Bridgend Association of Voluntary Services (BAVO) is celebrating following commendation from the Welsh Language Commissioner on its Cynnig Cymraeg (Welsh Offer).
Cynnig Cymraeg is the Commissioner’s official recognition and is given to organisations that have collaborated with the Commissioner’s officers to develop and deliver ambitious Welsh language provision.
CVCS LEADING THE WAY
BAVO is the third county voluntary council to receive the commendation and it means that they will offer more services bilingually in the future according to the Chief Executive, Heidi Bennett,
‘We are delighted to receive this commendation from the Welsh Language Commissioner. For many, this area is predominantly English speaking but there is a strong Welsh culture here, particularly in our valleys communities. We are also committed to offering equal opportunities to those who want to use our services and that means ensuring that they can use their preferred language.’
‘Our staff have worked diligently with the support of the Commissioner’s officers and I am extremely proud of our success.’
‘I would encourage any other voluntary councils that have not already taken advantage of this and any similar organisations to contact the Welsh Language Commissioner – they are willing to help and it will definitely improve your service and your perception among your stakeholders.’
The organisation has 24 members of staff and over 400 member organisations who source advice and support on a daily basis. The long-term aim is that every element of the service will be provided bilingually.
HELPING WALES WORK BILINGUALLY
Since launching the scheme in June 2020, 63 businesses and charities have had their Cynnig Cymraeg recognised, and the Commissioner’s office is working with over a hundred other organisations to develop their schemes.
Awel Trefor, Senior Hybu [Promotion] Officer at the Commissioner’s office, added,
‘The Cynnig Cymraeg scheme gives organisations the opportunity to raise awareness of their Welsh language services. The aim is to see an increase in awareness leading to an increase in the use of Welsh language services. We offer support to those who wish to take it forward and we have been delighted with the response so far.
‘BAVO offers a valuable service to many various organisations and individuals in the Bridgend County, and they are to be commended for trying to ensure that everyone has equal access to their services and can do so through the medium of Welsh or English.’
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT CYNNIG CYMRAEG
The Welsh Language Commissioner’s Promotion Team can help you identify at least five main Welsh services that you provide and this will form the basis of your Cynnig Cymraeg.
Cynnig Cymraeg is open to any charity or organisation that has developed a Welsh language development plan. It is an opportunity to demonstrate to your service users that you are proud of the Welsh language and are ready to use it.
Why not go for it – more information on the Cynnig Cymraeg is available here.