Thinking of getting involved?
There is no Gwerin y Coed in our area?
There are still areas of Wales where children and young people have no opportunity to take part in Gwerin activities. To grow and develop we need enthusiastic new volunteers – people like you – to come forward. We have a series of training material and resources available to help you and we have a network of volunteers and part-time workers who are able to help you. If you feel your area is ripe for a Gwerin group, the first step is to talk informally to friends and perhaps if you have a child at school, to other parents you know.
New groups need a core group of adults who are committed to our aims and who are prepared to work hard to get a group running. Let us know as you begin this process: we can let you have copies of a range of leaflets to help you explain the aims and philosophy of Gwerin. We could also arrange for an existing Gwerin group to visit your area. Different groups become established in different ways, but it is sometimes a good idea to organise a Fun Day of co-operative games and activities at a community centre or local school to widen the number of people involved. Very few Gwerin groups have any trouble in attracting enough children!
Would I be welcomed in an existing group?
We are reliant on new adults coming forward to help our groups develop and expand, and everyone has particular skills and expertise to offer. Don’t be afraid to offer your help. A good way in can be to offer to come along to group nights for a few weeks, to get to know other adults and children and to find out what goes on. Or you may want to ask if help is needed on the next camping trip.
Adult leaders enrol as Gwerin members and pay an annual membership subscription. This is partly a requirement under our child protection policy. Members are also covered by the organisations insurance when engaged in Gwerin activities.
Is it fun?
Yes, it wouldn’t be worth doing otherwise. And we believe what we are trying to achieve is an important and worthwhile aim. As an adult leader you will be working along young people in a movement with a strong determination to build a better future for all of us. As our principles say, we want a world based on equality, friendship, peace and social justice through active co-operation.
Why not contact your local group or the office - awel@gwerin.org , 0845 458 9560