This interview is part of our Valleys Voices Heritage Project, where we spoke to staff (past and present), volunteers and community members about their experiences with Valleys Kids over our rich, almost 50 year history.

She first became aware of Valley’s Kids many years ago because her grandson regularly attended the Penyrenglyn Project. Living in Bryn Rhedyn before it was demolished, she also knew about the development of the centre and the work Julie was doing there.

She believes places like Valley’s Kids are vital because so many other community spaces—such as boys' clubs and youth clubs—no longer exist. In the past, these places offered young people support, safety, and trusted adults to talk to, especially if they were struggling at home. Without Valley’s Kids, she says, there would be nowhere left for children and young people to go.

She emphasises the importance of the centre for future generations, explaining that it provides stable role models and a safe environment. For her, Valley’s Kids is essential to the community and deeply valued by those who know its impact.