Council launches Welsh language introduction leaflet at Urdd Eisteddfod

Powys County Council has unveiled a Welsh language introduction leaflet designed to welcome individuals who relocate to Powys from outside of Wales.

The announcement was made during the recent Urdd Eisteddfod, one of Europe's largest youth festivals, held in Llandovery, Carmarthenshire.

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The informative leaflet was launched at the Maldwyn stand, offering newcomers an introduction to the Welsh language, including simple phrases and a guide to understanding local place names. It also emphasizes the numerous benefits of Welsh-medium education, highlighting the opportunities available for language learning within the county.

The creation of the leaflet aligns with Powys County Council's Welsh in Education Strategic Plan and has been developed in collaboration with the council's Welsh Language Governance Panel. To ensure broad distribution, the leaflet will be shared with Powys-based estate agents and housing associations who can provide it to individuals and families considering a move to the area.

Cllr James Gibson-Watt, Leader of Powys County Council, expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to launch the leaflet at the Urdd Eisteddfod. "It was an honor to attend the Urdd Eisteddfod in Llandovery last week, and we are looking forward to welcoming the festival when it comes to Meifod next year," he said. "I was delighted to be involved in the launch of this important leaflet, which provides an understanding of the importance of the Welsh language and encourages people to consider learning Welsh - either for themselves or for their children."

Cllr Elwyn Vaughan, Chair of the Welsh Language Governance Panel, emphasized the significance of welcoming newcomers to Powys with an introduction to the Welsh language. "The Welsh language belongs to us all, and it is important that those who move to Powys are welcomed with an introduction to Welsh," he stated. "An understanding of the language helps people settle into their communities and encourages a sense of connection with our place names and heritage. It is also important that families moving to the area learn that Welsh-medium education is open to all."

The leaflet launch aims to create an inclusive and inviting environment for individuals and families relocating to Powys, promoting cultural integration and fostering a deeper appreciation for the local Welsh language and heritage. By providing essential language resources and highlighting the availability of Welsh-medium education, Powys County Council aims to encourage new residents to engage with the vibrant linguistic and cultural tapestry of the region.

For those interested in discovering more about Welsh-medium education in Powys, further information is available here https://en.powys.gov.uk/destinationbilingual