Members of Fforwm Iaith Ynys Môn (Anglesey’s Welsh language forum) recently met in Llangefni to discuss one of their key priorities: supporting young people in developing their Welsh language skills. The meeting featured presentations from Isle of Anglesey County Council’s Learning Service and Bangor University, highlighting the steps being taken to nurture the next generation of Welsh speakers.
Forum members received data on Welsh-medium education in the area and heard about the success of local schools, including Ysgol David Hughes, which has been awarded Siarter Iaith Gwynedd a Môn (Gwynedd and Anglesey Welsh language charter) accreditation. Members also learned about the vital work being carried out in language centres, where pupils new to the area are immersed in Welsh over a 12-week programme.
Bangor University shared positive updates on its plans to introduce the Welsh language to medical students, and how studying through Welsh has opened doors for learners across a range of disciplines.
Councillor Gary Pritchard, Isle of Anglesey County Council leader and forum member, said:
"Ensuring that all young people on Anglesey have the opportunity to become confident Welsh speakers is one of our top priorities. As a forum, we are keen to show young people the value of their Welsh language skills and the local employment opportunities that come with them."
Natalie Lloyd Jones, Welsh Language Officer for North Wales Fire and Rescue Service and fellow forum member, added:
"It’s important that our service has Welsh-speaking staff so we can uphold our commitment to providing a bilingual emergency response. Recruiting people with the right skills can be challenging, so it’s encouraging to see schools, colleges, and the university working strategically to build a future workforce of confident Welsh speakers."
The forum brings together representatives from education, culture, public services, and community organisations to share ideas, plan projects, and collaborate on initiatives that strengthen the use of Welsh in the community. Members include Grŵp Llandrillo Menai, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Mudiad Meithrin, the Urdd, North Wales Police, Grŵp Cynefin, and many others.
To learn more or get involved, contact the forum by emailing Welsh@anglesey.gov.wales, visiting its Facebook page or its webpage.
What is Fforwm laith Ynys Môn ?
A group of organisations working together to promote and protect the Welsh language locally
It was set up in 2014 by Isle of Anglesey County Council in partnership with Menter Môn.
What it does
It brings together education, health, culture, public services, and community organisations to share ideas, plan projects, and work on initiatives to strengthen the language.
Who its members are
Bangor University, Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board, Mudiad Meithrin, Urdd, North Wales Police, Fire and Rescue Service, and many more.
Get in touch
You can take part by emailing the forum or visiting its Facebook or webpage.
Why it is important
The forum ensures that Welsh is actively supported across many sectors to create an environment where the language can thrive.