Activities return to Miners’ Centre following lockdown

Caerphilly Miners’ Centre is beginning to restart a host of onsite activities and events following the coronavirus lockdown.

The community centre, which is based on the site of the former Caerphilly Miners’ Hospital, temporarily closed in March as a result of the pandemic, with classes and social events moving online.

A buddy scheme for isolated people without internet access was also set up at the start of lockdown by the people who run the centre.

However, with coronavirus restrictions easing in Wales, the centre has decided to move to a ‘hybrid’ system, where people can attend events in person, while others can continue to access events remotely.

Ceri Griffiths, who runs French classes at the centre, said: “I think its important that we offer people the choice and the Miners’ Centre has moved quickly to be able to put the technology in place to do this, and as a teacher I want to make sure all my students are safe and happy.”

During lockdown, the centre raised nearly £1,000 for a large gazebo for outdoor activities, including arts classes.

Ceri Jenkins, who attends arts classes at the centre, said: “It is good we can still do our classes and make up our own minds whether we want to turn up in person or take part online.

“It’s lovely to feel part of a group activity and to know that the more vulnerable in the group can join in at home. This is the way more things will be moving now and it’s great to see so many of the older class members embracing Zoom.”

Caerphilly MP Wayne David, who is chair of trustees at the Miners’ Centre, said: “We need to make sure people have opportunities to socially interact – that was behind the decision to open up the Miners as soon as it was safe to do so.

“But with so many in our community still shielding, the hybrid function means people can meet up virtually and in person.

“This is so important to those that have been isolated and need to meet up with friends and take part in activities. We will do our best to continue to connect the Caerphilly community.”

For more information about classes and activities at the Miners’ Centre, visit www.caerphillyminerscentre.co.uk/visiting