Newsletter February 2026
Newsletter February 2026
Welcome to my Newsletter for February 2026
Palliative Care Services at Ysbyty Cwm Cynon
I have opposed the proposal to remove specialist palliative care beds from Ysbyty Cwm Cynon and have submitted a full response to the consultation outlining local concerns about the impact this change would have on patients and families.
The consultation by Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board is still open, and residents are encouraged to share their views.
Update on Fuel Prices in Merthyr Tydfil
Over the past few months, more than 200 residents have contacted my office about concerns over fuel prices in Merthyr Tydfil. Thank you to everyone who took the time to get in touch, your voices have been essential in pushing this issue forward.
After raising these concerns directly with senior ASDA executives, they carried out a review of their pricing calculations for the Merthyr Tydfil store. ASDA confirmed that there had been an anomaly in local fuel pricing and agreed to reduce prices at the Merthyr site as a result.
I will continue to monitor fuel prices across all local suppliers. If similar adjustments are not made elsewhere, there will be further work to do, and I will keep the community updated.
Leasehold Reform: Key Changes for Homeowners
A major update to leaseholder rights in England and Wales has been announced, aiming to make the system fairer and more transparent.
Key changes include:
- Ground rents capped at £250 a year, reducing costs for many households.
- A ban on new leasehold flats, shifting future developments toward alternative ownership models.
- A new right for existing leaseholders to move to commonhold, giving residents greater control.
- Clearer, more transparent service charges to help homeowners understand and challenge costs.
These reforms are designed to address long‑standing concerns around affordability and control within the leasehold system.
Holocaust Memorial Assembly at St John Baptist CIW High School
I was honoured to attend the Holocaust Memorial Assembly at St John Baptist CIW High School, joined by the Mayor of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, Cllr Sheryl Evans, and Aberaman Councillor Tina Williams, alongside staff and pupils.
The assembly served as a powerful reminder of the six million Jewish lives lost during the Holocaust and the enduring importance of remembering and learning from these atrocities.
Pupils shared thoughtful reflections from their recent study tours to Krakow and Auschwitz, helping to keep survivor testimonies alive and ensuring that future generations continue to understand the lessons of history.
Strengthening Online Safety for Children
Bank Closures in Merthyr Tydfil and Aberdare
The announcement that Santander is closing its Merthyr Tydfil branch is deeply disappointing for residents who rely on face‑to‑face services. These changes affect families, older people, and local businesses, and I have written to Santander to raise concerns about the support they will offer customers.
We have since been notified that Lloyds Bank in Aberdare will also close, which is another setback for the town centre and reduces access to reliable local banking.
Despite these closures, several banks and building societies continue to operate in both towns, and I encourage residents to support the providers that remain committed to our communities.
Improving Vet Services for Local Pet Owners
Labour is reforming vet services to help pet owners with the cost of living. The changes include clearer pricing, new licensing requirements, a fairer complaints process, and better access to quality care.
These improvements will be welcomed by families and individuals across Merthyr Tydfil and Aberdare who have raised concerns about rising costs and access to services.
Engaging Visits to Local Primary Schools
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Caradog Primary, Abernant Primary, and St Margaret’s Catholic Primary School following their UK Parliament Education and Engagement sessions. Across all three schools, pupils were enthusiastic, curious, and full of thoughtful questions about how Parliament works, how decisions are made, and how their voices can shape their communities.
A big well done to all the pupils, and thank you to the staff and children at each school for the warm welcome.
Support from Citizens Advice Merthyr Tydfil
Citizens Advice Merthyr Tydfil delivered outstanding support for local people in 2025/26, securing £13.5 million for clients and helping to write off £3.6 million in debts. Their work makes a real difference to individuals and families across our communities.
If you or someone you know needs advice or support, please do get in touch with them.
Visit to Signposted Cymru’s New Base
An enjoyable to visit Signposted Cymru to see their new base in action. It was great to hear more about the vital work they do to support people across our communities, providing practical help and early‑intervention mental health support where it’s most needed.
It was also good to meet with Cold Clad, who are working closely with the team and offering both hands‑on assistance and much‑needed funding to help keep these services running.
It’s always encouraging to see organisations and local businesses coming together to drive positive change for local people.
Changing the Game at Cyfarthfa Park Primary!
Cyfarthfa Park Primary School recently hosted Money Ready UK’s Change the Game session, giving pupils a fun and engaging way to build positive money habits and grow their confidence. The children were clearly enjoying the activities and fully taking part throughout the session.
A warm thank you goes to the staff and to Liam O’Sullivan for their welcome and for highlighting such an impactful programme.
Evening with Aberdare Camera Club
It was a lovely evening spent with the Aberdare Camera Club, chatting with members and seeing some truly fantastic work. The talent on display was impressive, and it was great to hear the enthusiasm and passion for photography within the local community.
A big thank you to Huw and all the members for such a warm welcome. I’m looking forward to visiting again soon.
Out and About in Merthyr Tydfil & Aberdare and Other Events
- Street Surgery in Llwydcoed, Aberdare
- National Apprenticeship Week 2026 in Parliament
- Afon Taf High School 3G pitch alongside Wales Office Minister Anna McMorrin MP
- Aberdare Community School production of Matilda
- Street Surgery in Georgetown, Merthyr Tydfil
- Signing of the Holocaust Educational Trust (UK’s) Book of Commitment in UK Parliament
- Voted to remove the Two Child-Cap and lift 2,509 thousand children out of poverty across Merthyr Tydfil & Aberdare
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.
