Tidy Wales Week

This September we are calling on the people of Wales to take part in a week- long, nationwide, cleanup of littered black spots in towns, villages and the countryside.

Tidy Wales Week will take place between 16 - 22 September 2013 and we are hoping that people living in every corner of the country will show how much they care for their local area by getting involved in hands-on, problem-solving action.

Last year nearly 10,000 people of all ages did their bit to clean up their neighbourhoods and as a result many long standing litter blots on the landscape were removed. The week of action resulted in thousands of bags of litter being recovered by volunteers.

Get involved!

Tidy Wales Week is for everyone from a group of neighbours to schools and local businesses...this is your opportunity to get involved and make a difference in your local community!

Register your clean up event today and you will be entered into a prize draw with the chance of winning £100 worth of National Garden Centre vouchers.

http://www.keepwalestidy.org/tidy-towns/tidywalesweek/registration

Need help? Our project officers can offer assistance in organising clean-ups so make sure you get in touch with your local officer today!

Looking to buy/sell/swap good quality used school uniform

Then look no further - a facebook group has been created to enable the people of Denbighshire to sell/swap/giveaway old school uniform. Click on the following link https://www.facebook.com/groups/538251532907805/

Join in the fun with Families First

Families first is holding a fun day at Ysgol Tir Morfa on 11th August 2013 10am - 3pm. There will be loads to do including, games,den building,face painting,cake decorating, foot spas & hand massages and much more. So for a fun filled day out put this date in your calendar!

Local group gets charity registration!

Jigsaw are celebrating after receiving confirmation from The Charity Commission that they have achieved Charity Status.

On 16 September 2011 two parents, who were feeling isolated and alone following their children receiving a diagnosis of ADHD and Autism, attended a meeting at The Oak Tree Centre looking for support and advice for their families.   Following this meeting Jigsaw was formed.

Since its creation Jigsaw has opened group sessions in Denbigh, Rhyl and Colwyn Bay and will be opening a new group session on Wednesday 6 November 2013 at the newly refurbished Canolfan Ni, Corwen.  Further sessions will be opened during 2014.

Jigsaw provides emotional support, practical advice, guidance, empathy and understanding to adults, young persons, and families of persons, who have been diagnosed, are being assessed, or are showing behaviour traits of Autism and/or ADHD.  Jigsaw also provides  opportunities for the whole family to interact together in a low sensory environment during our monthly Family Sessions and day trips.

Donna Reid, Founder of Jigsaw, stated "Jigsaw is a wonderful support network for our adults, young persons, children and their families who are usually left feeling isolated and alone when their child/young person is diagnosed with Autism and/or ADHD which can have a detrimental effect upon the whole family. We believe it is paramount that public awareness is raised of the difficulties our children experience on a daily basis as well as the amazing Abilities they possess.  We firmly believe that support is more than just a word, it's an Action".

We would also like to welcome Miss Sarah Davies who will be our Family Support Worker Volunteer.  Sarah will be running our Denbigh group as from September 2013. Sarah will be working within the community of Denbigh to raise awareness of Autism and ADHD as well as providing emotional and practical support to families.  If you are interested in becoming a Volunteer for Jigsaw please visit our Volunteer page on our website.
For more information please visit our website: www.jigsawsupport.org ~
Contact us: Telephone: 07799 848270 ~ Email: contact@jigsawsupport.org ~ Facebook: Jigsaw Jigsaw, helping you put the pieces back together

Appointment of members to the Wales Programme monitoring committee for European structural & investment funds 2014-2020

Wales is expecting to be awarded a multi-billion pound investment from the EU to take forward the 2014-2020 European Structural and Investment Fund programmes (ESI). The ESI Funds managed in Wales include the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), European Social Fund (ESF), and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD).

This is the first time that Member States and regions are specifically encouraged to set up a joint monitoring committee for programmes financed by the ESI Funds and this provides Wales with an opportunity to further enhance the co-ordination and management of the funds.

The Welsh Government attaches great importance to the principle of partnership in developing, implementing and monitoring the ESI Funds. To this end it will seek to recruit members who can bring to the Committee knowledge and experience from national, regional and local authorities and groups, business and enterprise, the rural and agricultural sector, educational institutions, third sector bodies, and representatives from civil society, environmental and equality bodies.  

Candidates are expected to apply their own independent mindset rather than represent the views of any particular constituency or interest group.

The remit of the Committee is to monitor the effectiveness of the ESI programme implementation, with functions and tasks determined by the EC Regulations for each of the component funds. This will include examining progress made in delivering agreed programme objectives and suggesting or examining modifications to the agreed programmes. Candidates will need to demonstrate their engagement, experience and interest in ESI funds and the ability to act as an effective board member.

Committee members will receive £198 per day based on an expected time commitment of 8 – 10 days per annum. Travel and subsistence expenses will also be available, as meetings will generally be held in the Welsh Government offices in Merthyr Tydfil. Appointments will initially run for three and a half years, renewable subject to satisfactory review to a maximum of ten years.

The Welsh Government is committed to making appointments to public bodies, whether paid or unpaid, by fair and open competition.  Although appointments to the

PMC do not come within the remit of the Commissioner for Public Appointments these appointments will be made using a process which takes into account the Commissioner’s Code of Practice on Ministerial Appointments to Public Bodies as best practice. 

It is the policy of the Welsh Government to promote and integrate equality of opportunity into all aspects of its business including appointments to public bodies.  Applications are welcomed and encouraged from all groups and we ensure that no eligible candidate for public office receives less favourable treatment on the grounds

of age, disability, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or religious affiliation.  The principles of fair and open competition will apply and appointments will be made on merit.

 For further details and to apply go to http://wales.gov.uk/publicappointments or for queries contact the HR Helpdesk on 029 2082 5454 or email

hr-helpdesk@wales.gsi.gov.uk.

The closing date for receipt of applications is 25 July 2013.  Application forms received after this date will not be considered. It is expected to hold interviews during August 2013.

Successful candidate will be invited to attend induction sessions, with first PMC meeting likely to be held in December 2013 although the Committee may be required to meet in shadow form prior to December.

It is intended to interview the top 10 shortlisted candidates 

Vacancy/Appointment of chair of Betsi Cadwaladr universsity health board

Local Health Boards are responsible for planning, designing, developing and securing the delivery of primary, community, in-hospital care services and - where appropriate - specialised services for the citizens in their respective areas to meet identified local needs within the national policy and standards framework set out by the Minister for Health and Social Services.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (UHB) is the largest health organisation in Wales providing a full range of primary, community, mental health and acute hospital services for a population of around 676,000 people across the six counties of North Wales (Anglesey, Gwynedd, Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire and Wrexham) - as well as some parts of mid Wales, Cheshire and Shropshire.

The Chair will be accountable to the Minister for Health and Social Services for the performance of the Board and its effective governance, for upholding the values of the NHS, and for promoting the confidence of the staff, patients and communities across Wales on behalf of the Board. The Chair also has a responsibility to ensure that the UHB continues to deliver against national objectives set by the Welsh Government.

The Chair will be appointed for up to 4 years and the post is based on a notional time commitment of a minimum of 15 days per month, but this will be subject to organisational demands. The Chair will be eligible to receive Band 4 remuneration which equates to £69,840 per annum.

We are particularly interested in receiving applications from under-represented groups such as women, disabled people and those from ethnic minorities.

For more information or to apply go to www.wales.gov.uk/publicappointments or for queries contact HR Helpdesk at the Welsh Government by e-mail: hr-helpdesk@wales.gsi.gov.uk or telephone: 029 2082 5454.

Closing date for receipt of completed application forms is 29 July 2013. 

It is expected that the interviews will be held in August 2013

Is your goal to go to university?

Glyndwr University open day is being held on Saturday 17 August 2013, offering the chance to visit one of the UK’s fastest growing and most dynamic universities. If you would like to study at university but have no idea whether you will get in or how much it will cost, Saturday 17th August is the day you can find out!

Academic staff from subject areas will be available from 10am – 2pm to discuss courses.  There will also be advisors available to talk about applications, finance, student support and accommodation in greater detail. Demonstrations will also take place throughout the day, including a flight simulator and the Chinese medicine clinic.

These are exciting times for the university, with major successes including the opening of two new multi-million pound facilities, the Centre for the Creative Industries and Centre for the Child, Family and Society. The university’s recent acquisition of the Glyndwr University Racecourse Stadium and Colliers Park training facilities reflect our commitment to ensuring our students have the facilities and support they need to succeed.

Students leave university well equipped for the world of work, with an outstanding 94.7 per cent employability figure for our 2010 graduates in the most recent Destination of Leavers from Higher Education survey.

With the lowest fees in Wales, Glyndwr University has recognised the need to support students and help them avoid becoming burdened with debt. THERE IS NO UPFRONT FEE! YOU WILL ONLY PAY YOUR LOAN OFF WHEN YOU ARE EARNING OVER £21,500pa and even then it will only be a small percentage of your monthly wage.

There are a number of new initiatives rolling out this September, including the £1k cash boost for full-time students on selected courses, £2k work placements for first year undergraduates and the £1k accommodation award for students starting the BSc (Hons) Health, Wellbeing & Community programme. For Care Leavers we have a number of accommodation bursaries offering 50% discount on your first year accommodation costs if these are not covered by your local authority. For further information on these incentives, see www.glyndwr.ac.uk/en/feesandstudentfinance

If you are at school, the open day has been strategically scheduled a few days after A-level results day and students will have access to information regarding Clearing, and how to apply to Glyndwr directly, during their visit. We still have places available across a range of subject areas for students who are interested in commencing study this September.

Whatever your educational background, come along and find out for yourself! You can book a place for the open day or by calling 01978 293439. Booking is preferred as this enables us to plan the day to meet your needs but feel free to just turn up on the day!

Welsh Government School Uniform Grant Scheme 2013/14

 

Pupils entering Year 7 of maintained secondary schools in Wales in the 2013/14 school year who are eligible for free school meals will be eligible for the school uniform grant; as will pupils in special schools, special needs resource bases and pupil referral units in Wales who are aged 11 at the start of the 2013/14 school year and who are eligible for free school meals.More information can be found on the Welsh Government website: http://wales.gov.uk/topics/educationandskills/schoolshome/parents/uniform/?skip=1&lang=en

Rhyl Community Market to help budding entrepreneurs

A market is offering free stalls for people wanting to start up businesses in a bid to encourage local entrepreneurs in one of Wales' most deprived areas.

Rhyl Community Market is offering 10 pitches for up to eight weeks at a time for budding business people, community groups and charities. The aim is for them to build up enough capital to develop their businesses. Those behind the project hope it will help start community enterprises.
Denbigh Voluntary Services Council said it was helping people to help themselves. It hopes the new stall holders will offer something different to the outdoor market, which is run on Thursdays and Saturdays, in the town's high street, selling unique, local goods.
In turn, it says the market would act as a good place to start a business, with help offered to arrange a deal for a permanent pitch at the market in the long term.
"Who knows, after building up in the market, they could then open a unit or a shop," said Sandy Williams, of the Denbigh Voluntary Services Council (DVSC).
"It is a low-risk way of trying out a business idea and we would then work with them to support them and point them in the right direction if they want to carry on after the eight weeks."
The free stalls initiative plans to work with further education colleges to encourage business students to take up the offer of a stall.

DVSC latest newsletter

To read the latest news from our local voluntary sector click on the following link
http://www.dvsc.co.uk/english/documents/VolunteerJune2013.pdf

Community Development Cymru

Will be holding a Networking opportunity on:

Friday 31st May 2013, 1pm - 3pm At Wellington Road Community Centre,

An invitation from Turning Round the Telescope to all those providing services directly or indirectly to the homeless community or whose services have a focus on homelessness prevention in the Rhyl area .

• An opportunity to find out more about homelessness in the Rhyl area

• An opportunity to share informa on on your organisa on and services

• To begin to map organisa ons and services

• To discuss issues and successes

• To iden fy gaps in provision

• To begin to examine solu ons

• To discuss the opportunities available through Turning Round the Telescope

The session will be facilitated by Nia Jones,Turning Round the Telescope, Community Development Cymru

Turning Round the Telescope is funded by the Big Lo"ery to carry out ac on research in the Rhyl area examining the barriers to accessing services which impact on well-being faced by the homeless community and those faced by service providers who deliver the services .

The project aims in me to bring the two sides together to discuss the issues, to identi fy gaps and improve service delivery and take up.

To book a place at this event, please contact Emma Smart on: 01686 627377 or email: emma@cdcymru.org

G2G COMMUNITIES CIC BRING INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATION TO RHYL

LEGO® Education Innovation Studio

G2G Communities CIC has secured a comprehensive partnership with LEGO® Education to develop a community based LEGO® Education Innovation Studio in the centre of Rhyl. This new social enterprise has been awarded funding through the Cyfenter initiative, supported by the European Regional Development Funding. The Studio will be based in the new North Wales Innovation Centre (NWIC), based within a new and exciting development by Denbighshire County Council at the Bee and Station Hotel. The official opening will take place in September 2013. This New initiative will cover the whole of North Wales and enable individuals and organisations to develop their skills and competences leading toward full and rewarding careers.

Moira Lockitt, G2G Director, said ‘this initiative will make learning Science; Technology; Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects fun and exciting’. ‘At this moment in time there is a shortfall of some 40,000 engineers in the UK every year and this initiative will help to ensure that businesses moving into the North Wales area have people with the necessary skills and motivation available to move into employment’. We have a number of other ideas for the use of LEGO® resources in the future and have already had significant interest from Schools within North Wales and some local businesses looking to up-skill their workforce’. ‘The unique thing about this initiative is that it is focused on community learning, family learning, business/industry and getting people back into employment’. ‘We hope to make learning fun, exciting and rewarding so that individuals will want to continue their education and training and move into higher levels of learning offered by College, Open University or Higher Education’. ‘Another unique feature will be our Mobile Learning initiative. With this we will be able to take the LEGO® resources into areas of North Wales, the workplace, Schools and a range of other venues where it is needed the most’.

A spokesperson for LEGO® Education said: ‘We are delighted to support an initiative such as this because it serves the community, the economy and the best interests of young people. Students need to learn skills that are relevant and applicable for their and our futures and it is great to see local organisations stepping up to help that happen.’

‘Since 1980, LEGO® Education has delivered hands-on, curriculum-based resources for teachers and students worldwide. LEGO Education believes a hands-on, minds-on approach helps students actively take ownership of the learning process and develop 21st-century skills such as creative thinking and problem solving through real-life, engaging experiences.’

------------------------------------------

Further information from G2G Communities CIC is available from:

Dr William Lockitt – e-mail bill@g2gcommunities.org

Moira Lockitt – e-mail moira@g2gcommunities.org

Telephone: 01745 334482

Web site: http://www.g2gcommunities.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/North-Wales-Innovation-Centre/108695612634355

‘Understanding Employment Law and Pensions’

B2C Professionals Workshop 

Taking an informal and interactive insight into employment law and pensions, and how they affect your community group or business.

Brought to you courtesy of Gamlins Solicitors LLP and the Glass Onion Cafe, via Denbighshire Voluntary Services Council’s (DVSC)

Business Supporting Communities (B2C) Project

Friday, 7th June 2013

3pm – 5pm

The Glass Onion Cafe, Denbigh

Further Information

What is the Business Supporting Communities (B2C) Project?

The North Wales Business Supporting Communities (B2C) Project aims to create mutually beneficial relationships between businesses and community groups, through six key initiatives. B2C is a partnership project delivered by the six North Wales County Voluntary Councils – the charitable support organisations for local voluntary action. More information can be found on the website: www.b2cwales.co.uk

What does this workshop involve and who is it for? 
Gamlins Solicitors LLP, who hold the prestigious High Sheriff of Clwyd Community Award for their voluntary work in the community, will deliver a workshop on employment law and pensions. The workshop is open to any community groups or businesses who wish to gain legal information, advice or guidance on this topic. This is offered without charge through the B2C Professionals initiative. Also recognising the value of collaborating with and supporting local businesses and community groups, The Glass Onion Cafe have kindly offered to host the event on a voluntary basis, via the B2C Share initiative.

What is the B2C Professionals initiative?
B2C Professionals links a broad range of specialist professional firms to a variety of community groups, which lack the resources to pay for professional advice, via cost-free workshops and bespoke one-to-one support sessions.

What is the B2C Share initiative?
B2C Share is an online facility allowing businesses to share facilities and spare training course places with local community groups.

Joining Instructions
Please complete a booking form and return by no later than 5pm on Monday 3rd June 2013. Places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. Places will be evenly distributed between community groups and businesses. Whilst places are offered free of charge to community groups and businesses, failure to attend without prior notification will result in a £15 admin charge.

Requesting a Booking Form / Further Information

Please contact Sarah Barker, B2C Admin Assistant for a booking form:
Sarah.barker@b2cwales.co.uk / 01492 523847 / 01745 353110. 

Afternoon Tea - DVSC

Volunteers’ Afternoon Tea
Town Hall, Denbigh - 7th June 2013 

Due to popular demand, we are organizing a Volunteers’ Afternoon Tea, to recognize and celebrate the vital work that volunteers carry out within their communities. The Tea will take place at the Town Hall, Denbigh LL16 3TB on Friday 7th June 2013 from 1.30 to 3.30pm.

In order for me to finalize the necessary arrangements, I would be grateful if you could please return the pro-forma below to me by Friday 24th May at the latest. If you would like a certificate to acknowledge the work carried out by volunteers for your organisation, please let me know.

Please contact Gaynor Jones, Volunteer Development Officer, DVSC

01824 702441     E-mail: gaynor@dvsc.co.uk

By no later than Friday 24th May 2013

Care and Treatment Planning

Care & Treatment Planning 

The Mental Health Measure (2010) states that all people who access secondary mental health services have a legal right to a Care and Treatment Plan. The Care and Treatment Plan uses a holistic approach to make sure that people’s wants and needs are identified. The main focus of a Care and Treatment Plan is on the person’s recovery rather than their mental ill health. Care and Treatment Plans will replace the Care Programme Approach (CPA).

Unllais are holding a series of events across North Wales for service users and their carers to come along and find out more about the new Care and Treatment Plans. These sessions will focus on what you can expect from a Care and Treatment Plan, how it will impact on you as a service user and talk you through the process of how they should be filled in.

1pm - 4pm,Thursday, 6 June 2013 

at Denbighshire Voluntary Services Council, Well Street, Ruthin 

(a light lunch will be provided) 

To book your place 

contact: Hilary Roberts 01745 818720 or email pacd@unllais.co.uk 

Travel Expenses will be reimbursed 

........................................................................... 

Welfare Reform Awareness Session 

10am - 12 noon, Wednesday, 12 June 2013 

at Eirianfa Community Centre, Denbigh 

The Welfare Reform Session will provide information on Personal Independence Payment, Social Fund changes, Benefit Cap and Universal Credit. 

If you would like to attend, contact Hilary 

Bedroom tax will cost taxpayers more, says Shelter Cymru

7 Mar 2013 source Wales Online

THE bedroom tax could force tenants in Wales into the private rented sector at a greater cost to taxpayers, housing charity Shelter Cymru warns today.

THE bedroom tax could force tenants in Wales into the private rented sector at a greater cost to taxpayers, housing charity Shelter Cymru warns today.

New rules on under-occupancy of social housing would cut the housing benefits of tenants with unused bedrooms.

But that could force many tenants to move to smaller properties in the private sector because of the chronic shortage of one-and two-bedroom social housing properties.

Figures published by the charity revealed ‘startling differences’ in rent levels, and the Local Housing Allowance rate for two-bedroom privately rented properties outstrip those for three-bed social housing.

In Gwynedd, an average three bedroom property rent is £71.85, while the allowance for a two-bed privately rented home is £87.69, some 22% more. In Rhyl, the difference is £81.25 compared to £103.85, or 28% more.

In Swansea, the allowance for a two-bedroom private property is 46% higher than the rent for a three-bedroom house in the social sector. In Cardiff the difference is 42%, and in Wrexham 37%.

John Puzey, director of Shelter Cymru, said: “These figures really highlight the absurdity of this policy. Not only will the bedroom tax result in massive stress and disruption for families and communities, it will end up costing the taxpayer more.”

Households that were previously in safe, long-term social tenancies would also have to face the insecurity of short-term private tenancies and an increased risk of homelessness.

“We have always argued that the bedroom tax just penalises social tenants for a situation that is generally beyond their control because there simply aren’t enough smaller properties into which they could downsize. Now we can see clearly that the policy makes no sense financially either.”

The charity called on the Welsh Government, social landlords and councils to act to minimise the worst effects and has put forward five proposals.

Social landlords should pledge that nobody will be evicted for Bedroom Tax arrears, it said. Local authorities should also ensure that anyone evicted for Bedroom Tax arrears should not be deemed intentionally homeless.

A DWP spokesperson said: “These claims ignore the fact that when someone moves into private rented accommodation, the social sector property they vacate can be moved into by someone else. Changes to housing benefit in the social sector will save the taxpayer around £500m a year.

“It’s only right that we return fairness to the system and ensure a better use of housing when there are millions of households on social housing waiting lists, and many tenants living in overcrowded conditions. We are providing councils in Wales with more than £6.1m this year to support people and vulnerable groups who might be affected by these changes.”

MEASLES – information for partner organisations

10,000 (10%) children under the age of 18 who live within the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board area are at risk of catching the disease as they haven’t had the 2 MMR jabs needed.

The Health Board has arranged vaccination sessions at all secondary schools in North Wales to enable pupils who have missed their scheduled MMR vaccinations to get protected. Some have already taken place and the rest will take place during April and May - parents will receive information about times and dates from their school.

Primary schools that have vaccination rate of less than 90% and primary schools where there are more than 20 unvaccinated pupils are being targeted.

North Wales is not within the current epidemic area. Therefore at present, the advice to parents in North Wales is that they should ensure that their children receive their MMR vaccination in accordance with the normal schedule. With the first dose given between 12-13 months old and the second dose at 3 years and four months old, there is no need to bring these dates forward.

Health staff who are in direct patient contact including those who work in paediatrics, school nurses and GP surgeries are now being offered the MMR vaccine.

Adults who were born before 1970 are presumed to have immunity and do not need immunisation. Those born between 1970 and 1995 when the MMR was introduced are not currently being called for vaccination, however if they are travelling to the epidemic area they are advised to contact their GP surgery or contact NHS Direct for further advice.

WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP

Encourage friends, family and colleagues to get their children vaccinated.

Put information about Measles on your website/intranet using the bilingual information on www.publichealthwales.org/measles and put up a poster (attached)

Follow our facebook page & share and like our measles posts/BCUHBChooseWell & retweet us BCUHB #measles

Jigsaw are bag packing at Asda, Kinmel Bay on Saturday 11 May 2013 from 10.00am until 4.00pm.

We urgently need volunteers to help us raise money so that we can continue to offer our trips/activities/events to our families for free.

If you are able to spare anytime to help us on this date please email me.

Donna Reid
Group Coordinator/Cydlynydd y Grwp
JIGSAW
Website/Gwefan:www.jigsawsupport.org
Email/E-bost: donna@jigsawsupport.org
Telephone/Rhif Ffon: 07799 848270

NHS Wales National Delivery Group

Appointment of Independent Members (x2)

Remuneration and Time Commitment:
£347 (inclusive of VAT) per day plus reasonable expenses.
Minimum of 4 days per year

The National Delivery Group (NDG) is chaired by the Health and Social Services Director General/Chief Executive NHS Wales (the “Director General”), and is responsible for providing the Director General with input on matters determined by the Director General as important to take forward the strategic leadership and management of the NHS. The NDG’s responsibilities include:

• overseeing the delivery of key strategic objectives as set out in Together for Health and the relevant commitments outlined in the Programme for Government;
• advising on the policy direction and implementation in the Department for Health and Social Services; and
• supporting the management of NHS Wales by monitoring the financial and performance management of NHS Wales organisations.

Independent Members will contribute to discussions at meetings of the NDG, which are expected to take place quarterly, contribute to the Group’s recommendations for improvements to policy and delivery and help to monitor the work and performance of the health boards in Wales.

You will have expertise in either human resources or legal issues, with the ability to look ahead and provide strategic leadership. A strong commitment to raising performance in health and social services together with sound judgment sensitivity and political awareness and experience working with multiple stakeholders will be important.

Meetings are held in the Welsh Government offices, Cathays Park Cardiff.

It is the policy of the Welsh Government to promote and integrate equality of opportunity into all aspects of its business including appointments to public bodies. Applications are welcomed and encouraged from all groups and we ensure that no eligible candidate for public office receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or religious affiliation. The principles of fair and open competition will apply and appointments will be made on merit.

To apply, applicants should submit a full CV, personal statement and monitoring form, detailing their experience and how they meet the role description and person specification and how they could contribute to the NDG’s work in no more than one page of A4 to:

Julie Hanley

Welsh Government

Department of Health and Social Services

Government Business Team

Cathays Park

Cardiff

CF10 3NQ

Tel: 029 2080 1161

Email: julie.hanley@wales.gsi.gov.uk

For further information on the application process and for queries contact the Department of Health and Social Services, Government Business Team, tel: 029 2080 1161/ 029 2082 5232.

The closing date for receipt of applications is 10 May 2013. Applications received after this date will not be considered. It is expected to hold interviews during week commencing 10 June 2013.

Do you have a few hours to spare?
Would you like to help a local Community Organisation?

JIGSAW have lots of Volunteering Opportunities available We are looking for enthusiastic people to help us raise both awareness and funding

Jigsaw is a voluntary organisation which provides support to families whose child has been diagnosed, is being assessed, or is showing behaviour traits of Autism and/or ADHD We are looking for Volunteers to assist us in various roles,
i.e:

• Fundraising
• Promotions
• Publicity
• Networking
• Family Sessions
• Support Workers
• Committee Members

Come along to our Information Day onTuesday 16th April 2013from 10.00am until 2.00pm and from 6.00pm until 8.00pmat The Oak Tree Centre, Ffordd Las, Rhyl, LL18 2DY

North Wales Coast Regeneration Area funding paves the way for further projects

Welsh Government Regeneration Area funding of £25,500 for a feasibility study and a design for a car park in Crescent Road, in Rhyl will pave the way for Denbighshire Council to complete projects which will lever in private sector investment £15 million.

The study and design for the Crescent Road site, which has been purchased by Denbighshire County Council after being identified as a key priority site in Rhyl, will provide the best solution for traffic flow to avoid impacting too greatly on residential properties. The project will also provide conceptual designs of the public realm surrounding the proposed new aquatic centre and Children’s Village underground car park which is a priority for the regeneration of Rhyl’s promenade.

A further £25,000 has been awarded to Theatre Colwyn for the purchase of Digital Cinema which will allow the community cinema to continue and will improve the experience for cinema goers. The new equipment is needed to replace traditional 35mm film projection as distributors are withdrawing this format. The new technology will also make Audio Description, Audio Enhanced and subtitled screenings for the hearing and visually impaired available.

Announcing the funding, Housing Regeneration and Heritage Minister Huw Lewis said:

“I am delighted to announce funding for these projects. The car park feasibility study will pave the way for further development of Rhyl and is an excellent example of how a relatively modest amount of funding can lead to huge benefits for the local economy.

“Theatre Colwyn’s funding award is an example of the community benefits that Regeneration Area funding can bring. It is a relatively small sum of money compared to other projects we have funded, but it will make a real difference to the theatre by ensuring that the community cinema can continue to provide much needed entertainment for cinema goers of all ages. It will also improve the services for people with visual or hearing impairments which is vitally important.”

Kids Fun Club - Holiday Clubs

Mon 25th Robot Wars

{Create and Make a Scary Robot head} 

Tue 26th Making a Movie of it

{Who can Make a Movie using their Robot Head} 

Wed 27th Fun Day & Zumbathon 

{See Separate Poster and maybe meet Easter Bunny} 

Thu 28th Volunteer Training 9.30-12.30

{This for our Volunteers & trainees only} 

Sat 30th & Mon 1st April 

{Club Closed Bank Holiday Weekend }

Tue 2nd Remote Car Challenge 

{do fancy the challenge, bring own car if want} 

Wed 3rd Greenfield Valley

{Trip Out More details later}

Thu 4th Volunteer Training 9.30-12.30

{This for our Volunteers & trainees only}

John Davies Building 82 Marsh Rd, Rhyl LL18 2AE All sessions are 10-4pm £8 Members £10 non members Either packed lunch or £2.00 Members £2.50 Non Members Trip Out £10 Members £12.00 Non Members packed lunch required

Tel 01745 889444 to find out more {please ring before 6pm}

Adult learners week 2013 - Whats going on guide

Denbighshire VW 0312 by

Jigsaw Newsletter

Denbigh group - Eirianfa Community Centre, Factory Place, Denbigh

Weekly group meetings - Wednesday from 9.30am until 11.30am

Saturday 2 March 2013 - We will be holding our Denbigh Family Session from 10.00am until 12.00pm. We shall be organising a mini Sports day for our families to enjoy.

Wednesday 6 March 2013 Jane Parkinson, Welfare Reform will be attending our Denbigh meeting to advice us about the changes to benefits and the recent welfare reforms.

Wednesday 13 March 2013 - Ann Shercliffe, Regional Officer for The Family Fund, will be attending our Denbigh meeting to give us advice about applying for a grant from the Family Fund.

Please note there will be no weekly group sessions on 27th March or 3rd April 2013 as it is the Easter half term holidays.

Saturday 6 April 2013 - We will be holding our Denbigh & Rhyl Easter Family Session from 10.00am until 3.00pm. We shall be meeting at 10.00am at The Fifties Museum at Cae Dai, Denbigh, LL16 4SU and then afterwards we will be meeting at Vue Cinema, Rhyl Promenade to watch either: Finding Nemo 3D, The Croods or Jack the Giant Slayer (we shall confirm the film nearer the time). There will be no cost for this trip as this has been funded by a grant received from RWE npower renewables. The whole family is welcome to attend although booking is essential as we shall be hosting an Easter Egg hunt during the day. Bookings can be made via our Facebook Events page.

Colwyn Bay group - Bryn Cadno Community Centre, Colwyn Heights, Colwyn Bay

Weekly group meetings - Thursday from 9.30am until 11.30am

Thursday 7 March 2013 - Tracy Cresswell, Conwy County Council, will be attending our Colwyn Bay meeting to give us a demonstration on how to use Boardmaker, which will help us to create various resources for use at home.

Thursday 14 March 2013 - Representatives from MENCAP will be attending our Colwyn Bay meeting to advice us about the services MENCAP provide and how they can assist/support our families.

Please note there will be no weekly group session on 28th March or 4th April 2013 as it is the Easter half term holidays.

Rhyl group - The Oak Tree Centre, Ffordd Las, Rhyl

Weekly group meetings - Friday from 12.30pm until 2.30pm

Friday 1 March 2013 - Winnie Lawson, CAB Benefits Advisor, will be attending our Rhyl meeting to provide advice and guidance on which benefits families are entitled to.

Saturday 2 March 2013 - We will be holding our Family Session from 1.00pm until 3.00pm. Stuart from UKANUNI will be teaching us all how to perform circus skills.

Friday 8 March 2013 - Jane Parkinson, will be attending our Rhyl meeting to advise us about the changes to benefits and the recent welfare reforms.

Friday 15 March 2013 - Ann Shercliffe, Regional Officer, Family Fund, will be attending our Rhyl meeting to give us advice about applying for a grant from the Family Fund.

Please note there will be no weekly group session on 29th March or 4th April 2013 as it is the Easter half term holidays.

Saturday 6 April 2013 - We will be holding our Denbigh & Rhyl Easter Family Session from 10.00am until 3.00pm. We shall be meeting at 10.00am at The Fifties Museum at Cae Dai, Denbigh, LL16 4SU and then afterwards we will be meeting at Vue Cinema, Rhyl Promenade to watch either: Finding Nemo 3D, The Croods or Jack the Giant Slayer (we shall confirm the film nearer the time). There will be no cost for this trip as this has been funded by a grant received from RWE npower renewables. The whole family is welcome to attend although booking is essential as we shall be hosting an Easter Egg hunt during the day. Bookings can be made via our Facebook Events page.

Trips

Thanks to Merlins Magic Wand families from our group will be enjoying a day trip to Blackpool Circus on Saturday 30 March 2013.

Courses/Seminars

Tuesday 19 March 2013 Afasic Cymru and Contact a Family are holding an information day to advice families about the recent Welfare Reforms, this will take place at The Interchange, Old Colwyn from 9.00am until 4.00pm. Jigsaw will be holding an information stand at this event. Please feel free to come along and say hi.

Fundraising

We are looking for Volunteers who can assist us in various positions. If you, or someone you know, are able to donate your time to our group can you please email us at: info@jigsawsupport.org.

Drop in Day - Colwyn Bay

The Older People’s Commission is holding a drop in Information Day in the Daffodil Day Centre in Colwyn Bayon 11 March 1.30-3.30pm (Daffodil Day Centre, The Rothesay, West Promenade, Colwyn Bay, LL28 4BY). The purpose of the event will be to share information about the Commission with people from the local area as well as having information stands from other stakeholders with useful information for older people.

Welfare Reform Information Day

Contact a Family Wales and Afasic Cymru are holding an Information day on all welfare benefits and forthcoming changes at:

The Interchange, 317 – 319 Abergele Road, Old Colwyn, Colwyn Bay, Conwy, LL29 9YF

To reserve a place on the workshop, or a session with a caseworker, please email: wales.events@cafamily.org.uk or telephone Kate on 02920 396624/ 07904672614.

Statement by Denbighshire County Council

Denbighshire County Council

At its Cabinet meeting on 15th January, Denbighshire County Council allocated around £600k to support local community priority projects in its main towns (Corwen, Denbigh, Llangollen, Rhuddlan, Ruthin & St Asaph) . The projects were those identified as priorities in the Town Plans agreed by Council last year. Cabinet also agreed to extend the Town Plans to include the surrounding villages and more rural communities and held back a further £600k to be allocated when those priorities had been agreed. The Town Plans were developed based on consultation with local residents and businesses and it is expected that the process of expanding the plans to cover the surrounding communities will do as well. More details on the precise arrangements are due to be reported to a future Cabinet meeting to agree the exact process.

As well as putting extra money into the Town & Community Plans budget, the County Council has also rolled into the same pot, the Community budgets (revenue and capital) previously available for community groups to bid for. Funding will now be made available to projects that are agreed by the local community to be a priority and that make their way into the Town & Community Plans. Any groups with projects wanting funding should keep an eye out for information about how the broader community plans are being developed and should start discussing ideas with local community representatives to gain support for their project.

The County Council acknowledges that this is a change from the way in which Community Funds have been allocated in the past but is clear that it continues to see local community priorities as important but, in these times of reducing budgets, just wants to be sure that there is a robust way of making sure those projects that are supported are priorities for local communities and sees the Town and expanded Community Plans to be the way to do that.

Communities First is changing

South West Rhyl Communities First is changing and will soon be known as North Denbighshire Communities First creating one Denbighshire cluster.

We will be moving into new areas and exciting times lay ahead.
To find out more about the changes and the areas we will be covering, come and see us at the Rhyl library on:

Tuesday 13th February 12noon - 4pm
Wednesday 19th February 2pm - 6pm

Appointment of Members

TACKLING POVERTY EXTERNAL ADVISORY GROUP

Appointment of Members

Background on the Tackling Poverty Advisory Group

The Welsh Programme for Government sets out the key areas of activity to tackle poverty. To deliver this agenda the Tackling Poverty Action Plan was published in June 2012, which sets out the detailed contribution the Welsh Government will make to this agenda. The refreshed Tackling Poverty Action Plan will be published in June 2013 to display the progress the Government is making to Tackle Poverty.

The Minister for Local Government and Communities and the Deputy Minister for Children and Social Services has responsibility for leading this work and, in May 2012, established an External Advisory Group as an important contribution to delivery.

Reason for appointments

The group comprises of a panel of experts in the field of poverty and currently has six members. We have identified gaps in the expertise of the group are seeking to appoint around 4 expert members to bring that knowledge and expertise. We particularly need expertise in the following areas:

• Poverty and Health
• Poverty and Disability
• Generic Poverty

Members of the group will be expected to have a clear understanding of the issues facing the Welsh Government in tackling poverty. Further details of person specification can be found in the Information for Candidates.

Members remit is to:

·         Provide expert, evidence based advice to the Welsh Government on the implementation and further policy requirements necessary to deliver the Tacking Poverty Action Plan in Wales.

·         Consider and comment on the progress of the Welsh Government in the attainment of its tackling-poverty targets as set out in Programme for Government and the Tackling Poverty Action Plan.

Members serve in a voluntary, unpaid capacity.  Members will be expected to be available to work a minimum of 4 days per year as the Tackling Poverty External Advisory Group will meet at least 4 times a year.

It is the policy of the Welsh Government to promote and integrate equality of opportunity into all aspects of its business including appointments to public bodies. Applications are welcomed and encouraged from all groups and we ensure that no eligible candidate for public office receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or religious affiliation.

 The principles of fair and open competition will apply and appointments will be made on merit.

To apply, please complete a short written statement (maximum one side of A4) setting out how you meet the person specification, supported by a CV. The person specification can be found in the Information for Candidates.

For further details contact Laurie Davies, Tackling Poverty officer on 0300 062 8097 or email laurie.davies@wales.gsi.gov.uk.

The closing date for receipt of applications is 5 March 2013. Applications received after this date will not be considered. It is expected to hold interviews on the 10 and 11 April 2013.

Kids Fun club @ John Davies Community Building

Kids Fun club is a fun out of school activity club for young people with specific needs 8-15 members and 16-24 volunteers

Kids Fun Club is on every Saturday 10am - 4pm
Also in school holidays only - Holiday Clubs Monday, Tuesday and wednesday 10am - 4pm in addition to Saturday

Please visit the website for an up to date price list www.funforall.me.uk


Sponsered Zumbathon 2013 & Fun Day - 27th March 2013

At John Davies Community Building - 10:30am - 3:30pm (zumbathon 2pm-3pm)

Burgers and hotdogs available 11:30am-1:30pm

There will also be a bargain table and a bottle raffle

To find out more or to register please contact Kevin on 01745 889444

Music Magic - Starts 22nd January 2013 for 8 weeks

 Following the success of the sessions last term, kids fun club are pleased to announce that the classes will continue

Come along and join in the fun at John Davies Community Building, 82 Marsh Road, Rhyl 5:30pm-6:30pm

To register, please contact Kevin on 01745 889444

Nest Wales attending A2A drop in session

Nest Wales will be attending Access 2 Advocacy’s drop-in session on 
December 19th from 9.30am, at 30 Bedford Street, Rhyl.

An adviser from Nest will be available to answer your questions about fuel poverty, making Welsh homes warmer and more fuel-efficient places to live, as well as;

• Saving energy
• Money management
• Making sure you’re on the best fuel tariff for you;
• And whether you are entitled to any benefits to boost your income

You may also be eligible to receive home improvements at no cost to you, to help make your home warmer and reduce the cost of your energy bills.

Nest support is available to everyone in Wales.

Access 2 Advocacy will of course still be available to discuss any other issues you might be having; for example housing, care, making complaints and much more...

DVSC Newsletter

Please see the following link to DVSC'S Latest newsletter regarding volunteering in Denbighshire

http://www.dvsc.co.uk/english/documents/VolunteerNovember2012.pdf

Preparing for Universal Credit

Money a+e’s guide to opening and managing a bank account
Universal Credit is set to replace a number of out of work and low income related benefits and the level of benefits available will also be capped. TheTransition to Universal Credit will begin from October 2013 for new claimants. Universal Credit will consist of two elements: A Living Cost element and a Housing Cost element. Universal Credit will be paid to claimants in a lump sum on a monthly basis. Unlike Housing benefit, the housing cost element will also be paid to the Claimant and not directly the Landlord.

It is therefore vital now more than ever to ensure that those who are in receipt of benefits firstly have a bank account/s and secondly that they learn how to manage those bank accounts and prioritize all their financial obligations, here is our guide to help you get started.

Step 1 - Opening a Bank Account

The first thing you need to do is find a bank account that is correct for you. There are many different types of bank account available, so it is very important you check which will be most appropriate for you. For more information about bank accounts check out, The Money Advice Service’s guide,‘How to choose the right bank account’ (https://www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/en/articles/how-to-choose-the-right-bank-account)
One of the biggest issues faced when opening a bank account is ensuring you have the appropriate ID. To find out what ID is required for various banks please check out The Money Advice Service’s guide, ‘Identity requirements for basic bank accounts’. (https://www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/en/articles/identity-equirements-for-basic-bank-accounts)

Step 2 - Managing a Bank account

Use more than one bank account to help you budget
• Using several accounts to manage your money can help you stay in control of your spending.
• Divide your income each month into separate accounts – (e.g. you could have one account set up for paying your rent, council tax and other priority bills and another account for spending on yourself).
As soon as you receive your income divide it into separate accounts by setting up standing orders. Make sure the standing orders are set up for the date you are due to receive your money. This will avoid any temptation of dipping into money that should be set aside for essential bills and ensure that you keep on top of your all your financial obligations.

Check your bank statements and bills on a monthly basis
• Once you have set up your accounts, it is important that you keep an eye on what money you have coming in and out of your bank accounts each month.
This is crucial if you’re keen for your budget to stay balanced. You should check your accounts on a regular basis and go through your bank statements
and bills to ensure that important transactions have been processed correctly and to make sure that no suspicious spending is showing on your accounts.

• Review your spending on a monthly basis, this will highlight where you might be over spending and encourage you to make cuts if necessary.

Keep a spending diary
• Keeping a spending diary for a few weeks is a good way to check that your money is really going where it should.

• Buy yourself a small note pad or if you have a smart phone you can download the Spendometer App (http://www.spendometer.co.uk/Welcome/DownloadOptions). Write down everything you spend for a minimum of four weeks and at the end of each week review your spending, this will give you a full overview of where your money is actually going.

• Many people find that keeping a spending diary tends to focus their minds on what they’re spending and can act as a deterrent for unnecessary spending.

Reassess your budget on a regular basis
• The key to successfully managing your budget is to ensure you revisit it on a regular basis.

• Each time there’s a change in your situation that will have an impact on your finances, it is important that you amend your budget accordingly to reflect these new changes. For further tips and information on money management check out our ‘Money management’ page. http://www.moneyaande.co.uk/advice/money-management

Upper Denbigh Community Development Update

The Upper Denbigh Community Development project has been funded for three years by the Big Lottery Fund and its aim is to support and encourage local residents from Upper Denbigh to participate within their community to bring about positive change.

If you have an idea that you feel would benefit the local area, please do not hesitate to contact Angela Watt, Community Development Worker to see how she can help you put your idea into action.

Communities First

From October 2012 Upper Denbigh will become part of the North Denbighshire Communities First Cluster. Communities First is a programme funded by the Welsh Government that aims to help communities play a major part in bringing about changes that will increase their chance of accessing education and employment and improving their levels of health.

Communities First staff will be employed to support community members to be involved in the whole process including planning and making decisions. They will work alongside the community and partner organisations to ensure that activities, training, projects and funding address the needs identified by the community.

If you would like more information about Communities First and how it will be rolled out in Upper Denbigh please contact Lisa Evans on lisa.evans@co-op.co.uk or Tel: 01745 332528.

Upper Denbigh Community Development Project

9 Pennant Flats, Henllan Street, Upper Denbigh, LL16 3PH

Tel: 01745 815897

E-mail: angela@dvsc.co.uk

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/UDCDP

Fastlove Speed Dating - Over 50s

Date: Thursday 25^th October 2012

Venue: Denbigh Town Hall

Cost: £12 per ticket

Capacity: 40 (20 men and 20 women)

Speed dating, the social phenomenon that has taken the UK by storm, has arrived in Denbigh! At a speed dating event, up to twenty men and twenty women get together; they get a limited amount of time to chat to each other, usually sitting either side of a table, then move on to the next date. During the night you get to meet everyone there of the opposite sex and decide who you'd like to see again. The dates are then matched by the organisers and within 2-3 days those people that are matched are sent each other’s details. It really is that simple!

There will be two separate events, one for the 50-65 age group and one for the 65+ age group, and they will be taking place at Denbigh Town Hall on Thursday 25th October 2012 as part of the No Limits event organised by Denbighshire County Council, in partnership with Age Concern North Wales Central. The reason for having speed dating at the event is to provide an opportunity for an age group that is not often catered for to meet people in a fun and social environment, not just for dating but also for friendship.

The cost for the speed dating is £12 per ticket, which is a £5 reduction on the normal price for Fastlove events. To book your place, phone 08456 442083 or visit the website: fastlovespeeddating.co.uk

Denbighshire Advice Network Open Day

Venue: Eirianfa, Factory Place, Denbigh

Date: Wednesday 17th October 2012

Time: 10am – 2pm

Let local organisations know what your service does?

Build new links and learn what others are doing?

Let advice giving organisations know what you would like them to do and how they should do it?

Free refreshments and a warm welcome

Please phone Beccy on 01824 712371 to book space for your display.

Heritage Lottery Fund

Using money raised through the National Lottery, the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) sustains and transforms a wide range of heritage for present and future generations to take part in, learn from and enjoy. From museums, parks and historic places to archaeology, natural environment and cultural traditions, we invest in every part of our diverse heritage.

HLF has supported more than 33,000 projects allocating over £4.97 billion across the UK, including more than 2,000 projects totalling over £240 million in Wales.

To find out more, please visit www.hlf.org.uk

For further information about the HLF please contact Stephen Barlow on 029 2023 4165.

Music Magic

Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias Music Centre in collaboration with Denbighshire Arts Service presents:

Music Magic!

Following the success of the sessions last term, we are pleased to announce that the classes will continue.

With experienced tutor Arfon Wyn and guest musicians.

Arfon will be joined in some sessions by other professional musicians who will introduce you to various musical instruments.

The main aim of the workshops is to give you the confidence to ‘have a go’ and enjoy interacting with each other and create your own music, working towards a performance at the end of the term.

No previous music experience is needed. If you play a musical instrument you are welcome to bring it with you to the workshops.

Join in the fun!

5.30 - 6.30pm, Tuesdays at SWRCF, John Davies Facility, 82 Marsh Road, Rhyl.

Start date: 9th October (for 8 weeks, no session 30^th October)

To register, please contact Kevin in the Kids Fun Club on 01745 889444 or 07943611262.

Chat Away Coffee Club celebrate their 1st Birthday

On 16 September 2011 Donna James and Claire Williamson met each other for the 1st time, who would have guessed that 12 months on they would be celebrating the 1st birthday of their support group, Chat Away Coffee Club!  Chat Away Coffee Club is a support group for carers of children living with Autism, ADHD or behavioural problems, whether they have been diagnosed or are being assessed.

Funkystars, Abergele, gave an amazing display of their morris dancing talents on the day and Angela Bayliss very kindly donated her time to do face painting for all the children. Everyone that attended the party had a great time. 

Donna James said "In the past 12 months we have met so many wonderful families and have enjoyed lots of different activities with all the children, as well as raising awareness of these amazing Abilities, we are hoping that the next 12 months will see us achieving Charity status as well as expanding further and starting a new Chat Away Coffee Club in Colwyn Bay :)

Currently, Chat Away Coffee Club hold weekly sessions, during term time, each Wednesday at Eirianfa, Factory Place, Denbigh from 9.30am until 12.00pm and each Friday at The Oak Tree Centre, Rhyl from 12.30pm until 2.30pm. 

Monthly family sessions also take place at both Eirianfa, Denbigh and The Oak Tree Centre, Rhyl which the whole family is invited to, for further details please contact Chat Away Coffee Club via our website: www.chatawaycoffeeclub.org, email: cacc@live.co.uk or by phone: 07799 848270.

Chat Away Coffee Club Events 2012

On Sunday 30th September 2012 we are taking part in our final stage of our 'How FAR will you go for Autism and ADHD Snowdon walk'.  T Shirts are available for collection from our Denbigh and Rhyl group meetings this week or will be available from 10.00am on the morning of 30th September at the meeting point. If anyone has problems with transport please contact Donna on the details below.

Mr Hugh Rowlands, of Hue Photography, has kindly donated a framed photograph of Snowdon peak; this is to be awarded to the person who has collected the most sponsorship monies for this event.

If anyone would like to make a donation to our group you can do so either by visiting our website: www.chatawaycoffeeclub.org or via our email address: cacc@live.co.uk using Paypal.

Weekly groups

Friday 28th October

Louise Davies, Education Advisor, NAS, will be attending our Rhyl group as a guest speaker.

Wednesday 3rd October

Winnie Lawson, Benefits Advisor with CAB, will be attending our Denbigh group as a guest speaker.

Friday 5th October

Pauline, from NAS will be attending our Rhyl group as a guest speaker.

Friday 12th October

Winnie Lawson, Benefits Advisor with CAB, will be attending our Rhyl group as a guest speaker.

Wednesday 17th October

Iona, NEWCIS, will be attending our Denbigh group as a guest speaker to discuss life skills available via NEWCIS.

Friday 19th October

We are very happy that Mr Geoff Evans will be attending our Rhyl group as a guest speaker.

Wednesday 24 October

Yvonne Brookes, Afasic Cymru, will be attending our Denbigh group as a guest speaker.

Please note there will be no Rhyl group on Friday 26 October as Andrew's school is closed for a staff training day.

School opens again on Monday 5 November 2012 so sessions will re-commence then.

As always during term time weekly sessions take place each Wednesday at Eirianfa, Factory Place, Denbigh from 9.30am until 12.30pm and each Friday at The Oak Tree Centre, Ffordd Las, Rhyl from 12.30pm until 2.30pm.

Family sessions

Saturday 6 October from 1.00pm until 3.00pm we have organised for our children to go wall climbing at Prestatyn Leisure Centre.  If you would like to attend this event please contact Donna urgently.

Saturday 3 November family sessions will commence at Eirianfa, Factory Place, Denbigh from 10.00am until 12.00pm, we will be doing Arts & Crafts :)

Rhyl's family session venue is to be confirmed but we are hoping this will also be on the 3 November from 1.00pm until 3.00pm.

Courses

Friday 26 October 2012 - 9.30am until 12.00pm - The Beaches Hotel, Prestatyn, Sex, Relationships and Learning Disabilities, organised by MENCAP we have provisionally booked 5 places for this, Cerys, Ceri and Heather have booked places therefore there are 2 places left.  If anyone would like to attend please contact Donna urgently.

Friday 26 October 2012 - 9.30am until 3.00pm - Faenol Fawr Hotel, Bodelwyddan, Afasic Cymru have organised a seminar with Maggie Johnson, there is a cost for this seminar of £15.00 per person, however, both Claire and I have booked places but are unable to attend due to childcare, if anyone would like to attend in our places, lunch is included, please contact Donna urgently.

Day trips

We are organising a trip to Crocky Trails on Monday 29 October 2012, if anyone would like to attend please contact Donna.  Please note that places are being allocated firstly to families who attend our weekly and/or monthly sessions regularly, emails will be sent to the people who have been allocated a place on this trip by 22 October.

For more information please contact Donna James on 07799 848270, or by email on cacc@live.co.uk.

Free Textile and Craft Taster Course

Location: Capel Seion, Denbigh

Date: Thurs, 27th September

Time: 12.30 am – 2.30 pm

For more information please contact;

Eirwyn Jones on 01492 546666 ext 537, or on 07545926921.

Tidy Wales Week Events 2012

The following is a link to all of Tidy Wales' events throughout Wales this year (2012).

Tidy Wales Week Events 2012

For more information please contact the organisers directly for more information about time, date, location and meeting place.

Employment and Support Allowance claims by telephone

Jobcentre Plus is looking at ways to encourage Employment and Support Allowance claimants, who are able to use the telephone, to make claims using this method instead of completing paper-based forms. This is part of DWP’s aim to give people a modern and efficient service.

The results of a recent survey showed that claimants are happy to make a phone call to request a form. However, in many cases, they do not want to continue the call and make a claim at the same time.

Yet there are many advantages for people making a claim over the telephone:

• Can call the claim line (0800 055 6688) for free from BT landlines. Some mobile phone operators also do not charge for the calls.
• Will speak to someone at DWP who will go through the application, fill out the claim form, give advice and answer questions.
• Are given advice when extra evidence is needed to process the claim. This helps to reduce delays.
• Are sent a copy of the completed form, so they can check that the information is accurate.
• Have their expectations managed, including being told about what will happen next with their claim.