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Frontline Network Wales - New Partnership Launched!

Frontline Network Wales - New Partnership Launched!

Frontline Network Wales - New Partnership Launched!

Thursday, October 8, 2020

The Frontline Network and Cymorth Cymru are delighted to announce a new partnership which will provide opportunities for frontline workers to share their experiences and influence policy.

Cymorth Cymru, the representative body for providers of homelessness, housing and support services in Wales, will lead the Frontline Network Wales, building on nearly twenty years’ experience of running Wales-wide policy networks and influencing policy, legislation and practice.

As a member of the Welsh Government’s Homelessness Action Group, Cymorth is at the forefront of policy development to end homelessness in Wales and passionate about listening to the views of people working at the sharp end.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Cymorth has also played a key role in shaping Wales’ response to homelessness and ensuring that the Welsh Government is aware of, and acts on, the concerns of homelessness, housing and support providers.

Led by Cymorth’s Research Officer Gareth Lynn Montes, the Frontline Network Wales will:

  • Establish a specific mailing list for frontline workers

  • Organise network meetings for them to share their views

  • Conduct research on their experiences

  • Publish a series of reports which seek to influence policy and practice.

Cymorth Cymru Director Katie Dalton said:

“Homelessness and housing-related support staff have been at the heart of Wales’ response to COVID-19, ensuring that people have access to safe accommodation and support. During my 9 years in the sector, they’ve always inspired me with their passion and dedication, so I’m really pleased that we are creating a space for them to share experiences and make their voices heard.

“The Frontline Network have a fantastic record of doing this across the UK and we’re really excited to be working with them as we take this project forward in Wales.”

 

Gareth Lynn Montes, who will be leading the project on behalf of Cymorth said:

“Throughout my time at Cymorth, I have been privileged to meet some fantastic support workers who are some of the most selfless and thoughtful people I have ever met, always going the extra mile and putting the people they support at the forefront.

“At a time when the status, value and vital role of support workers have become more important than ever against the backdrop of a worldwide pandemic, it is crucial that the views and opinions of frontline workers in Wales are heard and represented.

“I look forward to learning about the concerns as frontline workers, how they think the sector could improve and listening to illuminating anecdotes and experiences from their important work.”

 

Marcus Loney-Evans, Policy and Communications Officer at the Frontline Network said:

“The Frontline Network is delighted to join up in Partnership with Cymorth, to create the Frontline Network Wales. We believe this nationwide network will provide an exciting opportunity for frontline workers in Wales to come together and share their experiences and expertise on homelessness.

By attending Frontline Network Wales activities and events, frontline workers across Wales will be able to explore solutions to key issues affecting staff and the people they are supporting in their local areas. We are excited to start this important Partnership, which we believe will offer a key link between the frontline voice and decision-makers”.

 

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