.” She went on to explain how she felt as a parent being ‘threatened’ with prosecution: “Holiday prices in school times are astronomical and schools are becoming increasingly inflexible with allowing children time off. I think it’s important to broaden kids’ horizons and most end of terms are a waste of time. Does a year 6 child really need to be there? What are they really missing?” Shadow Education Minister, AM Angela Burns, told The Herald: “Evidence shows that a good attendance record does impact positively on the educational outcomes for most children. However, I am completely against fining or shaming parents for the child’s non-attendance. It will make little difference to those who can afford the fines and drive those who can’t even deeper into debt. There are many reasons for non attendance, and it would be better if the Government and local authorities really got to grips with why so many kids play truant or are kept away by their parents and dealt with some of the root causes.” The Herald attempted to contact Director Jake Morgan on some of these points for a comment, and also asked about the situation estranged families find themselves in whereby holidays are set by employers. We also asked him about the wider curriculum, and how travel and exposure to other cultures is also seen as educational. Finally, we asked if he thought this was a further penalisation for those who are less well off. Jake Morgan responded by saying: “Many of your questions could be addressed to Welsh Government as this is not only a Pembrokeshire issue it is based on new Welsh Government Guidance that is being implemented in the same way across the region.”

Crime

New pilot offers dedicated advocates for trafficking survivors

Published

47 minutes ago

March 21, 2026

Tom Sinclair

National scheme aims to support hundreds of victims of modern slavery across the UK

MORE than 600 adult survivors of modern slavery are set to receive dedicated support through a new national pilot scheme providing accredited, independent advocates.

The initiative will see specially trained professionals working directly alongside survivors of human trafficking and exploitation, helping them navigate complex legal, social, and recovery processes.

While survivors of crimes such as domestic and sexual abuse already have access to specialist advocacy, no equivalent provision previously existed for victims of modern slavery—despite the often severe and long-term trauma they experience.

Over the next three years, 24 Independent Modern Slavery Advocates (IMSAs) will be deployed across the UK. Each advocate will complete a postgraduate qualification and receive support from a central hub hosted by anti-trafficking charity Hope for Justice.

Tim Nelson, CEO at Hope for Justice, said the pilot aims to tackle inequalities in support: “We want to end the postcode lottery that adult survivors of modern slavery and human trafficking are experiencing in the UK.

“There are many organisations already doing incredible work, but by working together and setting new standards, we can give survivors the best possible chance of rebuilding their lives.”

The scheme is backed by a £1 million National Lottery grant and involves several organisations, including Unseen UK, Medaille Trust, Bawso, SOHTIS, Hope for Justice, and the Snowdrop Project.

Since the pilot began six months ago, advocates have already supported 121 survivors, helping to secure housing, legal recognition, and access to vital services.

Key outcomes so far include:

Ten survivors provided with safe and secure housing
Seventeen Home Office decisions successfully challenged, granting victims access to support
Humanitarian protection secured for a young adult survivor

Advocates have also helped individuals access healthcare, mental health support, education, employment, and secure immigration status.

One survivor described the support as “life changing” after escaping a trafficker. In a letter to her advocate, she said: “You have fought our corner tirelessly when I did not have the strength. You stood beside us every step of the way.

“You helped me rebuild trust, believe in myself, and slowly find my voice again.”

The IMSA role aligns with international guidance on independent advocacy and has been shaped by experts and those with lived experience.

Louise Mensah, Head of Frontline at Unseen, said: “This pilot is a step towards a world without slavery. We are proud to be part of something that will improve outcomes and change futures.”

Ben Ryan, Deputy CEO at Medaille Trust, added: “We know the value of long-term support in recovery. This partnership allows us to embed best practice and develop new approaches.”

Organisations wishing to join the final phase of the pilot have until May 2026 to apply.

Further information is available at www.hopeforjustice.org/imsa/

Community

Charlie the ventriloquist doll returns to Pembroke Dock after 100 years

Published

54 minutes ago

March 21, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Beloved character to greet visitors as Heritage Centre reopens for new season

CHARLIE the 100-year-old ventriloquist’s doll is coming out of retirement — and back to where it all began.

Visitors to Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre will be greeted by the much-loved character when the attraction reopens for the new season on Monday (March 30).

It marks a nostalgic return for Charlie, who once performed in the very same building — then the Royal Dockyard Chapel — alongside his original owner, Ernie James, a Pembroke Dock bus company proprietor. Over the years, the duo became a familiar and popular act on the Pembrokeshire variety circuit.

Today, Charlie is cared for by Paul Elliott, of Llanreath, who inherited the doll from his father, Fred Elliott — better known locally as magician ‘Mr E’, whose shows delighted audiences for decades.

Charlie has also recently enjoyed a brush with national attention, appearing alongside Paul at a BBC Antiques Roadshow event in Swansea.

The Heritage Centre will offer free entry on opening day, with Charlie and Paul on hand to meet visitors and share stories from a century of entertainment.

Business

Wolfscastle spa earns prestigious AA recognition

Published

1 hour ago

March 21, 2026

Tom Sinclair

WOLFSCASTLE COUNTRY HOTEL and Spa in Pembrokeshire is celebrating national recognition after its luxury spa was included in the prestigious AA Recommended Spa Awards.

The accolade highlights the hotel’s commitment to delivering high-quality wellbeing experiences, exceptional service, and first-class facilities.

The AA Recommended Spa status is awarded to venues that provide an outstanding guest experience, combining professional expertise, premium treatments, and a relaxing environment. The recognition places Wolfscastle among a select group of leading spa destinations across the UK.

Grace, Levi and Bethan, full-time spa therapists at the award-winning Wolfscastle Spa.
Hot stone massage in the Wolfscastle Country Hotel & Spa treatment room.

The spa, which has been open for nine years, has established itself as one of Pembrokeshire’s top wellness destinations, welcoming both hotel guests and day visitors seeking relaxation in a tranquil countryside setting.

Facilities include hydrotherapy experiences, thermal suites, and dedicated relaxation areas, alongside a wide range of luxury treatments designed to help guests unwind and recharge.

Bethan, Spa Manager at Wolfscastle Country Hotel & Spa, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to be recognised by the AA as a Recommended Spa. The team here work really hard to make sure every guest feels relaxed, welcomed and properly looked after from the moment they arrive.

“To receive this recognition is very special for us and reflects the care and effort our therapists put into every treatment.”

The award further strengthens the hotel’s reputation as one of West Wales’ leading hospitality destinations, offering award-winning dining, boutique accommodation, and premium wellness experiences.

Guests can enjoy spa days, overnight breaks, and tailored treatments throughout the year.

For more information or to book, visit www.wolfscastle.com.

The hotel is also marking a significant milestone this year, with owner Andrew Stirling celebrating 50 years at the helm.