Newsletter August 2026
Newsletter August 2026
Welcome to my Newsletter for August 2026
Support With Energy Bills
There is welcome news for households across Merthyr Tydfil and Aberdare, with the UK Government announcing that VAT will be removed from domestic electricity bills from 1 October.
The change is expected to save households around £45 a year on their electricity costs, building on the support already provided through measures announced in the last Budget, which reduced energy bills by an average of £150.
As energy costs continue to place pressure on family budgets, particularly ahead of the winter months, this additional support will help put more money back into people’s pockets and provide some extra peace of mind.
Afternoon Tea Fundraiser Raises £336 for Cancer Charities
Vikki Howells MS and I were delighted to host an Afternoon Tea Fundraiser recently, bringing together members of the community in support of two incredible charities: Cancer Aid Merthyr Tydfil and Breast Cancer Now.
Thanks to the generosity of everyone who attended, supported the event, and donated, we raised an amazing £336. Every penny raised will help these organisations continue their vital work supporting individuals and families affected by cancer.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to our generous sponsors, Greggs, Tesco, and Lidl GB, whose donations helped make the event possible. We are also extremely grateful to High Street Baptist Church, Merthyr Tydfil, for hosting us and helping to ensure the afternoon was such a success.
Tackling Everyday Costs for Working People
Too many people find themselves caught out by misleading discounts and subscription services that are easy to sign up to but frustratingly difficult to cancel.
That is why the Labour government is taking action to tackle these everyday rip-offs. New measures will crack down on fake discounts that mislead shoppers about the true value of deals, while also making it easier for consumers to cancel unwanted subscriptions and avoid unnecessary costs.
These changes are designed to put more money back into people’s pockets, strengthen consumer rights, and ensure businesses treat customers fairly. By addressing practices that have cost families money for far too long, the Government is helping to make everyday life a little easier and more affordable for households across Wales and the rest of the UK.
Food and Fun Visits at Penywaun and Goetre Primary Schools
The Parliamentary summer recess provides a valuable opportunity to spend more time in our communities, visiting local schools, groups and organisations and seeing first-hand the fantastic work taking place across Merthyr Tydfil and Aberdare.
I was delighted to visit both Penywaun Primary School and Goetre Primary School as part of the Food and Fun Programme, which supports children and families throughout the summer holidays. With 16 schools taking part across 13 sites in Merthyr Tydfil alone, the programme is making a real difference to young people across our area.
It was wonderful to see children enjoying the wide range of activities on offer and benefiting from a fun, safe and supportive environment during the school holidays. Programmes such as Food and Fun provide invaluable support for families while helping children stay active, engaged and connected throughout the summer.
Merthyr Tydfil Youth Hub Visit
Great to visit the new Youth Hub at Merthyr Careers Centre, where Careers Wales and other partner organisations are working together to provide a wide range of support for young people across the county borough.
The Hub brings together careers advice, training opportunities, skills development and employment support in one place, making it easier for young people to access the guidance and support they need as they take their next steps.
It was encouraging to hear about the positive impact this collaborative approach is already having. By bringing key services together under one roof, the Youth Hub is helping young people build confidence, develop skills and explore new opportunities for their future.
Growing Community Support in Penywaun
A recent visit to Oasis House Penywaun and Oasis Pantry provided an opportunity to see the progress being made on the new extension and learn more about the organisation’s ongoing work.
Through its Pantry and furniture recycling projects, Oasis continues to provide valuable support to local people while helping to strengthen community connections. The expansion is an exciting development that will help the organisation continue making a positive difference in the years ahead.
Where Community Comes Together
A recent visit to the Bedlinog and Trelewis Community Council Hub provided a valuable opportunity to speak with local residents, hear about the issues that matter most to them, and learn more about community life in the area.
The Hub plays an important role in bringing people together, helping residents stay connected and fostering a strong sense of community. It was encouraging to see such a well-attended and welcoming gathering, highlighting the importance of local spaces where people can meet, socialise and access support. See you all again soon!
A recent visit to Maesnewydd Garden Centre and Coffee Shop provided an opportunity to see first-hand the fantastic work being carried out by the Learning Curve team.
The service offers a supportive and inclusive environment for adults with learning and physical disabilities, helping individuals develop new skills, build confidence and achieve their potential. It was great to see the positive impact the centre is having and the important role it plays in supporting people across our community.
Most of all, it was wonderful to see so much enthusiasm, positivity and pride on display. Facilities like Maesnewydd make a real difference to people’s lives and are a great example of the strength and spirit of our local community.
Listening to the Leaders of Tomorrow
A recent visit to the Dowlais Youth Forum held at Dowlais Community Centre and run by The Stephens & George Charitable Trust, provided an opportunity to discuss my role as an MP and hear directly from local young people about the issues that matter most to them.
The discussion was engaging and thoughtful, with young people asking insightful questions and sharing their views with confidence and enthusiasm. It was encouraging to see such a strong interest in their community and a genuine desire to make a positive difference.
The Dowlais Youth Forum provides an important space for young people to have their voices heard, develop their confidence and play an active role in shaping the future of their community.
A Community Hub at the Heart of Ty Mynydd
A recent visit to the Ty Mynydd Tenants & Residents Association highlighted the important role the Community Centre plays at the heart of the local community.
Often described as a “centre for everything”, the facility provides a welcoming space for residents of all ages, offering a wide range of activities, advice and support. It was great to learn more about the work taking place and the positive impact it continues to have on local people.
The centre is a fantastic example of community spirit in action and remains a valuable asset for residents across the area.
Making a Splash in the Community
It was a pleasure to join members of Aberfan Aqua Young at Heart Swimming Club at Morlais Castle Golf Club and present their £18,944 National Lottery Community Fund grant.
The club provides far more than swimming sessions, offering older adults opportunities to stay active, build confidence and maintain important social connections. Through a range of activities, the group plays a valuable role in tackling loneliness and promoting wellbeing.
This funding will help support the club’s ongoing work, ensuring it can continue making a positive difference to the lives of its members and the wider community for years to come.
Cuppa With a Copper Surgeries
Recent Cuppa with a Copper sessions in Treharris and Penywaun brought together residents, local councillors and neighbourhood policing teams in a relaxed and welcoming setting.
The sessions provided an opportunity to discuss local issues, raise concerns and share updates on matters affecting the community. They also helped strengthen links between residents and the services that support them.
Great to see so many people taking the time to come along, get involved and contribute to positive conversations about their local area.
Advice and Cuppa with a Copper Surgeries
As well as my work in Parliament, my team and I are available to assist constituents throughout the year with a wide range of issues, including benefit entitlements, HMRC matters, housing concerns, Home Office cases and passport applications.
I also hold regular advice surgeries across the Merthyr Tydfil and Aberdare constituency. These provide an opportunity for residents to discuss issues where I may be able to offer advice, support or assistance.
To discuss a specific issue or book an appointment, please contact my office on 01685 383 739 or email Gerald.Jones.MP@parliament.uk.
Details of upcoming advice surgeries are regularly shared on my website and social media channels, so please keep an eye out for dates and locations near you.
