Mid Wales Journal Column - Joyce Watson, Mid and West Wales Senedd Member

It’s panto season! 

And Powys’ thriving arts community received a festive boost from Wesh Government and the National Lottery, with funding announced for local groups including Mid Powys Youth Theatre, Mid Wales Opera, Hay Festival and Wyeside Arts Centre. It’s part of a £3.6m injection for the arts, which will support more than 60 organisations across the country.

Wales’ arts scene is an economic and cultural asset. But to thrive, our town centres need further support. 

So great news that a new digital platform has been developed by Mid Wales’ largest independent tourism organisation – to connect local businesses with the region’s tourism sector. IMI Wales has been created by Mid Wales Tourism with support from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund. The idea is to help businesses to collaborate, share opportunities and encourage visitors to explore the unique experiences our region offers. The free service has already welcomed more than 80 Powys businesses. For more information, visit: www.imi.wales

As well as our towns, our rivers need help. Now, in the largest review of the water sector since privatisation, the Welsh and UK Governments have introduced an independent Water Commission. It will strengthen regulations and help fast-track reform to make Britain’s rivers and seas cleaner. Water quality is a big concern for Mid Wales, one that I have pushed in the Senedd for years. With this new approach – two committed Labour governments working together – we will tackle it.  

With Christmas fast-approaching, too many people face financial struggle. So, I urge readers to check what support they’re entitled to and might be missing out on. Since 2022, Welsh Government support worth almost £5bn has targeted those who need it most, putting money back in people’s pockets. The Single Advice Fund, Discretionary Assistance Fund, support with council tax and Help to Stay are some of the programmes that have helped. But money is still going unclaimed.  Make sure you claim what’s yours. For more information, visit: www.gov.wales/claim-whats-yours-campaign

I wish you all a happy Christmas and peaceful 2025.

Joyce Watson, Mid and West Wales Senedd Member