[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Inspired by Team GB’s most successful Olympics for more than a century, Canolfan Plant Jig-So Children’s Centre last week (18 August) held a Olympics-themed fancy dress fun day at Cardigan rugby club.
Local AM Joyce Watson got into the Rio spirit as children and even some adults competed in races and games. The free open day was a chance to showcase the wide range of services Jig-So offers.
The Labour Mid and West AM, a long-time supporter of the charity, said:
“I’d like to thank Jig-So’s fantastic staff and volunteers, and Cardigan RFC, for putting on a brilliant party. It really captured the feel-good factor we’ve all experienced watching the Games this summer.
“By the time I arrived more than 80 families were taking part. Looking after my own two grandchildren, I appreciate it can be difficult to find things to do for free in the summer holidays. So to put on a big event and free buffet lunch – it underlines how important Jig-So is to the community.”
Mrs Watson visited a further two youth centres on the day, Area 43 and RAY Ceredigion.
Area 43, also in Cardigan, offers help and support to 16-25 year olds from across West Wales. As well as counselling, training and life advice, the charity has its own radio station and invites young people to broadcast their own music and programmes.
At RAY Ceredigion in Aberaeron Mrs Watson discussed the charity’s refurbishment plans, following a successful bid for more than £30,000 of grant funding.
RAY Ceredigion provides a range of services for children and young people, including those with disabilities, as well as arts and craft activities for adults. The charity has been granted £30,601 for building improvements to the 19th Century stone-built former agricultural store on Tabernacle Street. The service will spend the money from Ceredigion Council (£15,300), CFAP (£12,240.48) and their own pot (£3,060) on new windows, doors and insulation.
Joyce Watson AM added:
“The dedication of volunteers and staff at Jig-So, Area 43 and RAY Ceredigion – and at youth centres throughout Wales – is invaluable. The Welsh Government has made childcare a big priority. Following up what I’ve seen and talked about today, I look forward to taking these issues further in the new Assembly term.”
Ahead of May’s Assembly election, Welsh Labour promised to provide 30 hours free childcare a week for working parents of three and four years old, 48 weeks of the year. It also set out plans to pilot a new model of Community Learning Centres, “providing extended services from 8am to 6pm with childcare, parenting support, family learning and community access to facilities built around the school day”.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
