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
See a list of dementia support available in the Llynfi Valley. If you would like more information on the groups or to get involved, please ring Rob on 07874 871499.
Sycamore Hub (Awen)
📍Maesteg Town Hall
Breathing Space (Awen)
📍Maesteg Town Hall
Bore Coffi (Awen)
📍Maesteg Town Hall
See a full list of dementia support in Bridgend County’s ‘Gateway’ areas. If you would like more information or to be put in contact with the groups, please call our Community Navigators Julia & Emily on the numbers below:
Julia: 07923 212727
Emily: 07590 851768
Dementia Drop in Group (Alzheimers Society) – 11-1pm
Sarn Dementia Hub (MHMW)
📍Sarn Life Long Centre
Alzheimers Society Feel Good Café
📍3rd Thursday of each month
Check below for a full list of dementia support available throughout the week in Bridgend Town and the surrounding areas.
If you would like to get involved with any of these groups, ring 01656 810400 to be put in touch with BAVO’s Community Navigators for more information.
Dementia Action Week Tea Party (Dementia Action Week only)
📍 Nolton Church Hall
🕙 10:00 AM – 12:00 Noon
Craft Group (Awen)
📍Bridgend Library
Art Session (MHMW)
📍Nolton Church Hall
Feel Good For Life Swim Session
📍Bridgend Life Centre
Social Reminiscence Event (Awen & Halo)
📍Bridgend Life Centre
Knit & Natter Group (Awen)
📍Bridgend Library
Music for the Mind (MHMW)
📍Nolton St Hub
Wellbeing Walk (MHMW)
📍Newbridge Field
This is a great opportunity to discuss your project ideas, your eligibility and how to make a winning funding application under Awards for All or People & Places!
Our next drop-in session:
📅 Date: 7th May
⏰ Time: 9:30am – 12pm
📍 Location: BAVO Office, 112/113 Commercial Street, Maesteg, CF34 9DL
