Our Valleys Regional Park Programme is funded by the Welsh Government and the Guardians Project is delivered by Groundwork Wales team of Valleys Regional Park Guardians. The Guardians are a team of experienced conservationists and community workers and can deliver a range of activities designed to make the most of our natural and cultural heritage, and help to improve wellbeing, the environment, and the economy. Anyone is welcome to join in.
All of our activities take place in and around the twelve Discovery Gateway Parks within the Valleys Regional Park area, which stretches from Carmarthenshire to Pontypool, between the M4 and the Brecon Beacons. We want to use these wonderful parks to help people connect with the area’s unique landscape, have fun and discover more about nature.
The Guardians work with various partners, including leisure trusts and local authorities, are helping to support people and communities to connect with and look after their landscape, take ownership of green space, improve the environment and support innovation. Activities provide opportunities to meet new people and develop a broad range of practical and social skills, all whilst working in our beautiful valleys.
Practical conservation volunteering:
We run practical conservation groups, where volunteers of all ages are invited to take part in a variety of practical activities in country parks. Activities include scrub clearance, pond creation, making wildflower areas, tree planting, growing projects, litter picks, balsam bashing. Practical environmental projects such as repairing pathways and fencing, hedge laying and woodland management are also offered to volunteers.
Volunteers must be aged 16 or above. You don’t need any experience or prior knowledge, and all tools and training will be provided. For those who are keen to further their employability, you can complete Agored Cymru qualifications in practical skills such as strimming, planting hanging baskets and woodwork projects.
Practical conservation volunteering sessions are currently running at:
- Bryngarw Country Park (Bridgend): Tuesday 10am-2pm
- Dare Valley Country Park (Aberdare): Tuesdays & Thursdays 10-2pm
- Cyfarthfa Park (Merthyr): Monday 10am – 12pm
- Parc Bryn Bach (Tredegar) Monday 10am – 2pm
- Cwmcarn Forest Drive (Newport) 10am – 2pm
Environmental Wellbeing
Environmental Wellbeing sessions give you an opportunity to experience the joy of being in nature, learning about the natural environment and trying out some new and unusual environmental activities. A little bit less practical than our conservation sessions, these are a great way to meet new people, dip your toes into the forest and get started on your eco journey.
Environmental wellbeing sessions are currently running at:
- Cwmcarn Forest Drive (Newport): Tuesdays 10am – 12pm
- Bryngarw Country Park (Bridgend): Monday 10am-12pm
All activities are free, to book your place or find out more, please contact Chris on 07469 095614 or email vrp@groundwork.org.uk