Neath Port Talbot Council for Voluntary Service

The Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board is preparing its first Welsh Language Scheme to replace existing separate schemes of the former NHS organisations (Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University NHS Trust, and the Bridgend, Neath Port Talbot and Swansea Local Health Boards). They would like to invite you to comment on the priorities identified within our draft Scheme. The consultation runs from 5 – 23 March 2010. For more information go to the consultation section of our website.

The Prince’s Foundation for Integrated Health has showcased innovative and accessible healthcare initiatives since 2005 through their Integrated Health Awards. Applications can be made online via the attached document and more information is available at the Foundation for Integrated Health website. Download and complete the application form at the download part of the website and return it by 6.00 pm on 1^st May 2010 to awards@fih.org.uk.

The Welsh Assembly Government is seeking to appoint volunteer members to the Abertawe Bro Morgannwg Community Health Council. CHCs are the public’s independent ‘watchdog’ in the National Health Service in Wales. They represent the public interest and play an important role in influencing the way that health services are planned, delivered and improved. The Abertawe Bro Morgannwg CHC will be established from 1 April 2010 with the following Local Committees:

• Neath Port Talbot
• Bridgend
• Swansea

Each Local Committee will have three third sector places, nominated by the relevant County Voluntary Council. The CHC is looking for people from all walks of life – the most important requirement is a genuine interest in improving health services for your community. Some key skills which would be useful include: an interest in and understanding of local health issues; being able to work in a team and with a diverse range of people; and an ability to listen to others and exchange views. For more information go to our employment page.

Councillor Peter Rees has been appointed Deputy Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council. Councillor Rees, who represents the Neath South ward, holds the Cabinet Portfolio for Social Care, Health and Housing. He is also the Council’s Older Persons’ Champion.

Source: Neath Port Talbot CBC website.

Health Minister Edwina Hart has announced reforms to Community Health Councils (CHCs) in Wales following extensive consultation.  Under the changes, from 1st April, 17 of the existing 19 CHCs will be dissolved and six new CHCs created in their place, with the same boundaries as the Health Boards. Each new CHC will consist of Local Committees, providing strong local links and having the same boundaries as the local authorities within the CHC’s area. The new CHCs will have the challenge of ensuring that the interests of patients are represented in the new larger health bodies.  For more information go to the Welsh Assembly Government website.

Neath Port Talbot CVS has organised three local information and funding events, one was held in January and the other two (which were postponed due to poor weather) will be held in March. Information stands will be available from local service providers and funding advice/support will be given. They will be held between 1.00pm and 6.00pm on:

• Thursday 18th March, Peniel Hall,  Glynneath

• Friday 19th March,  St Theodore’s Church, Port Talbot

For more information or to attend please contact Neath Port Talbot CVS on 01639 631246

As you may be aware, a new physical activity action plan entitled ‘Creating an Active Wales’ was launched by the Welsh Assembly Government on Wednesday 13^th January 2010. Creating an Active Wales sets out the steps the Welsh Assembly Government will take, with partners, to achieve an active, healthy and inclusive Wales.

The action plan focuses on four strategic aims; to develop a physical environment that makes it easier for people to choose to be more physically active; to support children and young people to live active lives, and become active adults; to encourage more adults to be more active, more often throughout life and to increase participation in sport, by all sectors of the population.

The Welsh Assembly Government is seeking to appoint volunteer members to Community Health Councils (CHCs) across Wales (except to those CHCs in Powys). 

More information regarding the above vacancy, along with contact details can be found on the employment page of the website.

A lecture titled ‘Food for an intelligent Wales – creating a sustainable diet for Health, Environment, social justice and economy is to be held on Wednesday 10^th March in Cardiff. If you wish to attend please reply directly to Evelyn Osborne osborneE1@cardiff.ac.uk

RSPCA Llys Nini are holding their annual openday / fun dog show at Llys Nini in Penllergaer on Sunday 6^th June. If you would like to have a display on the field for a small charge please contact Sally Hyman on 01792 892293 or sally.hyman1@ntlworld.com