Dean joined the Cardiff City leg of the challenge, walking tethered to Behnaz Akhgar from BBC Cymru Wales Headquarters in Central Square, over to the Principality Stadium, and on to the National Museum of Wales. The event drew plenty of attention from passers-by as the group braved the damp autumn weather, cheered on by BBC staff and supporters.

During a live broadcast on BBC Radio Wales, Dean spoke about the difference BBC Children in Need funding has made to The Parish Trust’s work in the Caerphilly Basin. He shared how the funding has helped expand the charity’s support for children and young people, particularly through projects that build confidence, wellbeing, and a sense of community.

Dean said,

“It’s so important that people understand the impact their donation to BBC Children in Need has on local charities working on the ground in their communities. We started with a food bank during COVID — responding to isolation and lack of opportunities. Since then, we’ve grown a whole programme of activities for children and young people, from our toddlers’ groups to youth volunteering opportunities. We’re trying to expand and respond to the felt needs of our communities, and funding from Children in Need has been key in helping us plan long-term and secure the future of the charity.”

The light-hearted atmosphere of the walk, complete with laughter, puddles, and a fair amount of coordination challenges, captured the spirit of teamwork and resilience that underpins the campaign. The event highlighted the power of partnership and how national fundraising initiatives can directly strengthen local projects like those run by The Parish Trust.

The charity extends its thanks to BBC Children in Need, BBC Radio Wales, and everyone who took part or donated.

This prestigious award recognises outstanding fundraising achievements that have made a significant and lasting impact on communities in Wales, and we are honoured that our campaign to build the Trethomas Life Centre has been acknowledged at a national level.

A Remarkable Journey

In early 2025, The Parish Trust was faced with an unexpected and deeply challenging moment in its history: we were asked to vacate our former headquarters at short notice, placing much of our vital community work at risk. Rather than seeing this as the end, we chose to see it as an opportunity to grow, expand, and start a new chapter. It hasn’t been an easy ride for us, but nonetheless the end result has been worth the challenge.

We launched an ambitious campaign to raise the funds needed to renovate, and relaunch a permanent home for the charity: a building that would serve as some sort of base for us, but also expand what was possible for our community. In just six months, thanks to the incredible generosity of local people, trusts and foundations, corporate supporters, and the sheer determination of our team, we raised the money required to turn this vision into reality.

What followed was a five-month building programme that transformed the formerly derelict Bryn Hall OAP centre into the Trethomas Life Centre, a vibrant, multi-purpose space now serving as the beating heart of our charitable operations.

A Centre With Purpose

The Trethomas Life Centre (TLC) now plays host to a wide range of projects that make a daily difference to people’s lives:

• Youth and children’s programmes providing safe, structured, values-led activities
• Activities that directly address poverty
• Wellbeing initiatives addressing loneliness, mental health, and community resilience
• Volunteering programmes that build confidence, skills, and friendships
• Space for the local community to gather, grow, and support one another

The success of the fundraising campaign was not measured purely in financial terms, but in the trust, belief, and shared vision of an entire community coming together to protect and grow a charity they value.

It is this incredible groundswell of support, and the scale and speed of delivery that we believe contributed to our selection as Fundraiser of the Year.

Celebrating With the Sector

Our Chief Executive, Rev. Dean Aaron Roberts, attended the awards ceremony in Cardiff alongside two of our trustees, Rose Llewellyn and Liz Blacker. The event brought together charity leaders from across Wales, and was a celebration of the voluntary sector who are doing incredible work across Wales in very trying circumstances.

During the evening, our team had the privilege of meeting Jane Hutt MS, as well as David Holdsworth, Chief Executive of His Majesty’s Charity Commission for England and Wales, whose leadership and commitment to good governance across the sector is widely recognised. The opportunity to share the story of The Parish Trust with such esteemed figures in the third sector was an unforgettable moment of encouragement and recognition.

“This award is the icing on the cake after months of tireless work, countless acts of generosity, and the belief that our community deserves a centre of its own. The building and opening of the TLC is a sign of what can happen when people pull together,” said Rev. Dean Aaron Roberts.

“We are deeply grateful to WCVA, the judging panel, and all those who continue to support The Parish Trust as we seek to serve our communities to bring life in all its fullness.”

Thank you to everyone who made this moment possible. This award belongs to the whole community.

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

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

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.

On this International Day of Charity, I am filled with immense gratitude and joy as I extend my warmest thanks to each and every one of you who have supported and volunteered with The Parish Trust over the years. Your unwavering dedication to our cause has touched the lives of thousands and has been nothing short of remarkable.

The International Day of Charity, observed annually on September 5th, was established by the United Nations to promote charitable efforts and encourage individuals to alleviate human suffering. It serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion, solidarity, and selflessness in our global community.

At The Parish Trust, our roots are firmly grounded in Christian foundations of love, compassion, and service, which neatly align with the essence of the International Day of Charity. Through emergency provision, education, youth and children’s work, and wellbeing projects, we tirelessly strive to make a positive impact on the lives of countless individuals and families.

Our emergency provision efforts ensure that no one in our community goes to bed hungry, or in any kind of danger. Your support has been instrumental in providing food to those facing the harshest circumstances and experiencing many kinds of poverties. Our educational initiatives empower the next generation, giving them the tools they need to make a brighter future for themselves and allow the current generation to better their circumstances and empower them to take control of their own destinies.

Our youth and children’s programs foster an environment of love, guidance, and mentorship, allowing our young ones to flourish and grow into responsible and compassionate individuals. Furthermore, our wellbeing projects aim to enhance the physical, emotional, and spiritual health of our community members.

Your contributions have enabled us to bring hope and positive change to the lives of many, and for that, we are truly grateful.

As we celebrate International Day of Charity, I encourage everyone to consider joining us in our mission. Your involvement with The Parish Trust not only benefits those in need but also enriches your own life. The act of giving, whether through your time to volunteer, treasure in the form of monetary donations, or talents which can help us improve our work, has the power to transform communities and instill a profound sense of purpose.

Together, we can continue to make a difference, one life at a time, and serve as a shining example of love in action. Please reach out to us to learn more about how you can become a part of this beautiful journey of compassion and generosity.

Thank you once again for your unwavering support and dedication to The Parish Trust. May our work continue to be a beacon of hope and love for all those we serve.

In faith and gratitude,

Rev. Dean Aaron Roberts | Chief Executive Officer

The occasion was marked by a sense of camaraderie, collaboration, and celebration, as the charity proudly showcased their initiatives aimed at supporting children and young people. The Parish Trust, having secured funding from the High Sheriff’s Fund amounting to £5,000 annually for three years, welcomed the High Sheriff to witness their youth-focused endeavours.

The visit was a testament to the dedication and vision of The Parish Trust. The High Sheriff was met with warm hospitality by the organisation’s key figures, including Carrie Gealy, the Youth and Children’s Engagement Officer, Luke Coleman, the Wellbeing Coordinator and CARE Project Lead, as well as Dasha, the driving force behind Caffi Caredig. The High Sheriff’s interaction with these individuals underscored the passion and commitment that fuels The Parish Trust’s initiatives.

The focus of the visit centred on the charity’s remarkable efforts in nurturing young talents through various volunteering opportunities. The High Sheriff was captivated by the diverse ways in which children and young people are empowered to learn and grow. From acquiring culinary skills through creative partnerships with Caerphilly County Borough Council to honing barista expertise under Dasha’s guidance at Caffi Caredig, the High Sheriff observed firsthand how practical learning is intertwined with mentorship.

The visit also highlighted The Parish Trust’s commitment to fostering leadership skills among its youth volunteers. From participating in food packing and administration to stepping up as junior leaders, the young participants showcased an admirable sense of responsibility and engagement in their community.

Reflecting on the visit, the Reverend Dean Aaron Roberts, CEO of The Parish Trust, expressed his pride in the strides taken under the leadership of Carrie Gealy, the driving force behind the Youth Volunteering programme. He shared,

It’s truly heartening to witness the impact of our Youth Volunteering programme, and I couldn’t be prouder of Carrie for her exceptional dedication. The ongoing financial support from the High Sheriff’s Fund, coupled with the High Sheriff’s invaluable insights and collaborative spirit, is a transformative gift to our charity as we continue to expand and evolve.

The funding for this visionary programme was secured earlier in the year through a competitive bidding event, a testament to The Parish Trust’s commitment to innovation and sustainable growth.

As the High Sheriff of Gwent left the premises, the resonance of the day’s experience was palpable—a shared commitment to nurturing the potential of children and young people and a renewed spirit of collaboration that promises to drive positive change in the Caerphilly community and beyond.

Emma Riedel is our new CARE Project Assistant and will be assisting The Parish Trust to become increasingly robust and authoritative in the area of food poverty and its alleviation. Speaking of the appointment, Rev. Dean Aaron Roberts, CEO, said,

This is an exciting development for the charity, flowing from an exciting and close partnership that we are privileged to enjoy with Caerphilly Council, in particular the Caerphilly Cares Team. We’re very fortunate to have Emma joining us who brings significant skills and enthusiasm, and has already fitted well into the staff team here at The Parish Trust. Emma and the role she will play in the work of the charity will make us more robust as an organisation, and, from a strategic point of view, lay some solid foundations for the charity’s continued growth and its deepening of relationships with public and private sector institutions.

Emma will be assisting Luke Coleman, our CARE Project Lead, for part of her time, whilst being an advocate and link between The Parish Trust and Caerphilly Cares, attending training and meetings which look at tackling the challenges around food and food poverty in the county. She will play an active part in the Caerphilly Cares Food Network, a consortium of organisations across the area who will meet to share good practice, plan initiatives related to food poverty, and have a voice in developing and shaping local policy.

Rev. Dean founded the charity back in 2019 and since then has led the charity as Chair of Trustees, building its reputation and steering its growth. Now, Rev. Dean will step down from the Board of Trustees to take on this new role to drive the charity forward into the future.

Rev. Dean hands on the role of Chair of Trustees to Mrs. Diane Brierley. Diane is currently the Treasurer on the Board and chaired the recruitment committee for the CEO post. Diane brings with her considerable experience of leading organisations, being the Executive Chairman of Cadwaladers Ice Cream, and having had a successful career in business with various companies.

Commenting on today’s announcement, she said,

The Board of Trustees is delighted with the appointment of Reverend Dean Roberts as the new Chief Executive Officer of The Parish Trust. Since founding the Charity in 2019, Rev. Dean was instrumental in leading the Charity to meet the needs of the local community during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Since then, the impact of the important work that the Charity has done has been significant. Led by the needs of the community, the work has included setting up a toddler group, youth club, community choir, and lunch club alongside the very important work of The CARE Project providing food and other support to families. We look forward to the future and seeing the impact of the Charity benefiting many more within our community.

Rev. Dean starts his new role as Chief Executive Officer having spent nine years in various roles in the Parishes of Bedwas, Machen, Marshfield, Michaelston-y-Fedw, Rudry, and St Brides, and latterly as Rector and Vicar in those areas. Rev. Dean is well known in the communities that The Parish Trust serves and comes into this role fully aware of the needs of the service area, and the opportunities for the charity to meet those needs.

Speaking about his new appointment, Rev. Dean said,

I am incredibly privileged to be appointed as the CEO of The Parish Trust. When I founded the charity back in 2019, I had no idea that the charity would grow to what it is today. The fact that the charity is able to appoint a CEO speaks volumes about the progress that has been made, and is testament to the passion, commitment, and faith of the Board of Trustees, the incredible staff team that we have, and our volunteers who are at the heart of our operations here. As CEO, I will strive to take the charity from strength to strength, continually finding new ways to bring life in all its fullness to more and more people. And as I take on this new calling, I do so by reminding myself that I am doing it for the benefit of others, and in the name of Jesus and his teachings, on which this charity is founded. We look to the future daunted, but incredibly excited at how The Parish Trust is going to grow, and how opportunities are going to unfold for us in this new chapter.

Rev. Dean will officially start his new role in the coming weeks after leaving his post with the Church in Wales. He will continue to undertake some ministerial duties as an ordained minister including as a Chaplain in Aneurin Bevan University Health Board.

Rev. Dean Aaron Roberts, Chair of Trustees said,

The accreditation as an Investing in Volunteers Charity is the result of nearly two years’ hard work that has been put in by staff, (both present and some former staff) who have been driven by their passion to make volunteering at the charity a fulfilling and purposeful experience. The Board of Trustees are extremely grateful for the written work they have done, as well as the encouragement and support they have shown towards the volunteers, and also in their dealings with the Assessor over the last two years. This is yet another big achievement for The Parish Trust, and continues to show that the charity is serious about growth, development, and fulfilling its core mission to make our world a better place.

Investing in Volunteers is the UK quality standard for all organisations involving volunteers.   Investing in Volunteers aims to improve the quality of the volunteering experience for all volunteers and demonstrates that organisations value the enormous contribution made by their volunteers.  Investing in Volunteers is delivered by the three national volunteering infrastructure bodies Volunteer Scotland, Volunteer Now in Northern Ireland and Wales Council for Voluntary Action. Together they enable organisations across the UK to achieve the award.

The Parish Trust was assessed against six quality areas and proved to excel in all aspects of working with its volunteers.

Investing in Volunteers is unique in that it is the only standard that focuses on volunteers.  It is based on the following six quality areas:

1. Vision for Volunteering
2. Planning for Volunteers
3. Volunteer inclusion
4. Recruiting and welcoming volunteers
5. Supporting volunteers
6. Valuing and developing volunteers

The Parish Trust has received a detailed assessment report, outlining how the charity was assessed, and the elements of the charity’s work which have secured the achievement. In it are included quotes from volunteers themselves, who describe their experience of volunteering at the charity:

“The Parish Trust is like a family – many of us live alone and we come and volunteer to be with other people because we all help each other when we can.”

“We have the opportunity of being able to discuss new ideas or changes to the way they work which makes us feel a real part of The Parish Trust.”

“I had a neighbour who didn’t do much during the day so I dragged her along once to come and help and she is still here now after 12 months and loves getting out of the house and helping.”

Further information about the Standard can be found on investinginvolunteers.co.uk  or through the WCVA

The Standard will enhance volunteer management and is rigorous but is designed to be simple to implement and not to generate large amounts of paperwork.