Businesses that are “Hapus i Siarad” (happy to speak) helping Welsh learners in their community

The National Centre for Learning Welsh and the Mentrau Iaith (the Welsh language initiatives) are co-launching a new project called “Hapus i Siarad” (happy to speak) to help Welsh learners practice and use the language in their communities, with the project pilot starting in Rhondda Cynon Taf, Ceredigion and Flint and Wrexham.

From the 15th of January to the 30th of June Welsh learners in the 3 regions can visit the businesses that are part of the project to have a chat in Welsh. They’ll collect 3 stamps or signatures on their ‘loyalty card’ with a chance to win a voucher to spend in the businesses that are “Hapus i Siarad” – happy to talk.

Daniela Schlick, Project Coordinator with Mentrau Iaith Cymru says:

“Businesses are such an important part of our communities and everyday lives and thus are great places to speak Cymraeg. Small businesses in our communities are more than places to buy things. They are places where people can meet, have a chat and be part of the community. For the Welsh language to prosper across Wales it is essential that Welsh learners – and experienced speakers – know where they can use the language.”

The project was inspired by a trip to Catalonia last spring.

“To learn more about projects to help learners of the Catalan language,” explains Helen Prosser, Director of Teaching and Learning with the National Centre for Learning Welsh.

“It was fantastic to see how local shops contribute to helping learners in Catalonia. It inspired us to start a similar project here in Cymru. And we’re very excited to say that 2 regions of the project in Cymru will be hosting the National Eisteddfod in the coming 2 years.”

The launch is celebrated in special sessions for Welsh learners in the 3 regions:

• 13 January, 10:30am – Clwb Bowlio Llambed, Llanbedr Pont Steffan
• 17 January, 6:30pm – Tafarndy yr Wyddgrug/Alehouse Mold (there will be choir practice afterwards at 7:30pm)
• 20 January, 10:30am – Coffee Morning for Welsh Learners in the Lion Treorchy
• 20 January, 11:00am - Coffee Morning for Welsh Learners in Fisherman's Rest, Aberteifi/ Cardigan

The learners in the 3 areas have already been introduced to the project by their tutors and the local Menter Iaith. The participating businesses will show a poster saying “Hapus i Siarad” so that the learners can find them. A list with all the businesses that are part of the project is available through the National Centre for Learning Welsh (www.dysgucymraeg.cymru) and the Mentrau Iaith (www.mentrauiaith.cymru). And of course, other businesses in the 3 areas are invited to become part of the project. They can join by getting in touch with their local Menter Iaith.

For more information get in touch with daniela@mentrauiaith.cymru.

Image: Launch in Lampeter - members of the Lampeter Town Council Sub-Committee for the Welsh language and Cered staff (Menter Iaith in Ceredigion) with the poster.