Bridging the Gap Youth – Merthyr Celebrates 20 Years of Making a Difference

A big shout out to our past and present members!

This September, Bridging the Gap Youth – Merthyr (BGY) will proudly celebrate its 20th birthday, marking two decades of dedication, inclusion and community impact. To celebrate this milestone, we are inviting past and present members, families and supporters to join us for a special anniversary event at The Hills Plymouth Cricket Club, Pentrebach, on 18th September 2026.

Founded on 18th September 2006, Bridging the Gap Youth – Merthyr has been a fundamental provision within the local community. As the first organisation of its kind in Merthyr, BGY was established to provide an afterschool and holiday club for children and young people aged 3 to 19 with additional and complex needs.

Our name, Bridging the Gap Youth – Merthyr, reflects our core mission: to bridge the gap in youth activities and opportunities for young people, ensuring they feel included, supported and valued.

Our afterschool club runs five days a week, offering meaningful play opportunities in a warm, safe and stimulating environment. Alongside this, our holiday clubs provide continued support and enrichment during school breaks, giving families reassurance and children consistency, fun and friendship.

Building on our success, BGY has recently expanded its provision to include support for adults aged 19 and over. Our Moving Forward over-19s group helps reduce loneliness and isolation by providing opportunities to socialise with peers. The group meets every Thursday during term time from 10.00am to 2.00pm, offering engaging, age-appropriate activities such as arts and crafts, activity workshops and cookery sessions.

Today, Bridging the Gap Youth – Merthyr continues to grow and now employs 20 dedicated staff members, all committed to providing high-quality care, support and uplifting experiences for children, young people and adults across our community.

As we celebrate 20 years of Bridging the Gap Youth – Merthyr, we look forward to welcoming familiar faces, sharing memories, and celebrating the journey we have taken together — and the many more years still to come.

BGY is based in Jerusalem Church, Castle Street, Pentrebach CF48 4BN.

If you are a past member and would like to join our 20th birthday celebrations, or if you are interested in registering for our afterschool club, holiday club or Over 19’s provision, please contact Lisa Clack, Project Manager, on 07852 766928.