Newtown Network expected to become an official group

The Newtown Network will become a more recognised group this week when a memorandum of understanding is expected to be signed between local organisations.

The network was set up in the wake of the coronavirus situation. It was formed by the Mayor, Cllr David Selby, the town council, local volunteers, Ponthafren and PAVO among others.

Initially, it helped co-ordinate 'angels' to support residents in need, including essential food deliveries and co-ordinating other help.

Last month Cllr Selby suggested the group should become recognised as a formal group to allow it to continue its work post coronavirus.

A Memorandum of Understanding has been drafted by the town council for the various organisation involved to work together through the network.

"This is an agreement to collaborate to support the residents of Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn, Powys in various ways to have healthy and fulfilled lives," says the memorandum.

"To work and support volunteers working to achieve these aims and to add to and co-ordinate the activities of those organisations and statutory bodies working to achieve these aims.

"These organisations join as a group to be known as the Newtown Network with the initial objective of supporting meal and food deliveries to the needy in the town, to work with the Powys Library Service to provide a home delivery for readers, and to assist in the development of a Volunteer networks, both its own and others in Newtown and Llanllwchaiarn.

"The Network agrees to respond and assist in other projects from time to time when collaboration is required."

Town councillors are expected to agree to the memorandum of understanding at their full meeting on Monday evening.