Vale of Clwyd MS Gareth Davies has praised the “incredible and life-changing” work being delivered by RCS (Rhyl City Strategy) during a visit to their Rhyl site, highlighting the organisation as a model for community-led transformation across North Wales.
RCS, a not-for-profit Community Interest Company, has been serving the area for over 18 years and is now a Wales-wide leader in helping people overcome barriers to work. During the visit, Gareth met with Chief Executive Ali Thomas to hear how RCS is breaking down the walls between health and employment, empowering individuals with long-term conditions, and supporting employers to be more inclusive and resilient.
Their approach is focused on collaboration, innovation, and deep community engagement, and was showcased through their latest major project, funded by a £3 million grant from the Dormant Assets Fund. This ambitious initiative aims to create pathways into green careers for underrepresented groups, including young people, those with disabilities or neurodiversity, and ethnic minority communities.
RCS is currently working with local partners to plan delivery and ensure it brings long-term benefits to the Rhyl area. Gareth also welcomed RCS’s commitment to Rhyl, praising their local roots and forward thinking approach. He noted how RCS brings people and organisations together to build a stronger, healthier local economy where opportunity is inclusive, and support is tailored to individual needs.
He strongly endorsed their work in raising awareness among employers of the value and potential of a more diverse workforce, particularly in light of growing opportunities in renewable energy and the green economy in North Wales.
The visit also covered broader themes affecting the future of Rhyl, such as the importance of creating spaces for young people, the role of small businesses in regeneration, and the need to shift the narrative around the town from decline to progress.
Gareth committed to helping ensure organisations like RCS have a stronger voice in local decision making, including on the Rhyl Town Board.
Following the visit, Gareth said:
"I was genuinely inspired by what I saw at RCS which this is exactly the kind of positive, people-first work we need more of in North Wales.
"By supporting individuals with complex needs into meaningful employment and showing businesses how to become more inclusive, RCS is tackling the root causes of inequality in an intelligent and compassionate way.
"I’d like to thank RCS for welcoming me, and I’d urge legislators to listen to organisations like RCS who understand our area and make a real difference to people’s lives."