Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod

The Eisteddfod returns to Llangollen for its 77th year, from 2-7 July and features concerts with Tom Jones on 2 July, followed during the week with Welsh folk superstars Calan, Royal Harpist Alis Huws, Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalists John’s Boys Chorus, West End stars Kerry Ellis and John-Owen Jones, the return of GRAMMY award winning Gregory Porter and a Gala Concert with mezzo-soprano Katherine Jenkins.

If you need any information about what’s on during the week, ticket information etc., please visit their website

General Election: 4 July

Residents will take to the polls to vote in the General Election 2024 on Thursday, 4 July.

The polls will be open from 7am on polling day, and residents will be able to cast their vote up until 10pm.

For Denbighshire, this General Election will be held on 4 new constituency boundaries. These are Bangor Aberconwy, Clwyd East, Clwyd North and Dwyfor Meirionydd. These replace the previous constituencies of Clwyd South, Clwyd West and Vale of Clwyd.

Denbighshire residents can find their polling station here, this is where they can go to cast their vote.

This is the first General Election where residents are required to bring along their voter ID. There a number of ID’s that will be accepted including a Driving licence or a Passport, the full information on voter ID can be found here.

Once votes have been cast, the ballot boxes in all constituencies are transported to a count centre, which is a large space where counting can begin. This process goes on through the night, with final results usually coming in by late morning the following day. The Clwyd North count will be held at Denbigh Leisure Centre.

Steve Price, Democratic Services Manager said:

“We would like to remind all Denbighshire residents that they will need to bring suitable photo ID along to be able to cast their vote in a polling station, there a number of forms of ID that will be included, such as a passport or driver's license.”

Councillor Alan James to take up role of Cabinet Member for Local Development and Planning

Following the sad passing of Councillor Win Mullen-James in May, her loving husband has now gracefully offered to step forward to continue her duties as Denbighshire County Council’s Lead Member for Local Development and Planning.

After a 30-year career as a Social Worker, specialising in Mental Health and Childcare, Councillor Alan James was elected to Rhyl Town Council in 2012.

In October of 2016, Councillor James was elected to County Council at a bi -election. Councillor James also served as Mayor of Rhyl for the 2017/18 term as Mayor of Rhyl.

Councillor James served as chair of Denbighshire County Council for the 2020/21 term.

Councillor James currently sits as vice chair of planning and is also on various committees.

Councillor Jason McLellan, Leader of the Council and Lead Member for Economic Growth & Tackling Deprivation said:

“Councillor Alan James is an experienced and respected councillor and has a wealth of knowledge on planning issues.

He is hard working and I, and the rest of Cabinet, are looking forward to working with him.”

A - Z of Recycling

What do I do with ..?

We throw away all sorts of items from our homes every day.

There are lots of things that are thrown in the bin that can actually be recycled, such as clothes and electrical items. So before you bin it, have a look through this handy A to Z guide to help you recycle as much as you can and to dispose of your waste safely. 

How to recycle

Pupils Lois and Gruff of Ysgol Pen Barras in Ruthin, explain how to recycle.

The Summer Reading Challenge 2024

July is an exciting and busy month in our Libraries with the launch of the Reading Challenge Nationally in England and Wales on 6 July in partnership with The Reading Agency. 

This year the theme is Marvellous Makers which encourages children to get involved and have fun. There is an opportunity for children to be themselves, use their imagination and be creative, discovering fantastic, inventive and eye-catching books. They will read books and collect incentives over the summer holidays and take part in free arts and crafts activities.

The Summer Reading Challenge aims to prevent the "summer dip" learning loss many children experience over the holidays when they aren't in school. With libraries' support, it provides a free, fun way to keep young minds active. In 2023, over 685,000 children across the UK participated.

We are extremely proud to host a national event to launch the Reading Challenge in Denbigh Library on July 10 with children from Ysgol Twm o'r Nant joining the author Leisa Mererid. The author will present her book Y Wariar Bach and the children will join in yoga and breathing exercises to follow. The session is organised in partnership with the Books Council of Wales.

Read 6 library books over 4 visits during the summer holidays and collect rewards – and it’s all free! Come and join us! 

There is further information on the Summer Reading Challenge website.

Local History Book Launch

A successful event was held recently at St Asaph Library to launch a book by the local author Rhona Phoenix.

The event was very well attended with the author speaking about the fascinating history of life in the St Asaph Union Workhouse. Guest speaker John Michael Corfe gave a talk about the history of H.M. Stanley during the evening.

Meet the Author

Popular author Rebecca Roberts was welcomed to Denbigh Library for the Denbigh Midsummer Festival, the event was sponsored by Denbigh Rotary Club.

Rebecca is a successful author who has published a number of books in Welsh and English for adults and young people, having won the Tir na n-og and Book of the Year awards.  She talked about her career and her work as a writer. Thanks to the members of Popeth Gymraeg and Menter Iaith Sir Ddinbych for supporting the event. They participated in lively conversation to follow over a cup of tea with an opportunity to practice their language skills with the author and Library staff.

What's on in Denbighshire

The Tourism Department have just launched their Festival and Events promotional campaign for this year.

With so many exciting events planned we wanted to highlight these collectively to ensure visitors and residents are aware of what’s happening in Denbighshire.

Are you missing out on Pension Credit?

Advice from our Digital Officer

Are you suffering from stuttering video conferences and slow internet while at home?  Our Digital Officer is available to offer free impartial advice on your home internet connection, possible upgrade solutions and home Wi-Fi problems. Contact Philip Burrows - philip.burrows@denbighshire.gov.uk

Barod Roadshow

Our Barod Roadshow took place throughout May as part of mental health awareness month.

We travelled around Denbighshire in the hope of engaging with residents and to bring awareness to what Working Denbighshire do.

We started our Roadshow in Plas Meddyg GP in Ruthin and worked our way, week by week, visiting health centres, shopping centres and libraries. Some of these included Llangollen Health Centre, Prestatyn Library, Rhyl White Rose Centre, and Morrisons in Denbigh.

Our aim was to reach as many Denbighshire residents as possible that may not have access to public transport or that had not heard of our services. We wanted to visit them in an area closer to them.

We had many residents sign up to our services to see how we could assist them in their employment journey.

Barod Events in July

8 July: 6th Form What’s Next / Careers Day - Ysgol Brynhyfryd

10 July: 6th Form Careers Fair and/or mock interviews - Prestatyn High School

15 July: Rhyl Job centre – Free employment support drop in session

17 July: Coed Pella - Case study Master Class

Men and Women’s Peer support groups, ‘Men’s Minds Matter’ and ‘She Connects’

Weekly wellbeing drop in’s @Denbigh and Rhyl

Barod hosts weekly drop-in sessions for anyone who needs wellbeing support. For a range of support and a comfortable environment to support your journey. Whether you need wellbeing advice or to learn coping strategies join the drop-in session this Thursday! 

Continuation of Weekly Walk and Talks in July

If you live in Denbighshire and are struggling with your wellbeing, come and talk to our Barod team whilst enjoying a relaxing walk. Whether you need advice or ongoing support, our friendly team are here to help.

Monday, 1 July at 1pm – Rhyl Kite Surf Cafe
Monday, 8 July at 1pm – Denbigh Library
Monday, 15 July at 1pm – Prestatyn Nova Centre
Monday, 22 July at 1pm– Ruthin Park

Cooking on a budget

Come and Cook Join our "Come and Cook" session for a fun and interactive cooking experience! Whether you're a beginner or a budding chef, this hands-on workshop will teach you how to prepare delicious and healthy meals on a budget. Connect with others, learn new skills, and a delicious meal in a friendly and supportive environment.

All skill levels are welcome!

Date: Wednesday, 17 July

Location: Prestatyn Youth Centre

Time: 10am-12pm

Age: 18+

To book email barod@denbighshire.gov.uk or call 07824300769

Building Resilience Future Workshop

Build resilience and thrive in the face of challenges. Through interactive activities, discussions, and practical exercises, you'll learn essential skills to manage stress, adapt to change, and bounce back stronger from setbacks. Connect with peers, gain valuable insights, and leave equipped with the tools to navigate life's ups and downs with confidence.

Date: Tuesday, 16 July

Location: Rhyl Youth Centre

Time: 1pm – 3pm

Age: 16-24 year olds

To book email barod@denbighshire.gov.uk or call 07824300769

Introduction to CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) Workshop

The session explores the fundamentals of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. This engaging workshop will provide you with practical techniques to manage stress, challenge negative thought patterns, and improve your mental well-being. You will gain valuable insights and tools to apply in your daily life. Perfect for anyone looking to enhance their mental health and resilience.

Date:  Tuesday, 9 July

Location: Rhyl Library

Time: 1pm – 3pm

Age: 18+

To book email barod@denbighshire.gov.uk or call 07824300769

Summer programme for school leavers transitioning to college 

Two sessions weekly, one in Rhyl and one in Ruthin across the summer holidays. Support for school leavers who are attending college in September – support with confidence building, skill building, funding support for resources and transport training.

For more information visit; https://www.denjobs.org/calendar-2/

Training Opportunities

If you are living in Denbighshire and are looking for either a change in career OR progress in your current job, take advantage of our free training schemes! Whether you want to work in Construction, Care, Hair and Beauty, train to be a Barista or anything else we can support you from the start. Sign up now to let us help you find a suitable course and cover the cost by visiting – https://forms.office.com/e/VK2Ub5Vnmu or visit Eventbrite to book onto current courses:

Food Hygiene

Emergency First aid at Work

Date: Thursday 25^th - July

Time: 9.30 – 4.30

Location: Rhyl Youth Centre

To book visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/cymorth-cyntaf-brys-yn-y-gweithle-emergency-first-aid-at-work-tickets-927811929457?aff=ebdsoporgprofile&keep_tld=1

OR

Date: Friday 26^th - July

Time: 9.30 – 4.30

Location: Rhyl Youth Centre

To book visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/cymorth-cyntaf-brys-yn-y-gweithle-emergency-first-aid-at-work-tickets-927823664557?aff=ebdsoporgprofile&keep_tld=1

CSCS – Construction

Date: 9 August

Time: 8.30 -4.30

Location: WOW Training in Rhyl

To book visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/cwrs-cscs-cscs-course-tickets-927842430687?aff=ebdsoporgprofile&keep_tld=1

OR

Date: 19 July

Time: 8:00 – 4.30

Location: Shorecliffe Training, Denbigh

To book visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/cwrs-cscs-cscs-course-tickets-927829592287?aff=ebdsoporgprofile&keep_tld=1

All Wales Induction framework for Health and Social Care

Date: 29 / 30 / 31 July

Time: 9 - 4

Location: Rhyl Youth Centre

To book visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/fframwaith-sefydlu-cymru-gyfan-wales-induction-framework-tickets-925759871697?aff=ebdsoporgprofile&keep_tld=1

All Wales passport moving and manual handling training

Date: 24^th and 25^th July (2 days)

Time: 9.30 – 4.30

Location: Ethical Workforce Solutions, 40 Station Road, Colwyn Bay LL29 8BU

To book visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/all-wales-passport-moving-handling-tickets-927843834887?aff=oddtdtcreator

Essential digital skills course

Location: Rhyl Library

Date & Time: See below

• Session 1: Wednesday 31^st July 10.30-12.30pm
• Session 2: Wednesday 7^th August 10.30-12.30pm
• Session 3: Wednesday 14^th August 10.30-12.30pm
• Session 4: Wednesday 21^st August 10.30-12.30pm

To book on please visit:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/hyfforddiant-sgiliau-digidol-hanfodol-essential-digital-skills-tickets-927803584497?aff=oddtdtcreator&_gl=1%2Amche31%2A_up%2AMQ..%2A_ga%2ANTM5MTk3NjYzLjE3MTg5NjUwMzM.%2A_ga_TQVES5V6SH%2AMTcxODk2NTAzMi4xLjEuMTcxODk2NTA5OC4wLjAuMA

Session 1 – Introduction & Foundation skills

We welcome you to the course and introduce the Essential Digital Skills Framework. In this session, we start with the foundation skills:

• Getting to know your device
• Connecting to the internet
• Using apps

Session 2 – Communication & Handling Information and Content

We will give you the skills to be able to communicate using various apps and platforms such as WhatsApp, Zoom, Messenger and Skype. We’ll show how to create an email account using Google, you will also look at the additional Google apps you will be able to access such as Google Drive and Google Docs. We will explore different internet browsing options and accessing information online using different websites and apps for entertainment and information.

Session 3 – Transacting & Problem-solving

This session explains how to use the internet safely when shopping or managing your money online. You will explore how to download apps and use websites to help you save money online. In addition, you will also be shown how to solve problems using the Internet by exploring different guides, websites and online videos available to problem solve day-to-day activities.

Session 4 – Staying Safe and Legal Online

In this session, you will learn the skills required to stay safe, legal and confident online. You will learn how to protect personal information, create a strong password, how to check a website is secure and password management. In addition, you will cover how to recognise fake websites, scam/suspicious emails and messages. The session will also cover how to set privacy settings on social media and other accounts.

Recruitment and Skills Workshops

As the libraries have changed their timetables, Working Denbighshire have amended some of the times for the ‘Recruitment and Skills Workshop’.

Our Tuesday afternoon workshop in Rhyl has been so busy that we have added on an additional session to support more people. This additional session is held on a Thursday morning 10am-12pm.

Working Denbighshire have put together some topics we can support in the workshops but have also identified what might be better in a 1-2-1 meeting with one of the caseworkers. This is so that everyone gets the best support possible and if more in depth support is required, a 1-2-1 would be more beneficial to the participant.

Our caseworkers can meet participants on a 1-2-1 basis throughout the county a meeting is required, please just contact them through their email address. wdcaseworkers@denbighshire.gov.uk

Young carer secures full-time employment after successful work placement

Mali a dedicated young carer, has transitioned into full-time employment following a rewarding Working Denbighshire Work Start placement. Mali’s journey began with a “Taster to Care” training course and work experience, leading her to secure a 12-week placement at Dolwen Care Home.

Supported by her Work Start Placement Mentor, Mali completed the application process for a permanent 24-hour contract at Dolwen, she accepted the job on her 18^th birthday. Mali’s exceptional performance during the placement earned her a permanent position, marking a significant step towards a prosperous career.

The collaborative efforts by Working Denbighshire and the NHS have enabled Mali to acquire invaluable experience in her desired sector with the Work Start scheme remaining dedicated to delivering high quality work placements that yield positive outcomes for all participants.

Reflecting on her experience, Mali said:

“In completing the Work Start Schemes, I have gained experience in care that will be beneficial for me to grow in my career and continue to learn. With out the Work Start Scheme I would not have had the opportunities I have been fortunate enough to have, such as the training I have completed. The Work Start Scheme has been an incredible help in starting my journey in care, and because of this I could not recommend more highly that young people use these programmes”.

Alison Hay, Commissioning Officer said:

“Mali’s story provides a great example of the positives of being a young adult carer, Our Work Start Scheme has set Mali off on her chosen career path and provided support for her to thrive and succeed. Young Carers, like Mali develop a huge range of transferable skills from their caring role and can make excellent employees!” 

Racheal Sumner-Lewis, Employer & Training Relationships Manager, Working Denbighshire said:

"We are delighted to witness Mali’s success, which highlights the effectiveness of our Work Start Scheme. By offering tailored support and matching participants with suitable opportunities, we are able to facilitate valuable experiences that pave the way to long-term employment. Mali’s journey from placement to full-time employment exemplifies the potential of our joined-up approach to workforce development."

Brunching with Barod

Working Denbighshire were excited to host their very first ‘Brunching with Barod’ event, which was held on 5 June at Rhyl Youth Centre.

At the event, the Barod team showcased the ways that they can support residents through short fun activities, followed by a discussion over brunch about the ways they can work together to support more Denbighshire residents.

Project Barod works with individuals to build confidence and break down the barriers to find employment or access training. There was a great opportunity for businesses to network with each other throughout the event. Their guest list comprised of service providers such as Welsh Government, KimInspire, Co-options and North Wales Women's Centre Ltd as well as many more.

Unlocking the potential of neurodiverse talent: A Breakfast Event for Employers

Working Denbighshire held a free event in June in collaboration with Conwy Employment Hub, for Denbighshire businesses to learn more about the advantages of employees who are neurodivergent.

In a world where 1 in 7 people identify as neurodivergent, it is essential for businesses to foster inclusive and supportive environments for all individuals. Understanding and managing neurodiverse employees can pose challenges for employers, but it also offers substantial opportunities.

To address this, Working Denbighshire, in collaboration with Conwy Employment Hub hosted a breakfast event aimed at challenging preconceptions and highlighting the business advantages of neurodiversity.

The event celebrated the unique strengths and skills of neurodivergent individuals and provided valuable insights for employers on how to support and maximize the potential of their neurodiverse workforce.

Employers learnt about the range of neurodivergent types, to educate them about how to provide relevant support to their own employees, allowing them to perform well in their job role.

Working Denbighshire, alongside guest speakers from the NHS also shared information about impactful reasonable adjustment options, and employers shared their experience of this.

Rachel Sumner-Lewis, Employer & Training Relationships Manager, Working Denbighshire said:

“Businesses and organisations that attended this event, gained a comprehensive understanding of neurodiversity, learnt about the benefits and skills associated with various neurodivergent types, and received practical advice on making reasonable adjustments to help future and current colleagues thrive”.

Online Information Sessions

Meet a member of our team and one of our lovely foster carers at our online evening information sessions.

These will be held on the 1st Monday of every month, to book all you need to do is email us at fosterwales@denbighshire.gov.uk.

Tramper all-terrain mobility scooter

For more information, please contact: charlotte.wheeler@denbighsire.gov.uk or loggerheads.countrypark@denbighshire.gov.uk 

Countryside Services Volunteer Newsletter

Little Terns

2024 marks the 20th year that Denbighshire Countryside Services has managed the Gronant little tern colony. The site is the largest breeding colony found in Wales and is extremely significant internationally as it contributes to over 10 percent of the entire UK breeding population. Setting up the colony takes great effort as we operate a no trace policy meaning that all the fencing and infrastructure set up in April is removed at the end of the season. Throughout the season there are many volunteer opportunities and please get in touch should you wish to get involved.

Contact Jim Kilpatrick, Senior Ranger for more information at jim.kilpatrick@denbighshire.gov.uk.

Upcycling for biodiversity in Bodelwyddan

In March volunteers dug some mini ponds at Bodelwyddan. By repurposing discarded tractor tyres, they created strong structures to hold water, providing an important resource to enhance biodiversity.

The ponds should soon be home to invertebrates, amphibians and plant life that were previously sparse on the site. Please note, Bodelwyddan is currently a closed site with no public access.

Climate Change Project Update

As the tree planting season draws to a close, we would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has volunteered their time to help us with this project. We could not have planted the thousands of trees we have without help from our dedicated team of volunteers, local organisations, and hard-working school children. Thank you.

Moving forward, we will be spending the next few weeks finishing any left-over planting and odd jobs on the new sites. Look out for sessions with Matt if you want to be involved.

Bruton Great Crested Newt Ponds

A new pond has been created at Bruton park community woodland. The pond was funded through the Nature For health project, work included excavation, bentonite clay lining and fencing for protection from dogs.

Volunteers have then been and planted native marginal reeds, rushes and flowers that help the newts in the important task of egg laying. These habitats are also very important to the invertebrate population as well as a range of amphibians.

Coastal Update

Volunteers have been transplanting marram grass at Rhyl Harbour. This involves taking small amounts of marram grass from established patches and transferring them to bare patches, which will improve the marram grass coverage and stabilise the dune system over time. Volunteers also carried out chestnut paling repairs at Rhyl Harbour, on an area used for nesting by ringed plover. Little terns have previously been seen scouting out this area for potential nesting suitability!

Furthermore, volunteers carried out a beach clean at Splash Point, and have been helping with scrub clearance at BarkbyDunes. 

Grant now open to help with school costs

The Council is urging eligible parents and guardians not to miss out on the Welsh Government School Essentials Grant which could be worth up to £200. The grant is now open for applications for the 2024-2025 school year.

The School Essentials Grant can help with costs of school uniform including footwear, sports kit and equipment for after school activities, school activities like learning a musical instrument or classroom essentials, including pens, pencils, and bags as well as laptops and computers. The grant can also go towards the cost of uniforms for wider activities like scouts and guides and equipment for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

Children of families on lower incomes who receive a qualifying benefit, can claim £125 per year to help with school costs. This includes all learners in reception or year 1 to 11 (except year 7). Because of the extra cost families might face when their children start secondary school, £200 is available for eligible pupils going into year 7.

Geraint Davies, Head of Education, Denbighshire County Council said, “The School Essentials Grant, helps to reduce the financial burden placed on families when buying school uniform and equipment, enabling children to attend school and take part in activities at the same level as their peers.

Even if your child already receives Universal Primary Free School Meals, you still need to apply for the School Essentials Grant. It also means your school will receive extra funding.

We know that families are feeling the pressure due to the cost of living and this grant funding can make a real difference.”

The window to apply for funding for this year opens on 1 July and closes on 31 May 2025. People that are eligible for Free School Meals, as well as the School Essentials Grant, may use the same online application form to apply for both. Anyone who has already applied, doesn’t need to apply again.

If your child goes to a school in Denbighshire, you can apply online for a grant by visiting our website. 

Visit the historic Ruthin gardens at Nantclwyd y Dre

Nantclwyd y Dre took part in this year's National Garden Scheme which promotes garden sites open to the public for visiting, showcasing the immaculate herbaceous borders and kitchen garden.

Pride of place was given to the historic Summerhouse in the Lords Garden, once thought to be the kitchen garden of Ruthin Castle, and it featured on the cover of the North East Wales National Garden Scheme brochure.

Hidden around the back of the house, the extensive gardens are described as ‘immaculate, with attractive flower beds, wildflower meadow and fruit and vegetable plots, provide a tranquil space right in the heart of Ruthin’.

The tranquil gardens are maintained by the Heritage Gardener and their team of dedicated volunteers. If anyone is interested in coming along to Monday volunteer sessions please email heritage@denbighshire.gov.uk for more information.

The historic house offers a unique exploration of over 500 years of history, from medieval up to the 20th century and will be open for National Garden Scheme. Nantclwyd y Dre also offers visitors with the opportunity to observe live footage of the house’s special maternity roost of Lesser Horseshoe Bats via a live stream ‘Bat Cam’ from the attic space!

The House and Gardens will be open during the season, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays from 10.30am to last entry at 4pm and for further information on Nantclwyd Y Dre visit our website. 

What's On at Nantclwyd y Dre

Ruthin Gaol off to roaring start in 2024 with new Escape the Gaol immersive family activity

Ruthin Gaol is celebrating a busy start to the season, marked by the success of its immersive Escape the Gaol family activity, new for 2024.

Since 1654, prisoners of the historic jail have been putting their ingenuity and daring to the test through creative, fortuitous, and some downright haphazard attempts (of varying success!) to break free from the Gaol’s imposing walls.

Now, visitors are being invited to follow in the footsteps of former inmates Wrexham Bill and Ellen Warters, in an escape attempt of their own.

Young would-be Houdinis must find clues hidden throughout the atmospheric basement and iconic Pentonville-style cells, keeping their wits about them to evade warden Mr. Parry in their own bid for freedom, uncovering tales of the prison’s former residents along the way.

Philippa Jones, Site Manager of Ruthin Gaol said:

“We wanted to create an engaging new offering that brings history to life in a fun and memorable way that all the family can get involved with. It’s been brilliant to see our Escape the Gaol activity proving so popular and watch families discover the Gaol’s history together in such an immersive way.”

In addition to the Escape the Gaol activity, Ruthin Gaol offers audio-guided tours included with admission that provide a fascinating glimpse into its history as a site of detention dating back to the 17th century. Visitors can explore the original cells and exhibits covering crime and punishment throughout the ages.

Open throughout the half-term break, Ruthin Gaol invites visitors to discover the historic prison-turned-museum between 10:30am to 5pm (last entry at 4pm) every day except Tuesday, when the Gaol is closed. In line with its commitment to inclusivity, the Gaol extends a warm welcome to everyone, even four-legged visitors.

The Site Manager went on to say:

“Here at Ruthin Gaol we are dedicated to providing engaging and memorable experiences for visitors of all ages.

We’re excited to continue offering unique opportunities for local and visiting families to create lasting memories and discover the captivating stories of this historic site.”