Community
Care homes in west Wales to have contracts terminated
FOLLOWING significant concerns with their financial position, two care homes in Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire will have their contracts terminated next month.
Residents at Plas Y Bryn Care home in Cwmgwili and Ridgeway Care home in Llawhaden are being supported to find new homes.
Work is continuing between Carmarthenshire County Council (CCC), Hywel Dda University Health Board (HDUHB), Pembrokeshire County Council (PCC), and Care Inspectorate Wales with the companies following concerns about the management of their finances.
Collaboratively, CCC, HDUHB and PCC have been providing financial support to ensure that the care companies can meet their financial obligations and that care is not impacted.
This has included bringing regular payments forward to enable the companies to pay staff salaries.
There have been continued attempts to work with the operators to understand their financial positions, without sufficient information being presented.
As a result, the councils and the health board have had to take the difficult decision to end their contracts with the care companies. The decision has not been taken lightly and we are aware of the significant implications that this will have on people both living and working at the care homes.
A variety of options have been considered, but unfortunately due to the legal and financial circumstances that surround the care companies, including the fact that they have been issued with a court order, there are no viable solutions that the councils or health board can offer at this time.
We would like to recognise and thank the staff within the care homes for their commitment to delivering high quality care and highlight that the quality of care has at no point been a contributing factor to this difficult decision.
Jonathan Griffiths, Director of Social Services at Pembrokeshire County Council said: “We are continuing to work with the care provider to ensure residents at Ridgeway continue to receive the care and support they need.
“We have taken immediate action to support staff and residents at the home and are supporting families to find alternative, suitable accommodation.
“We are very proud of the excellent care the staff have provided and continue to provide to our residents, and greatly appreciate the very positive comments we receive from residents and their families.”
PCC, CCC and HDUHB do not believe that the care companies are able to resolve the issues and that this is likely to have a significant impact on people’s care and support.
In addition, CIW has issued an improvement notice to the care companies with a view to cancel their registration – and closure – should they fail to make the required improvements within a specified timeframe.
Ahead of contracts coming to an end, CCC, HDUHB and PCC will be working with people and their families over coming weeks to find new homes where they can receive the care and support that they require.
Wherever possible, we will do our best to ensure that people are supported to move to locations of their choosing, but are aware that this may not always be possible.
Residents are also being provided with access to advocacy services to support them through this difficult time.
Jill Paterson, Director of Primary Care, Community and Long-Term Care for Hywel Dda University Health Board: “We know that receiving this news will be distressing for people and we are sorry that no other option is available, but we would like to offer reassurance that we will do everything we can to make sure that people are well looked after and are supported to find a new home as soon as possible
“We will also be working with staff to support them to find alternative employment, should they wish to do so.”
Anyone with concerns is asked to contact:
Pembrokeshire County Council – Provider Hub, on 01437 775775 or by e-mail on providersupplyhub@pembrokeshire.gov.uk
Community
Community supports Barry Jones’ fight against motor neurone disease
BARRY JONES and his wife Holly only tied the knot in May 2024, celebrating their newfound happiness together. But their joy turned to heartbreak just months later when Barry was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) in early November 2024.
Faced with this devastating diagnosis, the couple has been met with an outpouring of support from friends, family, and the local community, all coming together to help maintain Barry’s quality of life and support the couple during this challenging time.
Fundraising day brings community together
Staff from Roxanne’s Hair & Beauty Salon have rallied behind Barry and Holly, organising a special fundraising day on Sunday, January 12, 2025. The salon team has given up their family time to make this event possible, driven by their desire to make a difference for the Jones family.
The event has garnered overwhelming support, with many local businesses stepping forward to donate raffle prizes. From vouchers to hampers, the generosity has been remarkable, showcasing the strength of community spirit.
“We’ve been completely overwhelmed by how many people have come forward to help,” said Roxanne, owner of the salon. “It’s heartwarming to see the community come together for such an important cause.”
How to support Barry’s journey
For those who cannot attend the fundraiser but still want to contribute, a GoFundMe page has been set up to raise funds for Barry and Holly. The funds will go towards ensuring Barry receives the care he needs and supporting the family as they navigate the challenges ahead.
The fundraising page can be found here: Maintain Barry’s Quality of Life. Every donation, no matter the size, helps make a difference.
United by hope
Motor neurone disease is a life-changing diagnosis, but Barry and Holly are not facing it alone. With the unwavering support of their community, they are finding strength and hope amid adversity.
The Herald will provide updates on Barry’s journey and the outcome of the fundraising efforts. For now, it’s clear that the people of this community are determined to stand by Barry and Holly every step of the way.
Photo Caption: Barry and Holly: Newlyweds facing challenges together (Pic: Provided).
Community
Engineering work to bring major disruptions across local rail network
TRANSPORT FOR WALES, in partnership with Network Rail, has announced a comprehensive programme of engineering works across the South West Wales rail network. The upgrades will modernize outdated signalling systems, telecoms, and power distribution equipment, improving the reliability of train services for passengers traveling in and out of the region.
Service disruptions and replacement buses
The works, scheduled over several weeks, will primarily take place overnight, but extended closures are also planned. Replacement bus services will operate during affected periods, ensuring passengers can still complete their journeys. The key disruptions and bus replacement schedules are as follows:
Dates and Affected Routes
- January 14–17 (Tuesday to Friday):
- Overnight works will cause evening and morning disruptions across the network.
- January 25 – February 9 (Saturday to Sunday):
- Significant closures will impact routes between Swansea, Carmarthen, Milford Haven, Pembroke Dock, and Fishguard Harbour.
- February 11–14 (Tuesday to Friday):
- Continued works with disruptions to evening and morning services.
- February 17 (Monday):
- Daytime service interruptions as work nears completion.
Replacement Bus Services by Route
Swansea – Carmarthen
- Sunday, January 12 & 19
- Saturday and Sunday, February 15–16
- Replacement buses will run between Swansea and Carmarthen, with stops at key stations.
Fishguard Harbour – Carmarthen
- Monday to Friday, January 27–31
- Daytime closures with bus services covering Fishguard Harbour, Fishguard & Goodwick, Haverfordwest, and Carmarthen.
Fishguard Harbour – Haverfordwest
- Saturday, January 25
- Saturday, February 1
- Monday to Saturday, February 3–8
- Replacement buses will serve local stops during the closures.
Milford Haven – Carmarthen
- Monday to Thursday, January 27–30
- Early afternoon closures daily; buses will operate between Milford Haven and Carmarthen with stops at Johnston, Haverfordwest, and Clarbeston Road.
Pembroke Dock – Carmarthen
- Saturday, February 1 – Friday, February 14
- Long-term closures will be in place, with buses covering the route, including Tenby, Saundersfoot, and Kilgetty.
Key Replacement Bus Pick-Up Points
- Fishguard Harbour: Station entrance.
- Haverfordwest: Station front.
- Milford Haven: Station entrance.
- Tenby: Coach stop at the Upper Park Road car park.
- Pembroke Dock: Station entrance.
Passengers are advised to refer to local signage at stations for detailed bus stop locations.
Advice for Passengers TfW encourages all travellers to check their journeys in advance, as last-minute changes may occur. The latest updates can be accessed via the JourneyCheck website, the TfW app, or by contacting their customer service team at 0333 3211 202.
Travel Tips
- Purchase tickets in advance of boarding replacement buses.
- Allow extra time for journeys and confirm onward connections.
- Note that bicycles, non-foldable prams, and large luggage cannot be accommodated on replacement buses.
Assistance for Passengers with Accessibility Needs
Special assistance can be booked up to two hours before travel via TfW’s Assisted Travel team at 033 300 50 501. Alternatively, passengers can use the “turn-up-and-go” service.
For Further Information TfW’s Stakeholder Manager for Mid and West Wales, Alexander Bryant-Evans, is available to answer questions regarding the planned works. He can be reached via email at alexander.bryant-evans@tfw.wales or phone at 07398 622223.
These engineering upgrades aim to ensure safer, more reliable rail services for South West Wales, providing passengers with long-term benefits despite the temporary disruptions. TfW appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation during this vital improvement work.
Community
St Clears: A vibrant transformation under the Ten Towns Programme
ST CLEARS has undergone remarkable changes through the Ten Towns Programme, delivered by Carmarthenshire County Council and supported by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). These projects aim to bring vibrancy and economic benefits to the town while preserving its rich heritage.
A town steeped in history
Located just eight miles from Carmarthen, St Clears is deeply rooted in Welsh history, famously linked to the Rebecca Riots of the 1800s. Today, it boasts a thriving community of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it an appealing destination for visitors and locals alike. More information on St Clears as a destination can be found on the Discover Carmarthenshire website.
Y Gât: A revitalized hub
As part of the programme, Y Gât, an anchor building in the heart of St Clears, has been transformed to meet the town’s economic and social needs. Following an asset transfer from Carmarthenshire County Council, the town council secured funding to reconfigure the downstairs area, improving accessibility and functionality. The refurbished café space now hosts a new local business, providing a welcoming environment for residents and visitors.
The centre is managed by a coordinator tasked with facilitating its services, which include small business workshop units, a library, and meeting spaces for hire.
Enhanced digital communication
Consultations with local stakeholders highlighted the need for improved digital communication. Digital screens have been installed at Y Gât and Pentre Road car park to display local activities, business news, and community updates, enhancing the town’s digital presence.
Supporting local businesses
The Revitalising Rural Town Centre Fund has provided grants to several businesses in St Clears. The funding supported improvements such as refreshed exteriors, new signage, and artistic enhancements. Notably, local artist Steve Jenkins, known as Jenks Art, has created two murals showcasing the town’s historical landmarks, which have been warmly received by the community.
High street enhancements
High street improvements on Pentre Road are nearing completion, featuring inclusive street furniture, refreshed pathways, and riverbank seating. New bus shelters are also set for installation this spring.
Tŷ Croeso: A community hub
Another beneficiary of the UKSPF is Tŷ Croeso at Bethlehem Newydd Chapel in Pwll Trap. The project aims to promote the Welsh language and support social, leisure, and well-being activities for the community. More details on Tŷ Croeso’s activities can be found online.
Art with a purpose
An innovative project is raising awareness of the circular economy through a commissioned sculpture by local artist Lisa Evans. The installation, made from recycled aluminium, involves contributions from local schoolchildren and community groups. A drop-off point for aluminium donations has been set up at Y Gât.
Rural outreach and support
Carmarthenshire County Council’s Hwb Bach y Wlad initiative offers advice and services to rural communities. Residents can meet Hwb advisors at Y Gât on the third Tuesday of every month from 10:30am to 3:00pm for help with council enquiries, waste and recycling supplies, and more.
Business and tourism roadshow
St Clears Leisure Centre will host a Tourism and Business Roadshow on Thursday, January 23. Businesses and community groups can access expert advice on licensing, planning, funding, and marketing opportunities.
A Message from Cllr Carys Jones
Carmarthenshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs, Community Cohesion and Planning Policy, Cllr Carys Jones, praised the programme’s success:
“With thanks to the Ten Towns Programme and funding from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, St Clears has benefitted from numerous initiatives that enhance life for residents and visitors alike. As a local member, I encourage everyone to explore the town’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere.”
St Clears stands as a testament to how well-planned projects can breathe new life into rural towns, ensuring a thriving future while celebrating its historical roots.
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