Gwent charity opens new base to support local residents

The Helping Caring Team, which supports the homeless and other vulnerable people across Gwent, has opened a new base in Blackwood town centre backed by money from the Gwent High Sheriff’s Community Fund.

As well as giving the charity a safe space to support service users, the team has also set up a food bank for local residents affected by poverty and the cost-of-living crisis.

The funding from the High Sheriff contributes to the rent on the building, which also acts as a base for the charity’s 15 volunteers.

The Gwent High Sheriff’s Fund aims to provide a safer and better quality of life for the people of Gwent by supporting community-based initiatives, and projects for young people that help reduce crime and anti-social behaviour. The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner contributes £65,000 to the fund.

Police and Crime Commissioner Jeff Cuthbert said: “There are so many groups working to do good in their communities and I am pleased that, through the High Sheriff’s Fund, we are able to support charities like the Helping Caring Team who help some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.

“The good work the charity is doing is helping people to live healthier, safer lives, and I must commend the hard work of the volunteers who make this work possible.”

Malgwyn Davies, High Sheriff of Gwent, said:

“It was a privilege to be present at the official opening and to meet many of the inspirational people that volunteer for the Helping Caring Team.”

The High Sheriff’s Fund is facilitated by Community Foundation Wales.

Chief Executive Richard Williams said:

“The Help Caring Team is a great example of the fantastic work being done to help the most vulnerable people in Gwent. The tireless work of their volunteers is inspirational and we are proud to support groups like this through the Gwent High Sheriff Community Fund.”