The BAVO team will be out of office on Monday, August 31st due to the bank holiday. Please see some numbers of important community resources for help whilst we are away.
Help for Hardship – 0808 2082 138
CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably)
C.A.L.L. – Community Advice and Listening (emergency helpline)
Papyrus – Young Suicide Prevention
DAN 24/7 (drug and alcohol helpline)
MEIC – Helpline for children and young people
Adferiad (mental health charity)
Mental Health Matters Wales (mental health and wellbeing services)
Out of GP hours – T: 0330 123 9180
Samaritans (24/7 emotional support line)
Saneline (out of hours support)
Social Services (office hours) – T: 01656 642279
Social Services (out of hours) – T: 01443 849944
Are you looking for an opportunity to recruit volunteers, spread the word about your organisation and meet like-minded groups?
Make sure to join us for the Bridgend Volunteering Event, on Saturday, August 1st from 10:30am – 1pm!
We’ll be on Adare Street, Bridgend Town Centre with Green Top Markets, so you’ll be able to take advantage of the busy market-day atmosphere and meet people from all walks of life – you may even fill that volunteer role, or get a new trustee!
If you would like more information, give us a ring on 01656 810400 or email volunteering@bavo.org.uk
You can book your place by clicking the link below.
Bridgend ‘Unsung Heroes’ Awards 2026
Volunteers Week 2026
Heronston Hotel on Friday, 5th June
Nomination information, rules and purpose of awards
Every year thousands of individuals and groups volunteer across Bridgend County Borough giving their time, energy, skills and commitment to help others in their community.
Bridgend Unsung Heroes’ Awards 2026 are designed to thank, recognise and honour volunteers and organisations that have made a significant contribution to our community.
This is the ninth year that we have run the awards and we would like to encourage people to nominate individuals and/or groups who they believe have made a significant contribution to the community.
The process of nominating is quick and simple, and all nominees will receive a formal certificate.
The awards categories are:
| · Young Volunteer | · Adult Volunteer |
| · Community/Charity group | · Sports Volunteer |
| · Outstanding Volunteer | · Trustee |
| · Environmental | |
Nomination procedure
Rules for all categories:
Personal details provided on all nomination forms may be passed on to partner organisations and to the media for publicity purposes. If you are not willing for any information to be shared in this way please let us know as soon as possible.
Closing date for nominations:
Completed nominations must be received by 5pm on Tuesday, 10th March, using the official nomination form. Applications received after the closing date will not be considered.
Postal nominations must be marked ‘Private and confidential’ and should be returned to Sharon Headon, BAVO – 112/113 Commercial Street, Maesteg, Bridgend, CF34 9DL.
Electronic versions can be emailed to volunteering@bavo.org.uk
To obtain further copies of the nomination form, information and rules call 01656 810400 or download the forms from our website at www.bavo.org.uk
Bridgend Unsung Heroes Awards 2026 – The categories
Young Volunteer of the Year
Open to 14–25 year olds (as of 31 Dec 2025) who have volunteered in Bridgend County Borough in the past year.
Adult Volunteer of the Year
Open to adults aged 26+ who have volunteered in Bridgend County Borough in the past 12 months.
Team of the Year (Community/Charity)
Recognising the commitment given by a local team that have come together to serve people or communities through supporting or delivering a project in the County Borough.
Sports Volunteer of the Year
Open to individuals who volunteer with any organisation that promotes/delivers a sport or physical activity programme within the County Borough.
Environmental Award
An individual or group of volunteers who make a meaningful difference by protecting the environment and promoting sustainability across the County Borough, helping communities enjoy and work together in our shared open spaces.
Long Service Award
A volunteer that contributed substantially to the volunteering organisation, shown a real commitment, and has had an impact on the people or community being supported. A volunteer that has given 5 or more years regular service to the project/community.
Trustee / Leadership Volunteer of the Year
Open to a Trustee or volunteer leader who has shown exceptional leadership, accountability, and integrity. They consistently act in the best interests of the organisation and the people it serves.
Their contribution may include offering guidance and expertise beyond what is expected, supporting staff and volunteers with energy and enthusiasm, and helping to create a positive environment so everyone’s involved.
BAVO is inviting quotes from accredited providers for the delivery of several Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training courses. Some courses must be completed by 31 March 2026.
In-person training will take place at various venues across Bridgend County. BAVO will organise and fund all venue arrangements separately from the submitted quote.
BAVO supports community organisations and volunteers throughout the County Borough of Bridgend.
To strengthen wellbeing, build capacity, and ensure safe and informed responses to mental health challenges, BAVO is commissioning accredited MHFA training.
We are seeking providers to deliver:
Accredited Mental Health First Aid training courses
All sessions delivered by certified MHFA instructors
Training materials and participant certification included
Training may be delivered:
In person
Online
Through a blended approach
All training must be completed by 31 March 2026.
Quotes must include:
Cost breakdown per course and total cost
All accreditation, travel expenses, and VAT (if applicable)
Please provide:
Full overview and content of the proposed training
Accreditation information
Number of trainers required
Duration of each course/session (days, hours, etc.)
Maximum cohort size
Number of sessions you can deliver by 31 March 2026
Instructor accreditation details
Confirmation of insurance
Please submit your quote by email to: lucywilliams@bavo.org.uk
Deadline: 12 noon, 27 November 2025
📍 Locations:
Pencoed – Pencoed Miners Welfare Hall
Bryntirion – Bryntirion Community Hub, Mount Pleasant
Pyle – KPC Youth
Maesteg – Cwm Calon Day Care Centre
Nantymoel – Wyndham Bowls Club and Community Centre
Lewistown – 11 Pentre Beili Terrace
Ffaldau School Community Pantry
Aberkenfig – Ty Morfa Centre
Wildmill – (new venue pending)
🕒 Days/Times: During Community Pantry opening hours throughout the winter months (hours vary by venue).
🛠️ Activities / Services: Teas, coffees, hot chocolate, soup, bacon sandwiches, and assorted snacks provided during pantry opening hours (dependent on facilities). Craft materials and social crafting sessions at Kenfig Hill, Pencoed, and Nantymoel pantries to encourage creativity and conversation.
✨ Notes:
Enhances the Community Pantry experience by creating warm, social spaces where people can stay, connect, and access light refreshments. Helps those struggling with food insecurity while reducing isolation and fostering a sense of community across multiple locations.
You can find more information on their website here.
📍 Locations & Times:
💬 About:
Awen Cultural Trust provides welcoming Warm Spaces where people can enjoy live music, creative activities, and a safe environment to relax. Libraries additionally offer opportunities to read, access digital resources, and receive informal practical support.
🌿 What’s On:
Find more information on Awen’s Website here.
🌡️ Aberkenfig & District Public Memorial Hall & Welfare Association CIO – Warm Space
📍 Address:
Len Evans Centre, Aberkenfig, Bridgend
🕒 Opening Hours:
Weekly — Wednesday, 12:00 pm – 2:00/3:00 pm
💬 About:
Aberkenfig & District Public Memorial Hall provides a welcoming Warm Space for community members to socialise, engage in activities, and enjoy a friendly environment. The hub helps reduce isolation and supports wellbeing for participants of all ages.
🌿 What’s On:
📍 Address:
Bryncethin Community Centre, Ogmore Terrace, Bryncethin, Bridgend, CF32 9YF
🕒 Opening Hours:
Weekly — Thursday, 12:30 pm – 2:00 pm
From 5th February – 26th March 2026 (8 weeks)
💬 About:
Bryncethin Community Centre provides a welcoming Warm Space offering food, practical support, and social activities. The hub encourages community engagement and helps reduce isolation, particularly during the winter months.
🌿 What’s On:
📍 Venue: Ynysawdre Village Hall, Bryn Road, Brynmenyn, Bridgend CF32 9EF
🕒 Day/Time: Every Monday, 9:15 am – 10:45 am
🛠️ Activities / Services: Social gathering with crafts and intergenerational activities in a welcoming, community-focused space.
☕ Refreshments: Hot drinks, toast, and cereal provided.
📧 Contact: gateway.church.stbridesminor@gmail.com
👥 Open to: Everyone – all are welcome.
📍 Address:
Pencoed Bowls Club, Felindre Rd, Bridgend CF35 5PB
🕒 Opening Hours:
Weekly — Approximately 4 days a week (varies depending on season and events)
💬 About:
Pencoed Bowls Club provides a welcoming Warm Space during the non-playing season, offering social, recreational, and wellbeing activities for members of all ages. The hub helps maintain community connection and provides a warm environment for engagement.
🌿 What’s On:
Contact: 01656 861753
📍 Address:
The Squirrels Nest, Tondu Enterprise Park, Bridgend
🕒 Opening Hours:
Weekly — Wednesday, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
From 5th November 2025 until 25th March 2026 (closed 24th & 31st December for Christmas holidays)
💬 About:
The Squirrels Nest provides a welcoming and safe Warm Space for members of the local community. The hub offers opportunities for social connection, practical support, and shared meals in a friendly environment.
🌿 What’s On:
📍 Venue: Sarn Life Centre, Merfield Road, Sarn, Bridgend CF32 9SW
🕒 Days/Times: Monday to Thursday, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
🛠️ Activities / Services: Crafts, social group, baby groups, and a pop-up Dementia Hub — providing a friendly, inclusive space for all ages to connect and participate.
☕ Refreshments: Tea, coffee, squash, cup-a-soup, and biscuits.
📧 Contact: sarn.library@awen-wales.com
📞 Telephone: 01656 754853
Shelter from stormy seas this winter in with ‘Warm Spaces’ in your local area. This webpage includes information on warm spaces in Porthcawl, Pyle, Cornelly & Kenfig Hill.
📍 Address:
45/47 Heol Fach, North Cornelly, CF33 4LN
🕒 Opening Hours:
Tuesday to Friday — 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
💬 About:
Cornelly Development Trust (Amdani) offers a welcoming Warm Space where residents can relax, connect, and access valuable support services. The space provides practical help alongside opportunities for wellbeing and community engagement.
🌿 What’s On:
📍 Address:
Kenfig Hill Scout and Guide Hall, Bridgend
🕒 Opening Hours:
💬 About:
Kenfig Hill Scout and Guide Hall provides a welcoming Warm Space for children and young people to learn, play, and develop life skills. The space encourages personal growth, creativity, and social responsibility in a safe and supportive environment.
🌿 What’s On:
📍 Address:
St Theodore’s Church, Kenfig Hill, Bridgend
🕒 Opening Hours:
Weekly —
💬 About:
St Theo’s Warm Hub Project provides a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for community members who may be experiencing heating difficulties, loneliness, or food insecurity. The hub fosters social connection, wellbeing, and community engagement for people of all ages.
🌿 What’s On:
📍 Address:
Talbot Community Centre, 9 Prince Road, Kenfig Hill, CF33 6ED
🕒 Opening Hours & Sessions:
💬 About:
Talbot Community Centre offers a friendly and welcoming Warm Space for all ages. The centre provides opportunities for socialising, learning, and community connection. Activities cater to older residents, families, and young children, making the space inclusive for everyone.
🌿 What’s On:
🌡️ All Saints Church, Porthcawl – Warm Space
📍 Address:
All Saints Church Hall, Porthcawl, Bridgend
🕒 Opening Hours:
Weekly — Monday, 1:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Hall hire 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm to allow for set-up and clear-down
From November to March
💬 About:
All Saints’ Warm Space Project provides a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for community members experiencing loneliness, food insecurity, or difficulty heating their homes. The hub promotes social connection, wellbeing, and access to practical support.
🌿 What’s On:
📍 Address:
Various venues across Bridgend
🕒 Opening Hours:
Sessions will run at different times and locations to reach as many families as possible.
💬 About:
Inclusability CIC provides a warm, welcoming, and fully accessible environment for families across Bridgend. The hub is designed to promote connection, inclusion, and wellbeing for all participants, with a focus on supporting parent carers and families with diverse needs.
🌿 What’s On:
📍 Address:
St James’ Church, Pyle Road, Pyle, Bridgend, CF33 6PG
🕒 Opening Hours:
Weekly — Saturday mornings
💬 About:
Pyle Family Breakfast provides a welcoming Warm Space where community members can enjoy a nutritious breakfast, access food support, and socialise in a safe and warm environment. The hub also connects participants with vital local services, helping to reduce isolation and support wellbeing.
🌿 What’s On:
📍 Address:
Off Pyle Inn Way, Pyle, Bridgend, CF33 6AB
🕒 Opening Hours:
Every Wednesday, 2:30 pm – 4:30 pm
💬 About:
The Warm Space at KPC Youth runs alongside their Food Pantry, providing a safe, welcoming environment where children, young people, families, and community members can socialise, learn, and access support.
🌿 What’s On:
📍 Address:
Community-Based Centre, North Avenue, Pyle, Bridgend, CF33 6ND
🕒 Opening Hours:
Weekly — Wednesday, 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
From the first week of November through the end of March (16 weeks, excluding half term and Christmas period)
💬 About:
Splice Child and Family Project Ltd provides a welcoming, safe, and inclusive Warm Space for people of all ages. The hub encourages social connection, reduces isolation, and supports the local community through a wide variety of engaging activities.
🌿 What’s On:
Bettws🌡️ Bettws Boys & Girls Club – Warm Space
📍 Address:
Bettws Boys & Girls Club, Bettws, BRIDGEND, CF32 8TA
🕒 Opening Hours:
💬 About:
Bettws BGC provides a safe, warm, and welcoming space for young people and families to socialise, access support, and participate in youth club activities.
🌿 What’s On:
✨ Key Feature:
A friendly space where young people and families can connect, enjoy warm refreshments, and receive practical and emotional support in a safe environment.
📍 Address:
Richard Price Community Centre,
🕒 Opening Hours:
💬 About:
Richard Price Community Centre provides a welcoming Warm Space for residents of all ages, offering social, educational, and physical activities to support mental and physical wellbeing. The hub fosters inclusion, reduces isolation, and encourages community participation.
🌿 What’s On:
Contact: 01656 870084
📍 Address:
Tanio HQ, Bettws, CF32 8SU
🕒 Opening Hours:
Weekly — Wednesday, 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
10 sessions in total
💬 About:
Tanio provides a safe, inclusive, and welcoming Warm Space for adults (18+) to socialise, relax, and engage in creative or recreational activities. The hub promotes wellbeing, community connection, and personal choice in a comfortable environment.
🌿 What’s On:
Blackmill📍 Address:
Blackmill Youth and Community Centre, Blackmill CF35 6DT
🕒 Opening Hours:
Wednesday 17th December and then fortnightly (excluding 31st December), ie: 14th Jan, 28th Jan, etc
💬 About:
Blackmill Youth and Community Centre offers a Warm Space for community members to socialise, play games, and enjoy light refreshments. The hub provides opportunities for connection, recreation, and a welcoming environment for all ages.
🌿 What’s On:
📍 Address:
Part of the Pedair Afon Ministry Area, Bridgend
🕒 Opening Hours (Winter Period: Oct 2025 – Mar 2026):
💬 About:
St Tyfodwg & Glynogwr Community Hub provides a safe, warm, and welcoming environment for community members of all ages, with a particular focus on older residents. The hub helps reduce social isolation, provides opportunities for learning and engagement, and encourages community involvement.
🌿 What’s On:
🌡️ Nantymoel Boys & Girls Club and Community Centre – Warm Space
📍 Address:
Nantymoel Boys & Girls Club and Community Centre, Bridgend
🕒 Opening Hours:
Weekly — Monday to Friday, 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
From 3rd November to end of March 2025
💬 About:
Nantymoel Boys & Girls Club provides a safe, welcoming Warm Space for community members to socialise, access practical support, and enjoy a warm environment during the colder months. The hub encourages community engagement, learning, and wellbeing for all ages.
🌿 What’s On:
📍 Address:
Ogmore Vale Bowls Club, 1 Park Ave, Bridgend CF32 7DH
🕒 Opening Hours:
💬 About:
Ogmore Vale Bowls Club provides a welcoming Warm Space for the local community, offering a variety of social, creative, and recreational activities. The hub promotes wellbeing, social connection, and practical support through engaging weekly sessions.
🌿 What’s On:
📍 Address:
Ogmore Vale Non Political Club & Institute, 5-6 High St, Bridgend CF32 7AD
🕒 Opening Hours:
Weekly —
💬 About:
Ogmore Vale Non Political Club provides a welcoming Warm Space for community members to socialise, enjoy games, and relax in a friendly environment. The hub helps reduce isolation, encourages social interaction, and offers a comfortable place for companionship.
🌿 What’s On:
Contact: 01656 840235
