Disabled residents are providing essential services for people affected by cancer, as Mayor Cllr Simon Lloyd recently discovered.
He was honoured to be invited to the Remploy factory in Aberdare, where staff make pockets that can be sewn into underwear, swimwear and even dresses.
Working alongside Cynon Valley Cancer Support, one of Mayor Cllr Lloyd’s chosen charities, the staff then ensure the pockets are then used by women who are recovering from surgery for breast cancer.
Mayor Cllr Lloyd, Rhian Dash from Cynon Valley Cancer Support and Alan Gray from Remploy spent time meeting staff and finding out more about their work.
Opened in 1973, Aberdare is one of the most successful branches of Remploy, which is the largest provider of employment for disabled people in the UK. Over 60 people work at the Aberdare branch.
Mayor Cllr Lloyd said: “As some of you know I recently lost my wife Val to cancer. It is a disease that affects almost everyone, whether as a patient, a family member of a patient or as a friend.
“I am absolutely committed as Mayor to support organisations and schemes such as this that help people who have or are battling cancer.
“I am honoured to work with Cynon Valley Cancer Support as they have been wonderful to me and my family and I know they do such valued work to help people. I think this is a marvellous idea and I would like to give my wholehearted support. Once again thank you for having me here today, I am truly honoured.”
Rhian Dash from Cynon Valley Cancer Support, said: “We are proud of the strong relationships we have, and support we secure from, the Mayor and Remploy.
“The exceptional work of the talented Remploy staff in Aberdare enables us to offer a unique, discreet and important service for women who have been affected by breast cancer.
“This is truly an example of the local community working together to deal with local issues.”
Alan Gray, Manager of Remploy in Aberdare said: “It is an honour for Remply in Aberdare to work with such a caring charity as Cynon Valley Cancer Support – their support for the community is unprecedented.
“This is the latest example of Remploy Aberdare working with partners such as the Council, local busineses and charities to make a difference.
“We offer a range of services to support all causes, including local businesses, such as sewn garments and bespoke items. We can also offer packaging and distribution services, assembly work, the sales or recycling of office furniture and training provision.”
