News

Problem with Outlook email addresses in FAN

  31 December 2026

Unfortunately our contact us email address and other FAN email addresses are not working!

Gill Saunders, FAN founder, celebrated for her work to end violence against women and girls

  10 December 2025

The Wales Assembly of Women was proud to be at the House of Lords celebrating outstanding Welsh organisations and individuals working to end violence against women and girls at the National Alliance of Women’s Organisations (NAWO) 16 Days of Activism Awards.

FAN group breaks during the holiday season

  26 November 2025

Many of our FAN groups in Southeast and West Wales will take a break during the coming holiday period.

FAN Needs Your Help!

  17 November 2025

As FAN friends and supporters, please help us raise funds so that we can continue to meet our commitments for this year.

FAN Plus Walks! (Cardiff)

  31 October 2025

Most of our groups meet in community based venues and for those who like to spend time outdoors, we also have a monthly, FAN Plus Walks group, that meet for a gentle one hour walk in and around Cardiff.

Welcome to our latest FAN Facilitators!

  29 October 2025

Penny, Monica and Sarah joined us recently to train as Cardiff based FAN Facilitators.

Thank you to the Co-op and to everyone who supported Bridgend FAN!

  27 October 2025

Thank you to all the Co-op Members who chose our wonderful Bridgend FAN Group this year.

Podcast featuring Helena Foggitt, a Welsh FAN group member

  26 August 2025

Have a look at this great podcast featuring Helena Foggitt.

Next FAN Plus Walks, Cardiff Bay Wetlands.

  26 August 2025

The next FAN Plus Walking session will explore the Cardiff Bay Wetlands area!

Please support Bridgend FAN

  26 August 2025

Dear FAN friends, please could you support our lovely Bridgend FAN group by picking them as your cause to support.

Happy 10th Anniversary to Bridgend FAN!

  24 July 2025

Happy 10th Anniversary to Bridgend FAN, we are delighted to share this message from them!

Farewell to Sylvia

  30 June 2025

This morning in the Grange Pavilion FAN group, we shared memories of our friend Sylvia who died ten days ago.

FAN Plus Walks visit to Howardian Nature Reserve, (Cardiff).

  26 June 2025

FAN Plus Walks participants, enjoyed meeting up with old friends and making new ones on their most recent walk exploring the beautiful Howardian Nature Reserve!

Barnabas Arts House, Newport next meeting, 25.06.25

  17 June 2025

The next FAN meeting in the beautiful and inspiring setting of Barnabas Arts House, Newport, will take place on Wednesday, 25th May at 11am.

Next FAN Plus Walks - Howardian Nature Reserve, Cardiff

  17 June 2025

Next FAN Plus Walks meeting will be exploring Howardian Nature Reserve in Penylan, Cardiff.

Celebrating Volunteers' Week at Swansea Volunteer Information Day!

  16 June 2025

We had a great time meeting people and Celebrating Volunteers’ Week at Swansea Volunteer Information Day!

FAN at Barnabas Arts House, 28th May

  22 May 2025

The next FAN meeting in the beautiful setting of Barnabas Arts House, Newport, will take place on Wednesday, 28th May at 11am.

FAN Plus Walking, Cardiff - Wednesday 28th May

  22 May 2025

The next FAN Plus Walking meeting will be on Wednesday 28th May, meeting at 1.30pm ready to leave at 1.40pm.

Sarah retiring as FAN Manager

  8 May 2025

Thank you so much to everyone who contributed to making my leaving my paid role at FAN, such a lovely occasion.

New Era for FAN

  6 May 2025

FAN’s situation has changed and we entered a new era from May 4th 2025.

FAN Plus Walking, (Cardiff), cooling down by the water feature!

  1 May 2025

Despite it being one of the hottest days of the year so far, the FAN Plus Walking, (Cardiff) group kept up their energy and pushed on from the vegetable statues on the bank of the Taff in Riverside, to the water feature in the Oval Basin.

FAN Plus Poetry, Cardiff. 14.05.25

  29 April 2025

The first FAN Plus Poetry was a lovely event that was enjoyed by those that attended.

Cardiff Central Library meetings cancelled for 06.05.25 and 03.06.25

  18 April 2025

Please note that FAN meetings on 6th May and 3rd June at Cardiff Central Library are cancelled, as the room is being used by others.

"Search All FAN Groups" link is not working properly but pages for individual areas still work fine

  13 April 2025

Unfortunately we are experiencing technical difficulties on our website, with the link to "Search all FAN Groups".

CHOOSE BRIDGEND FAN!

  3 April 2025

CHOOSE BRIDGEND FAN (Friends and Neighbours) Group as your Local Community Fund cause on the Co-op app for a chance to win £500 for you and £5,000 for us.

FAN + POETRY, CHANGE OF VENUE

  1 April 2025

This new FAN group, startingon 9th April, now be meeting in: .

New Film About FAN!

  30 March 2025

A very polished video from Hannah Jagiri, International Journalism student at Cardiff University.

New FAN group, Cardiff Central Library on Tuesdays

  13 March 2025

New FAN group starting on 8th April in Cardiff Central Library facilitated by Gill Saunders, founder of FAN!

FAN Plus Poetry

  13 March 2025

FAN PLUS ....

FAN Plus Walking, Bute Park, Cardiff.

  4 March 2025

February's FAN Plus Walking session took place on a rather damp day, but despite the soggy weather, the group enjoyed a lovely walk.

Remembering our FAN Friend Margaret

  4 March 2025

Gill Saunders shares her memories Those of us who knew Margaret Hancock were very sorry to hear of her passing.

News Article about FAN

  1 March 2025

Thank you to Dewis Cardiff and the Vale for this lovely article about FAN!

Find out about the New Theatre Cardiff!

  25 February 2025

The next FAN Plus Heritage meeting will take place at Cathays Library, at 2pm on Thursday 13th March.

Barry FAN Out and About!

  17 February 2025

Barry FAN Ambassadors have been out and about sharing information about FAN with POD Community Hub (Barry’s support hub and skills centre), Llamau, Asda and Parkside Community Church.

New FAN group in Newport!

  11 February 2025

New FAN group in Barnabas arts house, Newport!

Bute Park Cardiff 26.02.25 - next FAN Plus Walking session!

  11 February 2025

The next FAN Plus Walking session will take place on Wednesday 26th February, meeting at Petigrew Tea Rooms, just inside the entrance to the beautiful Bute Park.

FAN Plus Walking in Cathays Park, Cardiff

  3 February 2025

You never know who or what you'll meet when you join a FAN Plus Walking session!

FAN Volunteers sharing about FAN in Swansea

  30 January 2025

Thank you Bernadette, Christine, Abir and Lil for getting out and about at the recent Communities for Work event in Swansea, and for sharing all about FAN!

A special visitor to Bridgend FAN

  21 January 2025

Gill, Ann and the group were delighted to welcome Anna Co-op South Wales to their FAN Group on Monday morning.

FAN Plus Walking - Cathays Park, Cardiff, 29th January

  15 January 2025

Make new friends and catch up with old ones as you walk in the next FAN Plus Walking meeting.

Cardiff FAN Groups on the move!

  14 January 2025

Some of our lovely FAN groups in Cardiff have been on the move!

New start times for Grangetown, Ukrane Hub and Capel i Bawb!

  14 January 2025

From time to time, FAN groups need to change their meeting day, time or venue so it's always worth having a quick look at the website under the "Find a FAN Meeting" tab, where you will find the most up to date information for FAN groups in all areas!

FAN Plus Walking in Cardiff's Arcades!

  30 December 2025

The last FAN Plus Walking meeting explored Cardiff's beautiful arcades, where the group enjoyed a special 'backstage' tour of the area above the Morgan and Royal arcades in addition to looking around theunique shops downstairs!

Explore the history of Womamby St. Cardiff.

  30 December 2025

January's FAN Plus Heritage, will focus on the fascinating history of one of Cardiff's oldest streets, Womanby Street.

Swansea Central Library FAN welcomes Gill, FAN Founder

  6 December 2024

Swansea Central Library FAN was delighted to welcome Gill Saunders, FAN Founder to their meeting.

Vote for Bridgend FAN!

  27 November 2024

We would like Bridgend FAN (Friends and Neighbours) Group to grow stronger and continue to be a safe welcoming space for friendly people to meet, listen and talk.

A tribute to Jo Harding by Gill Saunders.

  27 November 2024

Jo .

FAN Plus Walking in Cardiff Arcades!

  20 November 2024

This month, the FAN Plus Walking session will be avoiding the cold and damp weather, by exploring Cardiff's beautiful arcades!

Dyma'r Cymdogion a Ffrindiau!

  3 November 2024

Dyma ein Grŵp CAFf (Cymdogion a Ffrindiau) Cymraeg.

Help Bridgend FAN to grow stronger!

  31 October 2024

We would like Bridgend FAN (Friends and Neighbours) Group to grow stronger and continue to be a safe welcoming space for friendly people to meet, listen and talk.

FAN at the Minority Ethnic Communities (MEC) Health Fair, Cardiff

  17 October 2024

The MEC Health Fair in Cardiff City Stadium was a great opportunity to catch up with long standing FAN partners and supporters and to meet and make new ones!

Happy 10th Anniversary to Grangetown Pavilion FAN group today!

  7 October 2024

Grange Pavilion FAN group celebrated their 10th Anniversary today!

Iʼm raising £750 to support The FAN Charity (Cardiff)

  3 October 2024

Please share!

National Poetry Day

  3 October 2024

Today is National Poetry Day so we thought you would enjoy reading a poem written by Dr. T.M.

FAN Plus Walking... in the rain!

  26 September 2024

Despite the very soggy weather, our intrepid FAN Plus Walking group, led by Ruth, went ahead with their exploration of Roath's green spaces yesterday as planned!

FAN at the Festival of Languages

  26 September 2024

Finding out about lots of different languages at The Language Festival in Cardiff Central Library!

Open and Close statements in different languages

  26 September 2024

We have our Opening and Closing statements translated into several different languages.

FAN Plus Walking - 25th September!

  4 September 2024

The next FAN Plus Walking session will take place on Wednesday 25th September at 1pm, when the group will be exploring Roath in Cardiff.

FAN Plus Walking, session 2, Cardiff Bay!

  29 August 2024

Despite the sprinkling of rain as the group headed home, the second FAN Plus Walking session was a great success.

Re-start!

  29 August 2024

Some of our FAN groups have been taking a break over the summer holidays, but most will re-start over the next two weeks.

  21 August 2024

We continue to look out for opportunities to let people know about FAN and to meet organisations who we can work with.

FAN Plus Walking - 28th August, Cardiff Bay

  16 August 2024

Following on from the very successful first FAN Plus Walking session, the second session will be taking place on 28th August, this time in Cardiff Bay.

FAN Plus Walking - Session 1, Canton!

  2 August 2024

The first FAN Plus Walking (Cardiff), session on Wednesday was a great success!

Enjoying a Zoom FAN meeting

  2 August 2024

FAN meetings had to go online during the Covid pandemic, and now almost all groups are once again face to face.

FAN Plus .... Walking!

  18 July 2024

We have an exciting new FAN development.

FAN's Second Newsletter June 2024

  9 July 2024

Our second FAN newsletter is available and full of interesting articles about FAN.

Unsung Heroes!

  2 July 2024

Congratulations to Gill and Ann our Bridgend FAN Facilitators whose weekly commitment to FAN has been recognised in the Bridgend County Unsung Heroes Awards.

FAN has an Instagram page!

  24 June 2024

FAN now has an Instagram page.

FAN at Refugee Week Celebration, Cardiff Central Library

  18 June 2024

If you are in Cardiff Centre on Saturday 22nd June, do come and say hello to us at the FAN stall at the Cardiff Central Library Refugee Week Celebration!

Happy Birthday Mack61!

  10 June 2024

FAN at Mack61 celebrated two years this week with strawberries and ice-cream.

Volunteers' Week 40th Anniversary - FAN Facilitators

  6 June 2024

Volunteers’ Week – 40th Anniversary .

Volunteers' Week 40th Anniversary - FAN's West Wales Volunteers!

  6 June 2024

Volunteers’ Week – 40th Anniversary .

Volunteers' Week 40th Anniversary - Meet Zarha!

  6 June 2024

Volunteers’ Week – 40th Anniversary .

FAN and Lunch - our Great Get Together event 22.6.24

  3 June 2024

We will hold a special FAN Group with bring and share lunch as part of the Great Get Together, where we remember Jo Cox and celebrate how much more we have in common, than that which divides us.

Half term breaks!

  22 May 2024

Most FAN groups will continue to meet as normal during the school holiday next week, but some will be taking a break.

FAN Out and About in May!

  14 May 2024

Great to be out and about this week in community events in Ely with NHS South West Cluster; Cardiff University's first Communities Fair and for Mental Health Week in Cardiff Central Hub and Barry Library.

Congratulations to Viv, Donald and Ian!

  13 May 2024

Congratulations to Viv, Donald and Ian S, on (belatedly!) recieving their certificates marking their completion of training which was presented by Ian Thomson, FAN's Chair of Trustees at our recent FAN Facilitator Get Together.

FAN Facilitator Get Together

  13 May 2024

Twice a year, our fabulous facilitators get together to talk about FAN and FAN groups.

Mental Health Awareness Week - 13th to 19th May.

  17 April 2024

This year, Mental Health Awareness Week runs from 13th to 19th May.

Grangetown Paviliion FAN in uniform!

  2 April 2024

We love seeing how groups respond to different topics!

Thank you Magic Little Grants!

  22 March 2024

Our Bridgend FAN Group meets each Monday 10.45am at the Bridge Centre, CF31 1JB.

Nowruz at Cardiff Central Library FAN

  20 March 2024

A FAN Group meets at Cardiff Central Library Hub on Saturdays and Mondays at 2pm.

Swansea FAN's Cookbook and Stories

  12 March 2024

We are very grateful to have funding from UK Government Shared Prosperity Fund and Levelling up, so that our FAN friends in Swansea can put together a cookbook of their recipes.

New Central Library Hub FAN meeting on Saturdays at 2pm

  21 February 2024

Many of you will know Gill, FAN's founder.

Problems with Yahoo email addresses!

  5 February 2024

If you use Yahoo for emails, and possibly AOL, please note that we are having ongoing problems with those two email providers.

Magic Little Grants making a difference in Bridgend!

  5 February 2024

Thank you to Local Giving's Magic Little Grants for your support for our Bridgend FAN Group.

FAN Newsletter Issue #1

  23 January 2024

We have created a new Newsletter to share with you a little about our recent activities.

Sad news: David Nicholls RIP

  15 January 2024

Gill Saunders writes: I was sad today to hear that our lovely friend David Nicholls who supported FAN Groups so well and helped us to develop in the early years - died on 28th December, 2023.

Thank you!

  11 January 2024

A big thank you to everyone who nominated FAN for support by the Benefact Group.

New FAN group for Women starting in St Athans!

  4 January 2024

It's always great to see new FAN groups starting and so we are delighted to tell you about our new group in St Athens!

Visit the FAN Exhibition in Grangetown Pavilion, Cardiff

  3 January 2024

If you are planning to visit Grangetown or the nearby areas, do take a detour to have a look at our exhibition in Grangetown Pavilion.

Explore the history of Cardiff's Cinemas with FAN!

  2 January 2024

Cathays Heritage FAN group meet once a month for about an hour.

Taking a break!

  19 December 2023

Please note that many FAN groups will be taking a break for a week or two for the coming holiday period, re-starting in the New Year.

New Beginners' English Class

  15 December 2023

Gill Saunders, founder of FAN is starting a new class for people who are starting to learn English.

New FAN meeting at Swansea Central Library

  27 October 2023

FAN is back in Swansea Central Library, SA1 3SNmeeting on Wednesdays at 10am.

Advanced English Class for FAN attendees

  19 October 2023

Gill is running an advanced English class for FAN attendees at Urban Crofters Crofts Street, CF24 3DZ on Thursdays 3-4pm.

Mack61 welcomes it's 100th attendee!

  13 October 2023

The Thursday FAN group @Mack61 welcomed its 100th attendee last week.

Caroline enjoys our Welsh FAN Group!

  1 October 2023

Mae'r cyfarfodydd CAFf (Cymdogion a Ffrindiau) wedi bod yn dda iawn.

Next FAN & Heritage meetings in Cathays Library

  20 September 2023

Once a month, Cathays Heritage Library hold a short FAN meeting followed by a session exploring different aspects of Cardiff's history.

New FAN group in Kenya!

  4 September 2023

At the begining of every FAN meeting we read out our opening statement which includes the words, " We think different countries make the world a more interesting and exciting place", something that is at the very heart of FAN.

Film of FAN!

  9 August 2023

We have a new film of FAN, created as part of our 20th birthday celebrations.

Fundraising for FAN!

  7 August 2023

Congratulations Arthur and Deana who ran the Barry Island 10k on Sunday raising money for FAN.

Running for FAN!

  31 July 2023

Sarah's son Arthur and his partner Deana are running the Barry Island 10K race on Sunday and are raising funds for FAN.

Meeting with the Mayor!

  31 July 2023

FAN friends in Llanelli were honoured to receive an invitation from Mayor Nicholas Pearce to join him for refreshments at the Mayor's parlour.

Virtual FAN @ 20 Celebration

  24 July 2023

We held our final FAN @ 20 Celebration on line so that friends who join us from further afield, and those for whom online communication works best, could be part of our 20th birthday celebrations.

FAN at 20 party in Llanelli

  10 July 2023

Thank you so much Philippa, Christine and Bernadette and your wonderful team of volunteers who made the FAN at 20 party in Llanelli go with such a swing.

West Wales is celebrating FAN@20!

  12 June 2023

West Wales FAN will be celebrating FAN's 20th anniversary in Llanelli on Saturday 17th June.

Yvonne shares what FAN means to her.

  9 June 2023

Yvonne from our Friday Virtual FAN group shares what FAN means to her.

What a wonderful 20th Birthday!!

  4 May 2023

More than 160 FAN Friends and Supporters took part in the wonderful FAN Celebration at the Temple of Peace in Cardiff on Saturday 29th April at an event that was full of joy.

Celebrating 20 years of FAN!

  29 April 2023

Today we celebrate FAN's 20th Anniversary!

FAN is 20!

  26 April 2023

FAN started 20 years ago in the Salvation Army in Grangetown...

Goodbye Dan!

  26 April 2023

Dan Edwards has facilitated the wonderful Cathays Heritage Library FAN + group since it started, making each monthly meeting a fascinating mix of FAN and local history ranging from Billy the Seal through the arcades and the history of the Sherman (50 years old unbelievably).

Topics 2022!

  29 March 2023

At each FAN meeting, after we have talked a little about ourselves and our week we all take turns to share our experiences and thoughts about that week's topic.

歡迎 Croeso Welcome!

  14 March 2023

We were delighted to take part in the Friendship Festival on Sunday, where people from Hong Kong, local communities and organisations, come together to have fun and make new friends!

Out and About!

  13 March 2023

The Spring sunshine has brought FAN staff and volunteers many opportunities to be out and about meeting potential FAN participants and connecting with our colleagues working in the community.

FAN Facilitators and participants speak about FAN on Radio Wales

  6 March 2023

Many thanks to FAN Facilitators and participants who rose to challenge of talking on radio about us.

Younger people welcome at FAN

  14 February 2023

Many younger people have enjoyed our FAN groups over the years - with those living in Cardiff because of study, work or seeking refuge, becoming valued members of our groups.

Great Winter Get Together event at Mack 61

  2 February 2023

We celebrated the Great Winter Get Together at Mack61.

GWGT at Mack 61 Thursday 26th January

  20 January 2023

Join Katherine and Ian at Mack 61, 61 Mackintosh Place for a day of free food, fun and FAN all part of the Great Winter Get Together.

FAN's Great Winter Get Together at Wyndham Street Centre

  18 January 2023

Wonderful to be part of the Riverside FAN Group's Great Winter Get Together at Wyndham Street Centre, thank you to Mona, Elham, Sharon and the gang for delicious soup and such a warm welcome.

Meet our new Insight Volunteer Sweedle

  13 December 2022

We are delighted to welcome Sweedle who is volunteering with us from Cardiff University.

Christmas Day FAN at 11am

  13 December 2022

If you would like to connect with FAN Friends on Christmas Day, join Ian on Zoom at 11am for a special Christmas FAN meeting.

Join us for FAN and a shared lunch

  13 December 2022

On Saturday 17th December at 11am meet at the United Reform Church, Windsor Place, Cardiff for our friendly FAN meeting then stay and enjoy a bit of lunch.

11am Cardiff Saturday FAN will meet in Central Library Hub 3.12.22

  2 December 2022

Due to the sudden unavailability of our usual venue of the United Reform Church in Windsor Place we will meet in the Meeting Room on the 4th Floor of the Cardiff Central Library Hub, The Hayes, Cardiff, CF10 1FL.

FAN NEEDS YOUR HELP!!

  24 October 2022

The Movement for Good Awards is an annual platform for giving, set up by all the businesses that make up the Benefact Group.

Oasis FAN group, Cardiff - New meeting time of 11am

  17 October 2022

Please note that Oasis FAN Group have changed their time from 1.15pm to 11am.

Hate Crime Awareness Week 8th to 15th October

  16 September 2022

Hate Crime Awareness Week is a national week of action to encourage communities affected by hate crime, local authorities, police forces and other key partners to work together to tackle local hate crime issues.

FAN@Mack61, off to a fantastic start!

  16 September 2022

FAN @ Mack 61 (Roath in Cardiff) has notched up 15 meetings since starting in June.

FAN becoming more dementia friendly

  1 August 2022

FAN Groups are welcoming spaces and we know that over the years many people have come to FAN experiencing the effects of dementia.

Farewell Reunion for Salvation Army Women's Group

  22 July 2022

Good to be with old and new friends at the farewell reunion of the Women's group at the Salvation Army in Grangetown.

FAN is recruiting!!

  28 June 2022

FAN is recruiting!

Farewell to Wayne

  22 June 2022

Saying goodbye to a friend.

Maes-Y-Coed FAN Meeting in person and via Zoom!

  13 June 2022

We now have groups meeting face to face and some that have continued to meet via Zoom.

NEW FAN Group at Mack 61, Roath, Cardiff

  7 June 2022

We are delighted to share that FAN at Mack 61 will start to meet on Thursday 9th June at 1.30pm .

Message from Sarah thanking all our wonderful FAN volunteers!

  1 June 2022

1st to 7th June is Volunteers' Week.

FAN at the Royal Garden Party

  19 May 2022

Buckingham Palace, 18 May 2022 The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service (QAVS) celebrates the outstanding work of local volunteer groups across the UK.

Dementia Action Week - 16th to 22nd May

  16 May 2022

16th to 22nd May is Dementia Action Week.

Women's FAN Group volunteer needed

  27 April 2022

We are looking for a female volunteer to support a women’s FAN group in the Grangetown area that meets weekly on Wednesday mornings for an hour and a half.

My First Flight!

  27 April 2022

A few weeks ago the topic for Grangetown Pavilion FAN was My First Flight.

Join the FAN Staff Team!

  6 April 2022

We are looking for a home-based part-time Development Officer for the Newport area.

FAN Facilitator Get Together - 01.04.22

  1 April 2022

At least twice a year, FAN facilitators from all groups, staff and trustees are invited to a get together.

Meet Ebony our Cardiff University Insight volunteer

  22 March 2022

FAN is delighted to have Ebony volunteering with us this Spring.

Explore Cardiff's history with Heritage FAN!

  14 March 2022

As always, there are some great topics coming up with Heritage FAN.

Salvation Army women's FAN Group, New meeting day

  4 March 2022

The Salvation Army women's FAN group now meet on Wednesdays at 10am, The group is based in Grangetown, Cardiff and start with an English lesson, followed by a FAN meeting where participants can practice their English conversation skills.

Llantwit Major FAN - new time 1.30pm

  26 January 2022

Llantwit Major FAN meets in Bethel Baptist Church weekly on Tuesdays at the new time of 1.30pm There will be a very warm welcome but wear warm clothes and bring your own hot drink as the room itself my be cool...

FAN Email Addresses Are Changing!

  4 January 2022

Both FAN and the wider environment have changed over the years and it has become increasingly obvious that we needed to change the way we communicate.

Christmas Day FAN!

  21 December 2021

While many FAN friends will be celebrating a busy family Christmas we know that it can be a lonely time of the year too, so Ian is holding a special Christmas morning FAN meeting on 25th December at 11am.

Llantwit Major FAN - all wrapped up!

  30 November 2021

Friends and Neighbours Llantwit Major continues to meet safely, 10 – 11am on Tuesdays, in the large and airy church hall at Bethel Baptist Church, Durell Street, Llantwit Major.

Bring A Friend To FAN Week 2021

  19 November 2021

22nd November sees the start of Bring A Friend To FAN Week - where we encourage FAN participants to share their enthusiasm for FAN and to ask another person to attend.

Update on Newport FAN

  5 November 2021

Sadly we have said goodbye to Jane Booty our Newport Development and Support Worker.

FAN Plus Heritage - Monthly meetings at Cathays Library

  13 October 2021

Come to this FAN Plus group to explore the history of our city at our monthly meetings.

New Swansea University FAN Group

  12 October 2021

FAN Coffee Club at Swansea Uni - there were 5 of us from England, Ukraine, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.

New FAN Group in York Place, Swansea

  12 October 2021

York Place, Swansea and a new face to face FAN group - great start!

FAN is presented with the Queen's Award For Voluntary Service

  24 September 2021

On 21st September 2021 The FAN (Friends and Neighbours) Charity was presented with the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service, by the Lord Lieutenant of Glamorgan, Mrs Morfydd Meredith.

Welcome back to our FAN group for women with an ESOL class

  8 September 2021

Our FAN group for Women with an English Language Class starts back on Friday 17th September at the Salvation Army Grangetown and looks forward to welcoming old and new friends.

New online FAN group for West Gwent

  6 September 2021

A new online group for those living in the West Gwent area will be starting at 10am on Monday 27th September.

NEW FAN group in Stow Park, Newport

  6 September 2021

A new face to face group is starting at Stow Park Community Centre, Brynhyfryd Road, Newport on Monday 20th September from 1.30pm to 2.30pm.

FAN Getting out and about at the International Day of Languages 29.9.21

  6 September 2021

Come along and join FAN friends at the International Day of Languages event in Butetown Pavilion.

Face to Face FAN Groups starting up again in September

  4 September 2021

So good to see several groups starting back up face to face for September including The Salvation Army group for women (which includes an English class), Friday FAN for all in Grangetown and Saturday FAN at the United Reform Church in the City Centre.

New FAN Group for Llantwit Major!

  16 August 2021

Such good news from our friends in Llantwit Major.

Talking about future plans

  26 July 2021

Great to see so many FAN friends and supporters at our recent consultation meetings on Zoom.

Dych chi'n dysgu Cymraeg neu siarad Cymraeg? Do you learn Welsh or speak Welsh?

  1 July 2021

Dyma ein Grŵp CAFf Cymraeg - Cymdogion a Ffrindiau yn siarad am liwiau.

NEW - FAN group in Newport

  21 June 2021

We are very pleased to announce that we are starting a new face to face FAN group in Maindee Library , Newport on Wednesday afternoons at 2pm, commencing Wednesday 23rd June and every following Wednesday.

Tell us what matters to you and your community! Survey

  17 June 2021

Please take a moment to complete our survey and help us make sure that FAN continues to meet the needs of our communities.

FAN group restarting in Usk

  14 June 2021

We are thrilled to announce that Face to Face FAN is restarting in Usk Hub on Wednesday 16th June at 10am and hopes to welcome both old friends and new.

The FAN Charity receives The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service

  2 June 2021

The FAN Charity, a group of volunteers based in South Wales, have been honoured with The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest award a voluntary group can receive in the UK.

FAN + Heritage at Cathays Library

  26 May 2021

‘Hello everyone, my name's Dan and I facilitate the FAN+ Heritage sessions which run on the second Thursday of the month at Cathays Heritage library.

Cardiff University Interns finding out more about younger people and FAN - complete their survey please!

  24 May 2021

Hello, our names are Caitlin and Megan, and we are second year students at Cardiff University currently performing social research into youth attendance at FAN!

A musical 60th raising funds for FAN!

  12 May 2021

Thanks so much to former FAN Development and Support Officer Ann O'Hare and her family and friends for raising a wonderful £612.50 for FAN as part of her 60th birthday celebrations.

Farewell Ceri's Sunday 3pm FAN Meeting!

  15 April 2021

Ceri's 3pm Sunday FAN meeting will meet for the final time on Sunday 18th April.

Nearly 40 new Virtual FAN Facilitators trained!

  11 March 2021

During the past months we have been running and developing training sessions for people who would like to become virtual FAN facilitators.

FAN Launches its new website!

  10 March 2021

Welcome to our new FAN website, bringing you clear, accessible information about The FAN Charity and our Friends And Neighbours groups.

A NEW FAN group for England

  26 February 2021

Welcome to Biddulph FAN and thank you Suzanne for starting this new group.

New Time for our Welsh FAN Group

  22 February 2021

A new time for our Welsh FAN group - 3 o'clock in the afternoon on Tuesdays.

FAN bringing people together over this challenging Christmas period.

  22 December 2020

Many of us have been disappointed that we cannot get together with friends or family over this holiday period.

Don't feel alone this Christmas join a Christmas FAN meeting

  16 December 2020

Email Ian on wirral7@gmail. com for the joining details

In memory of our Friend - Mumtaz Jan

  19 October 2020

Friends from the Grangetown Pavilion group will have fond memories of our friend Mumtaz Jan.

Goodbye Ann, Hello Jane - change of FAN staff in Newport

  2 October 2020

FAN has been lucky to have Ann O'Hare working as Development and Support Officer in Newport for the last year and a half.

Thank you Garfield Weston Foundation for supporting FAN!

  2 October 2020

Thank you to The Garfield Weston Foundation for their support for FAN's work in Cardiff - bringing the community together in our friendly listening groups.

Sister Anne moving to Scotland

  28 September 2020

Grangetown Salvation Army FAN group for women is not meeting at the moment, but for many years has enjoyed the support and friendship of Sister Anne, who looked after the little children in the group.

European Day of Languages - Saturday 26th September

  10 September 2020

Join our FAN (Friends and Neighbours) Group on Saturday 26th September at 11am where our topic of the day will be Languages.

Job Opportunity in Newport with FAN

  6 August 2020

We are grateful to the National Lottery Community Fund for support of our Fanning Out project in Swansea and Newport.

Some Virtual FAN groups are taking a summer break...

  26 July 2020

Do check our Virtual FAN list to see which groups are meeting all through July and August - some are taking a break, but plenty still available.

Meet FAN Friends - new case histories available.

  26 July 2020

We have collected case histories from many FAN friends, including some from Virtual FAN.

Oasis Centre for Asylum Seekers and Refugees hosts our new FAN group

  23 June 2020

Oasis in Splott has been busy throughout the Coronavirus emergency providing hot meals and support for Asylum seekers and Refugees in Cardiff.

Two new Virtual FAN groups from Monmouthshire and Gwent

  15 June 2020

We are delighted to see two more Virtual FAN groups meet weekly, arising from our Usk and Newport groups.

Small Charities Week FAN Group

  12 June 2020

Join a virtual FAN Friends and Neighbours group using Zoom on Wednesday 17th June at 3pm.

Virgin Money Foundation supports FAN

  22 May 2020

Many thanks to the Virgin Money Foundation for their generous grant of £1,166 towards FAN's running costs - recognising the good work that we do and the difficult times ahead.

Generous Support for FAN from the National Lottery Community Fund

  9 May 2020

The FAN Charity is able to continue supporting the community during the Coronavirus crisis thanks to National Lottery funding and National Lottery players.

Celebrating Europe Day - remembering the FAN mission.

  9 May 2020

To mark Europe Day 2020 our topic today was What Europe Means to Me.

CAFf Cymraeg - Welsh FAN

  5 May 2020

CAFf Cymraeg: Siaradodd pedwar ffrind yn ein grŵp CAFF heddiw.

Cyfarfod Cymdogion a Ffrindiau (CAFf) Cymraeg Welsh-medium Friends and Neighbours (FAN) meeting

  21 April 2020

Helo, mae grŵp newydd rhith CAFf gyda ni trwy gyfrwng y Gymraeg dros Zoom bob dydd Mercher 10yb.

Remembrance of times past!

  15 April 2020

Just before the lockdown our new Maes Y Coed FAN group in Cardiff was visited by Trainee Journalist Pamela.

Virtual FAN Tip! Where to find the Open and Close.

  15 April 2020

We know that many FAN friends are enjoying virtual FAN groups each week, but sometimes we can't all see the Open and Close - which frame our meetings.

15 Virtual FAN meetings taking place weekly! You are very welcome.

  14 April 2020

Do take a look at the find a FAN meeting page to find a virtual FAN meeting at a time that suits you.

Virtual FAN groups updated 28.3.20 (first post 24.3.20)

  24 March 2020

Here is an updated list of FAN groups taking place this week - if you would like to join a group, please message through our contact us.

Virtual FAN an exciting new direction for FAN Groups

  22 March 2020

Trying to be creative in these challenging times...

FAN Open and Closing statements ready for FAN in isolation!

  18 March 2020

We hope to keep in touch using technology over the next while, so you may be 'doing FAN' on your own home and may not have a copy of the Open and Close to hand.

FAN Groups are closed

  17 March 2020

The Coronavirus situation is changing rapidly and we are following the most recent advice of the Government and ceasing all non-essential gatherings so there will be no more FAN activity for the foreseeable future.

Many FAN groups are closed due to Coronavirus please check the find a meeting page.

  16 March 2020

Many FAN groups or FAN group venues have closed as a precautionary measure in response to the Coronavirus.

Friends and Neighbours Together in Llanelli off to a great start

  10 March 2020

Philippa and the gang in our new FAN group in Llanelli.

Anyone friendly welcome!

  10 March 2020

even this dinosaur...

Keeping safe in FAN - thinking about Coronovirus

  5 March 2020

Keeping safe in FAN, and thinking about Coronovirus.

FAN Facilitator Get Together February 2020

  9 February 2020

Good to bring 29 FAN facilitators, staff and guests together for a half day workshop, sharing good practice and some of the challenges and joys of FAN.

FAN in Swansea and Newport funded by the National Lottery Community Fund

  9 February 2020

FAN is grateful to the National Lottery Community Fund for its support for work in Swansea, Llanelli, Newport and Usk where groups are growing.

FAN Staff

  9 February 2020

The FAN Charity is grateful to its funders the Tudor Trust and the National Lottery Community Fund - these organisations allow us to employ part time staff in Cardiff, Swansea and Newport to support Facilitators and to develop FAN groups - and here we are Ann, Sarah, Janina and Philippa - nearly all present and correct, alongside our new bilingual pull up sign.

Canton Library FAN update

  5 December 2019

Canton Library FAN group meets most Wednesdays at 5.30pm.

St Neots FAN has moved!

  16 November 2019

St Neots FAN has voted for a move to the Art and Soul Cafe 7 New St, Saint Neots PE19 1AE opposite the museum.

St Neots FAN change of venue 9/11/19

  8 November 2019

This week – for one week only at the present time – St Neots FAN will meet upstairs in the gallery area of the Art and Soul Cafe, (opposite St Neots Museum) 7 New St, Saint Neots PE19 1AE from 4.00 pm to 5.00 pm (i.e.

New FAN Development and Support Workers in Newport and Swansea!

  14 September 2019

The FAN Charity is delighted to welcome Ann O'Hare and Philippa Wisdom who have joined the team in Newport and Swansea (respectively).

Oasis FAN is moving to Thursdays from 26th September

  14 September 2019

Friendly facilitators Huda and Steve look forward to welcoming you to Oasis FAN on Thursdays at 1pm from 26th September.

News about FAN Plus and visit to Wales Millennium Centre

  20 August 2019

No FAN plus on Tuesday 27th August, next FAN plus Tuesday 24th September - meet at 1.25pm at the meeting point.

Ikea FAN

  19 August 2019

19th August meeting at Cadwalladers in Cardiff Bay at 11am CF10 5BZ.

FAN Plus at the Wales Millennium Centre - wear your toed shoes

  29 July 2019

Do hope that you are able to join us for FAN at WMC on Tuesday 30th July 1.30pm.

FAN on the Radio - Gill talked to Jason Mohammad 30/4/19

  2 May 2019

Lovely to have the opportunity to speak about FAN Radio Wales.

FAN Plus at the Wales Millennium Centre 30.4.19

  26 April 2019

Tuesday 30th April sees our next FAN plus meeting at the WMC.

New FAN Post in Newport!

  11 April 2019

Thanks to the support of the National Lottery Community Fund FAN seeks to employ a member of staff to develop FAN in Newport and surrounding area.

NO HERITAGE FAN at Cathays Library today 7th February sorry!

  7 February 2019

7th February group cancelled, but next Heritage FAN will be on 7th March - see you then.

No FAN at Central Library - 31.1.19

  31 January 2019

No FAN at Central Library today, 31.1.19, Sorry.

No FAN group at STAR HUB 1.2.19

  31 January 2019

No FAN group at STAR HUB on Friday 1.2.19.

Caerphilly FAN - no meeting 16.1.19

  15 January 2019

Caerphilly FAN - no meeting 16.1.19, sorry!

Job Opportunity with FAN in the Swansea area

  15 November 2018

With the benefit of Big Lottery funding, FAN is recruiting a part time Development and Support Officer to work in Swansea and area.

The FAN Charity receives Big Lottery Support!

  12 November 2018

I am delighted to report that the The Big Lottery has awarded £59k over 3 years to the FAN Charity.

Have you attended a FAN group, please take a moment to complete our questionnaire

  12 November 2018

The FAN Charity has put together a short questionnaire to find out more about the experience of FAN participants.

FANNING OUT! FAN wins grant for work in Swansea and Newport!

  9 October 2018

Great news!

NEW FAN group starts in Swansea's Hub on the Hill

  1 July 2018

Welcome to the Hub on the Hill, in Mount Pleasant Swansea - high above the city.

New group in St Neots Cambridgeshire

  23 March 2018

Exciting news for St Neots, Cambridgeshire!

No FAN at the Pavilion on Monday 4th March

  4 March 2018

Sorry no FAN at the Pavilion on Monday 4th March, see you next week.

City Centre FAN in the cancelled 3.3.18

  2 March 2018

City Centre FAN in the United Reform Church, cancelled 3.3.18 ...

Central Library Hub FAN

  1 March 2018

No FAN meeting today, 1st March, due to the weather.

New Men's group starting in Butetown!

  10 January 2018

We are delighted to announce a new, men only FAN group which will be taking place at  TMR, (The Mentor Ring),  Butetown Community Centre,  Unit 4,  Second Floor,  Butetown  CF10 5JA .

New group starting at The Gate arts centre!

  10 January 2018

On 28th February,  a new FAN group will start meeting at The Gate arts centre in Roath, Cardiff.

No Saturday URC meeting on Sat 26th August

  25 August 2017

Hello, Please note that there will be no FAN meeting on Sat 26th August,  but we will meet as usual on Sat 2nd September.

FAN in the summer!

  11 July 2017

A few fan groups will continue to meet during the summer,  so if you want to continue to catch up with old friends and neighbours and meet new ones, check the "Find a FAN Meeting" page on this website, where the summer plans for most groups are listed.

Goodbye Ikea...hello Pavillion!

  20 June 2017

Sometimes FAN groups come to the end of the road and after many years the Ikea Monday morning FAN group has closed.

Ikea FAN joining with Pavilion neighbours on 19th June

  13 June 2017

Friends from two Cardiff FAN groups will meet together on Monday 19th June.

Treforest FAN group Meeting Cancelled 26.4.17

  26 April 2017

Cathays Library FAN restarts 27th April 2017

  25 April 2017

Cathays Library - now in its new guise of Heritage Library will be opening its doors to FAN friends once again on Thursday 27th April at 2pm.

NEW FAN group in Edinburgh! STARTING 20th MAY

  13 April 2017

Exciting news, a new FAN group will start on 20th May in Edinburgh...and the first Scottish FAN group.

Exciting opportunity to work for FAN!

  4 April 2017

FAN has received funding from the Tudor Trust to employ an additional part time member of staff who will focus on the support and development of FAN groups primarily in Cardiff.

New FAN groups in Cardiff!

  4 April 2017

Two new FAN groups are starting in Cardiff later in April.

FAN on Radio Cardiff's Temple Vibes

  6 March 2017

Following our lovely celebration at the Temple of Peace FAN friends have been invited to take part in Emily Williams Temple Vibes radio show on Radio Cardiff.

FAN on the Radio!

  20 February 2017

Emily Williams from the Temple of Peace met FAN for the first time at our recent Celebration Once Strangers Now Friends.

A visit to Ikea FAN

  13 February 2017

IKEA FAN Group which meets on Mondays at 11.00 was delighted to welcome 9 new people this morning.

FAN Celebration

  29 January 2017

Once Strangers, Now Friends, Temple of Peace and Health, Cardiff January 28th 2017 Two hundred people attended our Once Strangers, Now Friends event, for a joyous celebration of all things FAN.

Barry FAN starts 17.1.17

  17 January 2017

FAN Friends are so pleased that Barry FAN will start on Wednesday 18th January at 11.30am in Barry - in Barry Library on King's Square.

Welcoming Syrian Refugee Families in Cardiff Bay

  14 December 2016

FAN was very happy to be part of an event in the Pierhead building in Cardiff Bay.

Sudanese FAN meeting on Saturdays

  19 November 2016

The Sudanese community get together is now taking place in Trinity Centre, junction of Piercefield Place and Newport Road CF24 1LE on Saturdays at 6pm.

No Saturday FAN meeting on 19th November!

  18 November 2016

Unfortunately FAN will not meet on 19th November, but looking forward to seeing you on 26th November - 10.30am for coffee and 11 for FAN.

FAN groups in Cardiff and South Wales are up and running!

  30 October 2016

Many FAN groups have taken a break over half term - but half term is over, the clocks have gone back, and the nights are definitely drawing in but FAN groups are ready to welcome you.

Sunday FAN - no group 30/10/16

  29 October 2016

Dear FAN friends, there will not be a meeting of the Sudanese community FAN group this Sunday.

Goodbye to Reiko and Keisuke!

  9 October 2016

Debbie from Tuesday morning Grangetown Hub FAN writes...

BUZZ FAN meeting at the Grangetown Hyb 6.9.16

  5 September 2016

Hello all.

Saturday FAN

  27 August 2016

There will not be a meeting of Saturday FAN today, 27th August.

Two FAN groups making changes!

  24 August 2016

Zone Bridgend and Ebbw Vale FAN groups are making changes ready for September...

Picnic Wednesday 17th August

  16 August 2016

Bring something to eat and to sit on and join FAN friends in a picnic at the Gorsedd Gardens on Wednesday 17th August, 1pm.

Free English Classes at MADE - update!

  26 July 2016

Gill will be running free Advanced English Conversation Classes on Wednesday mornings at 10.30am at MADE Cafe Roath (corner of Lochaber Street and Angus Street, CF24 4PW) and then students are encouraged to join with conversation in the MADE FAN group on Thursday mornings at 11am.

Gordon Bell

  26 July 2016

We are very sorry to share the news that our friend Gordon Bell has died.

Advanced English Conversation Classes - Book Now!

  14 July 2016

Gill will be running Advanced English Conversation Classes - twice a week at MADE Cafe (corner of Lochaber Street and Angus Street, CF24 4PW) in the upstairs room starting on Wednesday 20th July - many thanks to Zoe for that upper room facility!

FAN Questionnaire Results

  12 May 2016

FAN Friends and Facilitators from groups across South Wales got together with Jane Tooby FAN Trustee and Sarah FAN Development Officer to share experiences of FAN across the region.

Treforest FAN at University of South Wales

  29 April 2016

USW FAN is based on the Treforest campus, CF37 1DL.

What's in a name?

  29 April 2016

What does your name mean, who gave you your name?

23rd April Saturday FAN - new venue!

  21 April 2016

On Saturday 23rd April Saturday FAN will not be meeting in Charles Street, but in a community room at the URC Church in Windsor Place, CF10 3BZ and we do hope you can come!

FAN welcomes new trustees

  15 April 2016

FAN is governed by a board of Trustees.

All FAN groups back in action!

  11 April 2016

Several FAN groups have been on holiday over Easter, but the holidays are over and the Summer Term has begun (even if the weather is not very promising today).

Warm welcome for FAN at Canton 50+ group

  11 April 2016

Thankyou to Iona Gordon and Conway Road Methodist Church 50+ group for the warm welcome on Wednesday.

FAN groups over the Easter holidays

  24 March 2016

Many FAN groups are taking a break over the Easter holidays - but please check our Find a Meeting page or our Facebook https://www.facebook.com/THEFANCHARITY/ to be sure.

FAN Friends from 100 Countries!

  18 March 2016

FANTASTIC NEWS for our FAN Groups and our great world of international friendship.

Saturday FAN talks about beginnings

  16 March 2016

A very big  meeting at the Quaker Centre at 11:00 - there must have been about twenty five of us from countries throughout the world - including first time visitors from the United States and Paraguay, and regular friends from Pakistan, Thailand and South Korea, Turkey, Lithuania and Azerbaijan, Saudi Arabia and Somalia, plus Wales and England.

FAN gets out and about

  16 March 2016

FAN staff and volunteers take up invitations to meet other organisations and to talk to people about FAN.

Saturday FAN weathers the storm....

  21 February 2016

We had a surprisingly large number of people at Saturday Charles Street FAN Group at the Quaker Centre at 11:00 'considering the weather'.

Part Time Job Opportunities with FAN

  21 February 2016

FAN is looking to appoint two part time temporary Project Officers, and the closing date is coming up fast!

FAN meetings over half term

  15 February 2016

Many FAN meetings do take a half term break, but not all!  Check out the Find a FAN Meeting page or FAN Facebook https://www.facebook.com/THEFANCHARITY/ to see if your favourite group is meeting this week.

Saturday FAN gets sporty

  7 February 2016

Sport and exercise was our topic today at the Quaker Centre in Charles Street, Cardiff, introduced by Paul - the first day of the 2016 Six Nations.

Job Opportunity: Temporary Part Time FAN Project Officers

  7 February 2016

The FAN Charity is going to employ 2 FAN Project Officers in Cardiff for 5 hours a week (£9 an hour) for 3 months .

Celtic Language School Tea Party for FAN at MADE

  1 February 2016

We had a great tea party today at MADE Community Arts Cafe.

FAN is presented with the Pat Chown Award

  20 January 2016

Lovely celebration at Buzz FAN today as John Chown presented a donation to FAN in memory of his wife Pat.

End of term celebration at Stacey FAN

  17 January 2016

All good things must come to an end.

FAN at Quakers 16th January 2016

  17 January 2016

Another busy meeting of Saturday FAN this morning - I wasn't counting carefully but I think we were more than 20.

FAN meets British Council Active Citizens at Cardiff Story

  11 December 2015

Debbie, Sarah, Zahra, Ian, Katka and Arwa from the FAN Group in Cardiff took part in a special FAN Group meeting that took place on the 8 December 2015 in the building now housing the Cardiff Story at the Old Library in The Hayes..

Christmas times past at Canton Library FAN

  11 December 2015

The dark nights are perhaps keeping our evening numbers down so it was just four of us in the warm and comfortable room at Canton Library, where we hold our Wednesday meetings.

What FAN means to us...

  24 October 2015

At our large Saturday FAN Group at the Quaker Centre in Charles Street we talked about FAN Groups and how each of us heard about them and what we felt FAN had given us.

Facilitator Get Together October 2015

  21 October 2015

Great to be with so many FAN facilitators from Cardiff and Swansea yesterday.

Trinity Centre FAN

  12 October 2015

Trinity Centre FAN is taking a break.

Bridgend FAN at the Zone Community Centre

  12 October 2015

We have now been going now for 4 months and we are doing just fine!

Celebrating the opening of The Corner in Roath

  29 September 2015

Great to join in celebrations at the Corner - congratulations to Roath Park Primary on the opening of your new community facing venue.

Talking about herbal medicines at Canton Library FAN

  24 September 2015

A new topic (I think) for our FAN Group meeting tonight at Canton Library - herbal, alternative and complementary remedies / medicines.

Butetown Women's FAN group meets on Mondays...

  24 September 2015

Butetown Women's FAN Group met on Monday afternoon at 1.30pm.

Animals (and people) at Saturday FAN

  24 September 2015

We had a good FAN meeting this morning in 43 Charles Street.

Food Glorious Food!

  17 September 2015

Our new FAN friends from Italy, Riccardo and Alessandra, have quickly become much-liked regulars at our Wednesday and Saturday FAN meetings.

Who would YOU invite for dinner?

  11 September 2015

MADE Cafe FAN Group yesterday Thursday 10th September, enjoyed meeting a visitor from Cardiff Metropolitan University.

Swansea FAN going strong

  11 September 2015

Great to visit FAN friends in Swansea on Wednesday.

Canton Library FAN News

  7 September 2015

Lovely to see such a big group of friends on Wednesday 2nd September.

Busy Bank Holiday FAN

  30 August 2015

We really enjoyed the Saturday FAN Group meeting today!

Cycling and walking in the city

  23 August 2015

Canton Meeting 19 August 2015 - Walking and Cycling in the rain Eleven of us braved the heavy rain (again) to our Canton FAN Group meeting on Wednesday evening.

Family friendly film at Chapter

  15 August 2015

You may be interested in a film being shown at Chapter in Canton on Monday 24th August at 2pm.

Summer FAN meetings

  11 August 2015

FAN meetings going on at the following Cardiff venues.

Buzz meets Zone

  3 August 2015

Grangetown Buzz meets Bridgend Zone!

First BUZZ FAN baby!

  20 July 2015

Congratulations to Feven and her family on the birth of baby John.

Goodbye Raphael!

  20 July 2015

Here is Wednesday's Canton Library FAN group in a 'team photo' saying goodbye to our madrileño friend Raphael, who is returning to Spain.

New FAN group for Ely!

  17 May 2015

FAN is working in partnership with Ely and Caerau Hub.

Free Lecture and Tasters at St Fagans

  17 May 2015

On Wednesday 20th May our friends at the WEA (Workers Education Association) have a free adults learners' day school being held in the Oakdale Workmen‚ Institute at St Fagan's National History Museum.

Easter Holidays

  21 March 2015

Many FAN groups will be taking a break for the Easter holidays, so do try to get to a group this week, before they close.

Learn Direct ELLIS - an online way to practise speaking and listening

  11 February 2015

What can I learn?

Half Term Meeting at the Buzz in Grangetown

  10 February 2015

Next week is half term and most FAN groups will be taking a break...

Full Time English Language Courses in Cardiff Bay and Grangetown

  10 February 2015

ESOL Full Time Courses starting 23rd February 2015 (Entry 2, Entry 3, Level 1 & Level 2) Focus on reading, writing, listening and speaking skills as well grammar, vocabulary and cultural issues.

New Free Short Courses for the New Year

  5 January 2015

Cardiff Met University is putting on a range of new short courses in 2015, including Introductions to Health and Social Care, Youth and Community Education.

Free Health & Wellbeing Event in Butetown

  16 November 2014

Wednesday 19th November 10am to 3pm at The Culture and Media Centre, Loudoun Square, Butetown (in the building above the doctor and chemist).

FAN on TV!!

  9 November 2014

On Monday 10th November at 5.30pm and 8.30pm FAN may well feature on MADE in Cardiff TV's news show Hello Cardiff.

Women in Community Leadership

  18 October 2014

Women in Community Leadership is a FREE course run by Women Making a Difference in Cardiff.

Canton Library FAN

  17 October 2014

We meet weekly on Wednesdays at 5.30pm, and have recently enjoyed speaking and listening on topics ranging from food, films, celebrations and technology.

Good News from Turkey

  30 September 2014

Hello FAN friends, many of you remember Ziya who went back to Turkey a few weeks ago.

Good News! Central Library Conversation Group Restarts

  24 September 2014

Many FAN friends have found the conversation group at the Central Library a wonderful place to develop their English skills.

Belle the next screening for the Women's Film Club

  24 September 2014

October is Black History Month, and we're delighted this month to be screening a period drama with a difference.

Cardiff City of Sanctuary, Universities of Sanctuary

  24 September 2014

Free event at the Temple of Peace CF10 3AP in Cardiff on Tuesday 7th October at 7pm.

Active Citizens! New Course for Women

  16 September 2014

Women Making a Difference (WMAD) are running a new free course for women at the Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff Bay.

Central Library Conversation Group

  16 September 2014

Many FAN friends have enjoyed the conversation group at the Central Library and will have missed it since the library has closed on a Wednesday.

Women Making a Difference in Cardiff

  6 September 2014

Women Making A Difference have some interesting new courses starting this autumn.

Caz, Carol-lynn

  2 September 2014

The FAN Charity was saddened to hear of the death of Carol-lynn whom we knew as Caz.

FAN goes out and about at Riverside Festival

  31 August 2014

Zahra, Debbie and Sarah enjoyed their windy (and sometimes rainy) afternoon at the Riverside Festival.

Women of the World Film Club

  7 July 2014

The next screening in the WOW Film Club for women only, will be at Chapter on Wednesday 16th July at 10am.

Women Making A Difference Free Courses

  6 July 2014

FAN women - you may be interested in some new free courses offered by Women Making a Difference.

A blooming lovely tea party!

  25 June 2014

Some of us thought we would take our international FAN friends to a very British tea party which was raising money for charity in a private house and garden.

Refugee Week at the Central Library

  25 June 2014

Zahra and Sarah represented FAN at the recent event at the Central Library.

Refugee Week at the Central Library

  13 June 2014

Come to a free special event at the central library on Tuesday 17th June from 12 noon to 4pm.

WOW Women's Film 17th June at Chapter

  6 June 2014

Many FAN women have enjoyed the special screenings of films at Chapter.

MBE awarded at Windsor Castle

  25 May 2014

On Tuesday 14th April, 2014 four FAN Trustees went to Windsor Castle to collect the MBE which Gill felt she accepted on behalf of all of you who support FAN Groups.

Cardiff Met Summer School

  8 May 2014

Cardiff Metropolitan University Summer School runs for 2 weeks in July, follow this link for more information about free courses (some post code restrictions apply).

FAN stories

  8 May 2014

Did you know you can download four free stories written by Gill, FAN founder?

Language Course & English Classes

  29 April 2014

I've attached a couple of links that could be of interest for others.

New FAN Group in Canton Library

  29 April 2014

We are working with Ceri at Canton Library and will start a new FAN group on Wednesday 30th April from 5.30pm to 6.30pm.

International Women's Day Event

  2 March 2014

Event for women from all around the world in Trinity Methodist Church Adamsdown, CF24 1LE

The Best of Bollywood!

  28 February 2014

The WOW women's film club is teaming up with the Wales One World Film Festival to bring you the Best Of Bollywood Live at the Samaj Hindu Temple in Grangetown.

Minority Ethnic Communities Health Fair

  11 February 2014

On Wednesday 5th March 2014 the annual Minority Ethnic Communities Health Fair will take place at City Hall between 9.15am and 3pm.

FAN Friend's News from China

  23 January 2014

Da Jia Hao!

WOW Women's Film Club Wednesday 5th February

  23 January 2014

Our next screening will be "MANDELA: LONG WALK TO FREEDOM".

News from FAN in Pakistan: cricket and a picnic!

  23 January 2014

I hope that you are doing good and must be very busy in your FAN activities.

Wadjda - FAN women go to the movies

  19 November 2013

On Tuesday 11th November the Riverside FAN group suspended operations and some of us went along to Chapter to watch Wadjda, as part of the WOW Women's Film Group.

Women's Film Club

  29 October 2013

The Film Club is back!!

Black History Month - local events start 27th September 2013

  19 September 2013

Every October throughout the UK, Black History Month celebrates the achievements and contributions of Black people to the development of British society, technology, economy and arts & culture.

FAN working with Cardiff and Vale College

  13 September 2013

Gill and Zahra have made excellent links with Cardiff and Vale College (CAVC) - so much so that in November CAVC will have a FAN group for students as part of their Wednesday afternoon enrichment programme.

Thank you... to Esmee Fairbairn

  17 October 2011

We want to say a big 'thank-you' to Esmee Fairbairn for giving us a grant to help spread FAN Groups.

Amy working hard for a Nepal School

  11 October 2011

We have all been so busy we haven't even had time for news!

News from Jason who is back home in China

  28 December 2010

Hi everyone, We have had a lovely email from Jason.

Thanks to the Trustees for help in 2010

  22 December 2010

Thanks to all FAN Charity Trustees for their invaluable advice, help and support in 2010.

Representatives of the public give support

  24 November 2010

We are pleased Jenny Randerson and Jenny Willots have joined the FAN Charity on Facebook.

The FAN Charity is on Facebook

  7 November 2010

Llanelli Multicultural network has helped us to start a Facebook Page.

Joint Project with SIS (Somali Integration Society) 2010

  16 August 2010

We were delighted to be asked if we would like to help SIS with a short course for those unemployed - on Self Management.

August 2010 A 'first' for Llanelli and Carmarthenshire!

  3 August 2010

The FAN (Friends and Neighbours) Group held its first meeting in the county on Wednesday 28th July in Lakefield Hall, Llanelli.

FAN Groups open during August

  1 August 2010

You don't have to miss out on FAN meetings during August, the following groups are running: Mondays & Wednesdays: FAN at IKEA, Cardiff 10.30-11.30 (some are meeting at 10 am for 99p breakfast first!) Wednesdays: Llanelli FAN at Lakefield Hall at 10.30-11.30am (see below for contact details).

Llanelli FAN - First meeting 28th July 2010

  27 July 2010

Great news!!

Llanelli

  10 July 2010

Great news, we are hoping to announce the start of a FAN Group in Llanelli shortly - watch this space!

FAN at the Ely Festival - 12/6/10

  10 June 2010

Communities First Ely and Caerau are hosting a FAN meeting in their tent on the Festival field opposite Western Leisure Centre at 1pm.

Exciting news from Swansea!

  9 June 2010

FAN now has a second group starting in Swansea on the 14th July at the Oxfam Bookshop, Castle Street at 7pm.

Charitable Company

  21 May 2010

The year seems to have been racing through for FAN.

May update

  21 May 2010

Here we are in May.

Changes for FAN

  7 April 2010

Amy has now left post to pursue new work doing editing with the BBC.

FAN goes to Hollywood!

  25 February 2010

It was lights, camera, action for 14 FAN Attendees last July when we filmed a FAN Meeting!

The 'FAN Goes North' Tour!

  25 February 2010

Before Christmas 2009, Gill, Nick, Zahra and I travelled to North Wales to meet with people who had contacted The FAN Charity, expressing an interest in setting up a FAN Group in their area.

Tudor Trust Grant

  25 February 2010

We are delighted to have received a grant from Tudor Trust to enable us to have a part-time FAN Development Officer for the next two years, from 2010-12.

Amy Leaving the FAN Charity

  25 February 2010

To everyone involved in The FAN Groups, I am very sad to say that I will be leaving the post of FAN Development Officer on Friday 12th March.

Ebbw Vale

  25 February 2010

Two FAN Groups have started in Ebbw Vale and are at fledgling stage.

Swansea FAN Group

  25 February 2010

Last November, Gill, Zahra, Nick, Omar and Amy went to meet with supporters of Swansea City Of Sanctuary to give a presentation about The FAN Groups.

Newport FAN Group

  25 February 2010

The Newport FAN Group started in August 2009 and now has more than 15 members who attend the group on a regular basis.

Wrexham FAN Group Coming Soon!

  25 February 2010

We were delighted to welcome Maggie to Cardiff this week.

New Development Officer

  25 February 2010

As FAN is moving forward so quickly we needed immediate cover for Amy leaving and a loyal FAN attender from early FAN days.

Minister Brian Gibbons visits FAN

  23 September 2009

We were pleased when we were asked if Brian Gibbons, The Government Minister for Social Justice and Local Government could come to a FAN Meeting.

The Oxford Muse invites FAN attendees to a 'Conversation Dinner'

  20 August 2009

The Oxford Muse Conversation Dinner at Ikea Wales was a wonderful success, with nearly 80 people attending who attend FAN Groups or have supported the FAN Charity.

Zahra and Gill at Whitehall for ABNI

  9 April 2009

Zahra and Gill were invited to the Banqueting Room at Whitehall.

Millenium Stadium Trust Fund supports The FAN Charity

  7 April 2009

Following on the success of last year’s grant The FAN Charity is pleased that further funding has been awarded to the charity from the Millennium Stadium Trust Fund.

FAN Development Officer

  27 February 2009

Our new FAN Development Officer Amy Cuff joined us on 1st September.

Naturalisation and Integration Meeting

  27 February 2009

Zahra and Gill are to attend a meeting at Whitehall for ABNI - the Advisory Board for Naturalisation and Integration.

Going forward

  27 February 2009

We are aiming to set up a FAN Group in Newport.

Oxfam Cymru backs The FAN Charity

  25 February 2009

The FAN Charity have joined in partnership with Oxfam Cymru, after being awarded financial backing from Oxfam, enabling The FAN Charity to continue their work over the coming year.

Welsh Assembly Government support The FAN Charity

  25 February 2009

The good work of The FAN Charity has been recognised by the Welsh Assembly Government, as we were asked to submit information so that we could be placed on their website as a good example of voluntary groups working for community cohesion.

July Wedding

  25 February 2009

The FAN friends met at the Salvation Army, Grangetown to celebrate the recent wedding of Agnieszka and Wotjek.