Nerys has played a pivotal role in the development and growth of the CARE Project, which provides vital food support and community care to individuals and families across the Caerphilly Basin. During her time in post, she has not only led the project with dedication and compassion, but has also gone above and beyond spearheading food drives, organising raffles and community fêtes, attending networking events, and building strong relationships that have significantly strengthened the reach and impact of the charity’s work.

Her leadership has helped ensure that hundreds of people have been supported with dignity and care during times of need.

Speaking about her decision, Nerys said:

“I am so very grateful to all of you for your prayers, well wishes and friendship during my absence as well as your dedication in stepping up to help keep things going.

It is with great sadness that I now let you know that I won’t be resuming my role as the CARE Project Lead. Although my health is now very much improved, I need to continue to focus on my wellbeing in future.

It has been a real joy to get to know and work alongside each of you and I will cherish my time with you all. I want to thank everyone for the support you’ve given to Angharad, Adam and Ffion while I’ve been recovering and I have no doubt you will extend this kindness and welcome to Helen, my successor.

I will temporarily be returning to help with the busy Easter season and to transition things so I very much hope to see you all in person during this period.”

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

“Nerys has been an extraordinary member of our team and has shaped the CARE Project into what it is today. Her leadership, compassion, and tireless commitment to serving others have made a lasting impact not only on the project, but on our entire organisation and the community we serve.

We are deeply grateful for everything she has given, often going far beyond what was required, and we are genuinely saddened to see her step back from this role. While we will miss her greatly, we fully support her decision to prioritise her wellbeing and wish her every blessing for the future.”

The Parish Trust is pleased to confirm that Helen Burns will be stepping into the role of CARE Project Lead. A transition and handover period will take place over the coming weeks, with Nerys returning temporarily to support the team through the busy Easter period.

Helen said:

“I am really excited to be joining such an amazing, vibrant project delivering vital support to the community. I am looking forward to meeting you all as I learn the ropes of the role and continue Nerys’ great work with the CARE project.”

The Parish Trust extends its thanks to Nerys for her outstanding contribution and looks forward to continuing the work of the CARE Project under Helen’s leadership. We wish Nerys every blessing in whatever comes next for her.

Esther has been a valued part of The Parish Trust’s team since 2023 and during her time with us, Esther has worn many hats and embraced every role with care, commitment, and enthusiasm. From leading Lunch Club, Barista Training for young people, and serving as our Meals for Families chef, to her work as the Tommy’s Tots lead and Youth and Children’s Worker, Esther has played an integral part in the day-to-day life of the charity. Her flexibility and willingness to step in wherever she was needed made her a valued member of our team.

Esther has also been a familiar and trusted presence at our special events, trips, and days out, helping to create safe, joyful, and memorable experiences for the children, young people, and families that we serve. Esther is someone many could rely on, often offering kindness, encouragement, and a listening ear whenever it was needed.

Reflecting on Esther’s contribution, Rev. Dean Aaron Roberts, Chief Executive Officer, said:

“Esther has supported a number of projects across The Parish Trust during her time with us and has been a reliable presence within the team as organisational needs changed. I am grateful for the contribution she has made to the work of the charity, particularly in roles that involved supporting children, young people, and families. On behalf of The Parish Trust, I wish her every success as she moves on to her next chapter. She will be missed by all of us, and in particular by the children and young people who she has forged such a strong relationship with over the years.”

While we are sad to see Esther move on, we are incredibly thankful for all that she has given to The Parish Trust and for the impact she has had on the lives of those she has supported. She will be missed by staff, volunteers, and the families we serve.

We wholeheartedly support Esther in her future endeavours and wish her every success in the next chapter of her life. We are excited for all that 2026 holds for her, including the joyful milestone of her upcoming wedding following her recent engagement.

Thank you for everything, Esther, and best wishes for the future.

The building, once derelict, was gifted by Bedwas Theatre Group. In just five months, it has been completely refurbished through a significant effort led jointly by Reverend Dean Aaron Roberts, CEO of The Parish Trust, and Project Manager Steve Knapton. Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Knapton described the transformation simply: “An irredeemable building was redeemed and resurrected.”

Ashdown Construction Group carried out the building work, with generous support from Euroclad, who donated all the cladding that now gives the centre its modern, striking exterior.

Opening the ceremony, Chair of Trustees, Mrs Diane Brierley, reflected on the journey that had brought the project to this point.

“It is hard to describe the unbelievable journey we have been on to reach this moment,” she said. “What began as a vision for a space where people of all ages could come together for support, for learning, for connection, has now become a reality. The road here has not been easy, but it has been filled with faith, perseverance, and an overwhelming sense of purpose.”

She paid tribute to the many people who made the centre possible, from funders and partners to volunteers and members of the community. “Your belief in what we’re doing has made this possible,” she said.

While the TLC will not house all of the charity’s services it will become a dedicated home for its work with families, youth, and wellbeing programmes.

Reverend Roberts described the deeper significance of the centre during his speech. “We believed, and still believe, that compassion can be practical. That faith can roll up its sleeves. That love, real love, can change, does change, and has changed communities.”

He added, “From today, this is a place for children’s laughter, for shared meals, for learning, for music, for grieving, for hope. A place that says, again and again, ‘You matter. You’re welcome. You’re not alone.’”

Following the speeches, the Reverend led an emotional moment of solemn dedication and prayer, asking for God’s blessing on the building and all who will use it.

“We set it apart as a space where people may find welcome, hope, and community,” he prayed. “May Trethomas Life Centre be a place where we continue to sow faith, share hope, and show love to bring life in all its fullness… And may the blessing of God Almighty: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, rest upon this building and all who dwell within it, now and forever.”

He then cut the ribbon and unveiled a commemorative plaque now mounted in the entrance of the building which read:

TO THE GLORY OF GOD
and for the benefit of generations to come
The Trethomas Life Centre
was officially opened by
The Reverend Dean Aaron Roberts
Founder and First Chief Executive Officer of The Parish Trust
on
Friday 1st August 2025

“For the LORD is good. His unfailing love continues forever,
and his faithfulness continues to each generation”
Psalm 100:5

This place stands as a testament
to the goodness and faithfulness of God
and is built to be a blessing to all who cross its threshold.

After the formalities, the centre came to life. Guests shared food, stories, and laughter, exploring the building that now stands as a modern community centre fit to serve The Parish Trust’s work and the wider community at large.

The Parish Trust now turns its attention to the next phase: developing landscaped outdoor spaces for play and wellbeing. Supporters were invited to consider helping through donations, volunteering, or spreading the word.

The transformation of the building would not have been possible without the generous financial support of several funders, whose contributions made the renovation viable and timely. Once the grounds are landscaped and the full site is complete, a second plaque will be installed inside the building to formally recognise and thank all those who helped fund the project.

The opening of the Trethomas Life Centre marks a new chapter not only for The Parish Trust, but for the whole community. Whether offering care, comfort, companionship or simply a place to be, the TLC is set to become a cornerstone of community life in Trethomas for generations to come.

Photographs by Firefly Photograffi

Over the next couple of weeks, our team will be working hard to move into the building, furnishing it, adding the final touches, and making it feel like home. This work leads up to our official Opening Afternoon on Friday 1st August, when we will throw open the doors and welcome the public to see the transformation for themselves.

This project has not been without its challenges. Like many building projects, unexpected costs arose—particularly those required to meet the standards set by building control. These were non-negotiable, and while they pushed us over budget, they were essential to ensure the safety, accessibility, and long-term sustainability of the building. We are incredibly grateful for the generosity and support of all those who have helped us get this far. Every gift has made a tangible difference.

That said, we are not quite at the finish line financially. If you would like to help us meet the final costs and support the ongoing work of The Trethomas Life Centre, you can do so at theparishtrust.org.uk/donate. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps us fulfil our mission of sowing faith, sharing hope, and showing love.

To be among the first to step inside this newly transformed space, we warmly invite you to join us for our Opening Afternoon on Friday 1st August, between 1–4pm. You can sign up here: https://theparishtrust.charitysuite.com/events/i7zpz7bo

To have reached this point in just five months is nothing short of miraculous. The building we walked into back in February was cold, crumbling, and unloved. Today, it stands as a testimony to our vision to sow faith, share hope, and show love, and ultimately to bring life in all its fullness. We can’t wait for you to see it.

Thanks to the dedication of our contractors and the generosity of our supporters, tremendous progress has been made. The kitchen has been fully installed and is now ready for use. All plastering work throughout the building is complete, and vinyl flooring has been laid in the kitchen area. New windows are now in place with decorative window boards, and cavity wall insulation has been installed. We’ve also seen attic boarding completed and loft access ladders fitted. Even the smart meters are in and ready to go.

Work is now focused on the finishing touches. This includes internal painting and decorating, fitting fire doors, second fix carpentry, electrics, and plumbing, and preparing floors throughout the rest of the building. Outside, rendering has begun and new concrete paths are being laid. We’re currently preparing for our final building control inspections in July, which means we’re well on track for completing the project on time.

While the building itself is nearly complete, we’re already looking ahead to what will be Phase Two of the project: creating beautiful and functional outdoor spaces. This wasn’t included in the original funding, so we’re now actively seeking support to make it a reality. This outdoor area will provide a much-needed space for the community to gather, relax, and enjoy the surroundings of the Trethomas Life Centre.

If you’re able to help us take this next step, here are some ways to get involved:

• Make a donation to our fundraising appeal for Phase Two: https://www.avivacommunityfund.co.uk/p/brynhall
• Sponsor a tree, bench, or planter for the new outdoor area
• Offer professional advice or services related to landscaping or outdoor design
• Share our story and help us reach others who may wish to support the project

Every contribution, big or small, will help us create a space that continues to serve the community long after the doors open.

And speaking of opening—we’re inviting you to see it for yourself!

Join us on Friday 1st August 2025 from 1:00pm for a special Open Afternoon at The Trethomas Life Centre. It’s our chance to throw open the doors, show you around the newly renovated space, and say thank you for standing with us throughout this journey. There will be light refreshments and plenty of opportunities to explore the building and hear more about what’s next. All ages are welcome, and no tickets are required. Click here to tell us you’re coming!

Thank you again for your support. The finish line is in sight, and we can’t wait to cross it together.

Since then, we’ve done our best to assess the damage and losses. Gwent Police have attended the scene, and we’ve provided them with all relevant details. CCTV footage is now being reviewed as part of the investigation.

As far as we can currently tell, the following items have been stolen:

• Essential Baby Bank supplies, which were due to be distributed to some of the most vulnerable families across South East Wales
• Our bouncy castle, used regularly at children’s events and fun days to provide free, joyful activities for local families during the holidays
• A range of children’s and youth work resources, impacting directly on the delivery of our community-based children and youth programmes
• Lighting and sound equipment, which we use for concerts, special events, and community functions that bring people together
• Our red ride-on lawnmower, used in the past to maintain the grounds of our former site, and which we had hoped to repurpose at the new Trethomas Life Centre

The financial cost of these losses is substantial. At this stage, we estimate the total value of the stolen items may well exceed ten thousand pounds. But beyond the monetary cost is something even harder to measure, and that is the emotional and practical disruption caused by a crime like this, especially for a small charity like ours.

The Parish Trust doesn’t operate with vast reserves. Every item we hold is either purchased through hard-won fundraising or donated by someone who wanted to make a difference. When items are stolen from us, it has a direct impact on the people we serve – people who are already struggling and for whom these resources mean the world.

Sadly, our experience is not unique. According to a recent survey report, almost half of small charities fear they may be forced to close within the next 12 months. Financial pressures are mounting across the third sector, with rising costs, increasing demand, and unpredictable events like theft pushing many organisations to the brink. These are incredibly challenging times for charities, and yet we remain committed to standing firm and serving our community with everything we have.

This latest challenge comes at a time when we are preparing to open a new chapter in our story. On 1 August 2025, we will be opening the doors to the Trethomas Life Centre; our new youth, children, and families centre and a renewed home for the community of Trethomas and beyond. It has taken an extraordinary effort to get to this point, especially after the loss of our former premises and the many hurdles we’ve faced since. That’s what makes this incident all the more painful. But it also reminds us why this work matters.

We are now working with our insurers to see what may be covered, though the process will inevitably take time and may not account for the full value of what has been taken.

If you would like to support our recovery efforts, donations can be made securely via our website:
www.theparishtrust.org.uk/donate

If you have any information that might help the investigation, please contact Gwent Police and quote log number 445300625.

We also want to take a moment to thank the local community. Since the news broke, we’ve received countless messages of support and encouragement. People have shared the story widely, offered practical help, and have kept an eye out for the stolen items. That kindness and solidarity means more than we can say.

A special word of thanks as well to the Caerphilly Observer, our long-standing friends, who kindly reported on the incident for us.

I also want to pay tribute to our incredible staff team and volunteers. They are the reason our work continues, not just when times are good, but especially when things are difficult. Time and again, they rise to the occasion with resilience and determination. I know that even with this loss, they will pull it out of the bag once again and keep our projects running strong. I’ve found out that this has become a core part of our identity as The Parish Trust.

Despite this setback, our resolve remains strong. The opening of the Trethomas Life Centre is a sign of hope for the future, and is the culmination of the belief we have as an organisation that light still shines, even in the face of darkness. Thank you for standing with us.

Thanks to the hard work of our contractors and the continued support of the community, we’ve seen incredible progress over recent weeks. The internal studwork has now been fully completed, giving structure and definition to the building’s layout. As you walk through the spaces, you can now see the distinct areas beginning to take shape, each one holding the potential for gatherings, creativity, care, children’s activities, and learning.

Externally, metal wall cladding continues to be installed, and roof sheet installation, insulating, vapour control, and plasterboarding are all underway. These are the essential steps that ensure the building will be secure, warm, and functional for generations to come.

The first fix mechanical and electrical works comprising the initial wiring, plumbing, and systems are complete, giving us a strong foundation. With that stage done, and the second fix ready to go, we’re now moving into the more visible and characterful aspects of the build.

We’re currently at the exciting stage of choosing floor colours and internal door finishes: decisions that will define the look and feel of what will be the Trethomas Life Centre and bring personality and warmth to the space. These choices may seem small, but they speak volumes about the welcoming, high-quality space we want to offer the community.

Our kitchen has been ordered and is now being measured up on site. Once fitted, this kitchen will serve countless community meals, coffee mornings, events, and celebrations.

As we move towards the final stages of the build, there are still a few key elements we need help with, especially those that add the final polish to the project and make Bryn Hall truly shine.

We’re particularly keen to hear from anyone who could help with:

• Designing and producing a high-quality external sign for the building – something elegant, eye-catching, and in keeping with the building’s character and purpose
• Ground works and landscaping – currently, this vital work falls outside our main contract and existing funding, so we are actively applying for grants to help us transform the outdoor spaces. If you or your organisation can help with this in any way, we would be immensely grateful.

This project is being made possible through the generosity of those who believe in our vision of Bryn Hall becoming The Trethomas Life Centre; a place for children, young people, families, and the wider community to flourish.

If you would like to support the continued development of this vital facility, we warmly invite you to donate through our fundraising page: https://www.avivacommunityfund.co.uk/p/brynhall

Every gift, no matter the size, helps to move us one step closer to opening our doors and welcoming in a new chapter for Trethomas and the surrounding area.

To everyone who has contributed so far whether through donations, volunteering, advice, or simply cheering us on, thank you. We hope you’re as excited as we are to see Bryn Hall coming back to life. There is still work to be done, but we’re getting there, and we look forward to sharing more milestones with you in the weeks ahead.

It is with great sadness that earlier this week, we heard the news that our dear friend and long-time volunteer, Steve Jenkins has died.

Steve was a familiar and much-loved figure in the life of The Parish Trust. As a dedicated member of our CARE Project volunteering team, Steve faithfully delivered food parcels to those in need across our community as well as other volunteering roles as they arose, including helping us to move premises late last year. But more than that, he carried with him a warmth and gentleness that touched the lives of so many; not just our service users, but also the countless volunteers who served alongside him.

With a background as a primary school headteacher, Steve embodied the very best of pastoral care. Kind, compassionate, and quietly wise. He had a natural ability to put people at ease, always ready with a listening ear and a word of encouragement along with a very good sense of humour. Many of our newer and younger volunteers found their feet at the charity thanks to Steve’s gentle guidance and unwavering support.

Steve was a servant-hearted man whose legacy, we are sure, will live on in the many lives he touched through his professional and personal endeavours. He gave his time freely, without fuss or fanfare, and his absence will be deeply felt by all of us here at The Parish Trust.

We send all our love to Steve’s family and assure them of our heartfelt thoughts and prayers at this time. We mourn with you, and we give thanks for Steve’s life and all he gave to our community.

Following the successful strip-out phase and site preparation work last month, we’ve now moved into the exciting stage of building up and shaping the new structure. The footprint of Bryn Hall is now clearly defined, with new footings laid, a fresh concrete slab poured, and the erection of timber frame walls and supporting roof structures. It’s been thrilling to see the skeleton of the building begin to emerge – a powerful sign of what’s to come.

Scaffolding has now been fully erected, marking the start of external works on the roof and outer walls. At the time of writing, half of the roof has already been installed. Internally, new ceiling joists have gone in, while preparation continues for major components like the porch entrance, which will provide a more accessible and inviting welcome to all who visit.

One of the key developments this month has been the installation of ducting for the new three-phase electrical supply, a crucial step in future-proofing the building for all kinds of community use. At the same time, we’ve completed initial drainage surveys and jetting work, ready for a new design that will ensure the site is safe and sustainable in the long term.

Our partners at Ashdown Construction and RPA have continued to deliver high-quality workmanship, with careful oversight and coordination from the wider project team. All works so far remain on schedule, and potentially even ahead of schedule… but we’re not getting too excited yet!

Looking ahead, the next few weeks will see further roofing work, wall cladding, and installation of doors and windows, all of which have now been surveyed and ordered. These additions will begin to close in the building and define its character, light, and energy efficiency.

There’s still much to do, but it’s truly exciting to see progress moving from paper plans to physical reality. Every brick, beam, and bolt takes us one step closer to the emergence of The Trethomas Life Centre, a space that will soon be teaming with projects, events, activities, and people.

We believe Bryn Hall has the potential to be a valuable asset to the whole community; a place where people of all ages and backgrounds can gather, grow, thrive, and build community together. But turning this vision into a reality depends not only on the work happening on site, but on the continued generosity and support of those who believe in what we do as a charity.

If you’re inspired by the transformation underway and want to play a part in it, we warmly invite you to consider making a donation towards this project. Every contribution, large or small, helps bring us closer to opening the doors of The Trethomas Life Centre and making a lasting impact for generations to come.

Help us close the funding gap and donate today!

Thank you for all your support!

Our construction team hit the ground running with a full site set-up and strip-out of the interior. This involved removing old and worn materials, clearing the way for a complete transformation. Alongside this, new ceiling joists have been installed to provide a solid and secure structure, forming the backbone of what will become a safe, warm, and welcoming space for the community.

Work is currently underway to reinforce the timber frame walls, roof purlins, and A-frames. These vital improvements will strengthen the building and ensure it stands strong for many years to come. In addition, demolition has started in key areas, particularly the concrete slab beneath the old stage area, which was found to be damp and in need of replacement. This part of the building has had to be demolished and will now be rebuilt. Preparations are also being made for new foundations, marking a significant step forward in the project.

The drainage system has been checked and found to be flowing freely, which is great news this early on. Meanwhile, our electricity supply is in the process of being upgraded. The National Grid have been working closely with the contractors. They’ve now disconnected the outdated single-phase supply and are planning to install a new three-phase supply to the site. While we await a new electricity meter, we’re keeping the site running smoothly using a generator.

Heavy machinery, including diggers, dumpers, and trailers, is now on site and hard at work. You may even spot them in action if you pass by! Building Control visited in March and were content with progress so far. Their next visit will be to inspect the footings – a crucial step as the foundation work continues.

We’ve also had expert guidance from our consultants, including instructions to install new lintels above and below certain windows to strengthen the walls. This technical input ensures the renovation is structurally sound from the inside out.

Despite the unpredictability of Welsh weather, we’re delighted to report no delays due to conditions so far. The project remains on track, even with a slight change to the original programme to accommodate unexpected demolition work. This means we are still aiming for works to be complete in July 2025!

Bryn Hall is transforming before our eyes. The work is noisy, dusty, and totally wonderful! Every joist laid is a step closer to a vibrant community hub for generations to come, the betterment of Trethomas, and the realisation that The Parish Trust’s work to bring life in all its fullness to everyone we encounter is evolving and expanding.

However, we’re not quite there yet. While progress has been fantastic, we still have a funding shortfall that we need to close to complete the project. If you’d like to support this exciting transformation and invest in the future of our community, please consider making a donation.

Help us close the funding gap and donate today!

Thank you for all your support! Month 2 promises even more excitement, so stay tuned for the next update!