Valleys charity wins Welsh Government backing for ICT improvements

An independent charity that provides respite services for carers in Merthyr Tydfil and Rhondda Cynon Taff has received backing from Communities 2.0, the Welsh Government's digital inclusion programme.

Crossroads Care Cwm Taf is implementing its new ICT improvements after receiving an ICT review from Communities 2.0. The review helped the organisation assess its existing equipment and identify training needs and this support will help the charity to upgrade its equipment, phone system and online presence.

Communities 2.0 is a Welsh Government programme which is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund.

Crossroads Care Cwm Taf (CCCT) is an independent charity and company limited by guarantee. The organisation is affiliated to Carers Trust and provides respite services for carers in Merthyr Tydfil and RCT. From April 2012 to March 2013, CCCT provided 55,647 care hours and supported 1,096 people. The charity employs a total of 71 members of staff, comprising of 6 full-time administrative staff and 65 part-time care assistants and support staff, either based within the office or from home.

Janice Cowan is Quality Review Officer of Crossroads Care Cwm Taf. She commented:

“We are delighted with success of our application and grateful to the Communities 2.0 officers who have assisted us through this process. We have no doubt that their extremely thorough ICT review has ensured we will have the ICT infrastructure we need to continue delivering care efficiently in Merthyr Tydfil and Rhondda Cynon Taff.”

Communities 2.0 project director Cathryn Marcus commented:

“Communities 2.0 is delighted to be able to add its support to the work that Crossroads Care undertakes. The charity offers a vital service in Rhondda Cynon Taff and this investment will help the organisation to deliver its services more efficiently and effectively.”