The MS for Arfon, Sian Gwenllian, has welcomed a community hub at her old primary school following an open day for the public.

Hwb Heli is based in the renovated building which was Y Felinheli’s primary school until the 1970s.

But it is now part of Gwynedd Council’s Disability Services provision that offers bespoke programmes tailored to individuals’ unique needs.

Ms Gwenllian was a pupil when Hwb Heli was a school and her mother, Beti Huws, was a former teacher.

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The MS was pleased to attend the open day with her mother and another former teacher, Menna Davies.

The two former teachers had the honour of cutting the ribbon to celebrate the new use of the building.

As well as housing part of Gwynedd Council’s services for adults with a learning disability, Hwb Heli is an asset to be used by the village for various community activities.

Hwb Heli is used by Lleisiau Llawen Makaton Choir, who recently performed at Gŵyl Fwyd Caernarfon.

Makaton is a language programme that uses signs, together with speech and symbols, to enable people to communicate.

The language is often used by individuals who have autism, Down’s Syndrome, various language impairments, multisensory impairments, or any other neurological disorders that have impacted their ability to communicate.

Individuals receiving services at the hub have also lent a helping hand to Bwyd Bendigedig Y Felinheli, which is a part of The Incredible Edible project, an urban gardening project started in 2008.

Ms Gwenllian praised Hwb Heli for their work with adults with learning difficulties.

She said: “The past two-and-a-half years have affected individuals with learning difficulties in a disproportionate way.

“That’s why resources such as Hwb Heli are vital in integrating those individuals back into society, assisting them in rebuilding social networks and giving them presence in the community.

“I was also glad to hear about Hwb Heli’s commitment to become a fully immersed part of village life, and they are urging residents to make use of the centre as a community hub.

“It was great to visit my former school and hear more about the services that will be offered at Hwb Heli.

“Llwybrau Llesiant were also present to share information about the work they do to develop wellness opportunities for adults with learning disabilities.

“It was brilliant to be back at my old school and to see how the building has been transformed into a multi-purpose and modern space, suitable for the service users and the staff and also a great asset for the whole area.”