Newsletter October 2026

Newsletter October 2026

Welcome to my Newsletter for October 2026

Marshall Land Systems: New Jobs for Pentrebach

Marshall Land Systems have announced plans for a new assembly plant in Pentrebach, providing equipment that helps protect NATO personnel on operations, humanitarian missions and military bases.

The site will initially employ 160 people, rising to 250 jobs within five years — a significant boost for Merthyr Tydfil and a strong addition to the existing defence sector in our area.

This investment has been made possible thanks to support from the UK Government, Merthyr Tydfil CBC and the Welsh Government, working together to bring new opportunities to our community.

Jobs fair at Cynon Linc

Image of Gerald Jones and Vikki Howells with Cllrs Ann Crimmings and Tina Williams.

Image of Gerald Jones MP and Vikki Howells MS with Cllr Sheryl Evans.

I was pleased to host a Jobs Fair at Cynon Linc alongside Vikki Howells MS, with almost 250 people attending throughout the morning. The event brought together a wide range of employers and support organisations, creating a positive atmosphere and offering valuable opportunities for those looking to take the next step in their careers.

Thank you to Jobcentre Plus, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, all participating employers, and Cynon Linc for their support in making the event a success. It was also good to see local councillors Ann Crimmings, Tina Williams and Sheryl Evans in attendance.

We wish everyone who joined us every success in their next steps.

Transforming Support for Victims of Sexual Offences

Image of a statue, the Prime Minister and text.

Labour is introducing major reforms to improve how the justice system supports victims of sexual offences, with specialist rape courts set to be rolled out across the country. These dedicated courts are designed to speed up cases, reduce delays, and ensure victims receive the focused support and protection they deserve.

Find Out More

Disability Confident Event at Merthyr Jobcentre

Image of Gerald Jones MP with some of the staff.

A pleasure to attend the Disability Confident event at Merthyr Jobcentre, where employers, partners and staff came together to support local residents into opportunities that work for them. It was a positive and welcoming event, and a valuable chance to hear directly from those helping people move closer to good, secure employment.

My thanks go to the Jobcentre team for organising such a well‑run event, and to everyone who took part. Supporting people into work is a vital part of strengthening our communities, and the day highlighted just how much can be achieved when organisations work together.

Celebrating Local Craftsmanship at Grey Trees Brewery

Image of Gerald Jones MP with the owner Tracey.

A brilliant visit to Grey Trees Brewery in Aberdare to get a behind‑the‑scenes look at their impressive setup and learn more about the brewing process behind their award‑winning beers. It was a great opportunity to see the skill, dedication and craftsmanship that goes into their work.

My thanks to Tracey for the tour and for sharing the story of the brewery. Local businesses like Grey Trees play an important role in our community, and it was a pleasure to spend time with the team.

New Legal Rights to Support Families Through Bereavement

Suffering a bereavement or the loss of a pregnancy is one of the most painful experiences a family can face. Yet for too long, many people have had to struggle for the time and space they need to grieve.

Labour is introducing new legal rights to ensure families can take the time they need to deal with loss, without having to fight for it. These changes are an important step in giving people the support and dignity they deserve at such a difficult moment.

Find Out More

Opening of the New Wooden Spoon Sensory Room at Caradog Primary School

Image of Gerald Jones MP with Dafydd James, pupils and staff.

The opening of the new Wooden Spoon Sensory Room at Caradog Primary School in Aberdare was a wonderful occasion, officially opened by former Wales and British & Irish Lions player Dafydd James. This fantastic project, supported by the Wooden Spoon charity, provides a dedicated space designed to help children and young people feel calm, comfortable and supported.

It was wonderful to meet the children and staff and to see first‑hand how much this room will mean to those who will use it every day.

New Safeguards to Better Identify Domestic Abuse

Courts will now formally record when an offence involved domestic abuse. For the first time, this will create a clear, official marker that can be shared across the justice system, helping to identify dangerous offenders earlier and strengthen protection for victims.

Find Out More

Crucial Crew Returns to Support Local Pupils

Image of Gerald Jones MP with the pupils.

Great to see Crucial Crew back in action, helping young people across Merthyr Tydfil build the knowledge and confidence they need to stay safe. The programme covered everything from understanding risks and making responsible choices to learning about the vital work of our emergency services and partner organisations.

A huge thank you to everyone involved in delivering such an important initiative. It was fantastic to see pupils so engaged throughout the session, getting involved and enjoying the activities while learning valuable lessons.

Merthyr’s Manufacturing Excellence on Display

Image of Gerald Jones MP, Vikki Howells MS, Stephen Kinnock MP and apprentices.

Proud to join Stephen Kinnock MP, the Secretary of State for Wales, and Vikki Howells MS at General Dynamics UK in Merthyr Tydfil. The visit was a fantastic opportunity to see first‑hand the skills, innovation and manufacturing expertise we have right here in our community, and to meet apprentices, graduates and veterans contributing to the next generation of highly skilled jobs in South Wales.

Merthyr Tydfil has a proud industrial heritage, and visits like this highlight the vital role local people play in supporting advanced manufacturing, creating quality employment opportunities, and contributing to the UK’s defence capability. Our community has the talent, expertise and ambition to help shape the industries of the future.

Official Opening of New Housing Developments

Image of Gerald Jones with Board Chair Ann Batley.

I was pleased to join Merthyr Tydfil Housing Association for the official opening of the new developments in Pant and Cefn Coed. Cutting the ribbon alongside Board Chair Ann Batley was a real honour, and it was fantastic to see the high‑quality homes and meet residents settling into their new community.

A huge well done to everyone involved in delivering these much‑needed developments. Strong partnerships continue to build strong communities across Merthyr Tydfil.

A Wonderful Evening with Treharris Male Voice Choir

Image of Treharris Male Voice Choir singing.

Image of the Treharris Male Voice Choir and Dawn Bowden.

A brilliant evening at the Treharris Male Voice Choir Annual Showcase Concert. Former MS Dawn Bowden was a fantastic compère, and special guest Wynne Evans delivered a standout performance that had the whole room smiling.

With a packed audience and a lovely community atmosphere throughout, it was a superb event. Huge thanks to the choir for the invitation, and well done on an excellent evening.

Opening of Saint Carlo Acutis Catholic School

Image of Gerald Jones MP with the archbishop, head teacher and mayor.

Image of Gerald Jones MP with the Director of Education, Cabinet member for Education and the mayor outside the school.

Delighted to attend the official opening of Saint Carlo Acutis Catholic School and join pupils, staff, governors, clergy and invited guests for this special celebration. Led by Archbishop Mark O’Toole, the day marked an important new chapter for the school community.

It was a pleasure to celebrate alongside Executive Headteacher Mrs Hopkins, Mayor Cllr David Isaac, Cllr Gareth Lewis, Cabinet Member for Education, and Ryan Morgan, Director of Education, recognising the collective effort that has brought this vision to life.

Thank you to the school for the invitation and the warm welcome.

Marking 60 Years Since the Aberfan Disaster

Image of Gerald Jones MP and other MPs at PMQs.

This month, we mark 60 years since the Aberfan disaster — a tragedy that changed our community forever. On 21 October 1966, 144 children and adults lost their lives, and Aberfan showed a strength, dignity and resilience that has inspired generations.

As we approach this deeply poignant anniversary, we remember those who were taken far too soon, and we honour the families, survivors and community whose courage continues to shape the legacy of Aberfan today. Across October, commemorations and moments of reflection remind us of the importance of holding their memory close.

💛 We remember them.

Watch

Community Funding Day – Supporting Local Projects

Vikki Howells MS and I are hosting our annual Community Funding Day for Merthyr Tydfil and Aberdare, bringing together organisations that can help local groups access funding for their projects. If you’re part of a community group looking for support, this is a great opportunity to explore funding options, meet local partners and get expert advice.

🗓️ Friday, 23 October 2026 ⏰ 11am – 1pm 📍 Merthyr Town FC

Everyone is welcome to come along and find out more about the funding available to help strengthen community projects across our area.

Book Your Space

Out and About in Merthyr Tydfil & Aberdare and Other Events

Image of Gerald Jones MP at various locations.

Street Surgery in Trecynon, Aberdare
Advice Surgery held at Oasis House, Penywaun, Aberdare
Visit to Gwaunfarren Primary School, Merthyr Tydfil
Meet your MP Coffee Morning held at St Elvan’s Church, 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.

October, November and December Advice Surgeries