Newsletter April 2026
Newsletter April 2026
Welcome to my Newsletter for April 2026
£20 Million Boost for Regeneration in Merthyr Tydfil
Merthyr Tydfil has been awarded £20 million of UK Government funding through the Pride in Place programme, providing long‑term investment in regeneration over the next 10 years.
This is very welcome news for Merthyr Tydfil and a clear sign of confidence from the UK Government in our area. The funding will support regeneration projects shaped by local priorities and determined by local people through the Pride in Place Board.
This investment offers a real opportunity to strengthen our town, support communities, and invest in Merthyr Tydfil’s future.
Talking Online Safety with Young People at Coleg y Cymoedd
I recently visited Coleg y Cymoedd in Aberdare to speak with students about social media, online safety, and what it’s like growing up in a digital world. The discussion was thoughtful and honest, and their insights are important in shaping the national conversation on these issues.
The UK Government is currently running a consultation with versions tailored for young people, parents and carers, and the wider public, all available in one place.
Thank you to Coleg y Cymoedd for the welcome, and to the students who shared their experiences so openly.
You can complete the survey using the link below.
Supporting Young People Through New Youth Hubs
This Labour Government is strengthening support for young people by expanding Youth Hubs in communities across Wales.
New Youth Hubs are being established in Merthyr Tydfil and Rhondda Cynon Taf, bringing together Jobcentre support, skills and training opportunities, careers advice and wellbeing services in one accessible place for young people aged 16–24.
By joining up services locally, these hubs will make it easier for young people to get the support they need to move into work, training or education and to plan their next steps with confidence.
Libraries, Community and Bingo-Time in Treharris
A wonderful Easter recess visit to Treharris alongside Cllr Gareth Richards. We were delighted to see the newly refurbished Treharris Library, which is looking fantastic, congratulations to Jayne Edwards and her team for all their hard work in reopening this important community space.
We also spent time at the Treharris People Together Club, catching up with members, hearing local concerns, and enjoying a very warm welcome, before making a timely exit ahead of the bingo!
Clearer, Fairer Vet Costs for Pet Owners
New rules coming later this year will introduce a £21 cap on vet prescription fees, helping to reduce costs for pet owners.
Veterinary practices will also be required to clearly display their prices for services such as check‑ups, treatments and cremation. For treatments costing over £500, pet owners must be given a written estimate upfront, including details of any follow‑up care.
In addition, practices will need to make clear whether they are independently owned or part of a larger chain.
These changes are intended to give pet owners clearer information and greater transparency, helping people make informed decisions about their pet’s care.
Caradog Primary School Pupils Visit Parliament
It was a real pleasure to welcome pupils from Caradog Primary School to the UK Parliament Education Centre. They asked thoughtful questions and took part enthusiastically in learning about how our democracy works.
It’s always encouraging to see young people so engaged and curious about politics and public life. Schools and colleges interested in arranging a future visit to Parliament are very welcome to get in touch.
Welcoming Local Residents to Westminster
One of the most enjoyable parts of my role is welcoming local residents to the UK Parliament, and over the past month I was very pleased to host Corey Shemwell along with his aunt and uncle.
During their visit, they enjoyed a tour of the Palace of Westminster and had the opportunity to sit in the Gallery for Prime Minister’s Questions, giving them a first-hand look at Parliament in action. It’s always a pleasure to share how Parliament works and to help residents feel connected to what happens on their behalf in Westminster.
Improving Facilities at Aberdare Station
A recent visit to Aberdare station with Councillors Gareth Jones, Sharon Rees and Steve Bradwick provided an opportunity to see the newly installed station toilet, which is expected to be in use very soon.
The addition of a new toilet is an important improvement for accessibility and inclusion, helping ensure the station better meets the needs of all passengers, including older people, disabled passengers, families, and those making longer journeys. Thanks to the Transport for Wales project team for the update and for outlining the rollout and next steps. This is a practical change that will make a real difference for those using the station.
A Day at Parliament for Ysgol y Graig Pupils
It was great to see how much they took from the experience and to hear their impressive questions throughout the visit.
Seeing young people engage so positively with Parliament and public life is always encouraging, and visits like this help bring learning about democracy to life.
Jobs Fair in Aberdare – Friday 15 May
My Jobs Fair will be taking place on Friday 15 May, offering local people the chance to explore new job opportunities and get support with their next steps.
The event will run from 10am to 1pm at Cynon Linc, Seymour Street, Aberdare (CF44 7BD). Employers and support organisations will be on hand to talk through current vacancies, training options and careers advice.
Whether you’re just starting out, returning to work, or thinking about a change in direction, the Jobs Fair is open to everyone and designed to help people move forward with confidence.
Out and About in Merthyr Tydfil & Aberdare and Other Events
- Street Surgery in Penywaun, Aberdare, alongside Councillor Louisa Addiscott
- Good to join Paul Gray, Chair of Merthyr Tydfil Pride in Place Board at Lancaster House as we heard from Darren Jones MP, Chief Secretary to the UK Prime Minister and minister, Miatta for Peckham following the approval of the Outline Plan for the town.
- Pleased to facilitate a meeting between local and regional representatives of Unite the union and Minister for Defence Readiness and Procurement Luke Pollard, to press for reassurances around the future of Ajax at General Dynamics UK in Merthyr Tydfil.
Advice Surgeries
As well as my work in Parliament, my team and I are available to help constituents all year round, with a range of issues, including for example benefit entitlements, HMRC issues, housing, Home Office, and passport issues.
I hold regular advice surgeries across the constituency. These are an opportunity for residents in Merthyr Tydfil & Aberdare to come and chat with me about issues I feel I could offer advice and assistance.
To discuss specific issues, and to book an appointment, please call my team on 01685 383 739 or email Gerald.Jones.MP@parliament.uk.
