Upper Rhymney Valley Community Alcohol Partnership Honoured as CAP of the Year in Wales
The Upper Rhymney Valley Community Alcohol Partnership (CAP) has received the prestigious title of CAP of the Year (Wales) in recognition of its exceptional efforts to educate young people about the dangers of alcohol. CAPs are community-led collaborations involving local police, councils, schools, retailers, and community groups, with a primary focus on reducing underage drinking and its associated harms to improve health, well-being, and community cohesion.
Innovative Community Projects Addressing Local Needs
Over the past year, the Upper Rhymney CAP has implemented a series of creative initiatives tailored to meet specific community needs while offering safe and positive opportunities for children, young people, and families. Each project integrates messages about alcohol harm with engaging activities that foster community unity.
One standout event was the Community Christmas Movie Night, an alcohol-free festive gathering attended by approximately 150 residents, including around 100 young people. Families enjoyed a screening of The Grinch, craft activities, and seasonal treats, along with a visit from Santa and a playful "arrest" of The Grinch. Beyond the entertainment, the evening provided a valuable platform for local services, such as Gwent Police and council teams, to interact with families in a relaxed environment, building trust and strengthening relationships during a period often linked to increased isolation and alcohol-related issues.
Targeted Initiatives for Safety and Engagement
The Young Driver's Initiative addressed road safety and risk-taking behaviours through interactive workshops and practical demonstrations, equipping young people with life-saving knowledge and promoting responsible decision-making. In rural areas where transport and road safety are ongoing challenges, this initiative has helped reduce risks while boosting aspirations and confidence among youth.
Creativity was central to the Little Cop Shop of Horrors event, a Halloween-themed engagement project that combined fun activities with crucial safety education. Young people interacted with local policing teams in an imaginative and informal setting, breaking down barriers and enhancing trust. Safety challenges and crime prevention discussions were delivered in memorable and engaging ways, supporting positive relationships and community safety.
Widespread Impact and Community Resilience
Across these initiatives, hundreds of children and young people have benefited from safe, positive, and educational experiences that reduce risk factors and strengthen community resilience. The projects demonstrate the CAP's ability to engage diverse groups while creating lasting positive memories and connections.
Recognition and Praise from Local Leaders
Cllr Leonard from Caerphilly Borough Council commented: "This national recognition is a fantastic achievement for Upper Rhymney Valley CAP and everyone involved. Their innovative, community-led work is helping young people understand the risks of underage drinking while strengthening relationships across the community. Congratulations to the whole team on this well-deserved award."
Nick Smith MP said: "The Upper Rhymney Valley Community Alcohol Partnership team should be incredibly proud of the fantastic work they're doing. They've managed to share important messages about alcohol harm while also creating enjoyable, welcoming events that bring local families together. Thanks to their creative approach, hundreds of local children and young people have taken part in activities that not only teach them valuable lessons but also give them fun experiences along the way. The team is doing great work."
CAP Director Kate Winstanley added: "Upper Rhymney Valley CAP has shown how creative, community-led initiatives can successfully combine alcohol education with activities that bring families and young people together. By delivering prevention messages in ways that are engaging, inclusive and locally relevant, the partnership is helping young people make safer choices while strengthening community connections. Their work demonstrates how collaboration and innovation can create lasting positive change. Well done to the whole team for their great work."
The Upper Rhymney Valley team received their award at a ceremony held in the House of Commons on March 2, 2026.
