Building Flourishing Communities: reflecting on building a way forward in the Afan Valley

Our Demonstrator project, run by Rosa and Yvonne, ran a workshop in the Afan Valley to investigate building on the wonderful work of Pro Afan, in the Afan Valley near Port Talbot in South Wales. There were attendees from attendees from Local Authorities, health and a homelessness charity; the police and education were unable to attend the workshop, but are part of Pro Afan. The session aimed to establish a collaborative framework that engages local communities, identifies pressing issues, and builds on the work that has already taken place.

The Afan Valley boasts a rich industrial heritage, transitioning from mining to steel manufacturing, to tourism. However, recent decades have seen severe job losses and the absence of replacements, leaving the community grappling with economic challenges. Despite these adversities, the valley demonstrates resilience, with over 50 voluntary organizations supporting its nearly  5,000-strong population.

The region’s breathtaking natural beauty, exemplified by its renowned bike trails and green landscapes, positions it as a prime tourism destination. However, the lack of strategic investment and infrastructure maintenance hampers the valley’s potential to become a flourishing hub.

The valley faces significant hurdles:

• Deprivation: The four villages that make up the Afan Valley are within the top 20% of most deprived areas in Wales, with one area being in the top 2%.
• Employment: With employment rates as low as 41.8% in some areas, economic activity is limited.
• Social Stigma: Some felt that coming from the Afan Valley could carry with it a social stigma
• Accessibility and Infrastructure: Non-drivers struggle with inaccessible community assets, while expensive public transport further exacerbates isolation.

Additional challenges include insufficient housing for those with disabilities, a lack of youth programs, and competition among voluntary organizations for grants.

The group concentrated on what defines flourishing communities. They are places with vibrant opportunities to learn, work, socialize, and enjoy life. The session outlined the priorities to achieve this vision:

• Safeguarding vulnerable populations and managing risks.
• Supporting mental health and wellbeing through early interventions.
• Enhancing educational and adult learning opportunities.

Notably, the windfarm project emerged as a beacon of hope, contributing £1.8 million in funding until 2043 to foster community initiatives – this funding is annually and is given spread across 4 communities

The session underscored the value of fostering trust and familiarity within the community as a cornerstone of change. For example, Pro Afan was commended for its practical, approachable, and non-judgmental support, which has significantly improved how residents access help. Their ability to integrate into the fabric of the community, becoming recognized and trusted faces, has bridged gaps in service delivery where larger organizations sometimes struggle.

Another key point was the importance of maintaining the valley’s trails, such as the bike paths, as they play a vital role in boosting tourism and positively influencing mental health. The attendees recommended a strategy to establish volunteer programs focused on trail upkeep and creating jobs centred on environmental conservation and tourism. This could instil pride in the community and attract visitors, promoting economic growth.

Other suggested actions included enhancing transport options for non-drivers, reducing costs of public transportation, and improving housing accessibility for individuals with disabilities or families on universal credit. Hosting festivals, sports activities, and cultural events was also proposed as a way to enliven the valley and foster a sense of unity and belonging. These initiatives would complement ongoing efforts in adult learning and early intervention programs targeting mental health.

The group painted a clear picture of what they aspire for the Afan Valley—a resilient, thriving community where every resident feels supported, empowered, and proud to call the valley their home. This vision rests on several key pillars:

• Community Engagement: Ensuring visibility of support workers in everyday life, as their presence in local shops and events fosters trust and reduces stigma.
• Youth Empowerment: Addressing the lack of youth programs by creating spaces like snooker halls, sensory libraries, and sports venues tailored to young people’s needs and interests.
• Learning Opportunities: Establishing adult learning hubs and workshops to improve employability, life skills (like cooking), and community involvement.
• Economic Revival: Utilizing the windfarm funds strategically to develop local enterprises, bolster tourism, and maintain vital infrastructure like bike and hiking trails.
• Mental Health and Wellbeing: Leveraging the valley’s natural assets, such as its green spaces, to provide activities and resources that promote mental health.
• Accessibility and Inclusion: Creating transport solutions and housing developments that cater to the needs of all residents, including those with mobility challenges or financial constraints.

While challenges such as competition for funding, social stigma, and aging populations persist, the attendees made it clear that change is possible through collaboration, passion, and commitment. With the blend of dedication and innovative ideas presented during this session, there really seemed to be a renewed sense of optimism for the Afan Valley’s future—a place where residents can thrive, visitors feel welcome, and the community’s rich heritage is celebrated.