My role is to help strengthen voluntary organisations in former coalfields communities. As we respond to need our work is as varied as the groups we support. Currently, in response to public service cuts, a large part of our role is helping to support organisations  that are looking to take on as asset (building, land or services) from a public body and helping to retain assets within former coalfields communities. i use my knowledge, experience and networks to help strengthen these organisations.

when supporting groups it is often apparent that they required a varied package of support to improve their sustainability, which often includes action on climate change.  Renew Wales provides a resource that offers practical and technical support on climate change for groups, particularly useful for those who are managing assets and looking to cut their costs and carbon emissions, or generate income from renewables which is why the Coalfields Regeneration Trust is involved.

Why are you drawn to this area of work or how have you helped community groups take action in the past?

I was previously a co-ordinator with Renew Wales. I have worked with a number of groups, mainly around energy efficiency in community buildings, however also involved support to look at the feasibility of developing a green space with an environmental centre on Tower Colliery site – which is still ongoing.

What is your vision for your area in 2050?

It would be great if we could move from our industrial past and generate income through the production and use of renewable technologies and reach zero carbon emissions by 2050, making Wales a cleaner, greener and wealthier society.