Time Credits Taking Root in Cynon Valley
APRIL 28th 2025
Tempo Time Credits has begun laying strong foundations for a local Time Credit network in the Cynon Valley. Supported by Pen y Cymoedd funding, the project is connecting volunteers, community groups, and local services to increase community participation and reward people for giving their time.
What’s Happening So Far:
- Asset Mapping: Underway across the Cynon Valley, including community-led efforts to identify local strengths.
- Community Engagement: Over 20 groups and individuals consulted, 5 groups fully signed up.
- Volunteers: 16 individuals already earning Time Credits through regular local activities.
- Recognition & Use: 34 Time Credits distributed; local redemption plans are in development.
- Youth & Future Focus: A new drive to engage young people, grow local business partners, and expand hyper-local opportunities to earn and spend.
Real Impact: Mike’s Story
Local resident Mike took action when his estate faced rising fly-tipping and antisocial behaviour. What started with solo clean-ups soon became a community movement, supported by Time Credits and partners like Trivallis Housing. Volunteers now earn Credits for everything from woodland clean-ups to painting – with families enjoying rewards like day trips as a result. The initiative is building not just cleaner streets but also community pride.
What’s Next:
- Local business onboarding to boost reward options
- Youth-focused volunteering opportunities
- Awareness and co-design events for residents
- Special events to bring neighbours together
The Fund was established by energy company Vattenfall to benefit the communities hosting the Pen y Cymoedd wind farm across the upper Neath, Afan, Rhondda and Cynon Valleys. It exists to support local people, groups and organisations to invest in themselves, their ideas and their communities.
The Community Fund has a substantial annual budget that is index-linked, meaning it increases in line with inflation. As an example, this equated to around £2.5 million in 2025. The Fund will continue to support communities until 2043, creating long-term opportunities for growth, resilience and positive change.
The Fund is managed by an independent, locally based not-for-profit Community Interest Company. It is overseen by a Board of Directors with strong local connections and delivered by a small but dedicated staff team with extensive community engagement experience. We are here to help ensure the Fund delivers on the vision and priorities of local communities.
Over the next 10 years, the Fund is focusing on investment in people, places and businesses — helping the Valleys to thrive, driving bold ideas, supporting transformation and creating lasting impact for current and future generations.