With the aim of getting neighbours to together, building relationships and to feel all the benefits of 'getting outside', our fantastic residents at Haven Close Community Living Scheme (Mandy Davies, Patricia Moran, Linda Thomas, Jean Thomas, Jean Rees and Sylvia Godfrey) have set up their very own group 'One Step to Haven.'

With a little help from our Community Living Officer, Taryn Williams, and Karen from Voluntary Action Merthyr Tydfil to get them started - the group have become self-sufficient and have been sprouting ideas and opportunities for the residents of Haven Close and the wider community to get their hands dirty. 

Starting with a revamp of a small grassed area just outside the Community Living communal hall, the group brightened up the section with planters and trellises that include a bug hotel and ladybird tower thanks to grants from Keep Wales Tidy.

Next the group took on a bigger project. With the help of Mike McNulty and the Ground Maintenance Team at MVH, the group consulted with all the residents to create a expansive No Mow Area right on the bank of the River Taff which benefits the environment and the huge variety of wildlife in this area including; otters, foxes, hedgehogs and birds. To ensure the area continues to thrive, the group have committed to not cutting the grass and have planted bee bombs and a lot of native plants including bluebells, snow drops, poppies and many more.

With the group growing fast and with their ideas coming faster - they needed equipment to keep on top of applying for grants and applications.  Following the success of their application to the Welsh Lottery Community Fund, the group received a laptop, printer and even raised beds for the next project 'grow you own', where the group want to create a vegetable area.  This will kick start the next phase by expanding on connections between people by growing and sharing what they grow.

We can't wait to see how successful the grow your own project will be and all their future ideas! Keep an eye on our social media and website for future updates of their activities! 

Be a part of One Step to Haven

You don’t have to live in Haven Close to get involved -  If you live locally and want to get involved contact Taryn on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.