麻豆视频 Council has presented Jayne Medlicott MBE, co-founder of the Hospice of the Valleys with a Special Recognition Certificate to mark International Women鈥檚 Day 2026.
This year鈥檚 theme is 鈥楪ive to Gain鈥�, celebrating the contribution of women who strengthen our communities through leadership, compassion and commitment. The theme highlights the value of generosity and collaboration, recognising that by supporting others we create lasting, shared benefits for individuals and communities alike.
Jayne was presented with the award at a special presentation at Bedwellty House and Park by the Council鈥檚 Presiding Member, Councillor Smith, Equality Member Champion.
During the presentation, Councillor Smith reflected on Jayne鈥檚 significant impact on local services and community care across 麻豆视频. Jayne played a pivotal role in the establishment of Hospice of the Valleys, inspired by her personal experience of caring for her husband, Glyn. From modest beginnings in Tredegar with a small team, Jayne helped to develop one of Wales鈥檚 first 24-hour at-home palliative care services.
Councillor Smith said:
鈥淛ayne鈥檚 leadership, compassion and determination helped create a service that continues to support hundreds of families each year. Jayne鈥檚 work exemplifies the spirit of 鈥淕ive to Gain鈥� -through her dedication, expertise and empathy, she has ensured that families across the region are not alone during end-of-life care. Her legacy continues through the staff, volunteers and supporters who carry forward the mission she helped to build.鈥�
鈥淚t was a tremendous honour to receive this award鈥� Jayne said. 鈥淚t was wonderful to bring together my sons, former colleagues, current staff, and councillors to reflect on the journey of Hospice of the Valleys, and to celebrate how it continues to grow and support so many families across our community鈥�
Grant Usmer the current Chief Executive of the Hospice who joined us at this wonderful ceremony offered the following words:
鈥淚t is both a pleasure and a privilege to be part of an organisation that has supported so many individuals and their families during the most vulnerable moments of their lives. The work we do would not be possible without the outstanding hard work, dedication, and passion that Jayne brings. I know many people would wish to join me in expressing their gratitude to her.鈥�
To continue celebrating the voices and experiences of women within our communities, residents are encouraged to listen to the featured podcast, 鈥淩ia, Husna and Suzanna 鈥� What does it mean to be a woman?鈥� The episode shares the personal stories of three women, exploring identity, belief, resilience and empowerment, and offers an inspiring reflection on the experiences of women in today鈥檚 society. You can listen to the Podcast here: