Sacyr is pleased to share an update from Lisvane Men’s Shed, a local charity that has been making a positive difference to men’s mental health and wellbeing in the community for the past five years. 

Operating from a cabin and container facility in the car park of the Ty Mawr Inn, Lisvane Men’s Shed currently faces an uncertain future regarding its premises. The group’s existing lease is limited to five years, with a one-month notice period that could require relocation at any time. To secure the charity’s long-term future, significant fundraising efforts are underway while discussions continue with Cardiff Council regarding a potential new location. 

This uncertainty is placing pressure on the charity’s finances, as resources that would normally support day-to-day operations are increasingly being directed towards securing a permanent home. As a result, the organisation faces challenges in maintaining activities that are central to its members’ experience, including community excursions, transport provision, and the upkeep and replacement of woodworking tools and machinery. 

The charity has also identified several essential training requirements to ensure the safety and sustainability of its services. These include First Aid training for three members through the British Red Cross. 

Lisvane Men’s Shed was established to provide a safe, welcoming environment where men can meet, build friendships and support one another through companionship and shared activities. With South Wales experiencing some of the highest rates of male suicide in the UK, the Shed’s mission is to help combat isolation, loneliness and poor mental health by creating opportunities for men to connect "shoulder to shoulder" while taking part in practical woodworking projects. 

The workshop environment encourages conversation, laughter, mutual support and the sharing of experiences in a relaxed and informal setting. Many members find that working alongside others helps them open up about challenges they may not otherwise discuss, contributing to improved wellbeing, stronger social connections and a greater sense of belonging. 

Despite the challenges associated with securing a new permanent site, Lisvane Men’s Shed remains committed to its mission and continues to provide a valuable community resource. The charity’s ongoing fundraising efforts and investment in training will play a vital role in ensuring that it can continue supporting local men and promoting positive mental health outcomes across the community for many years to come. 

Sacyr wishes the team every success as they work towards securing their future and continuing their important contribution to community wellbeing. 

This past month, we were joined by the Entrepreneurial Academy, led by Dan Biddle and supported by Harrison Fairclough and Disability Academy Assistant Aash Nash at the New Velindre Cancer Centre. The programme exceeded expectations and showcased the incredible potential of individuals who may have previously faced barriers to employment or been overlooked by the labour market. Participants arrived with a diverse range of business ideas that were not only commercially viable but also focused on creating meaningful social impact and improving the lives of others. 

Throughout the course, it was inspiring to watch participants develop their confidence, skills and entrepreneurial mindset. Business concepts included adaptable clothing for patients undergoing therapy, wheelchair sport schemes, blind employment initiatives aimed at creating greater opportunities for visually impaired individuals, lingerie and jewellery designed to support women who have experienced trauma and personal challenges, climate change mitigation engineering solutions, sensory room developments, volunteer-led charities, and many more socially driven ventures. Every participant successfully graduated from the academy and is now continuing to develop their business ideas, demonstrating the lasting impact of the programme and its contribution to fostering innovation, inclusion and opportunity within our community. 

Today, the Summer Jamboree was delighted to welcome renowned Marvel and DC Comics artist Mike Collins. He was greeted by the Sacyr and Noddfa Community Benefits Team as he prepared to lead a comic design workshop for local young people. 

Mike delivered an engaging and inspiring session, explaining a variety of techniques used by professional comic artists to quickly plan character designs, layouts, and poses. Some of his methods included using simple stick figures as a foundation for body positioning, experimenting with letters and shapes to create unique character designs, and even placing random dots on a page to help determine character poses and composition. 

He also demonstrated how simple backgrounds and framing techniques can dramatically improve storytelling. For example, using a smaller cityscape behind a character can emphasise their scale, while dynamic lines and angles can create a sense of speed and motion. 

Later in the workshop, Mike shared examples from his professional portfolio, showcasing impressive comic panels and storyboard work. Highlights included a single-frame depiction of Neil Armstrong's life story and storyboards created for Doctor Who. He explained how storyboarding is used throughout the industry to plan scene choreography, camera angles, and visual storytelling before filming begins. 

Following the demonstrations, participants were invited to create their own characters using the techniques Mike had introduced. The session gave young people a valuable insight into the creative process behind comic books and visual storytelling, while encouraging them to develop their own artistic skills and imagination. 

The workshop was a fantastic success, inspiring the next generation of artists and storytellers through hands-on learning and expert guidance from one of the industry's most respected comic creators.

New Velindre Cancer Center - Newsletter 9

Grangetown Nursery benefited from the renewal and restoration of its school garden, an initiative driven and supported by FP Hurley as part of its commitment to supporting local schools and communities. Undertaken in recent weeks, the work focused on improving the condition and appearance of the garden, creating a more welcoming and functional outdoor environment for pupils and staff. A sterling job was carried out in transforming the space and ensuring it could be fully utilised by the school community. 

The restoration has transformed the garden into a more engaging area that can be used for outdoor learning, play and social interaction. By enhancing the space, pupils now have access to a stimulating environment that supports their development, wellbeing and connection with nature, while also complementing classroom activities and enriching the overall learning experience. 

To build on these improvements, plans are in place to introduce additional outdoor furniture that will further increase the functionality of the garden and provide dedicated areas for learning, group activities and relaxation. These additions will help maximise the use of the space and ensure that pupils and staff continue to benefit from a high-quality outdoor environment.

Students from Bryn y Deryn School recently visited the site to take part in a bricklaying workshop delivered by our Falcon 3 contractors, designed to inspire an interest in construction and help learners begin developing practical skills within the industry. 

The visit began with an introduction and presentation on the nVCC project, where learners explored the different stages of construction, modern methods of building, and the importance of sustainability within the project. Discussions also focused on the wide range of careers available in construction and challenged common stereotypes associated with the industry. 

This was followed by a health and safety presentation, highlighting the importance of safe working practices and the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) on a construction site. 

Students were then introduced to members of the Falcon team, who led the bricklaying workshop. The group received a practical demonstration of correct bricklaying techniques, including the safe and effective use of a trowel and mortar. 

The class showed immediate enthusiasm and eagerness to begin the workshop and quickly developed their skills under the guidance of the Falcon team. Learners engaged positively throughout the session, gaining confidence and demonstrating impressive progress in a short period of time. 

Two students in particular showed exceptional aptitude and enthusiasm. The Falcon team commented that, had they been of working age, they would have been strong candidates for site-based roles. Instead, they were encouraged to explore bricklaying apprenticeships, construction-related college courses, and future career opportunities within the industry that are appropriate to their age and stage of education. 

The visit provided a valuable hands-on learning experience, helping learners gain a greater understanding of construction, develop practical skills, and explore potential career pathways within the sector.

Two members of the Community Benefits Team recently visited St Mary’s Gardens in Old Church Road, Whitchurch, Cardiff, to meet with volunteers from the Friends of St Mary’s Gardens and learn more about the ongoing restoration of this important community space. The visit provided an opportunity to discuss the group's achievements, current challenges, and potential areas of future support, including the possible replacement or refurbishment of the gate at the rear of the former graveyard to improve access, security, and the overall appearance of the site.

St Mary’s Gardens occupies the historic site of the original St Mary’s Church and graveyard, which served the local community for more than 500 years. After the church was replaced in 1885 and demolished in 1904, the site fell into a prolonged period of neglect and became increasingly overgrown. Following Cardiff Council’s takeover in 1972, the area was transformed into a public garden, carefully retaining key heritage features such as aligned gravestones and mature trees. Officially opened in 1974, the gardens later received recognition through a Wales in Bloom award. However, in the decades that followed, reduced maintenance led to a decline in the condition of the site, accompanied by anti-social behaviour and a decrease in community use.

In response, local residents took action in 2017 to help restore and revitalise the gardens. Initially led by members of the Whitchurch Women’s Institute and working in partnership with Cardiff Council’s Parks Department, their efforts resulted in the formal establishment of the Friends of St Mary’s Gardens in 2019.

Today, the volunteer-led organisation coordinates around 20 regular volunteers and plays a vital role in maintaining and improving the half-acre site. The group raises awareness and funding, supports ongoing maintenance activities, and works to enhance both the historical significance and biodiversity of the gardens, ensuring they remain a valued community asset.

A recent £1,000 Thrive Grant has further strengthened these efforts by funding secure storage and essential gardening equipment. This investment has enabled authorised volunteers to undertake maintenance activities between organised work sessions, helping to sustain progress and increase community ownership of the space.

Through the dedication of its volunteers and the support of local partners, the Friends of St Mary’s Gardens have successfully transformed the site into a safe, welcoming, and thriving green space. Their work continues to balance the preservation of the gardens’ rich heritage with the needs of the local community, creating benefits for residents, visitors, and wildlife alike.

New Velindre Cancer Centre - Summary Monitoring Report - August 2026

We were delighted to welcome Ruby Gallimore to our offices and the new Velindre Cancer Centre project this week as part of her work experience placement. 

During her time with us, Ruby worked alongside our Community Benefits Team and colleagues from Optimum Contractors, gaining valuable insight into the construction industry and the importance of community engagement within major infrastructure projects. Throughout the week, she demonstrated enthusiasm, professionalism, and a willingness to get involved in a variety of activities, quickly becoming a valued member of the team. 

Ruby's placement provided her with real-world experience in a live construction environment, while also giving her the opportunity to engage with senior industry professionals, including Optimum Managing Director Simon Britton. She also supported community outreach activities and played a leading role in delivering a STEM session at a local school, helping to inspire the next generation of young people to explore careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. 

As part of her placement, Ruby worked closely with Community Benefits Assistant Harrison Fairclough to help compile a media project for Sacyr, designed to showcase the success of the Entrepreneurial Academy and highlight the positive impact the programme continues to have on young people across the region. 

The experience allowed Ruby to develop new skills, build confidence, and gain a broader understanding of the wide range of career opportunities available within construction, project delivery, and community engagement. We are proud to support work experience opportunities that help young people gain meaningful workplace exposure and develop skills that will benefit them in their future education and careers. 

We would like to thank Ruby for her hard work and positive attitude throughout the week and wish her every success in the future.

Watch last month's construction progress!

Students from The Marion Centre at Bishop of Llandaff Church-in-Wales High School in Cardiff enjoyed a visit to the new Velindre Cancer Centre (nVCC), where they learned about construction and the careers it offers.

Organised by Careers Wales Business Engagement Advisor, Adrien Cole and supported by Sacyr UK’s Community Benefits Team, the visit welcomed students of varying ages and learning needs. 

Joanne O’Keefe, Community Benefits Coordinator, delivered an interactive presentation introducing students to the history of the project and the journey of the new Velindre Cancer Centre, from the initial planning stages to construction and the vision for the completed facility. Students also discovered the many career opportunities within the construction industry, including roles such as builders, electricians, plumbers, engineers and architects.

A key focus of the session was sustainability, with students learning about innovative construction materials such as hempcrete, timber and gabion stone, alongside the project’s commitment to protecting local wildlife, habitats and biodiversity throughout the build.

Following the presentation, students donned their protective equipment (PPE) and, after a safety briefing, went out for a guided site tour with their teachers and members of the project team. Seeing the construction site in action brought the presentation to life, with students seeing plant machinery, construction activities and environmental protection measures, including wildlife safeguarding and the management of invasive plant species.

The day concluded with an engaging hands-on electrical circuit board demonstration delivered by sub-contractor FP Hurley Electrical, giving students the opportunity to explore practical skills used within the industry.

The visit was a valuable and enjoyable experience, with many students leaving inspired by the range of opportunities available within construction. 

Watch last month's construction progress!

New Velindre Cancer Centre - Summary Monitoring Report - July 2026

Joanne O’Keefe, Community Benefits Co-ordinator and Harrison Fairclough, Community Benefits Assistant at Sacyr UK partnered with Careers Wales to deliver their mock interview programme, which provides students with practice interviews and personalised feedback to help them prepare for future employment and apprenticeship opportunities.

As part of this initiative, staff from Sacyr UK and Careers Wales visited Nantgwyn School to support Year 10 students in developing their professional interview skills and exploring potential career pathways. Students were grouped according to their career interests, with particular focus on those aspiring to pursue careers in engineering.

During the mock interview sessions, students were assessed on a range of professional competencies, including communication, presentation, confidence, completion of CVs and information sheets. Their ability to articulate their skills, ambitions, and long term career aspirations were also assessed. The interviews explored the student’s predicted grades, long-term ambitions, and the pathways needed to progress into their engineering fields.

The overall standard demonstrated by the students was highly impressive, with many displaying strong self-awareness, professionalism, and a clear understanding of their future ambitions. Several candidates stood out for their enthusiasm, confidence, and detailed knowledge of the engineering sectors they hope to pursue, alongside predicted academic achievements aligned with their career goals. 

As a result, opportunities are currently being explored for a select number of students to gain further industry exposure through potential site visits or volunteering opportunities at the new Velindre Cancer Centre (nVCC) site, helping to enhance their practical experience and support their ongoing professional development.

Dear Residents,

Thank you for your continued patience and understanding as construction of the new Velindre Cancer Centre progresses.

We would like to let you know that an extension to the project's Section 61 consent has been approved. This allows certain internal construction activities to continue outside of our standard working hours from 13 July 2026 until 31 August 2026. The approved activities are limited to Internal Mechanical and Electrical (M&E) installation works (first and second fix) and Associated internal fit-out works.

The approved extended working hours are:

• Monday to Friday: 6:00pm – 8:00pm
• Saturday: 1:00pm – 4:00pm

These extended hours relate to specific internal activities only, helping to support the safe and efficient delivery of the project.
Unlike the current Section 61 consent, facade lifting operations will no longer take place after 6:00pm.

We remain committed to being considerate neighbours and will continue to do everything we can to minimise disruption while delivering this important new facility for South East Wales.

Thank you once again for your continued support and understanding.

Joanne O’Keefe, Community Benefits Co-ordinator at Sacyr UK delivered pallets and timber materials to Penrhys Community Centre, strengthening support for the centre’s ongoing youth engagement programmes. 

The donated materials will be used in practical workshops designed to teach young people basic assembly and woodworking skills, including the construction of garden planters and benches. These hands-on activities aim to promote teamwork, confidence building, and the development of valuable practical abilities within the local community.

Following the positive response to the initial delivery, the Community Benefits Team identified an opportunity to further enhance the programme. Additional high-quality pallets and 4x4 timber were sourced directly from the project site to improve the durability and standard of the items being created by participants. This contribution will help ensure that the young people involved can work with reliable materials while gaining experience in construction and design.

The continued support reflects Sacyr’s commitment to investing in local communities and creating opportunities for youth development through sustainable, community-focused initiatives.

Joanne said: “We have enjoyed supporting this initiative as it aligns so closely with what we do every day on site, encouraging young people into the industry and seeing construction as a career path. I’ve also loved doing the multiple deliveries as I’ve got to drive in the van!”

Joanne O’Keefe and Harrison Fairclough, from Sacyr’s Community Benefits Team visited Ty Hafan Children's Hospice to review the progress of the new surrounding garden wall and to see first-hand the ongoing improvements being made to the site. 

During the visit, they were given a tour of the hospice facilities, where they gained a greater understanding of the vital support and exceptional care provided to children with life-shortening conditions and their families. 

The tour included a visit to the accommodation of the hospice, which offers families a warm and supportive environment during their stay. The team also viewed the specialist hydrotherapy facilities, including the water therapy pool, which provides therapeutic benefits, relaxation, and opportunities for enjoyment in a safe and accessible environment. In addition, they explored several family support spaces, sensory areas, and the beautifully maintained gardens that help create a peaceful and nurturing atmosphere throughout the hospice.

The main focus of the visit was to see the progress of the garden wall project, designed to enhance privacy, security, and the overall appearance of the outdoor spaces. The wall has been expertly constructed by the new Velindre Cancer Centre sub-contractors, Nelco and JG Fencing, whose craftsmanship and attention to detail are evident throughout. Their work will contribute to a safe and attractive environment for the children, families, and staff who use the hospice’s outdoor facilities, ensuring the grounds remain a welcoming and tranquil space for all who visit Ty Hafan. SGM Waste Management also played an important role in supporting the project by efficiently removing waste, helping to keep the site clear and safe throughout the construction process.
 

Three students from Ysgol Nantgwyn in Tonypandy, Theo Summers, Mackinlie Perry, and Harvey Jones, recently visited the new Velindre Cancer Centre (nVCC) as part of the Careers Wales Mock Interview programme. 

Along with the Head of Year 10 Susie Valentine, they went along to the project site to take part in the initiative that assesses students across key professional competencies, including communication, presentation, confidence, and their ability to articulate their skills, ambitions, and career aspirations. 

All students demonstrated a strong self-awareness, professionalism, and a clear interest in pursuing careers within the construction industry. As a result, a unique, one-off opportunity was created for them to gain further industry exposure through a site visit, supporting their practical experience and ongoing development. 

Joanne O’Keefe, Community Benefits Co-ordinator, delivered a presentation on the nVCC, its environmental and social commitments and future impact on the community. Gordon and Joshua from Sacyr’s Health and Safety Team also showed the students around designated safe areas of the site. 

The students showed strong curiosity and engagement, asking questions about the construction processes, site operations, and the day-to-day role of workers on site. Of particular interest were the specialist rooms being constructed for future MRI equipment, where brickwork combined with lead lining will provide protection from radiation, demonstrating the complexity of healthcare construction. 

The group also explored areas designed to maximise natural light and incorporate elements of nature, supporting patient wellbeing, mental health and recovery, in contrast to the more enclosed environments traditionally associated with hospital settings. 

Overall, the visit was highly valuable with Theo, Mackinlie, and Harvey, all expressing genuine appreciation for the opportunity. They have already indicated their interest in returning before the project’s completion and the end of their school year. 

Year 9 learners from Brynteg Comprehensive School’s Dyfodol programme recently visited the new Velindre Cancer Centre development site in Whitchurch to gain an insight into the construction industry and the progress of the new cancer centre. 

During the session, learners explored the different stages of construction, modern building methods, and the importance of sustainability within the project. Discussions also focused on careers in construction and challenging stereotypes within the industry. Students were particularly interested to learn that women currently make up only 19% of the construction workforce, while women represent 30% of the office-based team on the nVCC project. These conversations encouraged learners to think about inclusivity, teamwork, and the wide range of opportunities available within construction. 

The group also learned about sustainable materials being used on-site, including timber, hempcrete, and gabion stone, alongside the project’s environmental commitments and future plans for a living roof. 

The visit concluded with a guided walk around the site path, where learners observed construction progress first-hand and took part in interactive activities linked to construction roles, materials, and site safety. 

A particularly positive outcome from the visit involved a student named Rhys, who expressed a keen interest in repairing vacuum cleaners after speaking with members of the site team. To support his enthusiasm, the project team arranged for a broken vacuum cleaner, donated by Cleaning Team Manager Josh, to be given to Rhys so he could further develop his practical skills and interest in repairs.

Stantec and Turley, two members of the Acorn consortium worked together as part of Sacyr UK’s 100 Days volunteering initiative at Llamau in Bargoed. The day brought together six volunteers from Stantec and four volunteers from Turley, all working collaboratively to enhance the environment for both service users and staff. 

Throughout the day, volunteers focused on painting and refreshing communal areas within one of Llamau’s supported accommodation projects. Their efforts helped transform shared spaces into brighter, warmer, and more welcoming environments for young people who use the facilities every day. 

Barbara Redmore, Corporate Partnership Manager at Llamau, expressed her appreciation for the team’s contribution, commenting: 

“Wow! Thank you all so much for volunteering with us today! You were incredibly kind, positive, and dedicated in completing the task at hand and we really appreciate you giving up your time in one of our supported accommodation projects. Our young people will be thrilled to see their new-look living area, it certainly makes it a warmer and welcoming space to spend their time.” 

The initiative highlights the positive impact that collaborative volunteering can have within local communities and reflects the continued commitment of the Acorn consortium partners to supporting local social value projects that help others.