Togetherness At Christmas

 Hi SwanTV Viewers

The Together at Christmas event is was held today at the Brangwyn Hall. We attended and interviewed several people including the Lord Mayor of Swansea, Cllr Mike Day, the Leader of the Council Cllr Rob Stewart, and Jessie Rice, director of J R Events and Catering who produced over 500 meals free for those vulnerable, isolated or at risk of homelessness guests.

It is wonderful that such an event was organised but sad that it is needed in 2022. We should all have a place to call home that is warm and with a pantry of nurishing food that will sustain us, good neighbours who keep an eye on us if we are older or disabled, and free from streess and anxiety. The event lasted for a couple of hours and there was musical entertainment on stage. Supported by Swansea Council and local agencies there was help at hand to show the many organisations
and benefits available, with tables lining two long walls. At the rear of the hall huge

quantities clothing and shoes were available, free of charge. Every effort was made to help anyone in need. And of course Father Xmas put in an appearance together with an absolute army of elves and other fairyland characters, bring laughter and enjoyment to the many guests. I talked with several of those enjoying the hospitality and was struck by the stories they told. You never know when you might be an a bad place and need such support. We are living in such strange times that we should realiuse how lucky we are and help others who needed it in any area of life.

If you have a neighbour who is alone, elderly or disabled spare some time to check they are ok and maybe share a few minutes to talk. Some older and house-bound people rarely see anyone apart from carers and can be very lonely.

So that was one end of the spectrum. The other end was the Zoom conference I attended this morning with 4 the Region, Swansea. This is a movement to co-create a happier, healthier South West Wales with a thriving economy that serves the well-being of people and the planet, who want to see the region leading the way in new ways of living and working, and new ways of organising our society and our economy, more visible, more accessible and more relevant to all those who live here.

Since the Welsh Government became the first in the world to put protecting the well-being of future generations into law, in 2015; and since Wales joined the Wellbeing Economy Governments Organisation in 2019, it’s fair to say that Wales is part of a global movement to

reshape our economies so that they work better for people and the planet.  

4 the Region want to see the region fully embracing the principles of the Wellbeing Economy and the Wellbeing of Future Generations Act for Wales (2015), making sure the purpose of growing the economy is to serve the wellbeing of people and the planet, rather than an end in itself. South West Wales is

an amazing natural environment, a brilliant quality of life, caring communities… and the opportunity to make Wellbeing the unique selling point, the regional identity, andthe shared purpose. 

The conference heard from all participants and will prepare a report from this information. If you are a local business look up 4 the Region where you can join.

To fulfil this ambition will be a long-term goal changing minds and attitude. We must all work together looking after our community, the local shops and amenities, local people and jobs. The Thatcher times when we were self-centred has passed. A major change is necessary to over come the current cost of living and improve our wellbeing.  Don't forget to keep an eye on that neighbour and, if you can, give generously to local charities trying to help those in need over the Christmas period.

Stay safe 

Mike Leahy  SwanTV

Contact: https://www.4theregion.org.uk/