Community Foundation Wales

The Community Foundation in Wales promotes the cause of philanthropy in Wales by creating and managing relationships between donors and those who are running life-enhancing initiatives. We are dedicated to strengthening local communities by providing a permanent source of funding, building endowment and 'immediate impact' funds to link donors to local needs.

Case study: Action for Children/NCH Conwy

Action for Children/NCH Conwy Young Carers provides a support service for young carers across North Wales. The charity works directly with young carers, providing support groups that meet regularly to allow the carers to have fun and respite with their peers, away from their home situations. Issue-based sessions such as self-esteem, growing up, sex and relationships are incorporated into the group meetings. Trips and activities are also organised during school holidays for the carers and their families, as well as one-to-one support. The charity also raises awareness of the rights of young carers to ensure their needs are best met, for example, by education bodies and social services.

A recent grant of £7,457 was awarded by a private Fund at the Community Foundation in Wales, complemented by a further £2,540 from another client’s grant programme. These funded a residential break for 40 young carers aged 9 -13 from across North Wales to take the Sports Leaders UK ‘Young Leader Award’, delivered by STARS at Howell’s School, Denbigh.

As a result of attending this course in the school holidays, the beneficiaries have gained leadership skills and qualifications to enable them to volunteer to work with other children, for example at after-school clubs and camps. Activities on the course involved elements of team work, helping the participants to overcome some of the isolation that carers often face as well as raising confidence and building a sense of achievement. The children particularly enjoyed the camaraderie, and the chance to meet carers from other areas who have shared experiences.

Prince William and Catherine Middleton have selected The Berkshire Community Fund as one of the charities to benefit from their Royal Wedding Charitable Gift Fund, which they created to help celebrate their wedding.

For further information, visit the Royal Wedding Charitable Gift Fund website.