Projects That Make a Difference
At Llanharan Community Development Project (LCDP), every project begins with a simple question:
"What does our community need?"
For almost 30 years, we have worked alongside local people to identify challenges, create opportunities and develop practical solutions that improve lives. Whether tackling loneliness, supporting children's development, improving health and wellbeing, enhancing local green spaces or helping families through difficult times, our projects are shaped by the voices of the people who live in our community.
We believe successful projects are about more than delivering activities. They are about creating lasting change. Through strong partnerships, dedicated staff, committed volunteers and the support of our funders, we develop initiatives that leave a positive legacy long after the funding period has ended.
Over the years, our projects have supported hundreds of local people across Llanharan, Brynna, Bryncae, Llanilid and surrounding communities. They have helped people build confidence, develop skills, improve their wellbeing, access support, connect with others and take pride in where they live.
From transforming neglected spaces into thriving community assets, to supporting young carers, creating opportunities for children and families, delivering food support, improving digital inclusion and developing wellbeing programmes for adults, every project contributes towards our vision of stronger, healthier and more connected communities.
We are proud of what has been achieved, but we are equally excited about what comes next. As community needs continue to evolve, we remain committed to developing innovative, sustainable projects that place local people at the heart of everything we do.
Explore some of our recent and current projects below and discover the difference your support can make.
LCDP Eco-Hub
What was once an overgrown and neglected piece of land has been transformed into a thriving community green space where people of all ages can connect with nature, learn new skills and improve their wellbeing.
The Eco-Hub provides opportunities for outdoor learning, wildlife conservation, biodiversity projects, recycling and upcycling activities, volunteering and environmental education. Through hands-on experiences, local people are developing a greater understanding of the natural world and learning how small actions can make a positive difference to the environment.
This transformation would not have been possible without the support of our valued partners, including Beacon Cymru, RCTCBC SPF, WWF Cymru and the Welsh Church Act Fund. Together, we have created a welcoming outdoor space that encourages people to appreciate, protect and celebrate the wildlife and natural habitats on their doorstep.
The Eco-Hub is more than a green space – it is a place where people, nature and community come together to grow.
Hearts & Minds
Thanks to funding from Heart Research UK, our Hearts & Minds project has supported local people to improve both their physical health and mental wellbeing through a range of engaging and accessible activities.
The project has encouraged participants to make positive lifestyle changes by exploring heart health, sharing personal wellbeing journeys and learning about healthy eating in a supportive and welcoming environment. Sessions have included healthy cooking activities, discussions around improving wellbeing and opportunities to build confidence in making healthier choices.
Recognising the important connection between physical and mental health, the project has also focused on gentle, low-impact exercise. Participants have enjoyed beach walks, litter-picking activities, walks to local community spaces, gardening sessions, planting projects and woodland crafts, helping people stay active while connecting with nature and others.
By combining health education, social connection and outdoor activities, Hearts & Minds has helped participants improve their wellbeing, reduce social isolation and develop healthier habits that can be sustained long into the future.
Hearts & Minds is about taking small steps towards healthier hearts, healthier minds and stronger communities.
Dementia Awareness - Memory Makers
Memory Makers was developed to bring people together through shared experiences, helping to reduce social isolation whilst promoting wellbeing, reminiscence and greater awareness of dementia.
The project combined a variety of activities designed to keep minds active, encourage conversation and create meaningful social connections. Participants enjoyed regular seated yoga sessions to support physical wellbeing, alongside local history discussions that sparked memories and stories from years gone by.
As part of the programme, participants completed Dementia Friends training, helping to increase understanding of dementia and how communities can become more supportive and inclusive. The group explored the signs and symptoms of dementia, discussed the challenges faced by those living with the condition and shared experiences of how dementia affects families, friends and loved ones. These conversations created a safe and supportive environment where participants could learn from one another, offer encouragement and build confidence in supporting someone living with dementia.
The project also included a visit to the Rhondda Heritage Park, where participants explored local history and reflected on memories connected to the area's heritage. African drumming workshops brought energy, laughter and creativity to the group, encouraging participants to try something new whilst experiencing the wellbeing benefits of music and rhythm.
Throughout the project, participants developed new friendships, increased their confidence and enjoyed opportunities to remain active and connected within their community.
Memory Makers demonstrated the importance of understanding dementia, supporting one another and creating opportunities for people to share memories, build connections and enjoy new experiences together.
Young Carers Project
Thanks to funding from the RCT Young Carers Grant, and in partnership with Action for Children, we were able to provide a programme of activities designed specifically for young carers from across Rhondda Cynon Taf.
Young carers often take on significant responsibilities at home, supporting family members whilst balancing school, friendships and their own wellbeing. This project gave them valuable opportunities to take a break from their caring roles, have fun, build friendships and enjoy experiences that they may not otherwise have access to.
Throughout the project, participants enjoyed a variety of activities including cinema trips, bowling, craft workshops and festive wreath-making sessions. These activities provided opportunities to relax, boost confidence, develop new skills and connect with other young carers who understand the unique challenges they face.
The project created a safe and supportive environment where young people could be themselves, share experiences and make lasting memories. Most importantly, it reminded participants that while they may have caring responsibilities, they are also children and young people who deserve time to have fun, socialise and focus on their own wellbeing.
By working together, we helped young carers feel valued, supported and connected, whilst creating opportunities for friendship, resilience and positive wellbeing.
SPF Summer Challenge
Funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF), the Summer Challenge provided children and young people with opportunities to get outdoors, learn new skills and take part in a wide range of engaging activities throughout the summer holidays.
The project focused on encouraging children and families to connect with nature, their community and each other through fun, hands-on experiences. Activities included outdoor learning, environmental projects, wildlife activities, arts and crafts, team challenges, community litter picks and creative recycling projects.
By taking part, children developed confidence, teamwork and problem-solving skills whilst learning more about the environment and the importance of protecting local green spaces. The programme also encouraged physical activity, creativity and positive wellbeing, helping children stay active and engaged during the school holidays.
The Summer Challenge created lasting memories, introduced many families to local community opportunities and inspired participants to become more involved in volunteering and environmental action within their communities.
Through learning, adventure and teamwork, the SPF Summer Challenge empowered children and young people to explore, achieve and make a positive difference in their local community.
