Liz Matthews

As part of education at Cirencester College, I needed to complete relevant work experience for my A-level studies. At first, this felt like a chore; an assessment that had to be done. However, having sought to do two weeks of working for the parish council, I have had an unforgettable and fulfilling experience volunteering and helping out! 

As part of my work experience in July, I have worked on a number of different jobs, from door knocking and bingo at the memory café to participating in full council meetings and writing reports for the officers. This variety of my work really represents the diversity of what the parish council is responsible for. The most inspirational part of my experience was volunteering at the community cafés the council puts on. Directly helping out and seeing so many smiles across so many faces is a perfect demonstration of the positive impact the parish has on the lives of residents. 

Living in the parish, previously I knew very little about the work of the parish or what it even does. After getting stuck into the experience, however, I can honestly say that the parish is responsible for so much more than most realise. Additionally, I’ve come to appreciate how much Haydon Wick is supported by countless volunteers, from our litter pickers to minibus drivers, who give up their time to help strengthen the community of the parish. In my time here, it has been quite uplifting to see their work directly have a positive impact on the lives of others. 

Behind the scenes, it has been beyond evident to me the hard graft that everyone puts in to make sure Haydon Wick is a community that is inclusive and prospers together. Sometimes, it can feel like mountains have to be moved, but things are getting done for the benefit of everyone. The effort of the councillors and officers to create a successful summer extravaganza is a perfect example of the good work being done for Haydon Wick. 

I truly value my two weeks working at the parish council. I’ve learnt so many transferable and real-world skills that are hard to come by. Work experience and volunteering of any kind for the parish council is very underrated, and I would absolutely recommend it, as everyone is welcoming and it is very rewarding. Overall, I have deeply enjoyed my work experience for the parish council! 

Haydon Wick Parish Council Awards Over £1,700 in Grants to Support Local Community Initiatives

Haydon Wick Parish Council is pleased to announce that £1,776.04 in grant funding has been awarded to three local organisations, each playing a vital role in improving the wellbeing of residents across the parish. The support reflects the Council’s ongoing commitment to investing in health, inclusion, and youth development.

1. Swindon Community First Responders – £464.46

Funding will support the purchase of updated oxygen and heart rate monitoring kits, enabling the volunteer team to better respond to medical emergencies — including cardiac arrests, breathing difficulties, and suspected sepsis — before the ambulance service arrives. The new equipment is suitable for use from birth upwards and will serve thousands of residents in North Swindon over the next 10 to 15 years.

2. The Roxi Foundation – £311.58

The grant will fund a branded events gazebo and pop-up materials to enhance the visibility and accessibility of the charity’s outreach. The Roxi Foundation provides vital support for families navigating ADHD, autism, and other neurodiverse conditions — including access to quicker assessments and inclusive community engagement at local events.

3. Draycott Sports Camp – £1,000.00

Draycott Sports Camp will use the funding to extend the hours available for children attending through the HAF (Holiday Activities and Food) programme. Currently, these children must leave earlier than their peers due to funding constraints. The grant will help ensure all children can stay for a full day of enriching sports and nutrition activities, fostering inclusion and positive social experiences.

These grants form part of the Parish Council’s £5,000 annual Community Grants Programme, which supports projects aligned with the Council’s vision of a connected, resilient, and supportive community. With £3,223.96 still available, the second round of grant applications is now open and will close in September. Local community groups are encouraged to apply.

Councillor V Manro, Chair of the Finance & Policy Committee, commented:
“We are proud to support these three inspiring organisations that are making a genuine difference in our community. From saving lives to creating safe spaces and enriching children’s lives, these projects highlight the power of local action. We look forward to receiving more applications in the next round.”

For further information or to apply for a community grant, go to: Community Grants

 A419/A417 Night Closures – July/August 2025

Essential road resurfacing work means overnight closures (8pm-6am) on various A419/A417 sections from 9th July to 21st August.

📅 Key dates:

• 9-16 July & 21-26 July: White Hart to Turnpike
• 23 July-4 Aug & 11-21 Aug: Turnpike to Spine Road
• 24 July: Common head to White Hart
• 5 Aug: Spine Road to Burford Road

Read more here.