A respected Swansea community leader has been appointed to play a key role in shaping how a £20 million UK Government investment will transform parts of the city.
Thom Lynch has been named Chair of the Neighbourhood Board, which will oversee how Swansea’s Pride in Place funding is invested to deliver meaningful change for local communities.
The funding is set to revitalise neighbourhoods including Brynmelyn, Waun Wen, North Hill, Dyfatty and Hafod, supporting a wide range of community-led projects focused on improving quality of life, wellbeing and local opportunity.
Thom brings a wealth of experience and a strong track record of delivering for communities across Swansea. He is Co-Founder and Project Leader of the award-winning Matthews House, a High Street-based charity providing a vital ‘home’ for vulnerable people, including those experiencing homelessness.
His appointment follows an open recruitment process, with his application standing out for its clear vision, community insight and proven ability to deliver impact at a grassroots level.
Through his leadership at Matthews House, Thom has already made a significant difference to the lives of local people. This work has been recognised nationally, including with The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.
As Chair, he will work with partners, residents and stakeholders to ensure the Pride in Place programme is community-driven, inclusive and focused on delivering lasting benefits for Swansea’s neighbourhoods.
Cllr Rob Stewart, Leader of Swansea Council, said, “The £20m UK Government funding can make a huge difference to people’s lives and help to transform communities.
“Having Thom on board will help galvanise our efforts by building better links with people living and working in these communities and ensuring their voices are heard.
“I’m looking forward to working with Thom and partners across the city to make Pride in Place a success and to ensure local people are at the heart of shaping their communities’ future.”
