Farm Friends will be there for you

Published: Thursday, 5 July 2012

Brynmawr Community Support Officer Linzi Nicholls is lending a hand to youngsters who want a meeting place and 'something to do' at Bryn Farm.

Since becoming a CSO in Brynmawr 2 years ago Linzi has been helping the residents of Bryn Farm. From setting up a tenants and residents association to supporting families at Christmas time with festive entertainment and presents from local businesses, Linzi, along with the Brynmawr Neighbourhood Team have worked tirelessly to build stronger relationships between the Police and Bryn Farm Estate.

Now, with the help Steven Bower, Communities First Coordinator, Linzi and the Neighbourhood Team have set up a brand new youth group - Farm Friends. Farm Friends will give the children the opportunity to take part in activities with local officers as well as develop new ideas from the children.

Linzi explains: "There's not much for young people to do on the estate and police are keen to support a community venture like this which will cut crime.

"We'll be working with the young people to raise drug awareness, tackle local crime issues and develop a strong community spirit. The children already have a list of ideas that they would like to develop if we can get the support locally - top of the list is a new community centre."

Tai Calon, the housing body which looks after the estate, says: "We think it's  great that the young people of Bryn Farm in Brynmawr are working together to set up their own community house. Tai Calon Community Housing will do what it can to help them achieve their dream. We will also put them in touch with other community groups who are already successfully running their own centres."