Taff Rocks: Building A Solid Future

A rock painted by Nicola at Taff Rocks

Nicola says that she has lots of people completing such intricate art after just 6 hours!

Taff Rocks, a charity which supports local people in Ynysowen with art therapy, has taken over managing the Smyrna Chapel in Aberfan. In March, the organisation took over the lease for the community building with support from Merthyr Tydfil CBC, Trinity Child and Family Centre, as well as the Invest Local program funded by the National Lottery Community Fund.

Nicola, the founder of Taff Rocks, recently sat down with Ben and Mark from BCT to talk about her big plans, as well as get some support on helping the charity reach a wider audience in the community. She is keen to re-engage with local groups and in particular support the great work of the local women’s refuge. Nicola sees art as a form of mental therapy, as well as being a relaxing pastime. Whilst her and her colleagues are not art therapists, they understand the benefits that the service offers.

Smyrna Chapel, Aberfan

A new space for the community

On top of the venue being used for Taff Rocks workshops, it will now also be available as a community space, hosting other events and meetings. It is also a great space which showcases local artists, providing a book-nook too for those just wishing to take a moment for themselves. With a refurbished kitchen space, it also allows the community a new venue to work on the Invest Local Ynysowen program.

Taff Rocks is going through a transition to a new website which will showcase the great work that they are doing in the community. The Smyrna Chapel also has a website which will allow bookings to be made online. There will also be additional branding placed outside so community members can see that the space is now open and ready for bookings.

For more information on Taff Rocks and the Smyrna Chapel, get in touch with Nicola by emailing nicola@taffrocks.org.uk