Communities Choice 

Communities’ Choice Torfaen (PB Initiative) 

The Communities’ Choice Initiative is a Participatory Budgeting (PB) programme led by Torfaen Voluntary Alliance (TVA). It aims to empower residents in the communities of Blaenavon, Thornhill & Upper Cwmbran, and Trevethin, Penygarn & St Cadocs to shape local decision-making by voting for the community projects they want to see funded. 

Through the ‘Have Your Say’ digital form and in-person Suggestion Boxes placed throughout each community, residents have been invited to identify their top local priorities and shared community issues. These priorities will directly guide how a portion of public funding is allocated, supporting new, community-led initiatives that respond to the needs identified by the people who live there! 

Once the local priorities are confirmed in each area, a call for project proposals will be launched, featuring a two-stage application process for those interested in applying. Shortlisted applications will be reviewed by the People’s Committees in each PB area, with support from TVA’s Communities’ Choice team where required, before progressing to the next stage. 

Final funding decisions will be made through a series of public voting events held in each community during summer 2025, ensuring that the PB principles of transparency, fairness, accountability, and community ownership are upheld throughout the decision-making process.