About us
Cynon Valley PALS is a charity that organises play and leisure activities for children with disabilities and their families. We recognise that families who have a child with a disability can feel isolated and the caring role can be difficult for parents and siblings.
We provide inclusive activities that the whole family can take part in and enjoy in a relaxed and safe environment. Many of our children cannot access busy leisure facilities and so we hire out venues for exclusive use so that the children can enjoy quiet, relaxed sessions. We also organise trips to relaxed theatre showings or to safari parks.
We organise all of the details to take the pressure off the families and help them to enjoy leisure time together.
We believe that all children should have the same opportunities to enjoy a wealth of experiences and it is our aim to provide these.
Meet the Team
Lowri Matthews - Chair Person
Hi! I’m Lowri and I’m the Co-Chair of Cynon Valley PALS. I have been volunteering with PALS since I was 14.
I am currently studying my PCGE Secondary in History and recently graduated with a BA in International Politics.
I thoroughly enjoy seeing the benefit that all the children get from the activities and how all the parents are willing to rally around each other!
Lisa Walstow - Vice Chair
My name is Lisa. I work as a primary school teacher in Aberdare.
I am one of the PALS chairpersons.
You may see me at activities with my nephews, Joseph and Ben.
Hayley Vardon – Charity Development Officer
I’m Hayley and I’m the Charity Development Officer for Cynon Valley PALS.
I am a primary school teacher and have worked in mainstream schools, as a literacy support teacher, as an ALNCO and in an ASD class.
I have two sons who love coming to PALS activities.
PALS has given us as a family some unforgettable experiences and I love seeing the enjoyment that the children get from all of the activities.
Faye Matthews - Secretary
Hi, I’m Faye. I’m the secretary for Cynon Valley PALS.
I’m a full-time carer for my oldest son who has autism and he is the reason I first got involved with PALS.
I really enjoy being part of the organising of activities and being able to see all the children interact.
PALS has allowed me and my family to have so many opportunities and I’m so pleased to be a part of the trustees.
Martyn Vardon - Treasurer
I’m Martyn. I work as an administrator.
My sons love coming along to PALS.
I am happy to help a charity that has helped our family so much.
The Shrubbs - Co-Treasurer & Trustee
Hi! We are the Shrubbs – Rebecca Shrubb co-treasurer, Paul Shrubb trustee and Joshua Shrubb.
Josh has autism and we have been part of the PALS family for over 10 years.
We love being part of the team that helps organise PALS activities and want to see other children benefit from PALS as much as Josh did 😊.
