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Stress Awareness Month - how about delving into Paint?

16 April 2026

News, Networking, Training & Funding

Updates, opportunities and resources from across the Social Firms Wales network.

Including awareness campaigns, networking events, training opportunities and funding support.

Awareness Campaigns

Stress Awareness Month — why not delve into painting and creativity?

Whether painting from photographs, tutorials or straight from the heart, creative activities can support wellbeing and self-expression.

Thank you to Alive with Chronic Illness for sharing this idea.

Autism Awareness Month — consider building content around awareness days this month and sharing your stories and case studies with us.

IoD Wales Awards

The Institute of Directors Wales has announced the finalists for the 2026 Wales Director of the Year Awards.

The awards recognise leadership excellence across innovation, sustainability and skills development.

38 directors across the private, public and third sectors have been shortlisted across 10 categories.

View the full shortlist

Newport Engagement Hub

A dynamic collaboration space designed to inspire innovation, connection and growth.

Visit the website and book a tour

National Minimum Wage Updates

Updated rates came into effect on 1 April 2026.

21+ £12.71 | 18-20 £10.85 | Under 18 £8 | Apprentice £8

Read more on GOV.UK

Resources

Resources available including Welsh language materials and support information.

Networking Events

Cynefin Pamaja Intergenerational Employability & Careers Event

Connect, learn and get inspired through workshops and networking sessions.

18/04/2026 | 23/05/2026 | 06/06/2026 | 26/06/2026

Barnabas Art House, Newport, NP20 2BB

Book via Eventbrite

Training Opportunities

Talk Training Ltd offers qualifications including:

  • ILM Management Levels 3, 4 & 5
  • Project Management Level 4
  • Business Administration Levels 2, 3 & 4
  • Learning & Development Level 3

Contact: Ali Yilmaz | 01443 848304

Upcoming Webinar

From Day One: Embedding Social Value That Works for Everyone

In partnership with Eleri Roberts.

22/04/2026 | 10:30–12:00 | Teams

Book via Eventbrite

Funding Opportunities

BCRS Business Loans have been allocated £20m by the British Business Bank to support underserved small businesses across Wales and the West Midlands.

Loans range from £25,001 to £250,000.

Cwtch Communities Fund offers grants between £15,000 and £35,000 for grassroots Welsh organisations.

Application deadline: 22/05/2026

MAX – Your Virtual Funding Advisor can help organisations identify grant opportunities.