How the Young People of Aberfan are Helping to Regenerate the Area for the Community
Lowri Farnham, project manager for the Skyline Project, explains how she and others from the Aberfan area have benefitted from the H Factor Programme and are making a huge deference to the community.
‘’Despite growing interest from young people, the green industry remains one of the toughest to enter. The skills and knowledge necessary to set you on the right path aren’t accessible, especially to those who don’t have the financial means to attend relevant courses and workshops. I was lucky enough to be offered a place on a six-month Kickstart scheme with The H-Factor, and even given the position of Team Lead. My time at this company has been invaluable, with 25 hours a week spent receiving training from professional green industry tutors that provided a wealth of information that I most likely never would have learned otherwise. From simple things, like when to sow what seeds, to how to build a polytunnel, and grafting apple trees for our community orchard.
The skills I developed in this time allowed me to apply for my current role as project manager for the Skyline Project, funded by the EU via the Welsh Government. The aim of Cae Patsy (Patsy’s Field, Ynysowen) is to enhance an area of undervalued beauty in Bryngoleu, Aberfan, and provide a space for the community to connect with the nature that surrounds them. This ranges from varying levels of walking paths, to foraging classes, forest garden food growing, cultural and creative sessions, as well as bushcrafting in the woods.
The Cae Patsy Project is a key element in The H-Factor’s programme, which has environmental impact and the health and wellbeing of the community at the core of its aims. The Afon-Gwreiddiau Community Garden provides affordable and healthy locally grown fruit and veg for those who need it. The team has also taken on delivering food parcels, which allows for private and stigma-free support during a time where many are feeling pressured by the rise in the cost of living in the community, as well as many other communities in Wales.
Unemployment is a prevalent issue in the area, but thanks to The H-Factor, myself and my 10+ colleagues have gained further employment, as well as enabled and supported social business enterprises, and the creation of 40 jobs under The Carbon Economy College, which is run from the community garden. This is a company that has provided so much support for the area, with plans to take it even further, with the installation of solar benches and shelters, in addition to wellbeing hubs. These goals have always, and will always have the people of the community at their heart, and we will continue to find ways to provide the support and enrichment that the people need.’’
