Author: Rhys Gregory

“We are investing in the lives of young people who need a helping hand to achieve their potential,” Social Justice Minister Jane Hutt has vowed after meeting with those taking part in a Basic Income pilot scheme in North Wales. Launched in July, the scheme will see more than 500 people turning 18 and leaving care in Wales being offered £1600 each month (before tax) for two years to support them as they make the transition to adult life. It is hoped the pilot will set care leavers on a path to live healthy, happy and fulfilling lives. The £20…

Health Minister, Eluned Morgan, has announced a new contract agreement with GPs in Wales, which will deliver the most significant reform of the contract since 2004. It includes a new pay deal for all staff working in general practice and plans to reduce the administrative burden for GPs, enabling them to focus on providing high-quality care in contract arrangements from 2023. Recognising the vital role of GPs and their teams, the agreement for this year includes a 4.5% pay uplift for GPs as recommended by the Doctors and Dentist Review Body, and goes further to ensure all staff working within…

An array of creatures of the deep have made land their home at Mermaid Quay as the Ocean Show by BRICKLIVE arrives in Cardiff Bay. The 13 hand-built brick Ocean creatures will be in residence from 29th October to Sunday 6th November. Free to view, the display features a jaw-dropping 10ft long Mako Shark, along with a majestic 7.5ft long Green Sea Turtle, Large Squid, Moray Eel, Octopus, Parrot Fish, Angler Fish, Nautilus, Baby Turtles, Coral Reef, Spider Crabs, Yellow Fin Tuna, Lobsters, Clown Triggerfish, Hermit Crabs, Small Jellyfish, Mackerel, Starfish, and Tropical Fish. The show has been devised to…

Full casting for the National Theatre’s production of The Ocean at the End of the Lane has been announced today, with screen and stage actor Charlie Brooks joining the previously announced cast as Ursula and Jasmeen James joining as understudy. Charlie is best known for being a series regular in BBC’s EastEnders, and will be part of the cast at Wales Millennium Centre in 2023. They join Daniel Cornish (alternate Boy), Trevor Fox (Dad), Emma-Jane Goodwin (understudy), Paolo Guidi (ensemble), Millie Hikasa (Lettie Hempstock), Lewis Howard (understudy), Kemi-Bo Jacobs (Ginnie Hempstock), Ronnie Lee (ensemble), Aimee McGoldrick (ensemble), Laurie Ogden (Sis),…

Pontypool-born Eben Upton, founder and CEO of Raspberry Pi, was recognised for his contribution to STEM alongside 12 winners at the 2022 Wales STEM Awards on Thursday 27th October. The founder of the small single-board computer, which is manufactured in SONY UK TEC and has sold close to 50 million devices worldwide, was announced winner of the Outstanding Contribution to STEM award. Hosted by broadcaster Sian Lloyd, the awards ceremony, which took place at Cardiff’s Mercure Hotel, recognised the innovative STEM work being undertaken in Wales, addressing the diversity gap and skills shortage, and inspiring and raising the aspirations of…

The Welsh language has been introduced to new groups, businesses, and families across Anglesey thanks to the UK Community Renewal Fund. Menter Iaith Môn was eager to extend beyond its usual network to increase the use of the Welsh language – the funding has allowed them to do exactly that. Up to 60 community groups and businesses have received support thanks to the investment, and activities have been held for children, young people, and Welsh learners in different areas to increase interest and to promote the language. Looking back on the scheme’s successes Elen Hughes, chief officer at Menter Iaith…

Cardiff Bus is offering travel advice to customers ahead of Halloween and Bonfire night. The bus operator is alerting customers to service diversions that will come into effect from 17:00 on Monday 31st October for Halloween and Saturday 5th November for Bonfire Night. These diversions will be put in place for the safety of both customers and staff, in collaboration with South Wales Police. Route alterations will apply to services 1, 2, 11, 13, 44, 45, 49, 50 on both days, and on route 65A on the 31st. Full information on the route diversions can be viewed on cardiffbus.com Commercial…

Disney On Ice presents Discover The Magic is bringing a new voyage to families through dynamic moments both on ice and in the air, taking fans on its most adventurous journey yet. Get ready for the Disney On Ice magic to make its way to the Cardiff International Arena this Spring, with enchanting stories and exhilarating production numbers, providing the perfect day out for all the family. The production will be visiting Cardiff’s International Arena from 23rd February to 26th February 2023. Priority Customers can take advantage of the pre-sale from the 28th October. Get the best seats by heading…

Inspiring and humbling tales of bravery, creativity, selflessness and dedication were once again in abundance as the #TeamSWPAwards returned last night. Held at Cardiff’s city Hall, the awards – which are usually held annually, but have been hosted twice this year due to postponement as the result of the pandemic – recognise officers, staff, volunteers and partners who have gone above and beyond the call of duty for the South Wales Police and the communities we serve. This year’s winners – chosen by Chief Constable Jeremy Vaughan and Police and Crime Commissioner Alun Michael – are: Learner of the Year…

AN ACCLAIMED pet retailer has invested more than £250,000 in powering ahead with its net-zero vision. PetPlace has installed up to 450 solar panels at its stores in Abergele and Llangefni, with Ruthin, Mold and Gledrid, Oswestry, set to follow. The business has also introduced electric charging points at Gledrid, Llangefni and its Kinmel Bay headquarters – with Mold and Abergele next to have them – they now have electric rather than gas forklift vehicles, electric company cars and digital display screens, which they hope will help towards the reduction of printed material. Owners Sion Pritchard and Paul Penketh enlisted…