BY Hannah Blythyn

MS for Delyn

This week we have been commemorating 25 years of devolution in Wales. Devolution symbolised a new chapter for the politics and the people of this country. With devolution has come greater autonomy and a stronger voice. Over a quarter of a century, Wales has led the way in so many ways, both in the UK and the wider world, and I am extremely proud that for eight of those 25 years I have had the privilege of serving the community that shaped me in the Welsh Parliament. It is something I could never have imagined when I was growing up here and I am absolutely committed to doing all I can to create the Wales we all want for the future.

As many readers will know, I am a proud trade unionist and I have spent the best part of my working life advocating for a better deal at work. Last week in the Senedd I responded to Ministerial Questions on International Workers’ Day and I encouraged others to reflect and recognise the role that trade unions have played in making work better – and also helping to shape a fairer society. The UK Government has launched a series of ideological assaults on trade unions, which is in stark contrast to our Welsh Labour Government which is committed to social partnership working and has legislated to make it part of our devolved DNA here in Wales. During my statement, I spoke about the Unions and the World of Work project, which is about teaching the next generation of workers, employers and entrepreneurs about their rights and responsibilities at work – this will empower workers and strengthen our Welsh approach to social partnership working.

Also last week we saw local elections in England and Police and Crime Commissioners (PCC) elections here in Wales – and it’s clear that people are turning away from the Tories in huge numbers. Here in North Wales, we have re-elected Andy Dunbobbin as our PCC and I’d like to offer him my congratulations for running such an inspiring campaign. I've known Andy for a number of years – we're from the same community and I know that he is very much rooted in the communities he serves. Since he was first elected in 2021, we have worked together to support people, from attending residents’ meetings to holding joint surgeries providing help and advice and events such as Pride & Progress or White Ribbon Day – to bring an end to violence against women and girls. Llongyfarchiadau Andy!

Last week the Welsh Government announced a new scheme to support food and drink festivals and events across Wales – the small grant scheme aims to add value to the food industry in Wales and will go some way to encourage co-operation between Welsh hospitality and food and drink businesses to source more local food and drink. At the weekend I attended the Holywell Food & Drink Festival and the local produce on show there was a really good reminder of how much excellent local food and drink is available and really showcased the best of our community. There are many regular events across Delyn which would benefit from this fund – helping our local hospitality industry and providing a boost for tourism and innovation in our area. You can find out more about the scheme at www.businesswales.gov.wales/foodanddrink/growing-your-business/food-tourism-and-culture.

Last week I met with Betsi Cadwaladr UHB to discuss mental health provision for North Wales and the steps the health board is taking to improve services in that area. BCUHB has also launched a new community quilt project across the region – the project gives people from North Wales the chance to design and craft a square on the quilt to raise awareness of the health board’s HIV strategy and to help end the stigma around HIV by 2030. There are a series of drop-in sessions to help get you started, including one at Flint Library on May 11 – you can book your place at www.eventbrite.com/e/betsi-community-quilt-project-prosiect-cwilt-cymunedol-tickets-784367352867.

On a related note, this May also marks a campaign from Fast Track Cymru which is dedicated to stopping HIV stigma across Wales and aims to challenge misconceptions, educate our communities and support those living with HIV. Fast Track Cymru wants to boost understanding around HIV, stop the stigma associated with the condition and tackle misinformation, building a more inclusive society – and I fully support this campaign. You can find out more at www.fasttrack.wales/stop-hiv-stigma.

As always, if you would like advice and/or support, please don’t hesitate to get in touch on any of the following contact details – 52 High Street, Mold, Flintshire, on 01352 753464 or by email hannah.blythyn@senedd.wales. You can also keep up to date via my Facebook page – www.facebook.com/HannahBlythynForDelyn. Constituents are, of course, welcome to contact my office to arrange an appointment to see me, you don’t need to wait for an advice surgery.