THE Welsh Government has launched a consultation document into the aspect of ‘building resilient communities’ following on the decision to scrap the Communities First project.
Earlier this month, it was announced by the cabinet secretary for communities and children, Carl Sargeant AM, that a new approach to aimed at helping people in deprived communities was being considered and that the strategy would be phased out.
On October 12, he announced that he was “not convinced that continuing the focus on 52 small areas is the most effective way to deliver for Wales”.
The Welsh Government has spent more than £300m on the 52 Communities First ‘clusters’ – including four each in Newport, Blaenau Gwent and Caerphilly, and two in Torfaen, since the scheme was launched in 2001.
Torfaen is split – north and south – with its two Communities First areas within the local authority framework.
In the north, there are five – Abersychan, Blaenavon, Cwmynyscoy, St Cadocs and and Penygarn and Trevethin.
The south of the borough has seven – Fairwater, Greenmeadow, Llantarnam, Pontnewydd, St Dials, Two Locks and Upper Cwmbran.
Announcing a new approach aimed at helping people in deprived communities find jobs and get childcare while improving education and transport links throughout the country, the Labour minister said he was “minded to phase out” Communities First.
As part of the exercise, The Welsh Government is seeking views on the issues surrounding the scheme. and To complete the survey, visit gov.wales/topics/people-and-communities/communities/talk-communities/?lang=en
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