MCG-Youth Team

A NEW youth team in the Gwendraeth Valley is preparing to go out into the community to find out what young people in the area need and want.

The five-strong team has been established by Menter Cwm Gwendraeth under the European Union’s Engage youth project.

Colin Price, who is in charge of the team said: “We are going to work in the villages of the Gwendraeth Valley with young people who are not in education, training or work, by offering activities and courses, and by helping them with their personal development.

“At the moment we are looking at the whole valley in order to target areas that do not have that many services already. We are looking at Pontyberem and Gorslas. The   first thing we will be doing is going out to meet the young people and find out what they want for future.”

Colin, who is a youth health worker and advanced communication practitioner and is studying for a psychology degree, said: “I have been working in the Gwendraeth Valley in schools and the community for the last five years.”

The other team members, who all provide a bilingual service, are:

Rebecca Evans, has studied criminology and psychology, and teaches dance. She has been a member of her dance team for the last 15 years. They will be representing Wales in Los Angeles.

Phil James, who has a degree in sports and exercise and was a part-time teacher, plays centre for Pontyberem Rugby Club.

Rebecca Storch, who has an arts degree, has worked for Tinopolis and now works for herself as a writer and illustrator. She has set up a community group with others that considers issues such as climate change and has helped set up a co-operative which prepares organic food for people.

Llyr Lloyd, who has a degree in sports therapy and is qualified as a gym instructor and in nutritional weight management, is employed as a youth officer covering health and fitness. He is an active sportsman and plays for Ammanford Rugby Club.

Hayley Price has been appointed as a Life Skill Support Worker sponsored by the Carmarthenshire Rural Development Plan to support young parents and families to gain bilingual life skills.

The youth team is keen to speak to young people in the Gwendraeth Valley about their ideas and can be contacted on 01269 871600 or restorch@mentercwmgwendraeth.org.uk