Xplore! Science Discovery Centre, is thrilled to announce that it has been awarded their Cynnig Cymraeg. The Cynnig Cymraeg (Welsh offer) scheme was introduced by the Welsh Language Commissioner in 2020 to ensure that Welsh speakers know what Welsh language services are available to them. It is also the official recognition given by the Commissioner to organisations that they have collaborated with to develop ambitious Welsh language development plans.
Xplore! is delighted to be one of the first 100 businesses and charities, and the only science discovery centre in Wales to be recognised since its inception in June 2020. As part of its commitment, Xplore! ensures inclusivity by providing Welsh language science engagement activities as well as encouraging the use of the Welsh language throughout its discovery centre, using the language within its promotional materials, and engaging with local Welsh language community groups to foster a sense of belonging within the community.
Emyr Williams, Welsh language champion said “Using Welsh is important to Xplore! as we acknowledge that it is an important part of the culture and identity of Wrexham as a new city and an historic Welsh community.
It is important to communicate in a person’s chosen language and to ensure that we represent fairly all sections of our local community. By working on our Cynnig Cymraeg, the language is becoming part of our internal working culture.”
Scot Owen, Centre Manager said “Xplore! has come a long way over the last 3 years. Our move to the city centre in 2020 really allowed us to blossom as an organisation that is committed to the Welsh language and the thriving local community that exists in North Wales.
This recognition represents the culmination of the hard work of the whole organisation over the last 20 years, and marks the start of a bright future working with our Welsh speaking community.”
In congratulating Xplore, Welsh Language Commissioner, Efa Gruffudd Jones, said ,
“I was fortunate enough to visit Xplore last year and see at first hand the excellent work they do with schools as well as the local community. I am also aware of the efforts they have and are making of offering more services through the medium of Welsh and it is great to see them receiving the Cynnig Cymraeg recognition.
“The aim of the Cynnig Cymraeg is to give organisations an opportunity to raise awareness of their Welsh language services which will in turn lead to an increase in the use of Welsh language on a day to day basis. The Welsh language needs to be visible everywhere, and we need to use it.”
Furthermore, Xplore! actively supports staff members in enhancing their Welsh language skills through courses facilitated by Wrexham University. A dedicated Welsh language development group has been established to spearhead the promotion of bilingualism and celebrate Welsh language and culture within the organization.
