As I look back over the last 12 months at The Parish Trust, that feels deeply familiar. This year has been full. Full of hard work, long days, big decisions, unexpected challenges and moments where we’ve had to keep going even when we were tired. But it has also been full of people. Babies and parents finding support when they needed it most. Families fed with dignity. Young people given space to breathe. Those carrying grief reminded they are not alone. Volunteers turning up, again and again, quietly doing extraordinary things.

The Christmas story speaks straight into the heart of what we try to be as a charity. God choosing to enter the world in fragility, not power. Hope arriving not in a palace, but in a place of need. That shapes us. It reminds us that small acts matter, that presence matters, and that showing up with compassion can change lives.

As we look ahead to 2026, we do so with both realism and hope. We know the pressures on families, communities and charities are not going away. But we are committed to growing what we do sustainably, deepening our work with babies, children, young people and families, strengthening our wellbeing and bereavement support, and continuing to build spaces of care, connection and belonging across our community.

None of this happens on our own. If you have donated, volunteered, partnered with us, prayed for us, or simply cheered us on this year, I say “thank you”. You are part of this story and we are so glad of that!

This Christmas Day, my hope is that you find moments of peace, however your day looks, and that you know hope is not naïve or sentimental. It is resilient. It shows up. And it is still being born into the world.

“They will call him Emmanuel” (which means “God with us”). (Matthew 1:23)

From all of us at The Parish Trust, Merry Christmas.

We believe that democracy flourishes when people engage respectfully, listen deeply, and work together for the common good. In a world already marked by division and polarisation, we urge everyone; candidates, campaigners, and voters alike, to resist the temptation to add to that divide. We recognise that there will always be differences of opinion, but our foremost shared task must be to build bridges, not walls, and to seek what unites us as neighbours and fellow citizens.

As a non-partisan organisation, The Parish Trust does not endorse any political party or candidate. We have always welcomed representatives from all political backgrounds to visit our charity and see, first-hand, both the opportunities and challenges facing our community. We also have a long tradition of hosting hustings and open forums to encourage participation in public life, and our Trethomas Life Centre proudly serves as a polling station, reflecting our deep commitment to civic engagement.

But as we look toward election day, we also issue a warning about the serious pressures facing the third sector here in Wales.

Across our nation, charities and community organisations are being asked to do more with less. Funding is increasingly short-term and competitive, while demand for support, particularly in areas such as poverty, mental health, family support, and youth work, continues to rise. The loss of European funding, increasing administrative burdens, volunteer fatigue, and rising costs are placing many organisations under immense strain.

Despite these challenges, the voluntary and community sector remains at the frontline of care and compassion in our communities. Charities like The Parish Trust provide essential services and safe spaces for those who might otherwise fall through the cracks. We therefore urge whoever is elected to recognise this reality and to champion policies that support, sustain, and strengthen the third sector, not just in Caerphilly but across Wales.

Our hope for this election is simple:

• That everyone exercises their right to vote;
• That candidates and residents engage with respect and honesty;
• That we continue to seek the common good as a community, building a Caerphilly where traditional values of compassion, fairness, and justice guide every decision.

At The Parish Trust, we remain committed to our vision for people to live life in all its fullness. A core part of that vision for us is to bring people together, regardless of background or belief, and working side by side for the flourishing of our community.

Rev. Dean Aaron Roberts
Chief Executive Officer

Easter, for Christians, marks the resurrection of Jesus; a moment in history that transformed despair into hope, sorrow into joy, and death into life. Whether you hold the Christian faith or simply resonate with the imagery of transformation and renewal, Easter speaks to something universal: that light follows darkness, and there is always potential for change, growth, and healing.

Here at The Parish Trust, we’ve seen that truth lived out in so many ways. And nowhere is that more tangible right now than in The Bryn Hall.

Once a neglected and forgotten space, The Bryn Hall is now undergoing an incredible transformation. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters and the tireless work of our team, it is slowly being brought back to life not just as a building, but as the Trethomas Life Centre – a central space for youth, children, and families, but by extension, the whole community. Where there was once decline, there is now vision. Where there was emptiness, there is now purpose.

This physical renewal is a reflection of our wider mission: to bring life in all its fullness to everyone we encounter, regardless of background, belief, or circumstance. We are not a church, but we are a Christian-founded charity, and it’s our faith-inspired values of love, dignity, justice, and hope, that compel us to serve our community which is something we’ve been doing since the COVID Pandemic back in 2020. The resurrection of Jesus says that each of us is valued so much by God, that he comes to free us from the chains of all that hinders us and stops us from living life to its full potential, and even death itself.

Easter reminds us that the work of restoration is precious. That bringing hope to a weary world is always worth doing. And that even small acts of kindness can breathe new life into someone’s story.

May I offer my thanks on behalf of The Parish Trust to every volunteer, every donor, every partner, and every person who walks alongside us. You are part of this story of transformation. Your support helps us write a narrative that says, “things can change”; not just in buildings like The Bryn Hall, but in lives and communities across our region.

This Easter, my prayer, in whatever way is meaningful for you, is that you’ll feel the stirrings of new life in your own heart and home. That you’ll know you are not alone. And that The Parish Trust will keep building a future rooted in hope as we look to the one who can make all things new, and even raise the dead.

Happy Easter, and may God bless you abundantly.

Rev. Dean Aaron Roberts
Chief Executive Officer, The Parish Trust

As I reflect on this special day, I find myself thinking back to our Carols in the Car Park event. Watching over 200 people sing “Ding Dong Merrily on High” was an incredible moment. The joyful refrain of “Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis” filled the air, creating a wall of sound that resonated deeply.

We even had people who turned up simply because they heard the singing a mile or so away, and followed the sound to us! It wasn’t just the beauty of the music or the togetherness of the occasion that struck me, but the deeper truth behind the words—a proclamation of joy, hope, and glory. It was particularly poignant for us as the event marked both an end, and a beginning – the end of our time at St. Thomas’ Church, and the start of whatever comes next… and yet, the message of Christmas is enduring, and unchanging. That is such a comfort to me.

Seeing children running and laughing as the carols played reminded me of the heart of Christmas: the gift of Jesus, God’s Son, who came into the world as a child. His birth is the ultimate gift to humanity, a sign of God’s love and light breaking through the darkness. Christmas celebrates this miraculous moment—God with us—bringing joy and hope that transcends time and circumstances – even the circumstances of a charity having to find a new home.

At The Parish Trust, this message of hope lies at the heart of our mission. Jesus’ life and teachings inspire us to serve others, to care for the vulnerable, and to share love in practical ways. Whether we’re supporting families, comforting those who are struggling, or building community, we are living out the call to bring life in all its fullness to everyone. And we will continue to do so, whatever the circumstance.

Christmas is a time to pause and reflect on this incredible gift—of Jesus coming to earth to bring us everlasting life and friendship with God. It’s a time for remembering the things we are all desperate for: love, joy, and peace – things that were so important to Jesus. It’s also a time to think about how we can share these sought after virtues with others, not just through words but through acts of service, generosity, and compassion.

As you celebrate today, my prayer is that you too will come to know and value the gift of Jesus, who brings light, hope, and joy into the world. May you know His peace, His love, and the comfort of His presence in your life. Whether life is going great for you, or today is a day where your struggles seem to be in sharp focus, God is only a prayer away, and The Parish Trust wishes to offer you a hand of friendship, and willingness to help in whatever way we can.

From all of us at The Parish Trust, I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a New Year filled with hope and opportunity.

Wishing you every blessing, and with all my love,

One of the most concerning aspects is the 1.2% National Insurance increase, from which charities are not exempt, even though the public sector has been granted protections. For charities like ours, which operate on limited resources, this places an additional strain on our finances. The increase will undoubtedly have an impact on our ability to continue delivering essential services and supporting the people who rely on us, whilst equally trying to offer staff a real living wage.

We urge policymakers to recognise the invaluable work charities provide, not only in economic terms but also in the well-being and resilience of communities across the UK. It is critical that, moving forward, charity organisations are offered more substantial support and consideration in policy decisions.

As Election Day dawns, I want to encourage each of you who are eligible to seize this crucial opportunity to vote. Voting is more than a civic duty; it’s a powerful expression of our collective values. The Parish Trust is founded on Christian principles of fairness, love, compassion, and opportunity for all. Your vote helps shape a society where everyone can live life to the fullest, guided by these principles.

Recently, we held a hustings event because we believe that politics can be a force for good to make the world a better place. The Parish Trust is non-party political, and we encourage everyone to vote based on their conscience. As you cast your vote, consider not just what would be better for you, but what would create a better society as a whole.

By voting, you support leaders who prioritise the common good and work to create a community where justice and compassion prevail. Let us remember to strive for a fair and loving society.

Please remember to take your photo ID with you to the polling station, as it is required to cast your vote. This small act ensures that your voice is heard in this vital democratic process.

Together, we can make a significant difference. Let’s vote today for a future that reflects our deepest values and brings hope and opportunity to all.

With best wishes,

Rev. Dean Roberts
CEO, The Parish Trust

As we come together to mark Easter, it’s a time to reflect on the hope that springs from the resurrection of Jesus. For us at The Parish Trust, our mission is deeply tied to this concept of “new life”.

We’re in the business of lifting individuals and communities out of tough situations, giving them the tools and support they need to create a better future. In a way, our work mirrors the message of Easter—we’re all about resurrection and transformation.

The story of Jesus’ death and resurrection is like a reset button for humanity. It’s a reminder that no matter how broken things may seem, there’s always the possibility of redemption and renewal. Through his sacrifice, Jesus paid the price for all the wrongs in the world, offering us a chance at a fresh start… if only we trust him.

One verse that captures this idea beautifully is from 2 Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” It’s a powerful reminder that faith in Jesus brings new life and the promise of better things ahead. It speaks to the transformative power of faith, but it also speaks to the universal desire for renewal and growth.

So as we celebrate Easter, let’s carry this message of hope with us and continue to work towards building a brighter, more just world for all, drawing strength from the faith that guides our efforts and the universal hope that Easter represents.

Wishing you a joyful Easter filled with hope and new life.

With my love and prayers,

Rev. Dean Aaron Roberts
Chief Executive Officer

As we find ourselves in the embrace of another Christmas season, I write to share with you a message of hope that I trust will encourage us into 2024. Reflecting back on 2023, and all that has taken place, is always a good exercise; especially as a new-ish CEO, having made a transition from a different role in the organisation, and seeing things in a new way.

This year has unfolded with both triumphs and challenges for The Parish Trust. We’ve witnessed the blossoming of our youth and children’s programmes, the ongoing development of the CARE Project, and the nurturing of wellbeing through various events and activities. Moreover, our commitment to supporting our Ukrainian brothers and sisters and their families has been unwavering, underscoring the compassion that is core to who we are as an organisation.

However, amidst these accomplishments, we have also faced the unexpected news of having to leave our current premises—a development that has prompted contemplation and reflection among us. This significant hurdle has been met with a mix of emotions, from disappointment to uncertainty, from a sense of identity loss to an excitement at the opportunity to grow elsewhere. Currently we are trying to plan the logistical changes that are needed, mainly wrapping up here and finding a new place to call home, all of which will happen in the coming year.

Change is never easy, and it often tests the strength of our faith and commitment. In times of change and uncertainty, it is natural to seek solace and understanding, and to try to make plans, even though it may turn out to be a futile task at times.

In considering our current situation and our Christian foundations, I am drawn to the timeless Christmas story—the narrative of a child born in humble surroundings, surrounded by the uncertainties of the world. The parallel with our own challenges is not lost on us, and it invites us to reflect on the essence of hope that Christmas embodies.

The story of Jesus’ birth is not a tale of opulence or ease. Instead, it speaks to the quiet strength found through faith in God and the promise of hope in the midst of adversity. The manger, though humble, became the cradle for a message that transcends time and circumstance – that God is truly with us, that he keeps his promises, and that despite how messy things look, God’s working may yet to be revealed.

No doubt it was quite a journey that Mary and Joseph went on to get to that understanding; from the unexpected news from an angel, to the undoubted skepticism and the copious explaining that had to be done in the 9 months leading up to the birth. But in the end, through the trials and uncertainties, a plan unfolded before them, and the Light of the World was theirs to experience in a way that none of us could dream of.

Similarly, as we face the prospect of finding a new home for The Parish Trust, I’m encouraging all of our trustees, staff, volunteers, supporters and beneficiaries to find solace in the Christmas message and hope for a wonderful future. There’s everything to gain when we trust an unknown future to a known God who has come to us in Jesus! The challenges we encounter are but temporary shadows against the enduring promise of hope born – the one who has been described as “God with us”.

The hope of Christmas lies not in the absence of difficulties but in the presence of something greater than ourselves— Jesus’ presence that accompanies us through the twists and turns of our journey. It is a reminder that, just as the Christmas story unfolded in the most unexpected of places, I’m convinced that the continuing story of The Parish Trust is guided by a higher purpose beyond our immediate understanding.

As we reflect on the past year and look towards the horizon of what lies ahead, I hope and pray that the birth of Jesus that we remember at this time, whether we have faith or not, will infuse our hearts with peace. May the hope that Christmas brings be a comforting companion to all of you, and us as The Parish Trust family, as we look forward to what 2024 will bring.

Wishing you a reflective and Merry Christmas on behalf of us all here at The Parish Trust,

Rev. Dean Aaron Roberts
Chief Executive Officer

For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6