Ystalyfera Development Trust

Översikt

Ystalyfera is located in the Upper Swansea Valley at the confluence of the Afon Tawe and Afon Twrch. In common with many of the neighbouring communities, it is characterised by the historical mining and industrial activities. Like much of South Wales , the coal disputes of the 1980’s brought severe socio‑economic decline and many other problems for the local community, the legacy of which still exists today. Ystalyfera has a strong community and vibrant people, but the problems associated with the de‑industrialisation of the area needed more than community spirit.

Ystalyfera Development Trust was established in 1994 as a response to the declining economic and social prosperity facing the community at that time. Poor local services and a lack of access to employment and other opportunities were major obstacles affecting the resilience of the community to recover from the loss of the mining industry.

Through the work of the Trust and a number partner agencies, new investment has been attracted in recent years. A range of new businesses and social enterprises have established locally and become a thriving part of the community. Since its inception, the Trust has always sought to respond to the changing needs of the community. Today the Trust is involved in the following initiatives:

Hosting of community learning facilities as part of the Neath Port Talbot New Learning Network, offering a wide range opportunities.
Providing a base for Neath Port Talbot Credit Union in the village.
Providing office space for the operation of the Community Car Scheme.
Identifying opportunities for community focused business.
Providing a venue for the Youth Club.
Offering careers guidance to people seeking to enhance their skills.
Providing support for individuals in job applications and CV writing.
Supporting local business initiatives and attracting local investment.
Acting as a Contact Centre for the community, working towards becoming the one stop shop for reaching a range of different support services, help & information.
Maintaining some properties on behalf of the local community, which includes start-up premises for local business and community enterprise.
Working with statutory agencies to identify gaps in local services.

http://www.ystalyfera.btik.com/p_Home.ikml

Green Map of Neath Port Talbot
updated 12/2009 by Neath Port Talbot Environment Forum