Work of Welshpool Community Haven rewarded at Powys Business Awards

Powys Business Awards has rewarded the excellent work of a community-led charity dedicated to reducing isolation, improving wellbeing and creating practical support pathways for people.

Welshpool Community Haven received the Social Enterprise/Charity Award, sponsored by WPG, at the annual awards ceremony held at The Infantry Battle School, Dering Lines, Brecon on Friday night. The awards are organised by Mid Wales Manufacturing Group (MWMG).

The Haven provides services including Meals on Wheels, community groups for older people and adults with disabilities, carer support, activities for children with disabilities and young carers, volunteering opportunities and a Pathway Referral Service.

The charity’s mission is to create a welcoming, accessible hub where people can find support, connection, purpose and practical solutions by bringing together health, social care, voluntary organisations and community groups.

“It’s amazing to see all of the hard work recognised with this award,” said Laura Hares, who founded Welshpool Community Haven in 2022. “But we don't do it for moments like this, it is for moments like our Friday group who make us feel part of one family.

“It’s been really, really hard work to get to this point, but we feel like we are getting somewhere now with our community behind us which is amazing and we are making huge strides, so you can expect to hear a lot more from us soon!”

A key milestone for the Haven was securing the lease of the Ann Holloway Centre, enabling collaborative delivery with partners including CREDU, MIND, Powys Teaching Health Board and PAVO.

The PAVO funded Pathway Referral Project supports early intervention for individuals experiencing newly diagnosed health conditions or caring responsibilities. Vulnerable and isolated individuals of all ages are supported.

Volunteers are central to providing services, building community support networks and meeting local needs. The Haven helps people to become independent and resilient by building confidence, developing skills, social engagement and personalised support.

With nine staff, the charity operates as PAVO's local Volunteer Hub representative and its diversified funding model includes grants, commissioned work, fundraising and social enterprise.

Future plans include building upon the Pathway Referral Project, increasing volunteer opportunities and strengthening collaboration across Powys.

The judges were impressed with the Haven’s determination to "get things done" and to make a meaningful difference to individuals and the community.

“The innovative approaches and facilities within Welshpool Community Haven show a forward-thinking approach and vision of how facilities, classes and events can be further improved and enhanced,” they added.

“The drive does not stop here - there is a real appetite for growth, efficiency and expansion moving forward and based on what we saw, there is no doubt that it will be achieved.”

Runners-up were Be More Frank, Brilley, near Hay-on-Wye, and Arts Connection, Llanfyllin.

PICTURE: Laura Hares (front) and colleagues Caroline Marsh and Hayley Pugh (right) from Welshpool Community Haven receive the Social Enterprise/Charity Award from WPG joint managing director, Paul Jones.