Local AM supports vulnerable young people and families from Carmarthenshire charity project

Local AM, Simon Thomas showed his support today to parents at Action for Children's Family and Community Team (FACT) project by taking part in a morning cook-off with service users and staff at Trimsaran Family Centre.

The parents showed off their cookery skills to Mr Thomas, having learnt how to cook healthy meals from fresh ingredients. The cookery classes form an integral part of the project's services, demonstrating how every member of the family can get involved in eating healthily on a budget.

FACT supports children, young people and families from the earliest possible stages offering advice on many aspects of family life, including parenting, healthy eating, family communication and child development. The project also aims to improve the financial capability of young parents through the Barclays Money Skills programme, providing them with the tools needed to gain a better understanding of managing personal finances.

Simon Thomas AM, said: "The support Action for Children's Carmarthenshire Family and Community Team offers to children and young people is outstanding. It is incredibly important that vulnerable families are given the support they need at the earliest stage to help them achieve brighter futures. I also believe that sharing a meal is a great way to bring a family together and talk about the day's events."

"The project's staff do an amazing job providing families with practical advice. I look forward to visiting them again soon."

Kay Howell, Service Manager at Carmarthenshire FACT, said: "We were delighted to have Simon visit the project and support some of the fantastic work the parents and staff have been doing recently.

"Since doing the Barclays Money Skills budgeting session and following up with the cook-off, many of the parents have developed such confidence in their abilities, which is fantastic to see! Some of the parents have even set up their own cookery club as a follow on from their experience."

Action for Children supports and speaks out for the UK's most vulnerable and neglected children and young people, as well as campaigning to make a difference. The charity is currently calling on Welsh Government to address neglect by ensuring all partners work together to provide early access to the services families need.

For more information about Carmarthenshire FACT, Action for Children's Neglect Campaign or the Barclays Money Skills programme, contact Kay Howell on 01554 745150 or visit www.actionforchildren.org.uk