Wales’ First Minister meets some of Merthyr Tydfil’s outstanding volunteers

Seventeen award winning volunteers from Merthyr Tydfil were invited to the Senedd to meet with First Minister for Wales, Carwyn Jones AM and Huw Lewis AM, Deputy Minister for Children. The volunteers received awards in recognition of their dedication and energy from the Outstanding Volunteers Awards held earlier in July by Voluntary Action Merthyr Tydfil (VAMT).

Carwyn Jones spoke enthusiastically about volunteering in Wales and the   importance it plays in developing communities. 

He commented:

“I was delighted to invite the volunteer award winners to the Senedd and be able to congratulate them face to face about their achievements. I understand and appreciate that by volunteering, people have the chance to learn new skills, meet new people, develop new interests and feel part of their community.

The Welsh Assembly Government supports volunteering in Wales and this visit was an opportunity to say ‘Thank You’ to those that freely give their time to help their community”.

The views of the First Minister were backed by Huw Lewis AM who said:

“As the local Assembly Member I am deeply proud that so many people choose to volunteer in so many different areas of our community. I offer my heartfelt congratulations, not just to this year’s winners but to every person who gives of their time to serve others.”

The visit had been arranged as a ‘thank you’ to recognise the time and energy the volunteers give without payment to support other people in local communities in the Merthyr Borough.

The Ministers took time to talk to each of the volunteers about their role and how they have made a valuable contribution to their community. It was also an opportunity to show the Welsh Assembly Government the value and breadth of voluntary activity that goes on in Merthyr Tydfil.

If you are interested in volunteering then you can contact VAMT’s Volunteer Officers Karen Foley or Frances Barry on 01685 535900.