Today we were thrilled to attend the official launch of the Cynon Linc building in Aberdare. Back in 2018, Age Connects Morgannwg (a charity for older people living in Rhondda Cynon Taf, Bridgend and Merthyr Tydfil) contacted us to discuss funding to support the exciting new development they were planning to take over the old St Mair’s Centre in Aberdare Town Centre and create a community hub called Cynon Linc. They already had significant match funding secured from The National Lottery Community Fund, Welsh Government Integrated Care Fund and Dunhill Medical Trust and they approached the fund for £100,000 towards revenue (staff , building and marketing) to support this major development. The pandemic had a major impact on their building and development plans, but they adapted and worked hard to secure the project and opened their doors to the community on October 4th.
The building is now a vibrant community hub and includes a large kitchen and coffee shop, doctor’s surgery, over 50s advice and information point, mental health support services and a nail clinic. The new hub is also the perfect venue for a host of events, classes, and meetings, it has six rooms to hire including a fully accessible main hall, seating up to 248 attendees. The events programme already announced includes fitness classes for the over 50’s, weekly youth group, community first aid training, children’s Halloween party and a full festive programme..
As a funder we are so proud of the perseverance and commitment to the vision they have shown and we were pleased to support with a Vision Fund grant of £100,000.
The Cynon Linc project was developed by a partnership that included Age Connects Morgannwg, Rhondda Cynon Taff County Borough Council, Cwm Taff University Health Board, and partners from the third sector and the local community.
Rachel Rowlands is the CEO of Age Connects Morgannwg. “I am so impressed with the redevelopment of Cynon linc and the work the whole team has done. Despite the extensive challenges created by the pandemic the project was delivered on time and on budget. The result is a bright, spacious, and welcoming hub that will be a major asset to the whole of the Cynon Valley for many years to come. There is real excitement in the community for the grand opening and we can’t wait to welcome them through the doors.”
They are already home to several organisations including Signposted Cymru. Pen y Cymoedd Community Fund has just supported Signposted Cymru with a Micro Fund grant of £5,000 to support their running costs for a year now they have taken step to have a permanent venue. Signposted Cymru provide immediate and initial intervention for people suffering and struggling with mental health issues. They offer support and guidance through their 5 pillars of well-being.