Reconnect Focus Group

Yesterday the Reconnect Focus Group spent the morning at Taraggan Educational gardens, where we continued weeding and getting our plot looking nice and presentable. The gardens are so relaxing and it’s amazing being outdoors.

During the afternoon our Focus Group was joined by Rhian Cook, from the office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Gwent, who asked the group for feedback on easy-read hate crime leaflets her organisation has produced. We were also joined by Zoe Gibbs from Cyfannol Women’s Aid, who met the group in preparation for a future visit when she will talk about the work the work of Cyfannol.  It was lovely to meet them both and we’re looking forward to working with them further in the future.

Relationship Course

Thanks to everyone – including Joe Powell, Chief Executive of All Wales People First – who attended our recent relationship course, which was designed by Ffion and Lisa French from Insight.  The group talked about what makes a good relationship, what makes a bad relationship, and the warning signs of a bad relationship.  They also discussed how to make friends, and how to deal with falling out with friends.  The session finished with a ‘Who Wants to be a Millionaire’ relationship quiz designed by Vale People 1st.  At the next session on 25th August we will be talking about identity and LGBTQ issues.  Everyone is welcome to join us then. 

‘Have Your Say’ Consultation

Thank you to everyone who attended our “Have your Say” consultation this week at Fleur De Lys Community Centre. What a great day we all had discussing our lives, and what we would like to see in our community. We had great conversations that brought tears and laughter. Caerphilly People First will now work towards looking for funding to deliver on your recommendations, needs and ideas.

Reconnect Focus Group

The group spent the morning volunteering at Taraggan Educational Gardens, where we did some weeding and tidied up a new plot, which is now ready grow some more vegetables and fruit. We then went back to the office and provided feedback on the work that Ffion, Natalie and Sarah are involved in with the University Of South Wales, called ‘Co-producing accessible outcomes for people with Learning Disabilities’. A massive shout out to our Tuesday group, who are all fantastic – it’s lovely to see them all become independent and confident. We’d also like to welcome Gethin, who spent his first day with the group this week, and will be joining us every Tuesday from now on.

Reconnect Focus Group

On Tuesday 28th June the Caerphilly People First Reconnect Focus Group had another craft session with Cheryl from the Parent Network. We made fairy jars, and some members made bracelets for themselves, friends or family. Thank you Cheryl for another fantastic session.

We’d also like to welcome Sam who has started volunteering with Caerphilly People First. Here are his thoughts on his first session – “I felt that it was really good, I learnt some new skills, for example participating in the allotment project along with the craft session. I feel that my confidence and social interaction are being developed, as I can come across as a shy and quiet person who can get very nervous when meeting new people for the first time. Thank you for your help and support, it’s very much appreciated. I look forward to seeing everyone at the next session.”

If you would like to get involved in the work on the allotments or our craft sessions please contact us on 07488 350518, 01443 834444 or 07940 474640.

Focus Group

Yesterday the focus group, joined by Paul and Sam, spent another great morning volunteering at Taraggan Educational Gardens. Our plot is now full, and our potatoes, leeks and cabbages are ready to grow. If anyone would like to join us we will be back at Taraggan next Tuesday from 10.30 to 12.30.

During the afternoon the focus group popped along to Islwyn coffee shop, formerly known as Springfield day centre. The coffee was amazing and it was lovely to see some familiar faces. This week they have a plant sale on all week, so why not pop along and grab yourself a bargain. The staff looked so professional in their uniforms, and the customer service skills were incredible.

University of South Wales Co-production

Natalie, Ffion and Sarah were recently joined by Stacey Rees and Edward Oloidi from the University of South Wales to talk about the new project we are going to be involved in – co-producing an accessible outcomes measure based on the HEF (Health Equalities Framework) and Service Development project. The Health Equality Framework is an assessment used in Wales to check on your health and life. The five areas covered in this project are: Where you live and what you do, your health, how you communicate, things that keep you healthy, and support to stay healthy. This is important because people with learning disabilities are more vulnerable to health problems. We are really pleased to be part of this focus group and looking forward to the second part.

Focus Group / Jubilee Celebrations

The Caerphilly People First Reconnect Focus Group enjoyed another busy Tuesday this week.  The day began with our regular visit to the Taraggan educational gardens where we planted potatoes and checked on the progress of our sprouts.

The afternoon was spent hosting the second part of our platinum Jubilee celebrations.  We had a great time taking part in a quiz about the Royal Family, playing bingo, and having conversation over tea, sandwiches and scones.  Thanks again to United Welsh for funding this activity.