Latest news with #AngelaSandles
South Wales Argus
06-08-2025
- General
- South Wales Argus
Views sought on future of two playparks in Chepstow
Monmouthshire County Council has earmarked Western Avenue and Bulwark Parks in Chepstow to be upgrades after it received a share of the £5million allocated by the Welsh Government for improving playgrounds and play facilities. And it has launched a consultation to hear what locals would like to see happen at the two parks. MCC's cabinet member for equalities and engagement Cllr Angela Sandles said: "Your views will help us shape the development of both parks in Chepstow. "As a council, we aim to develop the parks to provide the best opportunities for the children to build confidence and have a great time at the same time." Over the summer, as part of the consultation, the council will also be speaking to children and young people participating in MonLife activities to hear their views on the plans.
South Wales Argus
31-07-2025
- South Wales Argus
Fake Pop Mart Labubu toys on sale in Monmouthshire shops
In Monmouthshire, fake 'Labubu by Pop Mart' toys have been found on sale, with Trading Standards officers already removing unsafe items from shops. The counterfeit toys are poorly made, with parts such as eyes, hands, and feet that break off easily, and lack essential safety labelling like the CE or UKCA marks. Councillor Angela Sandles, Monmouthshire County Council's cabinet member for equalities and engagement, said: "This is a prime example of where the latest trend has been quickly adapted by criminals, flooding the market with cheap, unsafe copy products. "These put the most precious and youngest of us at significant risk. "Please don't think you're getting a bargain and report any seen on sale to Trading Standards." Trading Standards is advising retailers to check all stock to ensure it meets safety regulations and to remove any suspicious items from sale. Buyers are urged to purchase toys only from reputable suppliers and to verify the authenticity and safety of any Labubu toys they may already own. Retailers are also encouraged to be cautious when approached by cold callers offering toys or other goods, and to confirm the legitimacy of any business before agreeing to purchase items. Genuine Pop Mart Labubu toys are exclusively marketed and sold by Pop Mart. Anyone found selling counterfeit or unsafe toys that cause harm may face criminal and civil action. For more information, contact Trading Standards on 01873 735420 or email tradingstandards@
South Wales Argus
30-07-2025
- Politics
- South Wales Argus
Monmouthshire council meets with Ukrainian group in Chepstow
Monmouthshire County Council held the meeting with the Monmouthshire Ukrainian Group in Chepstow (MUGiC) on Saturday, July 19, at Chepstow's Upcycle Café. The event was part of the council's ongoing community engagement work and covered topics including inclusion, community safety, and school bullying. Angela Sandles, cabinet member for equalities and engagement, said: "Community engagement events like these are a great way to meet and listen to members of our communities. "We will take on board the points made by the attendees at the Upcycle Café." Members of MUGiC shared that while they felt welcomed by the community, they faced ongoing concerns around mental health, employment, and education. Language barriers and the need for language classes were highlighted, along with difficulties in validating foreign qualifications. The group said that many highly skilled individuals were either unemployed or working in low-skilled roles as a result. They also called for employment workshops covering CV writing, interview techniques, and application forms, as well as support for starting businesses. Other issues raised included uncertainty over immigration status, continuing education, and access to medical treatment. Ms Sandles said: "We may not be able to help with every aspect, but we can certainly signpost to relevant professionals and organisations. "I would like to thank the members of MUGiC for taking the time to meet with us." Monmouthshire County Council said it would review the feedback from the event and provide a response on how it could help address the group's concerns. Suggestions from the group also included organising trips to celebrate Welsh heritage and culture.
Yahoo
29-07-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Council meets Ukrainian community group to understand needs
A council has met with members of a Ukrainian community group to better understand their needs and challenges. Monmouthshire County Council held the meeting with the Monmouthshire Ukrainian Group in Chepstow (MUGiC) on Saturday, July 19, at Chepstow's Upcycle Café. The event was part of the council's ongoing community engagement work and covered topics including inclusion, community safety, and school bullying. Angela Sandles, cabinet member for equalities and engagement, said: "Community engagement events like these are a great way to meet and listen to members of our communities. "We will take on board the points made by the attendees at the Upcycle Café." Members of MUGiC shared that while they felt welcomed by the community, they faced ongoing concerns around mental health, employment, and education. Language barriers and the need for language classes were highlighted, along with difficulties in validating foreign qualifications. The group said that many highly skilled individuals were either unemployed or working in low-skilled roles as a result. They also called for employment workshops covering CV writing, interview techniques, and application forms, as well as support for starting businesses. Other issues raised included uncertainty over immigration status, continuing education, and access to medical treatment. Ms Sandles said: "We may not be able to help with every aspect, but we can certainly signpost to relevant professionals and organisations. "I would like to thank the members of MUGiC for taking the time to meet with us." Monmouthshire County Council said it would review the feedback from the event and provide a response on how it could help address the group's concerns. Suggestions from the group also included organising trips to celebrate Welsh heritage and culture.
South Wales Argus
21-06-2025
- General
- South Wales Argus
Abergavenny Town of Sanctuary wins award for refugees work
Abergavenny Town of Sanctuary (AToS) received the Nation of Sanctuary Award at the Nation of Sanctuary Awards held at the Coal Exchange in Cardiff on Monday, June 16. The award recognises the group's dedication to supporting sanctuary seekers and refugees in Wales and their efforts to help families access vital services and settle into the community. Mary Ann Brocklesby, leader of Monmouthshire County Council, said: "The Nation of Sanctuary Award not only honours AToS's impactful work but also underscores the importance of community collaboration in supporting refugees and asylum seekers. "Abergavenny Town of Sanctuary is committed to its mission, and Monmouthshire County Council looks forward to supporting its vital work in the coming months and years." Founded in 2016, AToS helps individuals access healthcare, employment, and educational opportunities. One of its key programmes is the English Language Cafe, which offers refugees a chance to improve their language skills and form connections in a welcoming environment. The group also runs a range of social activities, including coach trips, iftars, sports sessions, and the friendship quilt project. In addition to social support, AToS assists refugees in gaining qualifications in sectors such as construction, food service, and driving, and helps refugee-led businesses grow through mentorship and resources. The organisation is also a registered food bank agency, ensuring families receive culturally appropriate food supplies. Cllr Angela Sandles, Monmouthshire County Council's cabinet member for equalities and engagement, said: "It was a privilege to be at the Coal Exchange to see Abergavenny Town of Sanctuary win this well-deserved award. "The expressions on the group members' faces when their name was announced will long stay in my memory." The group has also supported young refugees in achieving GCSE and A-level qualifications, university placements, and sporting success.
