Y Bont, a highly valued local charity based next to Heronsbridge School in Bridgend, is issuing an appeal for support from the local community.
Established in 1997, Y Bont provides essential services to children with complex needs, disabilities, and emerging developmental issues, serving as a vital resource and a lifeline for families across Bridgend County Borough. However, with increasing financial pressures, the charity is asking for help and ideas to ensure its ability to continue providing its unique, essential care.
Y Bont accommodates children as young as six weeks and specialises in assisting children with a wide array of needs, including complex medical conditions, tracheostomy and ventilation maintenance, ASD, Down syndrome, Visual and hearing impairments, life-limiting conditions such as Dravet Syndrome and SMA, and challenging behaviours. The charity also serves as a safe and nurturing space for families, allowing them critical respite and support. Over the past few years, Y Bont has grown significantly to meet local
demand: occupancy in its specialist nursery setting has increased by 34%, and the after-school club has grown by 31%. Additionally, Y Bont has supported many children and families through play programmes that help young children develop social, communication, and learning skills in a supportive environment.
A special place making a difference every day:
One parent, Rhian, shared her family’s connection with Y Bont and the progress her son has made there: “Louis has been attending Y Bont since January 2024, and his progress has been immense. Though non-verbal, he expresses his love for Y Bont every morning when he runs inside without a backward glance.” Rhian shared. “It’s clear how much he adores being here, and we feel incredibly grateful to have Y Bont in our lives.”
For many families like Rhian’s, Y Bont offers a critical space where children with unique needs can thrive while families receive the support and respite necessary. These connections illustrate how deeply woven Y Bont is into the lives of people across Bridgend County Borough and South Wales, creating a network of support and care for some of the community’s most vulnerable families.
Y Bont CEO Sarah Jones emphasises the profound impact the charity has on the lives of children and families in the community: “Y Bont is a special place with highly trained, dedicated staff providing the specialised care our children need. We focus on the children and support entire families, giving parents a much-needed break to run errands or enjoy a moment to themselves. The care provided at Y Bont is essential, and without the support they receive here, life would be far more challenging for many of our families.” said Sarah.
A critical need for support to ensure Y Bont’s future:
While Y Bont has expanded its services and reach in recent years, the charity relies on grants and community donations to continue operating. Due to how tough things are financially for us all, Y Bont needs to act now to ensure its ability to support families into the future.
Y Bont’s CEO, Sarah Jones, understands the challenges we all face in these times. She’s reaching out to our local community, emphasising that every bit of support, whether a one-off donation or organising a fundraiser, will make a difference in sustaining our critical services.
How you can help Y Bont today:
Y Bont is calling on individuals, families, businesses, nurseries and schools in Bridgend and beyond to consider helping in any way they can. Here are some ways to support:
- Donate: Any amount, large or small, goes directly to supporting Y Bont’s services and allows the charity to continue offering specialised care for children in need. Click this link to donate: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/ybontbridgend.
- Organise a fundraiser: Whether it’s a sponsored run, bake sale, or a charity auction, fundraisers are a fantastic way to unite the community to support Y Bont’s work.
- Encourage local nurseries & schools to participate: Schools can host dress-down days or charity events to engage students and families in a cause that directly impacts the community.
- Corporate sponsorship or donations: Local businesses can also make a meaningful impact by offering financial support, sponsorship, or resources to help Y Bont reduce costs.
Y Bont’s team welcomes any new ideas and support from community members. The upcoming months are expected to be financially challenging, and every effort can help make a tangible difference in supporting Bridgend’s children and families. Your involvement can make a difference.
If you want to help or have ideas on supporting Y Bont, please get in touch with Sarah Jones, CEO, on 01656 646 013 or email Sarah@ybont.com. Join us in ensuring Y Bont can continue to provide these life-changing services for the children and families who rely on our centre the most.