Europe UK (Commonwealth Union) – As languages disappear across the world many local governments have taken measures to preserve local and tribal languages, particularly languages that are spoken by fewer individuals.
The Llŷn and Eifionydd National Eisteddfod is a festival that marks the culture and language of Wales is currently being held and the Minister for Education and Welsh Language has encouraged new community projects to seek out funding.
The Welsh Government has extended an invitation to community groups, encouraging them to submit applications for modest grants intended to facilitate the establishment or expansion of community-driven cooperatives, social enterprises, and housing initiatives. This financial support, recognized as Project Perthyn Small Grants, forms an integral component of the Welsh Language Communities Housing Plan.
The primary objective of these grants is to foster the creation of economic prospects, facilitate the provision of affordable housing, and offer assistance to Welsh-speaking communities characterized by a significant prevalence of secondary residences.
This marks the second phase of the grant initiative, following the initial round where funding was successfully secured by 21 projects. Notably, among the recipients were four projects situated in close proximity to the Eisteddfod in Gwynedd.
A financial allocation of £12,000 was allocated to Melin Daron to facilitate the restoration and establishment of Aberdaron’s historically significant grade II water mill. The goal is to educate individuals about the region’s heritage and also offer local residents’ accommodations within the property. Menter Rabar – Abersoch secured a generous grant amounting to £12,430. This entity, established in February 2023, aims to either lease or acquire the former Ysgol Abersoch building from Gwynedd Council. The objective is to renovate the former school and transform it into a community-operated hub within the village center, serving the welfare of the local populace.
The Minister for Education and Welsh Language, Jeremy Miles says “Small projects can make a big difference in our communities. We’re already seeing communities near the Eisteddfod Maes taking the initiative to deliver innovative projects. I’m looking forward to seeing lots of creativity, learning about ideas and hearing about people’s experiences this week at the Eisteddfod Genedlaethol in Boduan.”
