Cymorth Cymru and the Frontline Network are delighted to announce a new partnership which will provide opportunities for frontline workers to share their experiences and influence policy.
Cymorth Cymru, the representative body for providers of homelessness, housing and support services in Wales, will lead the Frontline Network Wales, building on nearly twenty years’ experience of running Wales-wide policy networks and influencing policy, legislation and practice. As a member of the Welsh Government’s Homelessness Action Group, Cymorth is at the forefront of policy development to end homelessness in Wales and passionate about listening to the views of people working at the sharp end. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Cymorth has also played a key role in shaping Wales’ response to homelessness and ensuring that the Welsh Government is aware of, and acts on, the concerns of homelessness, housing and support providers.
The Frontline Network was set up by St Martin-in-the-Fields Charity and aims to build relationships, share best practice, develop solutions, and communicate the experience and views of frontline staff working with people experiencing homelessness. Since 2017, the Frontline Network has been working with partner organisations across the UK to provide opportunities for frontline workers to regularly come together in their areas, to network, share experiences and expertise. These partnerships also explore solutions to key issues affecting staff and people they support, and creates important links between the frontline voice and decision-makers.
Led by Cymorth’s Research Officer Gareth Lynn Montes, the Frontline Network Wales will:
The Frontline Network defines ‘frontline worker’ as a paid worker, who directly supports people who are experiencing homelessness. This includes those working in the Voluntary, Statutory, and Public sectors. Frontline Workers responding to this survey work in roles including outreach, housing, social work, and probation.
Cymorth Cymru Director Katie Dalton said:
“Homelessness and housing-related support staff have been at the heart of Wales’ response to COVID-19, ensuring that people have access to safe accommodation and support. During my 9 years in the sector, they’ve always inspired me with their passion and dedication, so I’m really pleased that we are creating a space for them to share experiences and make their voices heard.
“The Frontline Network have a fantastic record of doing this across the UK and we’re really excited to be working with them as we take this project forward in Wales.”
Gareth Lynn Montes, who will be leading the project on behalf of Cymorth said:
“Throughout my time at Cymorth, I have been privileged to meet some fantastic support workers who are some of the most selfless and thoughtful people I have ever met, always going the extra mile and putting the people they support at the forefront.
“At a time when the status, value and vital role of support workers have become more important than ever against the backdrop of a worldwide pandemic, it is crucial that the views and opinions of frontline workers in Wales are heard and represented.
“I look forward to learning about the concerns as frontline workers, how they think the sector could improve and listening to illuminating anecdotes and experiences from their important work.”
Marcus Loney-Evans, Policy and Communications Officer at the Frontline Network said:
“The Frontline Network is delighted to join up in Partnership with Cymorth, to create the Frontline Network Wales. We believe this nationwide network will provide an exciting opportunity for frontline workers in Wales to come together and share their experiences and expertise on homelessness.
By attending Frontline Network Wales activities and events, frontline workers across Wales will be able to explore solutions to key issues affecting staff and the people they are supporting in their local areas. We are excited to start this important Partnership, which we believe will offer a key link between the frontline voice and decision-makers”.
