Mayor"s bid to boost centre (From Barry And District News)

Mayor"s bid to boost centre

A CONVERTED chapel in Barry is providing a vital day service for adults with learning disabilities.

Established four years ago, ValePlus - a charity being supported throughout her year of office by Vale of Glamorgan Mayor Cllr Margaret Alexander - offers both lifelong learning and leisure opportunities.

Many of those using the High Street facility, and a centre run by the charity in Llantwit Major, join ValePlus through direct referral from the Vale and Cardiff councils, and others through a school or college or are self funded.

Commending the "excellent work" undertaken by ValePlus, Cllr Alexander said: "ValePlus is run by well qualified and experienced teachers of special educational needs.

"It offers accredited courses for lifelong learning, and a range of leisure activities, in a safe and structured environment, and arranges taster days so that appropriate activities can be selected.

"There is also, of course, the marvellous opportunity to make new friends."

Activities on offer at the centre and in its garden are catering, horticulture, computers, arts and crafts, office skills, sports and leisure, personal and social education, life skills and workright.

"ValePlus directors Melanie Carter and Steve Thomas will be delighted to deal with enquiries from anyone wishing to use their service," added Cllr Alexander.

Those interested are invited to call Melanie on (01446) 746691 or email melanie@valeplus.com.

The centre is open Monday to Friday (9.30am-3.45pm) and Saturday (10am-3.30pm).

* During her year of office, Cllr Alexander is also supporting the Llandough Hospital Diabetes Centre and both the charities will benefit from a special Dyffryn Gardens event, an afternoon tea, on Sunday, July 24. Also included in the £10 ticket price is a tour of the gardens and entertainment from The Victorian Jazz Band.

Tickets for the event, which will be held between 2pm and 5pm, are available from the Mayor"s Office on 01446 709301.