Student's award (From Penarth Times)

Student's award

GOING back to the classroom was made easier for one single mum from Penarth when she was awarded £1000 to contribute to the cost of her studies.

Thirty-eight-year-old mum of two Sandra Lewis was chosen for the award after she decided to do a course in welfare studies last September.

To mark International Women's Day, the Val Feld Trust Fund, administered by Chwarae Teg, Wales' leading economic development agency for women, will donate £1000 each year to a single mum in Wales who is over the age of 25 and pursuing a course of study.

Assembly Minister for Health and Social Services, and former director of Chwarae Teg Jane Hutt, presented Sandra with her award at a ceremony in Swansea's Brangwyn Hall.

The trust has been set up in remembrance of the late Val Feld, Assembly Member for Swansea East and Director of of the Equal Opportunities Commission in Wales, who died in 2001. She was also a founder member of Chwarae Teg.

Sandra, who is a part time student at Barry College, explained: "Going back to the classroom is the best decision I have ever made. It has given me a whole new outlook on life. Not only am I learning new skills but I am also being a good role model for my children."

"I will definitely be using the money to buy the family a computer."

On presenting the awards the Minister commented: "I am very proud to be presenting these awards in memory of Val. I know she would have wholeheartedly supported providing a stepping stone for women to help them to achieve their qualifications."

Ruth Marks, Chief Executive of Chwarae Teg said, "Val Feld was an inspirational woman, who worked tirelessly to promote the role of women in Wales.

"Over 70 women applied, all deserving cases, which illustrate clearly the immense difficulties women face when re-entering education."

To donate to the fund in memory of Val contact Chwarae Teg on 029 20 478900.