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.

Falling Through of the Freehold Purchase

The charity had entered into extensive negotiations in early 2024 to purchase a freehold property, which was intended to serve as the new headquarters for The Parish Trust and accommodate its growing operations. However, despite proactively working to secure completion, delays in the legal process meant that time was limited for the charity to both complete on the purchase and make the necessary building alterations required to enable The Parish Trust to move in.

In addition, a key funder who had initially agreed to support the purchase of the property withdrew their offer. This decision was made because the necessary expansion of the charity could not be achieved within such a short timeframe. With this financial backing lost, The Parish Trust faced further obstacles in securing the property and ultimately had to abandon the purchase.

Legal Situation and Lease with the Church in Wales

For several months, The Parish Trust has been in discussions with the Church in Wales regarding a possible extension to the lease at St. Thomas’ Church in Trethomas. While recognising that the original lease offered no promises or automatic right to an extension, the charity felt it was necessary to explore the possibility. Unfortunately, despite these discussions, the Church in Wales declined the request for an extension. This decision means that The Parish Trust must vacate St. Thomas’ Church by 22nd December 2024. As a result, the charity is now seeking alternative premises while continuing its search for a permanent home.

Securing a New Unit on Bedwas House Industrial Estate

In response to these challenges, The Parish Trust has secured the lease of a unit on Bedwas House Industrial Estate, which will now serve as the base for the CARE Project. This vital service, which supports individuals and families in need, will continue uninterrupted. The charity has secured an initial three-year lease for the unit, allowing time for the CARE Project to grow and develop. The move into the new space is expected to be completed by January 2025, ensuring a smooth transition for this important project. The Parish Trust is very grateful to the Landlord who confirmed the lease in a very timely manner and has been very accommodating to the charity.

Rev. Dean Aaron Roberts, CEO of The Parish Trust, remarked on this significant move:

“While it is disappointing that we couldn’t finalise the purchase of a permanent headquarters, we are incredibly grateful to have secured a unit at Bedwas House Industrial Estate to continue our CARE Project. This period of transition brings challenges, but we remain committed to serving our community and achieving the dream of reopening Bryn Hall. We deeply appreciate all the support we’ve received so far and will continue to communicate our progress every step of the way.”

Update on Bryn Hall

The Parish Trust will now focus on the renovation and reopening of Bryn Hall in Trethomas. This project has received overwhelming support from the local community and is essential for the charity’s youth, children’s, and community outreach programmes. In support of this project, The National Lottery has awarded The Parish Trust a £100,000 grant, money which they confirmed can be used to help fund the reopening of Bryn Hall. Although there is still considerable work to be done, this financial backing is a crucial step forward in making the project a reality. Further updates on the progress of Bryn Hall will be shared as the renovation continues.

What This Means for Our Projects

The Parish Trust is confident that many of its remote and online projects will continue without interruption, and the organisation is actively developing creative solutions to ensure the continuity of its in-person activities. While the move from St. Thomas’ Church will bring some changes, particularly for youth and children’s programmes, this period of transition is viewed as an opportunity for growth and innovation.

The Youth and Children’s team is already exploring new partnerships and venues to enhance the delivery of these important services. The Parish Trust remains committed to ensuring minimal disruption and will keep families and participants fully informed as these new opportunities emerge.

Mrs. Diane Brierley, Chair of Trustees, expressed optimism about the future:

“We are so grateful for the continued support from the community as we navigate this transition. While moving out of St. Thomas’ Church will involve effort, we see it as an opportunity to strengthen the organisation and expand our reach. We are confident that, with the creativity and dedication of our team and supporters, we can continue to grow and thrive. Thank you for your ongoing belief in our mission, and we look forward to sharing the exciting progress ahead.”

The Parish Trust remains dedicated to its mission and approaches this new chapter with resilience and optimism. With the support of the community, the organisation is confident in its ability to continue delivering impactful services while expanding and adapting to meet future challenges.

How You Can Help

As The Parish Trust prepares for this transition, volunteers and resources will be vital to ensuring a smooth move. The charity is asking for support in the form of time, skills, or resources to help facilitate the relocation process. As always, The Parish Trust is also seeking financial donations from anyone who is able. Donors can make their donation online at https://theparishtrust.org.uk/donate

The Parish Trust remains committed to its mission, and despite the challenges ahead, the team is optimistic about the future. Further updates on the transition, as well as key milestones and events, will be shared with the community as they happen.

For more information on how you can assist or support The Parish Trust during this time, please email office@theparishtrust.org.uk

Nerys, a seasoned professional with four years of dedicated service to a charity close to her heart, joins us with a profound understanding of the diverse needs within our community. In her own words, she expresses her eagerness to get to know the local residents and make a meaningful impact on their lives.

As the CARE Project Lead, Nerys is set to expand our reach beyond conventional food distribution methods. One notable initiative she wants to champion is our “Bag a Bargain” scheme, a lucky dip bag of short-dated food aimed not only at giving the public a chance to source good food at cheap prices, but also reducing food waste, aligning perfectly with The Parish Trust’s commitment to caring for the environment.

Nerys’s appointment is more than just a change in leadership; it is a strategic move to further develop and enhance the CARE Project. Her versatile experience and fresh perspective are expected to bring about positive changes and contribute significantly to the project’s growth.

Beyond her professional commitments, Nerys is a devoted wife and mother of two children, Alysha and Olivia. Her love for music and active involvement in Girlguiding showcase her dedication to community engagement and skill-sharing.

Rev. Dean Aaron Roberts, CEO of The Parish Trust, emphasised the strategic nature of Nerys’ appointment. He said,

Nerys’ versatile experience and commitment to both community welfare and environmental sustainability make her a valuable addition to our team. We are confident that under her leadership, the CARE Project will reach new heights, impacting the lives of those we serve in meaningful ways.

Luke’s tenure with The Parish Trust has been marked by his warm heart and approachable demeanour. His unwavering compassion and pastoral care have not only strengthened the organisation but have also touched the lives of many within our community. Under his guidance, The Parish Trust’s Ukrainian Evening, which showcased the urgent need for British citizens to support Ukrainians in their time of need, became a testament to his ability to inspire and unite.

One of Luke’s most significant contributions has been the creation of this event, which ignited a sense of unity and compassion within our community, highlighting the plight of the Ukrainian people and encouraging support. It was a testament to Luke’s unique ability to bring people together for a common cause.

Whilst wellbeing and pastoral care has been the mainstay of Luke’s portfolio, he has also had responsibility of leading the CARE Project, one of the largest food banks in Caerphilly County Borough. Luke has been tasked over the last 18 months with coordinating the food and volunteers required to make the provision of basic necessities available, if they are needed, to over 54,000 people in the charity’s service area.

In a recent development, Luke is embarking on a new journey with World Jewish Relief, where he will work to assist Ukrainian refugees in finding employment within the UK. His commitment to making Ukrainians feel at home here in the UK has stood him in good stead for this new role.

Rev. Dean Aaron Roberts, CEO of The Parish Trust, expressed his heartfelt thoughts about Luke’s departure: “It is with mixed emotions that we bid farewell to Luke. Luke has been an integral part of The Parish Trust family, and his kindness and compassion have left a lasting impact. His departure will undoubtedly be a loss to our charity, but we are incredibly proud of the work he will be doing with World Jewish Relief. Luke leaves behind a legacy of care and unity that will forever be a part of The Parish Trust, and we wish him well as he leaves, as well as the assurance of our prayers.”

As we say goodbye to Luke, we extend our deepest gratitude for his unwavering commitment to our community and wish him every success and fulfilment in his new role with World Jewish Relief.

The Parish Trust is currently in the process of seeking Luke’s successor. His role will be split, with the successor focusing on the CARE Project, while the wellbeing element of the job will be temporarily taken on by Rev. Dean Aaron Roberts, the CEO. The CARE Project is one of the charity’s largest projects and as such, plans are underway to review staffing arrangements in order to streamline and develop the project further as needs evolve and change. The Parish Trust and the entire community stand behind Luke as he embarks on this new and important journey to bring hope and opportunities to those in need.

Hello! My name is David and I volunteer with The Parish Trust on a Tuesday afternoon and evening at Family Games and The Games Table. I have been volunteering at The Parish Trust since March this year and have enjoyed meeting new people – volunteers and visitors – and introducing them to lots of different board games that they had never seen or played before.

Playing board games is something of a hobby for me and I have been playing them for over 50 years. I currently have a collection of more than 450 games! I have used board games in my role as a Baptist Minister working in both Primary and Secondary schools, and I have organised board games clubs and days in Cambridgeshire and now in South Wales.

Having recently stepped out of full-time church ministry to develop a new Christian Retreats Project locally volunteering with The Parish Trust gives me an opportunity to continue to be engaged in pastoral and community activity. I believe that these are both central aspects of the purpose of the Christian community and The Parish Trust demonstrates this wonderfully. The Parish Trust is a great example of how different people can be drawn together and make a real difference in their own lives and in the lives of people around them. It has been a real encouragement to see how all people are made welcome at The Parish Trust and see how they are helped according to their individual needs and given opportunities to get more involved within the growing community.

I still have plenty more games to bring along from my collection to share with anyone who would like to join us on a Tuesday afternoon or evening and discover that there is more to board games than Monopoly, Scrabble and Cluedo, so why not come along and see if we can find the right game for you.

Why don’t you consider volunteering? There’s lots of roles available, you don’t have to commit to many hours each week, and we really try to look after our volunteers well. Go to our volunteering page for more information.

What is your name and what roles do you volunteer for at the Parish Trust

I am Josh Davies. The one and only! I stock the shelves, collect food and litter pick on a Monday.

How has volunteering impacted you personally?

I am having the time of my life and enjoying the company of the bestest friends I have ever had.

What is your favourite thing about volunteering?

I enjoy everything but at litter picking, we have a good laugh and pick up lots of rubbish on the way!

Why don’t you consider volunteering? There’s lots of roles available, you don’t have to commit to many hours each week, and we really try to look after our volunteers well. Go to our volunteering page for more information.

How long have you been volunteering with The Parish Trust?

Since The Parish Trust was founded back in 2019.

How do you volunteer with The Parish Trust?

I am so proud to be involved with The Parish Trust. Aside from my trusteeship. I’ve volunteered with the charity in other ways. At the start of the COVID-19 lockdown, I was involved in helping to set up the CARE Project. I helped with the accounts, training volunteers in using the phone system, and delivery of food parcels and prescriptions.

How has volunteering impacted you personally?

I became very ill after contracting Coronavirus, and volunteering has helped me by giving me focus and purpose. I sustained a brain injury and another serious health condition following getting Covid, and being part of such an amazing organisation has helped my recovery.

What is your favourite thing about volunteering?

Helping other people and using skills that I have to help the team to deliver all that they do for the community.

How long have you been volunteering with The Parish Trust?

I’ve been volunteering since August 2021

Why do you volunteer with The Parish Trust?

I love helping others. I wanted to make new friends, learn new skills and gain work experience.

How has volunteering impacted you personally?

Working for The Parish Trust has been good for my mental health, it’s kept my mind focussed and occupied my time, I have been lucky to make new friends who are now like family to me.

What is your favourite thing about volunteering?

Working as part of a team, helping people in need, and making a difference in peoples lives.

Siân’s role has been to co-ordinate the sourcing of food for The Parish Trust in order that the charity is able to run its projects. She has helped to co-ordinate a team of volunteers whilst liaising with individuals, local businesses and some of the UK’s most well known national brands which has helped The Parish Trust to distribute food to those in need in the community.

From one supplier alone, Siân and her team of volunteers have secured 16,536 meals of food between 23rd March 2020 and the beginning of July 2021, which equates to 6945.25 Kgs. Additionally, this food which would have otherwise been sent to landfill has saved the planet of 22042.40 Kgs of CO2 emissions.

Speaking of Siân’s departure, Rev. Dean Aaron Roberts, the Chair of Trustees, said:

We are very sad to see Siân leaving The Parish Trust for pastures new I can’t express how thankful I am for Siân’s passion, hard work, and perseverance. She has impacted the charity in more ways than she will ever know, nor I will ever be able to fully realise. We owe a debt of gratitude to her. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, the staff, and volunteers, I wish Siân all the best in this new chapter of her life, and I will be praying for her and for all that’s to come as she embarks on her university journey.

Due to funding limitations, The Parish Trust is not in a position to recruit a new Food Procurement Officer at the present time. Therefore, Siân’s role is now being absorbed by current staff until such time as funding becomes available again.

In the meantime, The Parish Trust continues to receive a significant number of requests for help, and our Food Hub is as busy as ever, with the economic and social effects of the COVID-19 pandemic starting to manifest in job insecurity, unemployment, and mental health challenges. We are in desperate need of all ambient foods, and monetary donations to continue meeting the demand that we are receiving. If you are in a position to donate money to us, you can do so online. Ambient / Dry Food donations can be brought to The Parish Trust during office hours (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm) We do not accept chilled or frozen food donations from the General Public.

If you need help with food and non-food essential item provision, please do not hesitate to request help from us, and if you need medium to long term help, we work with over 50 partners who will be happy to refer you to sustained support from The Parish Trust.

The Caffi Caredig (Welsh for “Kind Cafe”) will be a mobile, not-for-profit coffee and snack bar. An ethical social enterprise, it will will reduce food waste, cut down on plastic, help the environment, and ensure that proceeds go to the work of helping others through the work of The Parish Trust.

An exciting menu will be offering customers a fine selection of proper, fairly traded and ethical coffee. The Caffi Caredig will be partnering with Manumit Coffee Roasters who offer dignity and hope to survivors of modern slavery through training & employment. Their coffee is roasted by men and women who have suffered horrendous exploitation at the hands of modern slave traders but are now rebuilding their lives.

In addition to amazing coffee, other hot and cold drinks will be available for purchase, as well as a plethora of sweet and savoury items. Some food to be used in the Caffi Caredig will be food that has been diverted away from landfill through the CARE Project, another project under the umbrella of The Parish Trust. The food will be perfectly edible to eat, but due to its short shelf life, food suppliers have to discard it due to the lead times involved in getting food from the warehouse to the supermarket.

Menus are currently being drawn up and will include hot foods such as jacket potatoes and paninis, as well as cakes and other pastry items. Sustainable and eco-friendly packaging will be used to further cut down on waste and damage to the environment.

This new project has also created training opportunities, and will hopefully provide further employment in the future as the Caffi Caredig develops. Elys Rees has been working with The Parish Trust to develop the Caffi Caredig, and is currently doing his Level 3 in Catering and Hospitality Apprenticeship with the charity through the Profectus Programme. Speaking about the launch of Caffi Caredig, he said,

“Well, the secret project has finally been revealed, now the public can share The Parish Trust’s eager wait for the opening of Caffi Caredig. There’s still some preparation work to be done but it will be well worth the wait, just you see!”

Speaking about the launch, Rev. Dean Aaron Roberts, the Chair of Trustees of The Parish Trust said,

“We are delighted that all the planning and preparation for this exciting project is finally coming to fruition. We’ve had lots of challenges along the way, not least the continuing lockdowns which have delayed the start of the project. Looking forward, the future is brighter and the Caffi Caredig will be an excellent asset to the charity as it seeks to carry out its aims and objectives. We are proud of all that has been achieved through what has been a significant year.

Now, as restrictions start to ease and society starts to explore post-lockdown life once again, we will be glad to offer a place for people to come and enjoy good, ethical food and drink at the heart of the community. We’re hoping that the Caffi Caredig will become a place for socialising, raising awareness of the charity and its aims, as well as being a host for various pop up activities that will enrich and benefit the general public.

We’re currently developing and planning some workshops and other informative and social events that will be run from the Caffi Caredig which we hope will be of interest and benefit to many. Of course, we are awaiting lockdowns and restrictions to ease enough for us to hold these events, but we are committed to doing as much as we can as soon as possible.

We’re also grateful to our Grant Funders who have believed in us and supported this project. Thanks go to the WCVA, United Welsh Housing Association, Moondance Foundation, Viridor, Community Foundation Wales, and Caerphilly County Borough Council for the investment they have made in us and the support they have shown throughout the planning stages. We couldn’t have done this without them.”

The Caffi Caredig will be based at The Parish Trust Headquarters, which is located at St. Thomas’ Church in Trethomas for the time being. However, in time the Caffi Caredig, built by British company, Revival Trailers will be able to go further afield. This will allow The Parish Trust to reach an even wider group of people for special events and festivals.

You can keep up to date with the progress of the project on our Facebook Page, or by following the dedicated Instagram account for the Caffi Caredig at @CaffiCaredig