United Welsh raises over £7,000 for Vision 21

After a year of fundraising, United Welsh is pleased to announce it has raised £7,026 for the learning disabilities charity Vision 21.

Staff took part in a range of activities to raise money after United Welsh voted to make Vision 21 their corporate charity.

Established in 1986, Vision 21 supports life-changing opportunities for people with learning disabilities to realise their potential.

Vision 21 students deliver catering services at two United Welsh Extra Care schemes, Llys Nant Y Mynydd and Plas Hyfryd, which provide over 90 high quality apartments and communal facilities to older people in Nantyglo and Caerphilly.

As well as equipping the students with life skills, the work placements provided by the charity also provide respite for family members.

Val Farr, whose son Jason works once a week at Llys Nant Y Mynydd, said: “Jason helps around the house now; he chops vegetables and he does dishes which has helped a lot.

“I’ve had ill health and Jason has helped tremendously and I think this is through skills he has picked up at Vision 21.”

Fundraising efforts by United Welsh staff have included a 220-mile cycle across Wales; a team taking part in the Cardiff-based 10K obstacle course ‘Invncbl’ event; raffles; cake sales and quizzes.

Lynda Sagona, Group Chief Executive of United Welsh said: “The learning opportunities created by Vision 21 make a real difference to the students, their families and the communities where they work.

“At United Welsh, in addition to building homes and creating communities, our people are passionate about helping others to make the most of their strengths to help them live their best lives.

“We are delighted to have raised such a fantastic amount for Vision 21 and we hope it goes a long way in supporting their work.”

Rob Larkins, Chief Executive for Vision 21 said: “We are thrilled with the support we have received from United Welsh and I would like to say a huge thank you to the staff who gave up their free time to help us.”

United Welsh’s nominated charity for 2019 is Parkinson’s UK.