The Good Gardeners International Charity is based in Bridgend County with a demonstration farm in Pontypridd.
They are the pioneers and originators of the No Dig Gardening and Farming system in the UK and demonstrate the transformation of all forms of organic wastes including sanitation wastes into a world class optimum fertiliser in 90 days.
They are still the only organisation who can commercially stop all Slugs, Snails and Caterpillars without the use of any chemicals whatsoever.
Based in Bridgend, Project Seagrass are a marine conservation organisation working to save the world’s seagrass.
Seagrass meadows are havens of biodiversity, providing habitat, food, and shelter to thousands of species of fish, invertebrates, mammals, reptiles, and birds. Seagrass helps to stabilise our coastlines, they can improve water quality, and support food security by providing a habitat for fish species that we eat.
Yet we have lost up to 92% of UK seagrass in the last 100 years and our remaining meadows face a range of human induced threats including poor water quality, coastal development, and damage from anchoring and mooring.
To find out more about our work and how you can support Project Seagrass, visit: https://www.projectseagrass.org/
If your group is involved in “green/blue” issues such as climate change, sustainability, nature, growing projects and more – contact Alexbowen@bavo.org.uk to find out more about BAVO’s Green Network
InclusAbility are excited to launch their new gardening project at Bronfair Allotment Community Garden. This initiative offers children and adults with disabilities the opportunity to engage in hands-on learning experiences in a safe, supportive environment.
Participants, accompanied by a parent or carer, can enjoy growing fruits, vegetables, and flowers, while also taking part in eco-friendly crafts and activities. Their project promotes wellbeing, creativity, and connection with nature for all abilities.
To find out more about their projects visit: https://inclusability.org/about-us
If your group is involved in “green/blue” issues such as climate change, sustainability, nature, growing projects and more – contact Alexbowen@bavo.org.uk to find out more about BAVO’s Green Network
Baobab Bach Working With Young People and Communities to Grow Green!
Baobab Bach is a social enterprise that is working to provide affordable food for all in communities. There is no means testing – absolutely anyone can use one of their Community Pantries, where they focus on distributing surplus foods that would otherwise have gone to landfill.
In order to supplement the surplus food supplies and ensure that everyone gets a good bag full of food, they are growing their own produce in several locations, one of which is at Bronfair Allotments and Community Gardens in Garth, Maesteg. Baobab Bach is always keen to welcome volunteers on board and works in partnership with a number of organisations, such as Itec, whose young people have successfully worked on this growing project with them, building and installing raised beds on the site.
This helps not only to reduce ‘food miles’ by growing food locally, but it increases carbon fixation in the soil. By working with their small team of growers, they have been able to generate local interest in growing food. In this way, Baobab Bach assists people of all ages to gain the skills needed to produce food and learn how to grow their own.
Baobab Bach uses as much natural pest control as possible, facilitating the propagation of useful insect species and wildlife such as hedgehogs. There is also a pond at the project, to which we hope to attract newts and dragonflies, known to frequent other areas of the allotments. This assists in supporting development of biodiversity, as well as assisting with the growth of crops.
They plan to continue to work with agencies such as Itec and with local volunteers to teach new skills around growing food as well as promote a healthier diet by introducing local communities to the joy of growing and eating your own delicious produce.
If your group is involved in “green/blue” issues such as climate change, sustainability, nature, growing projects and more – contact Alexbowen@bavo.org.uk to find out more about BAVO’s Green Network
Coed Pen-y-fai Trust was formed in 1999 to save a 3-acre woodland, Coed-yr-Hela, an ancient woodland in Pen-y-fai. Over the past 26 years, trustees and volunteers have built paths and bridges to make the woods accessible to walkers; overseen and managed the health of the trees, plants and wildlife in the woods; and to ensure the Trust’s sustainability applied successfully for CIO status.
The Trust is committed to engaging with the community, especially younger people, and has ongoing relationships with Pen-y-fai Church in Wales School and First Pen-y-fai Scouts.
For more information, please email admin@coedpenyfaitrust.co.uk or visit their website: www.coedpenyfaitrust.co.uk
If your group is involved in “green/blue” issues such as climate change, sustainability, nature, growing projects and more – contact Alexbowen@bavo.org.uk to find out more about BAVO’s Green Network.
The Cwm Taf Morgannwg Dementia Steering Group is looking for a Vice Chair, and the role is specifically for someone from the third sector (voluntary/community organisations).
This is a great chance to make a real difference in dementia care and support across the region.
We already have one Expression of Interest, but in the spirit of openness and transparency, we’re inviting anyone else who’s interested to apply too!
📅 Deadline: Friday 20th June at midday
📧 To apply, please send a short outline (no more than one side of A4) to info@vamt.net with:
Your name, organisation & contact details
Why you’re interested
Any skills, knowledge or experience you’d bring to the role
If you’re passionate about dementia support and want to play a key role in shaping services, we’d love to hear from you!
Although mental health is deeply personal, it doesn’t mean you need to face mental health problems alone! We often overlook the value of our communities and the power they have to improve mental health – whether it’s your village, an online community, sports team or local organisation!
We have come up with five top tips on what you can do to get involved in your community and improve your mental health:
Support groups are safe spaces where people with similar struggles come together to share experiences, give and receive encouragement, and learn from one another. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, grief, depression, or life transitions, there’s likely a group—local or online—that fits your needs. The simple act of hearing “me too” from others can be incredibly validating and healing.
Volunteering isn’t just good for the community—it’s also great for you. Studies show that helping others can reduce stress, combat feelings of isolation, and even improve your mood. Whether it’s working at a food pantry, walking shelter dogs, or mentoring youth, contributing to a greater cause can foster a sense of purpose and connection.
Finding others who share your interests is a fantastic way to build natural, low-pressure relationships. Consider joining a book club, hiking group, crafting circle, or sports league. These activities not only provide a mental break but also help cultivate a sense of belonging—something we all need.
Sometimes the hardest step is asking for help. But reaching out to a neighbour, friend, co-worker, or community leader can make all the difference. Whether you’re asking for advice, seeking a listening ear, or just looking for companionship, don’t underestimate how willing people are to show up when asked.
Keep an eye out for events that promote well-being—such as mindfulness classes, yoga in the park, local talks on mental health, or community wellness fairs. These not only offer practical tools to manage stress and improve your mindset, but they also provide great opportunities to meet people who care about the same things you do.
Although it can be daunting to take the first steps, sometimes all it takes is reaching out to your community to find comfort, understanding, friendships, personal growth and improved mental health.
If you want to get involved in your community, give us a ring on 01656 810400 or email communitynavigator@bavo.org.uk to be put in touch with our Community Navigator’s who can tell you what’s available in your area!
The Health and Care Project, funded by Welsh Government since 2022, aims to better integrate voluntary sector organisations and volunteers into the health and social care system, while connecting the sector with decision-makers. Since its launch, the Project has made significant strides, working to enhance relationships, volunteering, and support across the health and care system.
David Cook, WCVA Health and Social Care Project Officer, celebrates the Project’s achievements since 2022 and looks at what’s coming as part of Phase 2 of the Project.
Click below to read more!
See a list of dementia support available in Pyle, Kenfig and Cornelly below. If you would like more information on the support available or to get involved, ring Fiona on 07923 212737.
Feel Good For Life Activities
📍Community Centre/Public Hall (Halo)
Jigsaw Friday (Awen)
📍Pyle Library
See a list of dementia support available in Pencoed below. If you would like more information or to get involved in the groups, please ring Emily on 07590 851768.
Cuppa & Chat (Awen)
📍Pencoed Library
Dementia & Carers Group (Awen)
📍Pencoed Library
Find a list of support available in Porthcawl available below. If you would like more information on any of the groups or to get involved, please ring Georgina on 07855 825036.
Sporting Memories Group (Ospreys)
📍Porthcawl Rugby Club
Craft & Chat (Awen)
📍Porthcawl Library
Porthcawl Hub (MHMW)
📍The YMCA, John Street
Paned & Sgwrs (Awen)
📍Porthcawl Library
Well-being walk (MHMW)
📍Meet opposite Grand Pavilion
See a list of support available in the Ogmore and Blaengarw Valleys below. If you would like more information or to het involved in the groups, please contact Julia on 07923 212727.
Feel Good For Life Activities (Halo)
📍Ogmore Valley Life Centre
Blaengarw Hub (MHMW)
📍William Trigg Community Centre
