Funding secures future of vital Evanstown Community Hwb

The local Evanstown community is benefitting after a £19,000 funding boost has helped to secure the future of the Evanstown Community Hwb.

The Hwb, which has run from a portacabin at Abercerdin Primary School since March 2024, has become a vital local resource – providing essential support, affordable goods, and a welcoming space for social connection. After more than 30 years, the building had become worn, making recladding work necessary to protect it for the future.

Abercerdin Primary turned to local energy company, Pennant Walters, which had provided support to the school in the past and was delighted when the community funding was granted, allowing the work to press ahead to safeguard the facility.

Sophie Locke, Acting Headteacher from Abercerdin Primary, explains:

“With the local Community Hall closed, our Hwb has become the only accessible space for residents to meet and access support services. We were aware that we were approaching a time when essential work was required, and didn’t want to get to a point when the damage had been done, and we would be forced to close, or limit opening hours.

“We approached Pennant Walters, who have been supportive to us in the past, and we were thrilled when the funding was awarded.”

The funding was provided by Pennant Walters from a community fund linked to two wind farms in the Gilfach Goch and Blackmill areas — Pant y Wal, in the county of Bridgend, and Fforch Nest, which straddles the border of Bridgend and Rhondda Cynon Taf. Together, the sites comprise 21 turbines producing 53 megawatts of clean electricity, enough to power the equivalent of 25,000 homes.

To balance community access with pupil safety, the funding also allowed the school to install additional six-foot fencing around the cabin, creating a secure and clearly defined entrance for residents while maintaining safeguarding standards.

The Hwb supports around 50 people each week, providing low-cost essential goods such as food, clothing, and household items. Visitors can fill a carrier bag for as little as £5, offering meaningful financial support at a time when many households are under pressure. The Hwb also provides a welcoming and safe space where community members, particularly older residents, can meet, socialise, and access support.

Sophie continued:

“On behalf of all pupils, staff, and the wider community, we would like to extend our sincere thanks to Pennant Walters for their generosity.

“This funding has literally been a lifeline and has ensured that our Hwb continues to operate and serve those who rely on it most. It is not just a facility, it is a vital source of support and connection for our community.”

Dale Hart, managing director at Pennant Walters, added:

“We’re delighted to support the Hwb, and the invaluable role it plays for local residents. This funding will help ensure the facility remains safe, accessible, and able to continue providing essential support and a welcoming space for those who rely on it.

“Our community funds are designed to have a meaningful impact in the areas where we operate, and it’s clear the Hwb has become a vital lifeline, bringing people together and offering support where it’s needed most.”

The Community Hwb is currently open on Wednesday’s and Friday’s from 9:00am to 1:00pm, with the Food Pantry operating during the Friday session.