Posted on: Monday 7 October 2024
More than 1,000 people have signed up to a website that has become Torfaen’s one-stop-shop for community events, activities and volunteering opportunities.
Whether you’re looking for yourself, your family, or friends, Connect Torfaen features around 400 community listings each month, including craft and photography groups, parent and children’s classes, and health and wellbeing sessions.
You can explore what is happening in your area using the new events calendar or digital map, as well as find out about voluntary opportunities that match your interests.
Ellie who volunteers with Hope for the Community at Sharon Church in Pontypool, did just that, she said:
"Connect Torfaen made it really easy for me to find a volunteering role close to home. I found the perfect opportunity volunteering in their Café and Community Shop.
“I’m not only doing something I enjoy, but I’m also meeting new people and making a difference in my community. Volunteering has boosted my confidence, helped me make new friends, and given me something to look forward to!"
So, if you’re looking to help at local events, join a community gardening project, or become a befriender, you’ll find it all on the site, and the best part? It’s free - www.connecttorfaen.org.uk
Beyond the online offer of Connect Torfaen sits the 'Opening Doors' hubs, which are managed by Torfaen Voluntary Alliance and serve as key community venues that look to increase the range and diversity of activities on offer at a local level.
Each of the 35 hubs look to connect the community to multi-agency and community-based support and groups, with some venues featuring a digital access point to browse the Connect platform.
To find out if your community centre is part of the project, look out for the Opening Doors signs.
Cllr Fiona Cross, Torfaen Council Executive Member for Communities, said: “Connect Torfaen and Opening Doors hubs are a great way of connecting with your local community, whether you’re thinking of taking up a new hobby, want to get out more, or just want to find out what is happening in your local area.
“It’s just one of a number of ways we’re working with organisations to create a movement aimed at connecting individuals and community groups, so the groups become more sustainable and can connect with even more people in the future.”
Connect Torfaen is run by Torfaen Voluntary Alliance and supported by Torfaen Council and Aneurin Bevan University Health Board.