New Beginings

Fairly quiet on the standard meetings front in January but a couple of events to mention …

Firstly, although disappointed I wasn’t able to get to the event myself, I always support recognising Holocaust Day.  From feedback I’ve had the session went very well with inspirational speakers still reminding us of the importance not to forget this damning part of history.

I also attended a briefing on the future for the council’s local development plan, a hefty document taking into account all issues around future developments in particular housing.  Since then I have also joined the working group looking at this in more details.   

February has made progress on two environmental projects in the offing, and which I certainly hope both take off …

As I’ve mentioned before we’ve been looking at making improvements to the roundabout off Graiglwyd Road, and in February had a drop-in session in the Phoenix Centre.  The response was really encouraging with not a single negative comment.  The funding is there, and the plans are being finalised, so it’s all looking promising.

And also as mentioned previously, regarding the goats grazing project, the Community Farm in Swansea has suggested that we make use of an area along the Hillside corridor.  They would organise the project, and train any volunteers who express an interest in taking it on.

Towards the end of the month it was good to see what some of the young people, who attend Dylan Thomas Community School where I am governor, can contribute doing their bit out in the community.  Flip the Streets is an organisation which tries to combat hate messages such as used in graffiti, and as part of it got some pupils together to do a mural aimed at discouraging this kind of behaviour.

Les

2023 draws to a close

 I attended a smattering of briefings & training sessions including one on personal safety which is sadly is becoming increasingly important.  Triggered initially by the awful murder of MP Jo Cox, more and more politicians are being targeted so obviously it’s sensible to be aware of our surroundings, and follow simple rules like avoiding dark areas, not being on our own.   
Another was on cyber training, highlighting the potential issues should any of us fall foul to a cyber attack.  An example was given as to how this had happened to an authority in England, and its far reaching consequences which were still being felt three years on.  
And the Unity over Division Awareness session was extremely helpful for me as Diversity Champion.  It gave me a lot more clarity as to why the council had signed up to this pledge, my role in applying it, and how it applies to all staff, in particular how to recognise comments which are not banter and that they need to be challenged.

I went to the usual council meetings although the December one was brightened up considerably with all the Christmas jumpers.  I of course stuck to my black ‘Bah Humbug’ hat!

I’m very pleased to say that our monthly meetings with the local policing team still prove very worthwhile, and it was also useful to get together with a new PCSO at my last surgery in December.  Long may this really positive set up between councillors and the police continue.

The Friends of group again attended the Green Fare in November.  It seemed a lot busier than in previous years, and Guess the Weight of our own grown vegetable, this year a pumpkin, proved a winner yet again.

I think one of the loveliest events of the year is the Lantern Parade which is a walk from & around the Phoenix Centre.  In the weeks leading up to it children of all ages make lanterns with paper and a simple stick frame with a light inside.  It is so effective, and it’s always a pleasure joining them at the start.


Les