‘Your Voice, Your Choice’ grant-making event brings together community groups from across Gwent
Community groups from across Gwent came together on Saturday, 8 March to pitch for a share of funding from this year’s Gwent High Sheriffs’ Community Fund at the annual ‘Your Voice, Your Choice’ grant-making event.
Held at The Priory Centre in Abergavenny, the event brought together nine community groups, all working to support and inspire young people in Gwent. The event provided a platform for each group to share their story, pitch their project, and connect with others who share their passion for making a difference.
The ‘Your Voice, Your Choice’ event is a partnership between the Gwent High Sheriffs’ Community Fund, the Office of the Gwent Police & Crime Commissioner, and Community Foundation Wales. Its unique participatory grant-making approach allows local groups to have a direct say in how funding is distributed, ensuring that funding goes where it is needed most.
Each group was given five minutes to present their project, with fellow participating groups acting as the decision-makers. Following each presentation, groups cast their votes to determine which projects would receive a grant of up to £5,000. This format not only provides much-needed funding but also fosters community connection, mutual support, and inspiration.
This year, an additional £1,000 prize was up for grabs for the group voted to have delivered the most impactful and engaging presentation. The award went to Cymru Creations, in recognition of their compelling pitch and inspiring work in the community.
In a bid to offer longer-term sustainability, three groups — Duffryn Community Link, Bridge to Cross Charitable Trust, and Rewild Play — were awarded multi-year grants, allowing them to plan ahead and strengthen their work over the next three years.
The event is a celebration of the incredible hard work and dedication of local volunteers and community organisations who work tirelessly to support young people and build safer communities in Gwent. Through mentoring, youth engagement, and creative projects, these groups aim to inspire young people to fulfil their potential and steer clear of crime and anti-social behaviour.
Richard Williams, Chief Executive of Community Foundation Wales, said: “The ‘Your Voice, Your Choice’ event continues to demonstrate the incredible power of grassroots community groups in transforming the lives of young people. It is always so inspiring to hear firsthand about the difference these groups are making and to see them recognised and supported through this fund.”
Police and Crime Commissioner Jane Mudd said: “I am pleased to contribute to the High Sheriff’s fund and support grassroots community groups across Gwent.
“Each of these projects gives children and young people the opportunity to take part in activities that reinforce good behaviours and positive thinking. They are making a difference to their communities and this funding will enable them to grow and support more young people in their areas.”
Her Honour Helen Mifflin, DL, High Sheriff of Gwent 2024-25, said: “On Saturday, the Gwent High Sheriff Community Fund held its Your Voice, Your Choice grant awards in Abergavenny. The event, organised by Community Foundation Wales, brought together nine shortlisted community groups to showcase their work and the impact they make.
“Thanks to the continued generosity of the Gwent Police and Crime Commissioner, Jane Mudd, each group was awarded £5,000 to support their vital projects. Additionally, Rewild Play, The Bridge to Cross, and Duffryn Community Link secured multi-year funding.
“A highlight of the event was the £1,000 Best Presentation Award, voted for by the groups themselves, which went to Cymru Creations.
“The day was a celebration of young people as role models and the dedicated volunteers who make a difference in Gwent’s communities. Well done to all involved!”
The organisations awarded grants at the 2025 event were as follows:
- Gwent Young Farmers Club
- Torfaen Sea Cadets
- The Family & Community Group
- ReWild Play
- Duffryn Community Link
- Nantyglo & Blaina Air Cadets
- Bridge to Cross Charitable Trust
- Cymru Creations
- Made in Tredegar