Residents across Powys are being invited to help shape the future of their communities through a series of events organised by the Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations (PAVO).

The Community Conversations, supported by Powys County Council and part of the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund programme, will give locals the chance to highlight gaps in services, share what matters most to them, and suggest practical improvements. Events will also feature a Community Fair, allowing residents to meet local groups, discover available support, and find out what’s happening in their area.

Clair Swales, PAVO CEO, said: “This is about listening to the people who know their communities best.

“We’ve already been out and about over the summer, gathering views at local shows, events and community groups, and asking people to complete a short survey so we can build a picture of life in Powys - now we want to hear directly from you.”

The events will take place at 16 locations across the county over the coming months:

• Crickhowell: Tuesday 14 October, 09:30–12:30, The Clarence Hall, Beaufort St, NP8 1BN

• Llanwrtyd Wells: Saturday 18 October, 10:00–13:00, Bromsgrove Hall, Ysgol Dolafon, Dolecoed Road, LD5 4RA

• Llanidloes: Thursday 6 November, 12:30–14:30, Minerva Arts Centre, 2 High St, SY18 6BY (Community Conversation only)

• Hay-on-Wye: Wednesday 12 November, 10:00–13:00, Bowling Club, Brecon Rd, HR3 5DY

• Brecon: Thursday 13 November, 10:00–13:00, Barn at Brynich, LD3 7SH

• Rhayader: Tuesday 18 November, 10:00–13:00, Rhayader Leisure Centre, North Street, LD6 5BU

• Llandrindod Wells: Thursday 20 November, 10:00–13:00, PAVO Offices, Unit 30, Ddole Road Industrial Estate, LD1 6DF

• Presteigne: Saturday 22 November, 10:00–13:00, Presteigne Memorial Hall, Station Road, LD8 2DU

• Ystradgynlais: Wednesday 26 November, 10:00–13:00, Welfare Hall, Brecon Rd, SA9 1JJ

• Newtown: Thursday 27 November, 10:00–13:00, Newtown Football Club, Park Lane, SY16 1EN

• Montgomery: Tuesday 2 December, 10:00–13:00, Montgomery Town Hall, Broad Street, SY15 6PH

• Llanfair Caereinion: Wednesday 3 December, 10:00–13:00, Llanfair Institute, Bridge Street, SY21 0RY

• Knighton: Thursday 4 December, 10:00–13:00, Knighton Community Centre, Bowling Green Lane, LD7 1DR

• Welshpool: Thursday 4 December, 10:00–13:00, Cowshacc, Oldford Lane, SY21 7TE

• Machynlleth: Wednesday 10 December, 10:00–13:00, Y Plas, Plas Grounds, Pentrerhedyn Street, SY20 8ER

• Llanfyllin: Thursday 11 December, 10:00–13:00, Llanfyllin Public Institute, High Street, SY22 5AA

Ms Swales added: “We hope the conversations that start now will help build a Powys that reflects people’s needs, support grassroots initiatives, and strengthens future funding bids.

“PAVO can support residents to bring their ideas to life by offering guidance on running charities, groups and clubs, help setting up local working groups, and advice on identifying funding opportunities.

“Come along to a Community Conversation, and encourage others to join in too. The events are open to all. Together, we can make the most of this opportunity to find out what our Powys communities really need."

Residents can take part by attending a local event or completing a short online survey on the Have Your Say Powys website.