Hwb Bach y Wlad marks one year of transformative support for rural communities

In just one year since its launch on 18 September 2023, Hwb Bach y Wlad has surpassed expectations by supporting over 8,000 customers and attending more than 250 community visits across Carmarthenshire. The project has provided vital assistance to rural communities, offering a wide range of services that have profoundly impacted the lives of its customers.

As an extension of the three main Hwb centres, Hwb Bach y Wlad brings Carmarthenshire County Council’s customer services directly to rural areas. The project offers key services such as housing benefits, council tax assistance, waste and recycling information, housing-related enquiries, trading standards support, and employability resources.

Additionally, Hwb Bach y Wlad has made a tangible difference through its "Claim What’s Yours" programme, helping individuals understand and access their financial and well-being entitlements. Beyond this, the team has arranged emergency food parcels, organised transport for medical appointments, and provided critical support in times of mental health crises and housing insecurity. This tailored approach has been instrumental in ensuring that each customer receives the specific help they need.

A key driver of the project's success has been its close collaboration with a wide range of both local and national partners. Working alongside numerous partner organisations, Hwb Bach y Wlad has been able to offer a comprehensive care package to those in need. Routine visits to community hubs such as food banks, leisure centres, and local farmer’s marts have made these services highly accessible.

The project has also engaged with various county events and community drop-ins, extending its reach through consistent and widespread outreach efforts. By partnering with a diverse range of organisations, Hwb Bach y Wlad ensures that rural residents are connected to the full spectrum of available support.

The ability to offer bilingual services for all its communities is of particularly importance for Carmarthenshire County Council. All Hwb advisors are fluent Welsh speakers and ensure clear and comfortable communication for customers. Hwb Bach y Wlad has also actively referred individuals to Coleg Sir Gâr for further Welsh language support, strengthening its connection to local communities.

Over the past year, the personal stories that have emerged from Hwb Bach y Wlad speak volumes about the project’s impact. The support offered has increased household incomes, alleviated food insecurity, and provided well-being resources to those facing mental health challenges. One customer shared, "Hwb Bach y Wlad changed my life when I didn’t know where to turn. They helped me access benefits I wasn’t aware of, and the support was truly life-saving."

Over the recent summer season, the team have attended agricultural shows and community events across Carmarthenshire to provide critical support to rural communities and, as Hwb Bach y Wlad moves into its second year, it remains committed to reaching even more rural residents.

Cllr Linda Evans, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Homes praised the projects impact, stating:

"Hwb Bach y Wlad has been a lifeline for so many of our rural residents, providing essential services and support that they may otherwise have struggled to access.

The success of the project in its first year is a testament to the dedication of the team and our partners. We are proud of the difference it’s made, and we’re committed to continuing this work, ensuring that every community in Carmarthenshire receives the help and care they deserve."

Hwb Bach y Wlad will be attending the following locations over the coming months

Venue	Frequency
Cross Hands Working Men’s Club and Institute	1st and 3rd Friday of the month - 10am-3pm
Cwmaman Community Centre	2nd Friday of the month - 10am-3pm
Kidwelly Princess Gwenllian Centre	2nd Monday of the month - 10am-3pm
Laugharne Memorial Hall	2nd Wednesday of the month - 10am-3pm
Llandeilo Civic Hall	1st & 3rd Thursday of the month - 10am-3pm
Llandovery Youth and Community Centre	3rd Tuesday of the month - 10am-3pm
Llanybydder Rugby Club	Last Thursday of the month - 10am-3pm
Newcastle Emlyn Cawdor Hall	1st Wednesday of the month - 10am-2pm
St Clears Y Gat	3rd Tuesday of the month - 10:30am-3pm
Whitland Town Hall	2nd Tuesday of the month - 10am-3pm