Supporting and Developing a Vibrant Voluntary Sector
Annual Report 2011 - 2012
Our Vision, Principles and Aims
Contents
VISION To support and develop a vibrant voluntary sector in Rhondda Cynon Taf.
1 Vision, Principles and Aims 2 Foreword 3 Enterprising Communi es 4 Enterprising Communi es
PRINCIPLES
5 SEWCED 6 Informa on, Support and Funding
•
To take into account the needs of smaller groups
•
To promote equal opportuni es and reach out to those individuals, groups and communi es most in need
11 Mental Health Service Development
•
To promote and support volunteering
12 Mental Health Service Development
•
13 Mental Health Service User Involvement Project
To involve and empower communi es, service users, carers and ci zens
•
14 Mental Health Service User Involvement Project
To be responsive to the changing needs of the voluntary sector
•
To support and develop partnership working at all levels to deliver be er local services
•
To enhance and not compete with the work of member organisa ons
7 Volunteering 8 Young People’s Volunteering 9 Engagement Gateway 10 Health, Social Care and Wellbeing
15 Learn RCT 16 See CHANGE 17 Suppor ng Groups Working with Families/ Young People’s Par cipa on 18 Play Development Project 19 Interlink Training Programme/ Compact and Codes of Prac ce
OUR AIMS •
ENABLE - to provide high quality advice, guidance and support.
•
VOICE - to improve services through empowering ci zens, communi es and voluntary organisa ons.
•
VOLUNTEERING - to promote, encourage and develop volunteering and economic ac vity.
•
PROFILE - to raise the profile of the essen al contribu on of the voluntary sector to the delivery of services.
•
DELIVER - to be a proac ve effec ve organisa on.
20 Execu ve Commi ee Members 21 Staff Team 22- 24 Accounts 25- 26 Interlink Membership
1
Foreword Achievements and Performance April 2011 to March 2012 It has been an even more challenging year for community and voluntary sector groups in Rhondda Cynon Taf, with a further increase in requests for help and support during these difficult mes. Our work has become more focused on suppor ng groups to be more innova ve, enterprising and to generate funds to reduce their reliance on single sources of income.
Key successes during the year include: The Compact is a partnership agreement between the Third Sector, the Local Authority and Cwm Taf Health Board, which seeks to build on our exis ng good working rela onships to improve service delivery for the benefit of communi es in Rhondda Cynon Taf. A small working group of partner representa ves produced a dra Compact for consulta on between June and August 2011. Codes of Prac ce were developed for Partnership Working, Volunteering and Media on and Disputes Resolu on and Commissioning Third Sector Services (Commission Accomplished). The final Compact document was approved by the Local Service Board on 31 October 2011 and launched at Interlink’s AGM on 1 December 2011. Commission Accomplished, the Public Sector Code of Prac ce for Commissioning Third Sector Services was produced as a new on line guide to commissioning with the third sector produced for RCT and Merthyr, supported by a range of excellent and well a ended workshops and training for providers and commissioners.
Jean Harrington Chair, Interlink
See CHANGE ‘Empowering Ac ve Communi es in RCT’ delivered much more training than planned to work with our members to empower communi es to make a difference, including Community Development courses where 81 Agored Cymru accredita ons were achieved from entry level to level 2. Engagement Gateway projects enabled Interlink to make effec ve use of European funding to develop a number of key employability projects such as: •
Stepping Forward - delivered with Valley and Vale Community Arts to support people to improve their mental well-being through crea vity.
•
LEARN RCT - developing the confidence and skills of people furthest away from the job market, suppor ng people into volunteering, learning and employment opportuni es.
What Next? It will again be a difficult me for many of our members and communi es with huge issues such as the economy, welfare reform and increasing child poverty. Key issues over the following months and years will be to s ck to our values, work together as a Sector and work in partnership to deliver be er services focussed on addressing the increasing needs of the people and communi es we work with.
Simon James Chief Execu ve Officer
2
Informa on, on,Support Supportand andFunding Funding es Informa Enterprising Communi The Enterprising Communi es project provides prac cal support to develop enterprise with community and voluntary groups and social enterprises within Rhondda Cynon Taf. This includes developing your plans, managing projects and genera ng income. We work with individual groups or bring people together to work collec vely, for example, through workshops and events, including co-ordina ng the RCT Social Enterprise Forum. The Enterprise Communi es Projects are funded by the Welsh Government and the European Regional Development Fund, managed by Wales Council for Voluntary Ac on (WCVA). Phil Barre was appointed in April 2011 and Ken Moon in July 2011 as Enterprising Communi es Development Officers at Interlink. The support available to individuals and groups includes assistance with business planning, organisa onal development, finance and funding, equal opportuni es, environmental management and legal structures. Between the period of June 2011 and March 2012 Phil and Ken worked with 73 groups and 9 individuals providing short to more longer term in depth support on financial management and income genera on, governance and business development to name some of the main areas of help and support. ‘Since I started here at RBF in October 2010, Interlink has been very helpful with any query I have. If one par cular person I contact cannot help me, they do their utmost to find someone who can. For someone, like myself not having a ‘charity’ background, I have struggled with the different rules and regula ons that come with charity work and to have the support from Interlink, has made my working life much easier knowing that I can just pick up the phone and contact you.’ Chris na Ryan, Rhondda Breast Friends
Some of the Individuals and Groups we have been helping to develop: World of Words is a new voluntary organisa on helping school children to read, was provided with guidance on the management of the organisa on and with the produc on and adop on of their cons tu on and to develop all the policies the group needed. Be Inspired: Emma Sterverson came to Interlink seeking support to establish a trading framework for a local cra group. With Interlinks help the group explored a range of op ons and are now being supported by the Wales Co-opera ve Centre to establish a trading and marke ng coopera ve. Treforest Residents Associa on approached Interlink to develop a legal structure which would allow them to develop a hydro scheme on the River Taff. The group was helped to secure funding and undertake in-depth work to explore a range of op ons for legal structures. The group is now in the process of establishing a Community Interest Company. Friends of Rhydyfelin Children’s Centre were supported to become cons tuted and seek grant funding. Penrhiwceiber Ins tute received a Trustee Roles and Responsibili es half day workshop. Monocle Community Theatre Group were involved in a Session giving the commi ee members help on the general governance of their group and understanding of governing documents. Rhydyfelin Amateur Football Club received support on ma ers of cons tu on changes, funding applica ons and policy requirements. Glan Road Neighbourhood Watch was supported through their management commi ee transi on. Abercynon Social Hall find grant funding.
3
Enterprising Communi es Trecynon Ins tute were successful in receiving funding from The Lo ery’s Awards for All Wales Programme for chairs and tables. The Ins tute were also sucessful with Interlink’s help in having grants from the Coalfields Regenera on Trust and the Welsh Church Act Fund for new windows throughout their building. Local community groups linked to The Bryncynon Strategy were provided with a good governance session on the roles and responsibili es of management commi ee members.
During the period the Team started to work with partners to develop a strategic vision for developing community energy in RCT. They secured over £80,000 in external funding for a range of ac vi es including behaviour on how people use community buildings, suppor ng 4 community hydro schemes, undertaking 4 community energy audits and an RCT micro-hydro study which were all delivered between October 2011 and March 2012. This work has put Interlink at the forefront of suppor ng the development community energy in Wales.
The Team have put together a range of learning opportuni es for social enterprises as part of the Interlink training programme and developed the RCT Social Enterprise Forum with regular workshops and networking events.
The Social Enterprise Conference ‘Fit for the Future’ at Fedw Hir, near Aberdare on the 21 July was a ended by over 70 par cipants. The workshops included marke ng; genera ng an income through community energy; sources of finance and surviving the early years. On the 24 November 2011 the RCT Social Enterprise Forum took place at Interlink and was a ended by 26 people from 18 different organisa ons. Presenta ons included working in consor a and succession planning, asset transfer and business planning. The project team delivered a workshop to 16 people on ‘Maximising Income from Trading’ at the Interlink AGM on the 1 December 2011. ‘Once again – thanks for the good advice. Interlink is always our first ‘port of call.’ Jill Price, Daerwynno Outdoor Centre.
Phil Jenkins at the Cwm Clydach Hydro System
‘I have nothing but praise and admira on for the RCT Hydro Scheme and their proposals and believe this cause should be championed and given the recogni on it so highly deserves.’ Owen Smith, MP for Pontypridd and Shadow Secretary of State for Wales.
Working with the Charity Commission Interlink con nued its work with the Charity Commission mee ng representa ves from the Commission’s Wales Office to discuss changes and developments for the Commission, issues and problems that occur with local groups and Interlinks role in helping to resolve those issues.
4
South East Wales Community Economic Development Scheme (SEWCED) Suppor ng the South East Wales Community Economic Development Scheme Interlink were successful in winning a tender from Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council to deliver support for applicants applying for the European Regional Development Fund SEWCED programme in the South East Wales area un l 2015.
Successful applicants supported to access funding include Cleanstream Carpets, Groundwork Merthyr and RCT, GTFM, Spectacle Theatre, Rowan Tree Cancer Care and Dylan’s Den.
This project aims to build economic sustainable communi es through the grant programme and focuses on: •
increasing the economic contribu on of the third sector.
•
physical improvements bringing land into use, community environmental projects and improvements to small-scale sites/premises.
•
improving services for communi es where gaps can be clearly iden fied.
•
developing local networks that engage local communi es to find and implement local solu ons.
•
promo ng social inclusion through cultural and heritage ac vi es.
A large number of enquiries were received working with a total of 35 organisa ons over the year including: Hirwaun YMCA; REACH; Dylan’s Den; TABS; FADS; Quantum Leap; Ferndale Skate Park; Boilerhouse Project; Abercwmboi Regenera on Partnership; Barry Sidings; Ynysybwl; Founda on 14a; Trehafod Village Hall; Llanharan Drop In Centre; Groundworks; Cleanstream Carpets; Cwmparc Community Associa on; Choices; Green Burials / Cariad; Golf Academy; Child and Parental Support; The Phoenix Centre; Rowan Tree Cancer Care; GOFAL; GTFM; CWMNi; Mineworks; Grow Enterprise Wales; Rhondda Housing Associa on; Communi es in Partnership Ltd; So Play Mardy; Pontypridd YMCA; CHAT and Spectacle Theatre. ‘This is an absolutely excellent piece of work. Well done.’ Kathryn Williams, Director, Dylan’s Den
5
Cleanstream Carpets
Andrew Rowlands was employed from July 2011 as the Social Enterprise Development Officer and worked extensively with Dylan’s Den, a childcare co-opera ve based in Treorchy run on a not-forprofit basis providing out-of-school childcare for children and families in the upper Rhondda area. They received support on wri ng their business plan, SEWCED Proposal and Applica on Grant forms and they are now delivering their project ‘Playing to our Strengths.’ The project ensures groups and individuals receive the right support depending on the nature of the enterprise, helping with governance, project planning, community engagement, community renewable energy etc, through advice, networks, workshops and conferences. It is also vital to link with other support providers such as the Wales Co-opera ve Centre, the Coalfields Regenera on Trust, local authority and lots of others to ensure the best service is provided for social enterprises in RCT.
Informa on, Support and Funding Friends of Wa stown and Ynyshir Community Centre’s management commi ee were given support and advice from Joanna Markham, Interlink’s Informa on and Advice Development Officer over several months to resolve issues to establish a terms of use for the Centre and a structured charging system. FADS were supported to develop a sustainable fundraising strategy . ‘Interlink have been a constant help and support. They help with funding advice and always make sure we have all relevant informa on and updated policies to help with the smooth running of our organisa on. They have been directly instrumental in the recent sourcing of three year funding from the Henry Smith Founda on through The Community Founda on in Wales. We would like to thank Interlink for their con nued support and interest in us and the excellent service they offer chari es and organisa ons throughout Rhondda Cynon Taf.’ Gail Silva, Manager, Fads A Family Service who deliver counselling services throughout RCT and issue based projects to over 1,000 children a year.
MAM (Money and Advice Market) Interlink’s annual Money and Advice Market was held on Friday 24 June 2011 at Pontypridd YMCA a rac ng 54 people who were able to get advice and informa on from funders such as The Big Lo ery Fund; Environment Wales; Fundraising Standards Board; RCT County Borough Council; Coalfields Regenera on and WCVA. Ynysybwl Regenera on Partnership were supported over a period of several months to make several applica ons to develop their sustainability. This included applica ons to the Community Facili es and Ac vi es programme, to purchase a building to use as a charity shop, and the Interlink’s Community Voice consor a applica on to engage local people in working with partners to improve Ynysybwl.
Community Capital Project Fund Interlink’s Community Capital Project Fund provides small capital grants to community and voluntary groups in Rhondda Cynon Taf and is supported by the Welsh Government (Communi es Facili es and Ac vi es Programme). 36 voluntary groups were successful in applying to the Community Capital Project Fund and just a few of the projects supported included: Trustees of Treforest Boys and Girls Club were supported to develop a fundraising strategy for the Club, applying for essen al works for replacement ligh ng. They also successfully applied to Awards for All Wales for building renova on to ensure the youth ac vi es con nued in the club. Treherbert OAP and Widows Associa on were supported in upgrading the Hall for the whole community to enjoy. They successfully applied to the Community Capital Project Fund and the Welsh Church Act Fund. Peter Davey from Cambrian Male Voice Choir received £2,998 for a new computer system, camcorder and tripod, ohp projector and screen plus addi onal audio equipment, to work with Cwmclydach Junior School to create a DVD about the history of the Cambrian Male Voice Choir. Peter explained ‘The small grants scheme from Interlink will enable us to work with the pupils of Cwmclydach Junior School to create a DVD that can be used for genera ons to come.’ Gateway Community Church received £1,176.32 for various equipment and play equipment for the Mother and Toddlers Group, a TV and computer table for the youth project so that they could play games etc on it, and for the senior ci zens groups they had a kitchen set, toaster, various games, table cloths, mugs and plates. ‘Thank you for all your help, I know I couldn't have completed the forms without you.’ Phil Thomas (Gateway Community Church)
6
Volunteering Volunteering makes a huge impact on the people and communi es of Rhondda Cynon Taf, both in what volunteers give, and in turn, what they can receive back in terms of increasing their confidence, skills and building rela onships. Interlink Volunteering Team recruits and places over 200 volunteers annually in local groups. For this to be successful, it means closely matching the interests and skills of the volunteer with the right opportunity. Increasingly, volunteers come to Interlink to find an opportunity within the Sector as a stepping stone to gain confidence and skills to get a job.
Inves ng in Volunteers Good volunteers start with good volunteer management. Inves ng in Volunteers is a quality standard for good prac ce in volunteer management. A aining the Standard involves establishing a posi ve and suppor ve environment for volunteers with good quality management systems. Three organisa ons in RCT were successful in achieving the Standard in 2011/12 and are now able to use the coveted Inves ng In Volunteers kite mark. Cwm Cynon Womens Aid, TooGoodToWaste and Gilfach Goch Community Associa on were supported by the RCT Volunteer Centre through Chris ne Davies, our trained IIV advisor and assessor. ‘We have worked well with Interlink over the years, I have always found Interlink staff to be extremely helpful, knowledgeable and well informed. Most recently, Interlink have been instrumental in assis ng us to obtain The Inves ng in Volunteers Award, the UK quality standard for good prac ce in volunteer management, which is a pres gious achievement. For the past 3 years our volunteers have received cer ficates of achievement, presented at the Interlink Volunteer of the Year Awards, and last year we were proud to receive second place overall for a group of our volunteers. Interlink provides an invaluable service to voluntary organisa ons and I hope they con nue for many years to come.’ Eirlys Whitney, Volunteer Co-ordinator, Cwm Cynon Women’s Aid
7
Volunteers Celebra on Evening Stan Stenne honoured 150 volunteers at the annual RCT Volunteer Celebra on and Awards Evening on the 15 June 2011 at Abercwmboi Rugby Club. The event let volunteers know just how much their me, skills, dedica on and commitment are appreciated. All nominated volunteers were invited to the Celebra on Evening where they were all presented with Awards before being treated to an evening of entertainment, dining and dancing. Cwm Cynon Women’s Aid, Glyntaff Residents Associa on and Bethlehem View Residents Panel volunteers were judged to have made an outstanding contribu on to volunteering and selected to compete for the Norah Huxley Award. This involved filming their work, with the audience vo ng for Glyntaff Residents Associa on as the overall winner.
GTRA (Glyntaff Residents Associa on) were nominated by Ruth Barclay of Coleg Morgannwg for their commitment and dedica on to their community. Our thanks and apprecia on go to our supporters who sponsored this event: Groundwork Merthyr and RCT; L’Oreal; RCT Social Care Workforce Development Partnership; Cwm Taf Health Board Community and Mental Health; Cynon Valley Crime Reduc on Services Ltd; Rhondda Housing Associa on; Cynon Taf Community Housing Group; GE Healthcare; Interlink; Cwm Taf Health Board Planning and Partnerships.
Young People’s Volunteering We are seeing more young people come through the doors, with 61 young people placed with local organisa ons. 30 young people were recruited onto the Millennium Volunteers programme and six of them clocked up over 200 hours. Thomas Crocke gave presenta ons to young people, including Porth County, Hawthorn and Rhydywaun Schools and Coleg Morgannwg to deliver the volunteering component of their Welsh Baccalaureate schemes, developed links with various departments of the University of Glamorgan, and engaged with organisa ons as diverse as the London 2012 Olympic Games, South Wales Police, and the Na onal Eisteddfod.
Funded by GwirVol, the Welsh Assembly partnership promo ng Youth Volunteering, the Vol Factor’s panel of four handed out a total of £4,800 to schemes as diverse as Teckno UK, a street dance project ran by Maerdy Kidz R Us, a brand new project establishing Blind and Par ally Sighted Youth Groups, co-ordinated by Cardiff Vales and Valleys/RNIB Cymru, RCT People First’s Daerwonno Project and award winning Youth Theatre sessions ran by students from Ysgol Y Pant.
‘Thank you for providing the links, without the support of people like yourselves ac vi es like this would not be possible.’ Porth County Community School Welsh Baccaulareate Co-ordinator
The Vol Factor The Vol Factor is a youth-led grant scheme suppor ng volunteering projects for 16-25 year olds in Rhondda Cynon Taf. Administered by Interlink and funded by GwirVol, the scheme, now into its fourth year is managed by a panel of 16-25 year olds recruited through previous schemes, who came up with the name and decided on the criteria for the grants. 30 local young heroes from Rhondda Cynon Taf were recognised at the Vol Factor celebra on evening, held at the Feelgood Factory in Abercynon in March 2012. The event was held to celebrate the contribu ons volunteers aged 16-25 made to the seven projects which received grants from The Vol Factor, in 2011/12. Par cipants gave brief presenta ons explaining their projects, and received cer ficates from Interlink Chief Execu ve, Simon James.
Also successful in receiving funding were Fernhill Youth Project’s Halloween Ghost Trip, and Drink Awareness and Confidence Building projects ran by Rathbone UK in Pontypridd and Aberdare. ‘I already knew about Interlink, but I didn’t have the confidence to enquire. Then my Personal Advisor at the Job Centre suggested it, and I came along to an appointment. The Youth Volunteering Advisor accompanied me to the Barnardos Shop for my ini al mee ng, and I have been there ever since! It’s got me back into a daily rou ne (I volunteer five days a week), so I’m ge ng out and about, and socializing a bit more. Volunteering has built my confidence and got me into a more posi ve frame of mind. I have also made other links with Interlink, and I may soon be ge ng involved with a new project called Learn RCT.’ Young Volunteer
8
Engagement Gateway Engagement Gateway Officer, Meriel Gough, has supported 50 Engagement Gateway projects get off the ground, provided advice and guidance in se ng up projects, recrui ng par cipants and encouraging groups to work collabora vely together. Those large numbers of Gateway Suppliers that have worked collabora vely with partners in RCT have reaped the rewards in successful par cipant recruitment and achievements of outcomes!
Sean and Liz are taking part in Toogoodtowastes Gateway project that helps build Retail and Admin skills. Liz Jones is 31 years old from Pontypridd, of the Gateway project Liz says ‘A very posi ve experience, it gives you’re the chance to look into the future and have hope for it!’
A big thank you to all supporters of the Gateway in RCT without you projects would not have been anywhere near as successful! 101 Gateway projects can be accessed by residents living in RCT out of 433 Wales wide projects! The RCT Gateway will have helped over 3,000 par cipants during the last 3 years, with a poten al value of £6,325,000 worth of ac vity. The majority of par cipants on a Gateway project will gain a posi ve outcome and a qualifica on. Par cipants are then referred on to an outcome that takes them closer to the job market. The Engagement Gateway’s ‘Prepare to Care’ course is 10 weeks long and is provided by Merthyr and the Valleys MIND.
Vicky Wall Bank from Merthyr thoroughly enjoyed the course work, says ‘This course has confirmed my future work choices, as a result of the course I will start a Level 2 Health and Social Care course at Merthyr College in September 2011. I’d love to be a Social Worker, I would tell anyone interested in ‘Care’ to come along to this course - it’s fabulous! My confidence, knowledge and self-esteem have improved.’
Engagement Gateway is a European Social Fund project administered by WCVA. 9
Sean at Toogoodtowaste
Of the Toogoodtowastes Gateway project Sean, 22 years old from Maerdy says ‘I want to be in retail to see how far I can go. My experience so far is that the Gateway course is definitely worthwhile – I am really interested in Retail! It is a great opportunity, I’ve recommended this project to all my friends and family, here you can get experience – the overall result is a paid job!’
Health, Social Care and Wellbeing The Health, Social Care and Wellbeing Forum The Forum is facilitated by Anne Morris who also supports a number of condi on specific focus groups that sit under the main forum. The forum provides a networking opportunity and a pla orm to increase knowledge and awareness of current ini a ves. This year’s themes highlighted health inequali es and healthy lifestyles including; Smoke Free Cwm Taf Strategy and the Obesity Pathway, along with the new locality working model.
Crystal Trophy Awards Health Challenge Wales Crystal Trophy Awards recognise the achievements of local groups within Cwm Taf. A large number of extremely high quality applica ons were submi ed this year making the judging process very difficult. Four worthy winners were selected, each winning a prize fund of £1,000. Rhondda Food Bank was the overall winner receiving the Crystal Trophy this year. The three runners up were; FADS Family Service; Tonyrefail Play Partnership and The Willows Centre in Merthyr Tydfil.
New this year for the Forum was ‘Partnerships in the Park’ a joint network event with mental health and children and young people’s organisa ons on consulta on on the new RCT Compact and new Health, Social Care and Wellbeing Strategy 2011-14.
Cancer Focus Group The Cancer Focus Group adopted a new way of working, Chairperson of the Cancer Focus Group, Diane Raybould, a er many years of reless service and success, stepped down and is replaced by Jimmy Browne. Instead of holding regular mee ngs the Group could be more effec ve as a ‘virtual’ network where a core of key people have commi ed to be involved on behalf of their organisa ons. They come together when par cular issues arise, to discuss what ac ons and outcomes are required.
Service Provider Forum The la er part of 2011 saw the establishment of a new Third Sector Service Provider Forum. The aim of the Provider Forum is to be a two-way communica on mechanism for third sector groups to engage with each other and with statutory partners to influence the commissioning agenda and the provision of health and social care services.
Rhondda Food Bank
Rhondda Food Bank was launched in November 2009 and working alongside Chris ans Against Poverty (CAP). They provide emergency food parcels free of charge to individuals and families in short term crisis. A family in need are able to have a food parcel delivered within 24 hours containing food to last them three days. The project relies heavily on volunteers to distribute and collect the food and the project has fed over 1600 people since its launch, 40% of who were children. The group has taken on their first volunteer through Interlink.
10
Mental Health Service Development The project employs Maria Abson to support community and voluntary groups to address mental health issues in Cwm Taf.
What is the Mental Health Forum? The Mental Health Forum allows groups to share informa on and ideas, support each other and work together. Websites, newsle ers and mail outs are used to let people know what is going on. The Mental Health Forum links to a range of ac vi es and groups with people from the Forum a ending events and mee ngs and repor ng back, keeping everyone informed.
Mental Health Work Club Development A working group of the Cwm Taf Mental Health Forum was established in July 2011 to explore how service users effected by the new Welfare Reforms could be supported into educa on, training and employment. As a result, three Mental Health Work Clubs with referral and support arrangements with partners were started in February 2012. Hafal have played a lead role in working with all partners to ensure the Clubs have since grown from strength to strength.
Day Service Review / Local Mental Health Grants Scheme At the end of 2010 Cwm Taf LHB started to engage with mental health providers to advise of service changes and develop revised service specifica ons. In April 2011 the Mental Health Forum members affected were supported to work together to prepare for the service changes. A steering group was established, workshops held including legal structures and commissioning and relevant training provided. Cwm Taf LHB is now looking at how to provide new innova ve services such as Stepping Forward and Work Clubs, and to engage the Sector in an open tender process for Housing, Advice, Welfare and Informal Advocacy Services linked to Part 1 of the Mental Health Measure. ‘I’ve really valued the support and advice I’ve received and believe it will go a long way in securing a new service specifica on.’
11
‘Thank you for working relessly in gaining funding for the most powerful enlightening course I have ever been on. I’ve laughed and cried but most of all I’ve gained selfawareness and confidence. I can’t thank you enough it has been a real pleasure, this project absolutely must be more than a pilot and made available to others like me.’ Stepping Forward par cipant.
New Service Development Stepping Forward Stepping Forward was a European funded Engagement Gateway project that was managed by Interlink and delivered with Valley and Vale Community Arts. The project involved using crea vity to develop the confidence and skills of people with low to moderate mental health issues over an 8 week period. The project was an outstanding success with 18 par cipants recruited; with 4 star ng volunteering; 1 returning to full me employment a er being on Incapacity Benefit for 20 years; 17 gaining a City and Guilds Qualifica on; and 8 par cipants con nuing to meet as a peer group called New Friends.
Mental Health Service Development Events
Mental Health Support Services Directory
A mental health awareness raising event in Merthyr in October 2011 gave members of the public the opportunity to discuss their concerns about mental health and challenge some of the stereotypes people hold. It was a great success with 230 members of the public a ending and over 60 community organisa ons holding stalls, giving advice, guidance and signpos ng people to relevant services. The event was opened by the Mayor, Paul Brown who spoke about the importance of the event and World Mental Health Day in raising public awareness. The event was described as ‘inspiring’ by a member of the public, a sen ment shared by all those present.
An online Service Directory was launched at the World Mental Health Day Events in both RCT and Merthyr Tydfil in October 2011 providing informa on, advice and contacts in Cwm Taf. The Directory has been developed and promoted in partnership with informa on cards being distributed to encourage people to visit the site at www.mentalhealthsupport.co.uk.
‘What a useful resource, it’s quick and easy to use and a great source of informa on.’
Social Enterprise Work commenced in November 2011 to develop future opportuni es working with the innova ve plans of Forum members such as Gofal, New Horizons and Hafal to improve their financial sustainability and generate new sources of income.
In RCT an organised walk raised awareness for World Mental Health Day. Service users, carers, family members and representa ves from the Council’s Mental Health Independent Living Services, Mind, Gofal, Hafal, New Horizons, a number of peer support groups and Interlink came together to enjoy a fundraising stroll through Ynysangharad Park, with more than 50 people raising money for future events.
12
Mental Health Service User Involvement Project From April 2011 / March 2012, the Mental Health Service User Involvement Project has employed Rachel Wya and Helen Rees to support service users in a wide variety of involvement opportuni es including service users groups, joint working groups with service providers, awareness raising and the recruitment of mental health workers.
SURF (Service User Recovery Forum) Service users have met on a monthly basis at SURF mee ngs (Service User Recovery Forum). Mee ngs have been held in different community venues across Rhondda Cynon Taf and Merthyr Tydfil to ensure all service users have an opportunity to par cipate. SURF mee ngs are an excellent way for people to share their experiences, to respond to consulta ons as a group and for service user representa ves to collect feedback about mental health services. Here is what some of the SURF members have told us: ‘Involvement has made all the difference in the world and has helped me to have a new life.’
‘It’s brought me out of myself and it’s good to hear others point of view.’ Guest speakers gave updates on the New Welsh Measure, the crisis service in Merthyr and Aberdare and the redesign of acute in-pa ent services at the Royal Glamorgan Hospital in Llantrisant. Service users have been extremely proac ve in Cwm Taf Local Health Board’s consulta on on adult in-pa ent services in August 2011. As a result of concerns expressed during the consulta on process, the LHB’s proposed Op on 5 was amended to Op on 5+ to include rehabilita on beds in Thomastown House in Merthyr Tydfil which can be accessed by service users from the Cynon and Merthyr Valleys. A SURF group representa ve has been involved in the Redesign Project, the steering group for implemen ng the move to one centralised in-pa ent mental health service at the Royal Glamorgan site. 13
Service User Representa ves Seven service user representa ves have been involved in various mental health planning and policy groups, including: •
Stronger In Partnership Group (Service User and Carer Involvement Group).
•
The RCT and Merthyr Tydfil Mental Health Joint Planning Group.
•
The Psychology Service User and Carer Commi ee.
•
Care Planning Approach (CPA) Monitoring Group.
•
Mental Health Act Monitoring Group.
•
The Primary Care Task and Finish Group.
•
Rehabilita on Service at Ysbyty George Thomas and Pinewood House (Treorchy).
•
The Redesign of In-Pa ent Services at Royal Glamorgan Hospital
In November 2011, an informa on and resource pack was developed to support service user representa ves in their role. The first service user representa ves mee ng was held in March 2012 at the Muni Arts Centre Pontypridd a ended by ten representa ves from different local service user groups. They agreed the need for a representa ves group to gather feedback and represent the news of different groups.
Representa ves meet at the Muni Arts Centre
Mental Health Service User Involvement Project Mental Health Awareness Raising
Training
In December 2011, the Involvement Project was successful in its applica on to Wales Mental Health in Primary Care for a bursary to carry out an awareness-raising project. ‘INFORM’ will collect digital stories from service users and carers about their experiences of primary care services. The stories will feature in a training package for professionals working in the primary care sector.
Service users have par cipated in the delivery of 14 training events for home care workers, student nurses, clinical psychology students and Approved Mental Health Prac oner (AMPH) students. The Involvement Project organised Joint Recruitment Training for Service Users, Carers and Workers which was facilitated in partnership with Cwm Taf Local Health Board, Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council and the University of Glamorgan. Here is what some of the par cipants told us: ‘Training allows service users to be more involved in ensuring high quality and empathe c staff. It was heartening to see service users placed at the centre of training.’
‘This training gave me a good insight into the whole recruitment process.’
Recrui ng Mental Health Workers Digital story training
Stronger In Partnership The Stronger In Partnership group is well established and a ended by service users, carers and service providers with a shared vision for promo ng service user and carer involvement in mental health services across Rhondda Cynon Taf and Merthyr Tydfil and has been officially recognised as having responsibility for gathering service user feedback on local mental health services. In February 2012, the group planned ‘LISTEN 2012’ a Listening event for service users and carers to learn more about the recent changes in adult mental health services and to discuss these changes with managers from Cwm Taf Local Health Board and the local authority.
Service users have been involved in 18 interview panels this year, including nursing staff, clerical staff, community psychiatric nurses, psychologists, health care assistants, psychology students and nursing students.
Research in Mental Health The Involvement Project has worked in partnership with the University of Glamorgan and New Horizons on an online service user survey which was published in November 2011 and is available to view online at www.mentalhealthsupport.co.uk.
Key Figures 21 ac ve service users, including 7 new service users.
14
Learn RCT The Local Employability and Regenera on Network in RCT (LEARN RCT) Project supported economically inac ve individuals and those furthest from the labour market over the age of 16 to gain confidence, skills and qualifica ons through volunteering, training and employment opportuni es with community and social enterprises. Jenny Thomas and Sam Griffiths were employed to provide support and training for people who are currently not in work, to help them into employment or volunteering. Myles had been out of work for around 10 years. Being out of the job market for so long had knocked his confidence in his ability to an extremely low level. He felt incompetent to look for work and was unsure of his own ability. As a way of boos ng his skills and confidence, Myles agreed to discuss the opportuni es available for voluntary work. A er agreeing to try it out, Myles started volunteering in a charity shop in a local hospital, where he hasn’t looked back. ‘I feel a lot more able than before, I’m fi er as I’m walking more, I’m talking more, I’m more approachable, I have a be er outlook in life and I’m happier, my father has no ced a difference in me since I started volunteering.’
Skills for Learning and Life programme
15
cipants engaged cipants gaining other posi ve outcomes cipants gaining qualifica ons cipants entering further learning cipants entering volunteering cipants entering mainstream programmes cipants entering employment
•
Helping to iden fy their interests, future plans and training needs with support from the Learn RCT Advisor.
•
Providing free training courses and volunteering opportuni es to learn new skills and provide new experiences.
•
Building confidence and self esteem.
•
Providing work based experience in, for example, retail, customer service, office and everyday skills.
Geraint is 30 years old, with no paid work history. Suffering from tragic personal issues, Geraint began to feel lost and alone. Leaving school with few qualifica ons, he a empted college, which didn’t work out. This cycle of feeling depressed and alone had con nued, un l he was unable to leave the house alone, and would only visit the Job Centre for his appointments. Geraint was referred to Jenny by his advisor for support with job search and confidence issues. Jenny worked with Geraint to complete a CV and discussed the ways in which Geraint could improve his confidence. Geraint decided to try the Skills for Learning and Life programme with great success. He a ended every session, and although at first found it difficult to interact with other members of the group, soon began to find it easier.
Myles now feels confident enough to start a computer course and has started to apply for jobs, a er comple ng his CV with Jenny.
Par Par Par Par Par Par Par
The Learn RCT project supported par cipants by:
68 68 4 18 9 3 2
Geraint has now gone on to another Engagement Gateway project at Interlink – Stepping Forward – and has completed a City and Guilds qualifica on in Employability and Personal Development.
Geraint says of his experience ‘I wanted to run out of the room to start, but I forced myself to stay and I’m glad.’
See CHANGE See CHANGE is funded by the Big Lo ery and aims to increase the voice of local people through training. This year Kelly Daniel and Helen Green assisted over 300 individuals who have benefited through support and training across 26 courses in Community Development, Par cipa on and Democracy. Our learners achieved in total 81 accredita ons from entry level to level 2. The training has enabled many of our learners to develop projects in their own communi es. For example, a group of mums from Abercwmboi Communi es First ini ally took part in a taster course in community development. They then wanted progress and undertook some accredita on in par cipa on, community research skills and community development. The group iden fied through the training that there was a lack of facili es for people to get together and that Abercwmboi needed a community based café. See CHANGE worked with Communi es First and the mums to establish ‘Breakfast Together.’ Every Friday the group provide a hearty breakfast for the community.
See CHANGE has also offered a bespoke service and has supported both Bryncynon and Glyncoch with conduc ng a community survey to iden fy needs. We enabled ac ve community members to be part of this and delivered training around par cipa on, ways to consult and ac ve listening skills. We held 2 networking events – one on sustainability and another on volunteering and fundraising. From these events, community groups and organisa ons were able to form new partnerships and share ideas. Perthcelyn linked with Federa on of City Farms and Community Gardens and swi ly began plans for an orchard while the Glyncoch co-ordinator went on to arrange mentoring skills training with See CHANGE. One guest speaker from Rhondda Breast Friends told us ‘It’s great to be able to show other groups how much you can develop if you have the passion and vision to make it happen.’ From July 2011 See CHANGE began taking a lead on par cipa on training delivered by young people (called Young People Say) which had been piloted by Fframwaith. Seven young people were supported to deliver engagement training to a range of organisa ons from Communi es First staff to volunteer youth workers. The young people were also given the opportunity to begin an OCN award in par cipa on. One of the young people commented ‘Before I started this, I never would have thought I’d have the confidence to speak to a room full of adults - let alone train them in how to engage with young people!’
‘It’s the only hot meal I get, and it’s fabulous to be able to come here with my family’.
See CHANGE was involved with developing the consor a for the Big Lo ery’s Community Voice fund. The consor um includes older people, young people, mental health, visually impaired people and disadvantaged communi es. We were successful in ge ng through to round 2 of the funding process and will find out next year if we are successful. 16
Suppor ng Groups Working with Families During 2010/11, Maria Prosser was employed by the Fframwaith Partnership to ensure the full involvement of community and voluntary organisa ons in the work of the Partnership, represen ng the Sector on behalf of Interlink, providing informa on, support and training, as well as coordina ng four Children and Young People Development (CYD) Network events including: ‘Planning for the Future’ which provided an opportunity for the Sector to explore Canopi, a mul -agency approach to addressing the needs of families on an area or cluster basis; and ‘Back to Basics’ enabled the Network to reflect on their achievements and how to embrace change for the future.
A lot of training and awareness raising has taken place, with safeguarding high on the agenda. There is plenty of evidence the message of ‘Safeguarding is Everybody’s Business’ is ge ng across through the number of Safeguarding courses that have been requested. The Local Safeguarding Children Board approved ‘Safeguarding Level 2’ course has been delivered to 13 groups including Valleys Kids, Rhondda Housing, RCT Homes, Cynon Valley Crime Preven on, Rhondda Brass Band, Cwmbach Communi es First, The Strategy and Rhondda Women’s Aid. Interlink hosted three fully booked courses including all of Interlink’s staff . This is fantas c, proving how pro-ac ve the Sector is in respect to its safeguarding commitments towards children and young people in Rhondda Cynon Taf.
Young People’s Par cipa on Sue Phillips is based with Interlink and employed to involve children, young people and families across the work of the Fframwaith Partnership. This covers a whole range of involvement work and in 2010/11 this included:
Live Life Right – Young people’s group for the LSCB In January 2012 young people who had an interest in the work of the Local Safeguarding Children Board (LSCB) were brought together as a young people’s group. They were given training in how the LSCB worked, along with safeguarding awareness training. They wanted their own iden ty and developed their own logo to go along with the name they came up with ‘Live Life Right’ which will be professionally produced.
17
Families First Consulta on Families First is an innova ve programme that promotes mul -agency systems and support, with a clear emphasis on preven on and early interven on for families, par cularly those living in poverty. The best way of suppor ng children, par cularly those living in poverty, is by working with the whole family. Evidence suggests early support can reduce the likelihood of families developing more complicated and costly needs. In RCT, everyone wanted to make sure we listened to the experiences of families before designing new services. The consulta on process to inform the way forward with the new Families First programme involved children, young people and families with recent relevant experience of trying to access help when things started to become difficult for them. Children and young people were asked separately to the adults. They were asked how easy or difficult they found trying to get help, their own experiences of being assessed, what they found helpful / not helpful and their ideas for future improvements. For example, many families had a large number of people working with them from different agencies, but they would prefer to have one key contact so that they do not feel overwhelmed as a family.
Play Development Project Ma Cook is the Play Development Officer at Interlink and provides training for and works with community and voluntary organisa ons to develop play opportuni es in Rhondda Cynon Taf, with funding from Rhondda Cynon Taf Early Years Department. •
30 Voluntary organisa ons supported by the Flying Squad during the summer holidays.
•
Shediau Chwarae pilot project delivered in 3 schools. Improved play experiences for children in schools achieved by training lunch me supervisors in playwork and providing loose parts for children to play with which are stored in a shed in the playground.
•
Local Safeguarding Childrens Board Safeguarding training Level 1 delivered to 12 people.
•
Experen al playwork training delivered to 35 people.
•
Introduc on to Playwork Level 2 delivered to 30 people.
•
Supported the Families and Schools Together Project in Perthcelyn.
•
Supported the Teddy Bears Picnic in Ynysangharad Park, Pontypridd.
•
Con nued to support Chwarae Plant with their Big Lo ery funded play project.
•
Development of a Scrapstore as part of RCT’s Play Resource Centre in Ferndale.
•
Playworkers Forum supported. A two day residen al on the Gower, including key note speakers, workshops and networking opportuni es.
•
Local Safeguarding Childrens Board Safeguarding training Level 2 delivered to 24 people.
Shelley described the Safeguarding training as providing ‘Good, clear informa on, done in a relaxed and helpful way.’
‘I really enjoyed the training, it made me understand the role and importance that play has in children’s lives as they develop.’
18
Interlink Training Programme We ran an amazing 80 courses with 695 par cipants during 2011/12, that is 27 courses and 162 par cipants more than the previous year! And you enjoyed it, with 98% of you rated our training as very good or excellent. We delivered more accredited training over the year, including Community Development courses delivered by the See CHANGE project where 81 Agored Cymru accredita ons were achieved from entry level to level 2. We also introduced a range of new courses on Tendering and Commissioning provided through the Commission Accomplished project, including Effec ve Contract Management, Wri ng and Presen ng Bids and Results Based Accountability.
A range of successful training was delivered during the year aimed at employability through our Learn RCT and Stepping Forward projects funded through Engagement Gateway. ‘Skills for Learning and Life’ provided sessions such as me management, goal se ng and interview skills.
Zoe said of the Learn RCT project ‘I am really enjoying the course and feel posi ve about my future now.’
Shell described the Conflict Management training as ‘A brilliant course – life changing’ and John said ‘Interlink training just gets be er and be er…’
Jeane e said the Project Management course was an ‘Excellent day – everyone felt comfortable enough to take part.’
Compact and Codes of Prac ce The Compact is a partnership agreement between the Third Sector, via Interlink, Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council and Cwm Taf Health Board, which seeks to build on exis ng working rela onships and ul mately improve partnership delivery for the benefit of communi es in Rhondda Cynon Taf. A small working group was convened of partner representa ves and a dra Compact was produced for consulta on. Consulta on took place between June and August 2011.
19
To accompany the Compact document, as appendices, Codes of Prac ce were developed for Partnership Working, Volunteering and Media on and Disputes Resolu on. The final Compact document was approved by the Local Service Board on 31 October 2011. It was formally launched at Interlink’s AGM on 1 December 2011. Visit www.interlinkrct.org.uk to see the Compact document.
Execu ve Commi ee Execu ve Commi ee 2011 to 2012 Jean Harrington
TEDS
Chair
Pauline Richards
Valleys Kids
Vice Chair
Lynne Herbert
DEWIS
Treasurer
Thea Lewis
Pontypridd Talking News
(un l December 2011)
Vince Price
Cynon Valley Crime Preven on
(un l December 2011)
Michelle Lenton Johnson
The Strategy
Ian Dennis
Groundwork Merthyr and Cynon
Robin Cook
Treforest Wholesome Foods
Rhian Dash
Rowan Tree Cancer Care
Erika Helps
Rhondda Taff CAB
Kate O’Sullivan
Gilfach Goch Community Associa on
Wayne Carter
Penrhys Partnership
Geoff Bell
Brynawel House
Wendy York
RCT Community Arts
Lynda Corre
Rhondda 50+ Forum
(from December 2011)
Steve Davis
Spectacle Theatre
(from December 2011)
(un l December 2011)
20
Staff Team Simon James June Williams-Sykes Ann Philpo Kath Price Alisa Davies Cara Jordan-Evans Lauren Baker Phil Barre Joanna Markham Andrew Rowlands Ken Moon Chris ne Davies Thomas Crocke Sam Griffiths Jenny Thomas Meriel Gough Ma hew Cook Maria Prosser Sue Phillips Maria Abson Helen Rees Rachel Wya Minu Mandora Anne Morris Kelly Daniel Helen Green Sian Richards Sue Shaddock Charlo e Taylor Hannah Davies
21
Chief Execu ve Finance and Resources Manager Opera ons Manager Office Manager Administra ve Assistant Administra ve Assistant Recep onist/Hospitality Assistant Development Officer (Organisa onal Development) Development Officer (Informa on and Support) Development Officer (Social Enterprise) (From 1 July 2011 To 16 March 2012) Development Officer (Social Enterprise) (From 1 July 2011) Volunteering Development Officer Volunteering Development Officer Voluntary Sector Mapping Project Officer Learn RCT Development Officer Engagement Gateway Development Officer Play Development Officer Children and Young People Partnership Development Officer (Hosted by Interlink) Fframwaith Par cipa on and Involvement Officer (Hosted by Interlink) Mental Health Development Officer Mental Health Service User Involvement Officer (Support) Mental Health Service User Involvement Officer (Development) Expert Pa ents Programme Trainer/Coordinator (Un l 31 March 2012) Health, Social Care and Wellbeing Facilitator See Change Coordinator and Trainer See Change Par cipa on Officer Interlink Cleaner Interlink Volunteer Interlink Volunteer Interlink Volunteer
Accounts Balance Sheet As at 31 March 2012
2012 £ Fixed Assets Tangible Fixed Assets Current Assets Debtors and Prepayments Cash at Bank and in hand Liabili es: Amounts falling due within one year
67,791
100,100 411,270 511,370 8,173
Net Current Assets
503,197
Net Assets
570,988
Funds Unrestricted Funds
504,961
Restricted Funds Total Funds
66,027 570,988
These summarised accounts may not contain sufficient informa on to allow for a full understanding of the financial affairs of the Charity. For further informa on the full accounts, the independent auditor’s report on those accounts and the trustees’ annual report should be consulted. Copies of these can be obtained from Interlink, 6 Melin Corrwg, Cardiff Road, Upper Boat CF37 5BE Telephone: 01443 846200. To the Members of Interlink In the opinion of the independent auditors, Williams Ross Limited, the summarised accounts given in this document are consistent with the full annual accounts. The independent auditors’ report on the full accounts was unqualified. WILLIAMS ROSS LIMITED Chartered Accountants and Registered Auditor, 4 Ynys Bridge Court, Gwaelod y Garth, Cardiff, CF15 9SS.
22
Accounts Accounts Summary Income and Expenditure Account Year ended 31 March 2012
Notes
Gross income from normal con nuing opera ons
2012 £ 970,113
Special projects
1
Total income of con nuing opera ons
139,407 1,109,520
Total expenditure of con nuing opera ons
2
1,054,500 55,020
Net income for the year
Note 1 Special projects refer to the income received and expenditure paid out to member organisa ons taking part in the DWP Future Jobs Fund and the Local Energy Assessment Fund. Note 2 Analysis of resources expended
Support Costs Management and administra on expenditure (including governance)
Staff Costs
Special projects
£
£
627,133 627,133
124,382 124,382 Note 1
23
Other £ 281,483 6,450 287,933
Deprecia on
£
Total
£
15,052 15,052
1,048,050 6,450 1,054,500
Accounts Statement of Financial Ac vi es (Including Income and Expenditure Account) For the year ended 31 March 2012 Unrestricted Restricted £ £
Total £
Incoming resources Incoming Resources from Generated Funds: Ac vi es for genera ng funds: Trading income Bank Interest
13,231 302
-
13,231 302
390,918
543,434
934,352
-
76,967 62,440
76,967 62,440
Other incoming resources
22,228
-
22,228
Total Incoming Resources
426,679
682,841 1,109,520
487,661 6,450 -
436,007 69,138
923,668 6,450 69,138
-
55,244
55,244
Incoming Resources from Charitable Ac vi es: Grants and contracts DWP Future Jobs Fund income Local Energy Assessment Fund
Resources Expended Charitable Ac vi es Governance Costs DWP Future Jobs Fund payments to providers Local Energy Assessment Fund Total Resources Expended
494,111
560,389 1,054,500
Net (expenditure)/Income for the year before Transfers
(67,432)
122,452
55,020
98,216
(98,216)
-
Net movement in funds Funds transferred from unincorporated charity
30,784 474,177
24,236 41,791
55,020 515,968
Funds Carried Forward
504,961
66,027
570,988
Transfers between Funds
24
Membership Membership Interlink Membership to 31 March 2012 12th Pontypridd Scout Group; 1st Aberdare St Fagans Scout Group; 1st Pontygwaith Scout Group; 1st Tonyrefail Scout Group; Aberaman Amateur Boxing Club; Aberaman Bowls Club; Aberaman Newydd Tenants Associa on; Abercwmboi Community Revival Group; Abercwmboi Environment Group; Abercwmboi Village Improvement Partnership; Abercynon Ac on Team; Abercynon RFC; Abercynon Social Hall; Aberdare & District Radio Society; Aberdare Childrens Contact Centre; Aberdare Cricket Club; Aberdare Scribblers; Aberdare Trefoil Guild; Abergorki Community Hall; Aberllechau Community Associa on; Abernant Community Interests Group; Access Mondial; Accessible Caring Transport; ACT 1 Theatre Group; ACTS Community Church; ADD-LIB; ADREF LTD; Advocacy Ma ers; Age Ac on Mountain Ash and Penrhiwceiber; Age Concern Cymru; Age Concern Morgannwg; Alison House Youth and Play Project; All Wales Forum; An Open Door; Arosfa Senior Ci zens Guild; Arts Factory; Ategi; Barry Sidings Ac vity Group; BETH Beyond Everything Theres Hope; Bethel Place Residents Associa on; Bethlehem Bap st Church; Bipolar UK; Boys and Girls Clubs Of Wales; Breast Cancer Care Cymru; Breathe Easy Rhondda; Briars Bridleways; Britannia Street Watch; Bri sh Deaf Associa on; Bri sh Heart Founda on Cymru; Bri sh Red Cross; Bronwydd Ladies Bowling Club; Bryn Golau Caergwerlas Tenants and Residents; Brynawel House Alcohol Rehabilita on Centre; Bryncynon Community Centre; Bryncynon Li er Pick Group; Bryncynon Walking Group; Bryn rion Graveyard Fund; Bryn rion Tenant & Residents Associa on; C.A.S.S. (Calectoral & Stoma Support); Camau Bach Outdoor Ac vity Group; Cambrian Male Voice Choir; Canny Quilter's; Capel Farm Resource Centre; Capel Salem Tonteg; Capel y Tabernacl Cyf; Cardiff Vales and Valleys; Care & Repair Rhondda Cynon Taff Ltd; Cartrefi Cymru; CASE; Castle Square United Reform Church; Cefn Primary Mother & Toddler; Cemetery Road Tenants & Residents Associa on; Central Glamorgan Guides; Central Glamorgan Trefoil Guild; Churches Counselling Service in Wales; Chwarae Plant; Chwarae Teg; CIC (Cynllyn Ieuenc d Y Cymoedd); Cilfynydd Art Society; Cilfynydd Kids Club; Circles Network Wales; Cleanstream Carpets CIC; Clwb Carco; Clwb Gymdeithasol Cymraeg Cwm Cynon; Coal Industry Social Welfare Organisa on; Coalfields Regenera on Trust; Coed Ely Community Centre Steering Group; Colorectal & Stoma Support Group; Communi es in Partnership; Community Cancer Services; Community Development Cymru; Community Media on Services RCT; Cor Meibion Morlais; Cor Meibion Pontypridd; Cornerstone Church; Cra yways Society; Crime Reduc on Ini a ves; Crossroads Rhondda Cynon Taff; Cruse Bereavement Care Merthyr Tydfil/Rhondda Cynon Taff; Cwm Clydach Development Trust; Cwm Clydach Outdoor Ac vity Group; Cwm Cynon Women's Aid; Cwm Taf Credit Union; Cwm Taff Alzheimer's Society; Cwmaman Health Group; Cwmaman Ins tute Silver Band; Cwmaman Public Hall and Ins tute; Cwmbach Choir; Cwmbach Scouts and Guides; Cwmparc Branch Na onal OAP of Wales; Cwmparc Community Associa on; Cwmparc Out of School Club; Cwmparc Treorchy & Ynyswen Community Regenera on; Cylch; Cylch Meithrin Aberdar; Cylch Meithrin Efail Isaf; Cylch Meithrin Nant Drys; Cylch Meithrin Porth; Cylch Meithrin Thomastown; Cylch Meithrin Tynewydd; Cymdeithas Rhieni y Cymer; Cynon Allotments Associa on; Cynon Culture; Cynon Taf Community Housing; Cynon Valley Area Na onal OAP's Associa on of Wales; Cynon Valley Childminding Group; Cynon Valley Ci zens Advice Bureau; Cynon Valley Crime Preven on Associa on; Cynon Valley Disabled Club; Cynon Valley First Responder Scheme; Cynon Valley Neighbourhood Watch; Cynon Valley PALS; Cynon Valley Vision; Dai Davies Community Centre; Darranlas Residents Associa on; Dewis Centre for Independent Living; Diabetes Peer Support; Diabetes UK Cymru; Diabetes UK Pontypridd & District; Disability Wales; Dragon Savers Credit union; DRIVE; Drugaid (Swapa Ltd); Dylan's Den; Dynea Neighbourhood Watch; Early Start; Ea ng Disorders Wales; Efail Isaf Village Hall; Elim Cynon Valley Church; Elite Supported Employment Agency Ltd; Ely Valley Junior Football Club; Epilepsy Wales; FADS - A Family Service; Fairbridge Cymru; Fernbank Residents Group; Ferndale & District Boys and Girls Club; Ferndale Court Residents Fund; Ferndale Home Improvement Service; Ferndale Old Age Pensioners; Ferndale Skate Park; Fernhill (Rhondda) Conserva on Group; Fernhill Associa on of Residents; Fernhill Family Flats; Fernhill Youth Project; Fforest Uchaf Horse & Pony Rehabilita on Centre and Pit Pony Sanctuary; Firebrake Wales; Forum of Older People in Cynon Valley; Friday Youth Club; Friends of Caerglas Resource Centre; Friends of Craig yr Hesg Community School; Friends of Four Seasons; Friends of Maesgwyn Special School; Friends of the Animals; Friends of The Rhondda Heritage Park; Friends of Tonypandy Primary School; Friends of Ynysangharad War Memorial Park; Friends of Ynyshir Primary School; Friends r Us; Gadlys Regenera on Ini a ve Programme; Garthwen Residents Sheltered Homes; Gatehouse; Gelli Fedi Rise Tennants Associa on; Gelligaled Bowls Club; Gilfach Goch Community Associa on; Gilfach Goch Welfare OAP Associa on; Gilfach Goch Youth Commi ee; Gingerbread; Girl Guiding Pontypridd; Glamorgan Blended Learning; Glamorgan ME Support Group; Glamorgan Mission to the Deaf; Glan Road Neighbourhood Watch; Glancynon Gardening Group; Glasbrook Recrea on Commi ee; Glyn Aman Neighbourhood Watch; Glyncoch Community Centre; Glyntaff Serenades; Glyntaff Tenants and Residents Associa on; Gofal Cymru (Rhondda Cynon Taff); Greenhill Allotments Society; Greenmeadow Riding for the Disabled Group; Groundwork Merthyr and Rhondda Cynon Taff; Groundwork Wales; Grow Enterprise Wales; Growing; GTFM; Gwaunruperra Residents and Community Group; Hafod Care Associa on Ltd; Hawthorn and Upper Boat Senior Ci zens; Headway Cardiff; Heartbeat 95; Hirwaun and Penderyn Community Council; Hirwaun OAP Associa on; Hirwaun Welfare Football Social Club; Hirwaun YMCA Youth & Community Centre; Homestart RCT; Ilan DiamondsJazzBand;KyberColtsABC;LaburnumCourtResidentsAssocia on;LanWoods Environmental Protec onGroup; Learning Disability Wales; Lewis Merthyr Band; Library Close Senior Ci zens; Llanfair Uni ng Church; Llanharan Community Development Project Ltd; Llanharan OAP Associa on; Llanharan Recrea on Ground Trust; Llanharry & Tylagarw Community Associa on;
25
Membership Interlink Membership to 31 March 2012 Llantrisant ABC; Llantrisant History Society; Llantrisant ladies Choir; Llantwit Fardre Football Club; Llantwit Lions Skater Hockey Club; Llwydcoed Band; Llwydcoed Community Centre; Llwynypia Boys & Girls Club; Llys Catwg Residents Associa on; Lower Trealaw Branch OAP Maes Yr Haf; Maerdy Archives; Maerdy Community Centre; Maerdy Infants Taskforce Environment; Maerdy/Ferndale Tenants and Residents Board; Maes yr Haf Community Centre; Meadow Cra s; Mencap Cymru; Menter Iaith Rhondda Cynon Taf; Merthyr & the Valleys Mind; Mid Fach River Care Group; Mid Glamorgan Area Scout Council; Mid Glamorgan Scouts; Mid Rhondda Band; Mid Rhondda Modeling Miskin Art; Miskin Regenera on Trust; Mountain Ash Golf Club; Mountain Ash YMCA; Mudiad Ysgolion Meithrin Rhondda Cynon Taf; Nant-y-Fedw Tenants & Residents; Nantgarw OAP Associa on; Na onal Childminding Associa on; Na onal Council of YMCA's in Wales; NCH Ac on for Children Penwaun Family Centre; NCH Ac on for Children Rhondda Family Project; Nebo Chapel; New Horizons; New Life Community Church; Newlink Wales; Newport & Gwent Chamber of Commerce Enterprise and Industry; Newtown Llantwit Allotment Associa on; Newydd Housing Associa on; Nixons Welfare Ins tute and Social Club; Nurse Bowen Memorial Trust; Oasis Church; Ogwr DASH; Old Age Pensioners and Widows Assoc, Treherbert; Old Bridge Photographic Society; Old School Community Centre; Older Peoples Advisory Group; Parc & Dare Band; Parc Cra Club; Parents Associa on Llwynypia - Youth Sec on; Parents Staff Associa on of Ysgol y Cymer Rhondda; Park Lane Allotment Society; Parkinson's UK Cymru; Penderyn Senior Welfare Commi ee; Penderyn Sports Associa on; Penrhiwceiber Community Revival Strategy Group; Penrhiwceiber Ins tute and Community Society; Penrhys Partnership; Penygraig Boys & Girls Club; Penywaun Community Centre; Penywaun Enterprise Partnership; Person to Person Ci zen Advocacy; Perthcelyn Community Centre; Pla orm Arts; Pontsionnorton PTA; Pontyclun Bosom Pals; Pontyclun Football Club; Pontygwaith Community Centre; Pontypridd & District Mencap Society; Pontypridd Canal Conserva on Group; Pontypridd South Road Championship Club; Pontypridd Talking News Associa on; Pontypridd Women's Aid; Pontypridd YMCA; Porth Infants Kids Club; Posi ve Steps; Prime Cymru; Providence Bap st Church; Race Equailty Training Wales; RCT Access Group; RCT Eye to Eye Youth Counselling Service; RCT Homes; RCT Vic m Support and Witness Service; RCT Young People First; Recrea on Ground Sports Associa on; Re red Senior Volunteer Programme; Rhigos Community Sports Associa on; Rhigos Kidz n Youth Group; Rhondda 50+ Forum; Rhondda Animal Aid & Cats Protec on; Rhondda Apostolic Mission; Rhondda Breast Friends; Rhondda Calligraphy Society; Rhondda Community Credit Union Ltd; Rhondda Community Development Associa on; Rhondda Community Garden and Enterprise Scheme; Rhondda Cynon Taff Aspergers Syndrome Parent Support Group; Rhondda Cynon Taff Community Arts; Rhondda Cynon Taff District Scout Council; Rhondda Cynon Taff Parent and Carer Network; Rhondda Cynon Taff People First; Rhondda Cynon Taff Tenants and Residents Federa on; Rhondda Disabled Riding Group; Rhondda Fach Housebound Club; Rhondda Housing Associa on; Rhondda Housing; Maerdy Tenants Associa on; Rhondda Indoor Bowls Club; Rhondda Jazz; Rhondda League of Children's Marching Bands; Rhondda Listening Friends; Rhondda Radio; Rhondda Rocket Cheerleading Group; Rhondda Sea Cadets; Rhondda Taff Ci zens Advice Bureau; Rhondda Tennis Club; Rhondda Volunteer Informa on Centre; Rhondda Womens Aid; Rhydfelin Community Woodland Group; Rhydyfelin AFC; Rhydyfelin Methodist Church; RNIB Cymru; Rotary Club of Rhondda; Rowan Tree Cancer Care; Royal Bri sh Legion Ynyshir Branch; Salem English Bap st Chapel; Salva on Army TEENS Project; Save the Children Cynon Valley; Scope Cymru; Seion Bap st Chapel Maerdy; Showcase; SNAP Cymru; Soar Chapel Ladies Guild; SOVA; Speakeasy Advice Centre; Spectacle Theatre; Springfield Social Club; SSAFA (Aberdare); SSAFA (Mid Glam); St Barnabas Church, Penygraig; St Catherines Church, Pontypridd; St Davids Founda on; St Davids Uni ng Church; St John Ambulance; St Ma hews Church; Stanley Football Club; Sunday Funday Gang; Surf Lifesaving Associa on of Wales; Taff Ely Crime Preven on; Taff Ely Neighbourhood Watch Associa on; Taffs Well Breas eeding Support Group; Taffs Well Community Garden; Taffs Well Village Hall; Talbot Green Playgroup; Tanglewood; TEDS; Telecentre and Business School Ltd; The Ark Youth and Community Project; The Big Issue Cymru Ltd; The Boilerhouse Project Ltd; The Down's Syndrome Associa on; The Heritage Singers; The Phoenix Singers; The Prince's Trust Cymru; The Strategy; The Vibes Foundry Brass Band; The WAK Club; Time Out Group; Ton & Gelli Boys & Girls Club; Ton Pentre Recrea on Associa on; Tonteg Senior Ci zens Associa on; Tonypandy & Llwynypia OAP Group; Tonypandy Albion Football Club; Tonyrefail ABC; Tonyrefail History and Folklore Society; Tonyrefail Homing Society; Tonyrefail Informa on and Advice Scheme TIAS; Tonyrefail Ladies Choir; Tonyrefail Welfare Football Club; Too Good To Waste; Total Care Support Solu ons Community Interest Company; TraVol Community Transport; Trealaw Village Trust Ltd; Trebanog Older Peoples Group; Trecynon Ins tute; Treforest Community Voluntary Group; Treforest Old Age Pensioners Associa on; Treforest Residents Assoca on; Treforest Wholesome Food Associa on; Trehafod Community Village Hall; Treherbert Quil ng Group; Treherbert Rugby Club; Treorchy Senior Ci zens Club; Treorchy Women's Ins tute; Trerhondda Arts Factory stay and play; Trothwy Cyf.; Ty Rhiw Restora on Fund; Ty Rhondda-Young Single Homeless Project; Tylorstown Communi es First; Ul mate Stage Company; Upper Rhondda Brass Band; Urdd Gobaith Cymru; Valley of Hope; Valleys Kids; Valleys Regional Equali es Council; Valleys Womens Ethnic Minority Support Group; Village & Valleys Community Transport; Vision 21 (Cyfle Cymru); Viva Project; Wales PPA; Welfare Hall & Ins tute; Welsh Perry and Cider Society; Womens Royal Voluntary Service; Workers' Educa onal Associa on; World of Words; Ynyshir & Wa stown Boys & Youth Club; Ynyshir Welfare Band; Ynyslwyd Allotment Society; Ynyswen Senior Ci zens Club; Ynyswen Welfare Ins tute; Ynysybwl Community Centre; Ynysybwl Ladies Choir; Ynysybwl Old Age Pensioners Associa on; Young at Heart Thursday Club; Young Ones Parent & Toddler Group; Ysgol Feithrin Pontyclun; Ysgol Feithrin Ynysybwl; Ystrad Boys & Girls Club; Ystrad Old Age Pensioners Associa on; Ystradyfodwg Art Society
26
Get In Touch For further informa on on Interlink’s ac vi es and membership details, visit: www.interlinkrct.org.uk www.facebook.com www.twi er.com/interlinkrct www.interlinkrct.tumblr.com www.interlinkrctdotorg.wordpress.com Contact us on 01443 846200 Fax No. 01443 844843 E.mail: info@interlinkrct.org.uk Interlink, 6 Melin Corrwg, Cardi Road, Upper Boat CF37 5BE Registered Charity No: 1141143 Company Limited by Guarantee No: 07549533