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Mumbles community council – Unlawful spending

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Daniel Bradshaw
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Mumbles Community Council, a local authority nestled on the Swansea coastline, came under intense scrutiny following the publication of a 2019 Report in the Public Interest by the Auditor General for Wales. The report revealed over £21,000 of unlawful spending during the 2017–18 financial year, raising serious concerns about procurement practices and accountability.

A Breach of Trust
During this period, the council engaged the services of a planning consultancy, CDN Planning, to assist with local development projects. However, the process by which the consultancy was appointed and paid fell significantly short of legal and procedural requirements.

The Auditor General found that:

The council failed to obtain competitive quotes or go through a formal tendering process.

There was no contract or written agreement defining the scope of the consultancy work.

At least one councillor authorised work without proper approval from the full council, in contravention of the Local Government Act 1972.

As a result, more than £21,400 of council spending was deemed unlawful.

The Aftermath
In response to these findings, the Auditor General issued a series of recommendations, including:

A review and clarification of the council’s standing orders and financial regulations.

The introduction of formal contracts and clearer terms of reference for consultants.

Ensuring that all financial decisions, including the appointment of consultants, are properly authorised by the full council.

Mumbles Community Council was required to consider the report in a full council meeting and to produce a public response outlining corrective action.

Why It Matters
Though the amount involved may appear modest, it represents a significant portion of the council’s budget. More importantly, it highlights fundamental issues regarding governance and transparency at the local level.

The lack of a formal procurement process and the delegation of authority to individual councillors without oversight undermined public trust. This incident underscores the importance of good governance, even within the smallest tiers of government.

What Has Changed?
Following the report, the council has made commitments to improve its procedures. New policies have been introduced to ensure financial controls are adhered to, and training has reportedly been provided to councillors.

Nonetheless, it remains to be seen whether these changes are sufficient. Residents and stakeholders are entitled to ask whether oversight has truly improved and whether lessons have been fully learned.

A Call for Continued Scrutiny
This case offers a cautionary tale for community councils across Wales. Transparency, lawful spending, and robust governance are not optional—they are fundamental to maintaining public confidence.

As local councils continue to take on more responsibilities, the public must remain vigilant. Mumbles Community Council’s experience serves as a reminder that even small authorities must be held to the highest standards.

Independent Wales: What Would It Mean — and How Much Does Wales Give to the Crown?

By
Citizen Journalism Newsbot
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The Rising Voice of Welsh Independence

The conversation around an independent Wales has been growing steadily in recent years. For decades, the idea was considered fringe — a romantic notion wrapped in red dragons and national pride. But now, with movements like YesCymru gaining traction and younger generations more politically engaged than ever, independence is no longer just a dream for some — it’s a very real political talking point.

While questions of governance, economy, language, and identity are all central to this conversation, one recurring question remains:

How much does Wales actually give to the British Crown — and what would change under independence?

Wales and the Crown: What’s the Connection?

Unlike England, Scotland, or Northern Ireland, Wales doesn’t currently have a separate legal identity as a country in the eyes of the UK constitution. It is often described as a “principality,” though this is a historic term, not a political one. The title “Prince of Wales” has been used since 1301, most recently by Prince William following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.

But while the royal title is symbolic, the question of money is not.

So… How Much Does Wales Give the Crown?

Here’s where it gets interesting — and tricky.

There is no direct, transparent breakdown of how much money Wales alone contributes to the Crown, because most financial data is aggregated at a UK-wide level. However, we can infer a few things based on public records and proportional estimates.

🔹 The Sovereign Grant:

This is the funding mechanism that supports the official duties of the Royal Family. In 2023–24, the Sovereign Grant was £86.3 million — funded entirely by UK taxpayers. That money supports royal events, maintenance of palaces, travel, and staff salaries.

Wales, as part of the UK, contributes its population-based share of that.

Estimated Welsh contribution to the Sovereign Grant (based on population):
Wales makes up around 4.7% of the UK population, which would equate to roughly £4–5 million per year.

🔹 Crown Estate in Wales:

The Crown Estate owns land and property across the UK, including some coastal areas and seabeds in Wales. Revenue from the Crown Estate goes to the Treasury, and 25% of that income becomes the Sovereign Grant.

In 2022–23, Crown Estate holdings in Wales generated around £9.7 million — mainly from energy leases and land management. However, unlike in Scotland (where Crown Estate revenues are devolved to the Scottish Government), the Welsh Government does not currently control these funds.

So, the profits from Welsh natural resources managed by the Crown do not stay in Wales — they go to Westminster.

What Would Change with Independence?

If Wales were to become independent, several financial and legal shifts would likely happen:

  • Crown Estate control: Wales could follow Scotland’s lead and reclaim control over its portion of the Crown Estate. That means millions in revenue from Welsh land and sea would remain in Wales.

  • No longer funding the Sovereign Grant: Wales would no longer be obligated to contribute to the funding of the British monarchy — though it would depend on whether Wales chose to become a republic or retain a symbolic monarch.

  • National budget control: An independent Wales would gain full fiscal control, allowing it to restructure taxation, royalties from natural resources, and foreign investment.

Is It Just About Money?

No — but money matters.

For many supporters of independence, the idea goes beyond budgets. It’s about identity, accountability, and fairness. Why should Wales — a country with its own language, culture, and history — be tethered to decisions made in Westminster, or continue to generate wealth for institutions it doesn’t control?

Opponents argue that Wales currently receives more in UK public spending than it contributes in taxes — but that too is debated. Pro-independence economists point out that structural underinvestment and lack of fiscal autonomy skew the numbers.

Final Thoughts

The amount Wales contributes to the Crown may seem small on paper — a few million a year. But symbolically and practically, it raises big questions.

  • Should the wealth of Wales’ land and sea stay in Wales?

  • Should the Welsh Government have full control over its resources?

  • And should the people of Wales have a direct say in where their money goes?

As the conversation around independence continues, these are the questions that won’t go away.

Reform UK’s Rise in Wales

By
Citizen Journalism Newsbot
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Reform UK’s Rise in Wales: A Triumph of Ignorance and Far-Right Populism

Reform UK, the right-wing populist party founded by Nigel Farage, is gaining ground in Wales, with recent polling suggesting it could surpass Welsh Labour in the 2026 Senedd elections. This rise marks a worrying shift in Welsh politics, fueled by xenophobia, misinformation, and a rejection of progressive values.

The Far-Right Playbook: From Brexit to Welsh Politics

Reform UK has positioned itself as the voice of “the people” against so-called “elites,” using the same divisive rhetoric that drove Brexit. Its rise mirrors the playbook of far-right figures like Tommy Robinson, who have used fear of immigration and a manufactured sense of victimhood to rally disillusioned voters. While Reform claims to stand for “common sense” policies, its core appeal rests on stoking resentment towards minorities, the European Union, and the political establishment.

The party’s success in Wales is particularly alarming given the country’s long history of progressive politics and inclusivity. Wales has traditionally been a Labour stronghold, with strong support for social justice, workers’ rights, and devolution. That Reform UK is gaining traction suggests that misinformation and anti-immigrant sentiment have found fertile ground even in historically left-leaning areas.

Who Supports Reform UK?

A closer look at Reform’s supporters reveals a demographic fueled by anger, nostalgia, and a lack of critical thinking. Many are former Brexit Party voters who, despite overwhelming evidence of Brexit’s economic failures, still cling to the delusion that “taking back control” was a good idea. Others are disillusioned Tories who blame immigrants and “woke culture” for the UK’s problems instead of decades of Conservative mismanagement. Some are disillusioned labour voters, presumably as they feel they have very other little choice since many believe the Labour party has become Tory!

Reform’s base thrives on conspiracy theories, from the belief that climate change is a hoax to the fantasy that the UK is being “overrun” by asylum seekers. Their media diet consists of GB News, social media echo chambers, and right-wing tabloids that reinforce their grievances without offering real solutions.

A Warning for Welsh Politics

The rise of Reform UK is a wake-up call for progressives in Wales. It shows how easily disinformation and reactionary politics can take hold, even in a country with a proud history of leftist movements. Welsh Labour and Plaid Cymru must do more to counter Reform’s toxic influence, challenging its lies with facts and mobilizing communities against its divisive rhetoric.

If Reform UK is allowed to grow unchecked, Wales risks following England down the path of nationalism, bigotry, and economic decline. The fight against far-right populism isn’t just about winning elections—it’s about defending the very fabric of Welsh democracy.

Spotlight Wales – Roundup of national news. April 2025

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Citizen Journalism Newsbot
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Wales has always been a country of resilience, culture, and community, and the latest news highlights how these qualities are helping Wales navigate the challenges of the present. From political developments to environmental initiatives, here’s a look at some of the most significant news stories shaping Wales right now.

1. New Welsh Government Sustainability Goals: A Greener Future
The Welsh Government has recently unveiled its ambitious new sustainability goals aimed at making Wales a leader in tackling climate change. The government’s plan focuses on reducing carbon emissions, increasing renewable energy production, and improving green spaces in urban areas. With the world facing an environmental crisis, Wales is positioning itself as a pioneer, with many communities already adopting eco-friendly practices. Local authorities are being encouraged to implement green energy solutions, and renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, are being expanded across the country.

2. Education Reforms: Wales Moving Towards a New Curriculum
Wales is making big strides in education, with the rollout of the new curriculum that places a strong emphasis on preparing students for a rapidly changing world. The curriculum will focus on practical skills, including problem-solving, digital literacy, and global citizenship. The reforms aim to equip Welsh students with the tools they need for future success, all while promoting inclusivity and mental well-being. As the first country in the UK to introduce such a radical change, Wales is setting a new standard for educational practices in the 21st century.

3. Cardiff’s Ambitious Development Projects
The capital city of Cardiff has always been a focal point of innovation and growth, and the latest development projects are proof of that. From new housing developments to business districts and cultural venues, Cardiff is rapidly transforming into a modern urban hub. One of the most exciting projects is the ongoing development of Cardiff Bay, which includes the creation of public spaces, leisure facilities, and commercial zones. As the city expands, it’s also focusing on sustainable transport, with more investments in cycling paths and electric vehicle infrastructure.

4. Wrexham AFC’s Incredible Rise: A Story of Hope and Unity
Wrexham AFC, the football club recently bought by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, has become a symbol of hope and ambition for the people of Wrexham and beyond. Under new ownership, the club has seen an impressive rise in both performance and popularity, with fans excited to see the team return to the Football League. The investment has also brought much-needed attention to the town of Wrexham, with plans for local development and improvements that aim to bring new opportunities to the region.

5. Welsh Language and Culture on the Rise
The Welsh language is experiencing a resurgence, with more people learning and using it in daily life. Recent reports show a steady increase in the number of Welsh speakers, particularly among young people, as efforts to promote the language and its cultural significance continue to thrive. The Welsh Government has invested in language education and initiatives to make Welsh a more prominent part of public life. This is part of a broader cultural movement that includes the promotion of Welsh music, literature, and traditions, fostering a strong sense of national identity.

6. Healthcare Advancements: Welsh NHS Paving the Way for Innovation
Wales’ National Health Service (NHS) is leading the way in healthcare innovation, with new initiatives to improve patient care and increase the use of technology in the medical field. From virtual consultations to AI-driven diagnostics, Wales is adopting cutting-edge solutions to make healthcare more accessible and efficient. The Welsh Government is also focusing on mental health services, ensuring that mental well-being is prioritized alongside physical health, a vital step in addressing the growing concerns around mental health across the UK.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Wales
As we move through 2025, it’s clear that Wales is embracing change and making strides in areas that will shape its future for years to come. Whether it’s tackling climate change, revolutionizing education, or boosting its local communities, Wales is making its mark on the global stage. With a population that’s proud of its heritage and eager for progress, the country is moving forward with a spirit of optimism and determination. Keep an eye on Wales—it’s a place where exciting things are always just around the corner.

Dwr Cymru – Water pollution

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Citizen Journalism Newsbot
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Current waste management system at Doug Jernigan Farms, a three-generation family farm that, a few months earlier, refinanced the facility to add a first of it's kind, in the nation, swine-turkey waste to renewable energy system (not seen), with the assistance of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development (RD) Renewable Energy for America Program (REAP) loan guarantee in Mt. Olive, NC, Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2015. More: Typical systems separate methane gas for energy, solids are disposed or repurposed and liquids are cleaned. This new system addition takes the watery manure effluent to a new and as Mr. Jernigan say's "prolific profit" producing state through savings and sales. "There is an opportunity for the farm to make money doing a good thing for the environment."

The system handles about 75,000 gallons of swine and turkey waste effluent each day. Piped to a series of cement holding tanks, mechanical equipment, separate solids, and liquids. The current treatment facility biologically removes ammonia nitrogen with bacteria adapted to high-strength wastewater; removes phosphorus via alkali precipitation; and reduction emissions of odorant compounds, ammonia, pathogens, and heavy metals to the environment. The water is cleaned for reuse in the swine and turkey operations that wash more manure into the cycle of the system.

The new methane reactors (under the framework of what will be a C-span structure) use an endothermic gasifier that heats the waste solids to very high temperatures to the point that they release gases. The clean methane gas will fuel an engine that turns a 300KW electrical generator producing electricity; ethanol will help fuel farm equipment, and resulting potash solids can be used or sold for agricultural fertilizer. Excess amounts of electricity, that the farms cannot use, will be sold and transmitted to the local energy company, for use by residents and businesses; renewable energy credits (REC) are sold to a different energy company.

With a system that eliminates all ammonia and other odor creating compounds, Mr. Jernigan says, "What I'm doing is good for the environment; it's good for the farm in the respect that you're getting rid of waste that you're creating in a high-tech way. There's no footprint. It's just gone."

Doug and Aileen are lifelong farmers and they have three grown children that work in the farm operation. Their farm currently operates a 21,600 finishing farm operation, an eight house turkey operation, a 250 head cow /calf operation. The farm also consists of 2,400 acres of row crop production (cotton, corn, soybeans and wheat).

Doug Jernigan's grandfather started farming here in 1941, and he continues the tradition with his business that began in 1974.

In talking about the greater potential of this technology and what others should consider, Jernigan says, "I see it as a win-win thing."

For more information about USDA, RD and REAP please see: www.usda.gov, www.rd.usda.gov, and www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/rural-energy-america-pr...

USDA Photo by Lance Cheung



*The treatment system (without the methane reactor) was documented to remove, on a mass basis, approximately 99% of total suspended solids, 98% of COD, 99% of TKN, 100% ammonia, 100% odor compounds, 92% phosphorus, 95% copper, and 97% zinc from the flushed manure. Fecal coliform reductions were measured to be 99.98%. Original public domain image from Flickr

Dŵr Cymru (Welsh Water) plays a crucial role in providing clean water and wastewater services across Wales. As a not-for-profit organization, it is tasked with ensuring that the water supply is safe for drinking, agricultural use, and recreation. However, despite its significant responsibilities, there are ongoing concerns about the company’s handling of water pollution. While Welsh Water has made efforts to manage the issue, there is a growing need for the company to do more to protect Wales’ water resources and the environment. Here are the key reasons why Welsh Water should take more decisive action.

1. Sewage Overflows: A Growing Problem

One of the most prominent issues facing Welsh Water is the frequent use of sewage overflows during heavy rainfall. Storm overflows are designed as emergency measures to prevent the sewage system from backing up. However, when these overflows occur, untreated or partially treated sewage is released into rivers and coastal waters. This can cause significant damage to water quality, harm aquatic life, and pose a threat to public health.

While storm overflows are allowed under current regulations, they have been increasingly used, and many communities are frustrated by their frequency. These discharges often lead to pollution of local beaches, rivers, and recreational areas, impacting the local economy and the well-being of communities. Welsh Water has a responsibility to invest in modernizing sewage infrastructure to reduce the occurrence of overflows and prevent untreated sewage from entering the environment.

2. Agricultural Runoff: A Persistent Pollutant

Agricultural runoff remains one of the most persistent sources of water pollution in Wales. Fertilizers, pesticides, and animal waste from farming can easily wash into nearby rivers, lakes, and groundwater, causing contamination. These pollutants can lead to nutrient overload in water bodies, resulting in harmful algal blooms, oxygen depletion, and fish kills. The effects of agricultural runoff not only harm aquatic ecosystems but also degrade the quality of drinking water supplies.

Welsh Water has made some efforts to work with farmers and encourage more sustainable agricultural practices, but the issue persists. The company needs to do more to address this pollution source, especially by strengthening its collaboration with the agricultural sector, advocating for sustainable farming practices, and encouraging better land management techniques to minimize runoff.

3. Outdated Infrastructure: A Barrier to Effective Pollution Control

Many areas of Wales still rely on outdated water and sewage infrastructure that is not equipped to cope with the challenges posed by modern climate conditions. Increased rainfall due to climate change, alongside population growth and urbanization, places additional pressure on existing systems. As a result, the capacity to treat wastewater and manage stormwater is often exceeded, leading to more frequent discharges of untreated sewage.

While Welsh Water has acknowledged the need for investment in infrastructure improvements, progress has been slow. The company must accelerate its efforts to upgrade its sewage and wastewater treatment systems. By modernizing infrastructure and investing in climate-resilient solutions, Welsh Water can reduce the risk of pollution events and improve water quality across the region.

4. Plastic and Other Waste in Our Waterways

Plastic pollution is an ever-growing problem worldwide, and Wales is no exception. Single-use plastics, including bottles, bags, and microplastics, continue to pollute rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. These pollutants not only harm aquatic life but also enter the food chain, posing potential health risks to both wildlife and humans. While Welsh Water has made efforts to reduce plastic waste and encourage recycling, more can be done to combat this issue.

Welsh Water should take a more proactive approach to tackle plastic pollution by supporting initiatives to reduce plastic waste, including better waste management practices and educational campaigns. It can also work closely with local governments, environmental organizations, and communities to reduce plastic litter that inevitably ends up in the water system.

5. Public Health and Economic Impact

The effects of water pollution go beyond environmental damage—they can also have significant public health and economic consequences. Contaminated water supplies can lead to waterborne diseases, gastrointestinal illnesses, and skin infections, which place a burden on the healthcare system. Polluted rivers and beaches can also harm local economies that depend on tourism, fishing, and recreational activities.

As a service provider responsible for maintaining public health, Welsh Water must prioritize the protection of water quality. Ensuring that clean water is available for all, and reducing the risks associated with pollution, should be at the heart of the company’s strategy. The company has a duty to protect the health of local communities and support the economic sustainability of the regions it serves.

6. Public Perception and Accountability

Public perception of Welsh Water has been impacted by ongoing water pollution incidents. People are frustrated by the continuing pollution of rivers and beaches, and many feel that Welsh Water is not doing enough to address the problem. When sewage overflows occur or when plastic waste is found in local waterways, it undermines trust in the company’s ability to safeguard the environment and public health.

Welsh Water needs to be more transparent and accountable in its efforts to tackle water pollution. Clear communication about the measures the company is taking, along with more ambitious goals to reduce pollution, will help restore public confidence and demonstrate a commitment to protecting Wales’ water resources.

Conclusion: A Call for Action

While Dŵr Cymru (Welsh Water) has made some progress in addressing water pollution, there is still much more to be done. The company has a vital role to play in safeguarding the health of Wales’ water resources, protecting the environment, and ensuring the well-being of its communities. The rising frequency of sewage overflows, the persistence of agricultural runoff, outdated infrastructure, and plastic waste are all challenges that require urgent action.

Welsh Water must prioritise investment in modernizing sewage systems, collaborate more effectively with the agricultural sector to reduce runoff, address plastic pollution more aggressively, and take proactive steps to safeguard public health and the environment. By doing more to tackle these issues, Welsh Water can help ensure that future generations inherit a cleaner, healthier Wales.

It’s time for Welsh Water to step up its efforts and protect the water that is so vital to life in Wales.

Community Betrayal: How Ty Fforest’s Foodbank Has Been Exploited for Private Gain

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Citizen Journalism Newsbot
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Food banks and food shares are pillars of support within our communities, providing essential supplies to individuals and families in need, often operating on thin margins with limited resources. When resources meant for community aid are diverted to private businesses for profit, it represents a serious breach of trust and exploitation of a system designed to help the most vulnerable.

The Case of Ty Fforest’s Foodbank and Deshi Spice, Swansea

The Ty Fforest Foodshare operates on the principle that food donations should be distributed to benefit the community, helping to reduce waste and landfill.  This system relies on the dedication of volunteers and the good faith of community members, businesses, and organisations that support it. Recently, however, an unsettling practice has come to light: Deshi Spice, an Indian food business, has been acquiring bulk food items from the Ty Fforest Foodshare presumably to cut costs on ingredients for its own profit making operations.

This misuse of resources is deeply troubling. Food items like naan breads, peppers, and onions—essential ingredients in Indian cuisine—are being taken in bulk, not for community redistribution, but for business profit. Such actions raise significant ethical concerns and highlight a clear lack of respect for the foodsjare’s intended purpose.

The Impact on the Community

The Ty Fforest Foodshare has limited resources. Ty Fforest receives no government funding and relies on its own internal fundraising to continue its vital services. Every time an item is taken for business use, it directly affects the supply available to struggling families and individuals. When a business diverts these resources, it deprives a family of a meal, a single parent of essential groceries, or a senior citizen of a lifeline. Food banks and shares are meant to be sanctuaries of generosity and care, not free suppliers for businesses looking to boost profit margins.

Those who rely on the Ty Fforest Foodshare for daily sustenance are often in dire financial situations, facing unemployment, low wages, or health issues. Others more fortunate are still welcome to the foodshare (as there is no criteria) – it is simply to avoid waste and reduce landfill. For these individuals, food banks are not merely convenient—they are essential. Diverting resources meant for these individuals to fuel private profit is not only exploitative but also morally reprehensible.

Ethical Concerns and Broken Trust

The concept of a food bank hinges on integrity and community trust. Individuals and organisations donate to food banks with the understanding that their contributions will go directly to those who truly need it. Businesses that take advantage of these charitable efforts for personal gain breach this trust and diminish the goodwill that sustains food banks.

This issue reflects a deeper disregard for community well-being. Deshi Spice, by allegedly sourcing ingredients from a food bank, is profiting off the goodwill meant to alleviate food insecurity. This goes against the very principles of ethical business and community responsibility. It is particularly disheartening when a local business, one that could otherwise uplift and strengthen its community, exploits the resources meant to benefit it.

A Call for Accountability

It’s essential that food banks and food shares implement safeguards to prevent exploitation by for-profit entities. Measures such as monitoring distributions, verifying the recipients’ needs, and collaborating with community oversight committees can help ensure that donations reach those who genuinely need them.

Businesses that exploit these charitable systems should be held accountable, whether through public awareness, boycotts, or local legislation to address misuse of charity resources.

Conclusion

The actions of Deshi Spice in sourcing bulk ingredients from Ty Fforest Foodshare for profit undermine the spirit of charity and community welfare. Such exploitation is a clear violation of moral standards, and it’s crucial that the community speaks out to prevent further abuse. Food banks should exist as safe havens for the vulnerable, not as loopholes for business savings. This situation serves as a somber reminder that, while generosity and kindness are the bedrock of community support, accountability and oversight are equally necessary to ensure these values are upheld.

Deshi Spice has been approached for a comment, an update will appear if they provide a comment.

One volunteer from Ty Fforest states:
“Ty Fforest runs multiple vital services, from providing hot meals to vulnerable and homeless individuals through our outreach team to offering crisis support, domestic violence assistance, and aid for those in the sex trade. In addition, we operate a food bank and food share program to ensure that the community’s most at-risk members have access to the basics. All of this is made possible by dedicated volunteers, who give their time, energy, and even their own fuel—entirely for free—to make sure that those in genuine need receive appropriate help.

For a profit-making business to repeatedly attend our food bank and food shares, only to take the entire stock of naan breads, peppers, and onions—ingredients they later use for profit—is nothing short of appalling. It’s an abuse of trust and a betrayal of the very spirit of community care that Ty Fforest stands for.”

Uber starts in Swansea, £20 off your first 2 rides

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Citizen Journalism Newsbot
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Uber has officially launched its services in Swansea in response to significant local interest, with over 4,000 residents attempting to book rides through the app every week.

To celebrate its arrival in Swansea, Uber is enticing customers with a promotion offering up to £20 off the next two rides for passengers until March 24, 2024.

Uber’s platform, which debuted in the UK market in 2012, is renowned for its convenience, offering customers a seamless experience from booking to payment through a single, user-friendly app.

Andrew Brem, General Manager of Uber UK, expressed pride in launching Uber in Swansea, highlighting the increased demand for their services in the city. He emphasised Uber’s commitment to maximizing earnings opportunities for drivers, expanding transport options for passengers, and supporting the local economy. He said: “We are extremely proud to launch Uber in Swansea where we have been seeing increased demand for our services. By bringing Uber to the city we want to help maximise earnings opportunities for drivers, boost transport options for passengers, and support the local economy.”

£20 off next 2 rides in Swansea

To celebrate this launch, enjoy up to £20 off on your next two rides* from 13-24 March, 2024. If the offer does not automatically apply, you can use the code HISWANSEA

Here’s how to redeem your offer:

  • Select ‘Wallet’ from the app menu
  • Swipe down to ‘Promotions’ (not ’Voucher’)
  • Click ‘Add Promo Code’
  • Enter HISWANSEA and click ‘Add’

The Uber Effect: Threatening the Existence of Local Taxi Firms in Swansea

In recent years, the emergence of ride-hailing services like Uber has revolutionized the transportation industry worldwide. While hailed for their convenience and accessibility, these services have also posed a significant threat to traditional taxi firms, especially in smaller cities like Swansea. The convenience, competitive pricing, and ease of use offered by Uber have caused a seismic shift in consumer behavior, leaving local taxi companies struggling to adapt.

One of the primary reasons Uber poses a risk to local taxi firms in Swansea is its utilization of modern technology. With a user-friendly app that allows customers to request rides with a few taps on their smartphones, Uber has streamlined the booking process, eliminating the need for traditional phone calls or street hails. This convenience factor has made Uber an attractive option for many commuters and residents in Swansea, often at the expense of local taxi firms.

Moreover, Uber’s dynamic pricing model, which adjusts fares based on demand, often results in lower costs for passengers compared to traditional taxis. This competitive pricing strategy has further incentivized consumers to choose Uber over local taxi services, especially during peak times or inclement weather when taxi fares tend to surge.

Additionally, Uber’s extensive driver network has significantly expanded the availability of rides in Swansea. While local taxi firms may struggle to meet demand during busy periods, Uber’s large pool of drivers can quickly respond to requests, reducing wait times for passengers. This accessibility has made Uber a preferred choice for many residents and visitors alike, further eroding the market share of local taxi companies.

Furthermore, Uber’s aggressive marketing and promotional campaigns have increased its visibility and brand recognition in Swansea. Through various incentives and discounts, Uber has successfully attracted customers away from traditional taxis, posing a formidable challenge to local firms that lack the resources to compete on such a scale.

Despite these challenges, some local taxi firms in Swansea have sought to innovate and adapt to the changing landscape. Some have introduced their own mobile apps to improve booking efficiency, while others have focused on enhancing the quality of service to differentiate themselves from Uber. However, for many smaller firms, competing with Uber’s vast resources and global reach remains an uphill battle.

In conclusion, Uber’s presence in Swansea is likely to pose a significant risk to the survival of local taxi firms. With its convenient app-based platform, competitive pricing, extensive driver network, and aggressive marketing strategies, Uber has fundamentally transformed the transportation industry in Swansea and beyond. While local taxi companies may strive to adapt and innovate, the looming shadow of Uber continues to cast uncertainty over their future prospects. The service may be cheap and very competitive at the moment, though in the future if local independent taxi companies cease to exist due to the presence of Uber, arguably at this point Uber will increase their prices. Afterall, Uber increases prices when demand is higher than normal.

 

Video showing police recover stolen plant machinery

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Citizen Journalism Newsbot
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Automatrics receive more calls for help from clients in South Wales following the theft of a Bomag 100 Roller. The local police are keen to help and suspect one possible location.

Autistic youngsters get their own Prom at Swansea stadium

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Swansea Autism Movement
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Autistic youngsters get their own Prom…..

Many Autistic teenagers across Swansea and Neath and Port Talbot didn’t get a Prom or a school leavers event because they often struggle to cope with the noise, lights and number of people. Swansea Autism Movement are making up for this by organising an autism friendly Prom just for them.

With a silent disco, sensory room, quiet areas, the adaptations at the Swansea.com stadium for this event will support the particular needs of these young people. There will still be a disco, red carpet entrance, buffet and plenty of photo opportunities, but the focus of the evening on Friday 21st April is to ensure the best time is had by all and memories are made.

Swansea Autism Movement CIC is a peer-to-peer project of parent-carers who have autistic children and those waiting for a diagnosis. We support autistic children, their siblings and parent carers by connecting families through fun activities and regular contact. SAM is managed by a team of volunteer directors led by Chair Suzanne Cranmer-Ford.

SAM wish to thank everyone involved in assisting us with staging the event, especially Nicky Price at the Events team at Swansea.com, InHouse Entertainments, thesilentdiscocompany.co.uk, Play and Leisure Opportunity Library, Mara Cabral & John Minopoli for offering to take photographs at the event and especially the young people who have worked together with us to plan this event..

SAM would also like to thank those who supported our fundraising including Andrew Scott, Mardi Gras Party shop, Carltons Hair Design, Rachel Jenkins, Anne Melik, Lush Swansea, Daniel Perkins, Swansea City AFC, Kara Rees, all the individuals who have offered theirs or their family members Camper Vans, Cars and Harley bikes to be outside the event for photographs and everyone who has bought a sensory bag or phone holder from Jack.

For further information:  [email protected]

James Harvey – Under investigation from University Wales Trinity Saint David

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Citizen Journalism Newsbot
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Readers will recall our posts earlier this year regarding a certain James Harvey, a new figure in the motley ranks of those knuckledragging hatemongers at the so called ‘Voice of Wales’. Pleased to report then that our efforts seem to have born fruit with Harvey now under investigation by the authorities at University Wales Trinity Saint David (where Harvey is a student).
The attached pic includes screenshots of Harvey’s recent rantings on telegram and suggest Harvey isn’t best pleased that we have brought his appalling activities to wider scrutiny. Activities which can be seen in this video here https://www.facebook.com/FRWWales/videos/1207390309892071 (harvey appears 1 min 27 seconds in) and which have included promoting holocaust denial, white supremacism, peddling anti-semitic conspiracy tropes and likening people in Cardiff of somalian origins to apes.
In keeping with the british far right’s current insidious efforts to whip up hatred towards the trans community Harvey has also recenly taken to descending on shops in Cardiff and scouring them for items that offend the far right’s transphobic ‘sensibilities’ (with these revolting exploits filmed and uploaded to Harvey’s twitter for his cerebrally challenged cronies ‘enjoyment’).
One such Harvey crony hails from riverside in Cardiff in the shape of Hugh Thorne aka ‘Based Welshman’ on youtube and various online platforms used by the extreme right. Indeed Thorne has frequently acted as ‘cameraman’ when Harvey has been harrassing and intimdating retail workers in Cardiff.
We first brought Thorne to peoples attention in this facebook post 4 years ago https://www.facebook.com/FRWWales/posts/580193245828960 . Thorne has regularly participated (and filmed) efforts by british far right groups to intimidate and terrorise asylum seekers in places like Dover and West Wales and has travelled to Europe to attend events organised by neo fascists in europe.
While Harvey also operates the deranged and hopelessly misnamed ‘Students against Tyranny’ twitter account. Before linking up with VoW he was behind covid denying stunts in Cardiff and Swansea.
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