Film nights for families on the doorstep
Coelbren Welfare Hall has been awarded an £11,170 Awards for All grant, with support from coal mining charity CISWO, to create a welcoming entertainment space for residents.
The project will host at least 26 cinema nights over the next year, offering affordable screenings for families and individuals who would otherwise face long journeys and high costs to enjoy a night at the movies.
Trustee Emma Davies said:
“We wanted to create something that brings people together and offers families a chance to enjoy entertainment without the cost and travel.
The support from CISWO has helped us access the Awards for All grant and made this possible — we’re excited to see the positive impact on our community.”
Strong start for new cinema
The first screenings have already attracted strong interest from locals, with organisers promising to shape the programme around community feedback to ensure the films reflect local tastes and needs.
Nicola Didlock, CISWO Chief Executive, said:
“We’re delighted to have supported Coelbren Welfare Hall in launching its new Community Cinema.
This project is a fantastic initiative that makes entertainment accessible in a rural, former mining area and creates a lively hub for families and friends to connect and enjoy shared experiences.”
Backing from coalfields charity
CISWO — which has been supporting coalfield communities since 1920 — says its grants service helps miners’ welfare charities identify funding opportunities, strengthen applications and build long‑term sustainability.
The charity, which became a registered organisation in 1995, remains the only national body solely focused on supporting former coal miners, their families and local mining communities.
