Posted on: Monday 2 February 2026
Citizens' Assembly members met for the second time on Saturday to help shape a new social contract for the borough.
The Torfaen Deal is a new way of working between the council, residents, communities and partner organisations, with the aim of building a fairer, resilient borough, improving health and well-being and reducing inequalities.
The day began with a discussion about the five main goals of the Torfaen Deal: building bright future in early years; inspiring lifelong learning, ambition and resilience; developing community well-being; creating a thriving economy and supporting community leadership.
The assembly heard from the council's Deputy Chief Executive David Leech and Jason O'Brien, Strategic Director for Children's and Families, about how council services are already empowering communities to help deliver some services, such as exercise classes run by trained volunteers as part of the If You Go I Go programme.
They also heard from Catherine Love, Chief Executive of Bron Afon Community Housing, and Scott Ralph, Chief Executive of Halo Leisure, about how their organisations are delivering on the Torfaen Deal missions.
The assembly was then asked to develop a set of principles to take the Torfaen Deal forward with local residents and communities and what impact they would like to see the Deal have in the long-term.
Jason Dean, from Blaenavon, is one of the Assembly members. He said: "My grandmother was Milicent Dean and was always involved in local politics. I’ve always been interested in local history. It’s just nice to feel like you have got a say in things.
"I want to feel like residents are being listened to."
Laura Webb Williams, from Cwmbran, said: "I live in Llanyravon, my mum, sister and family live in Llanyravon so I feel a strong sense of community.
"I’ve not long had twins, and I would like the Torfaen Deal to shape a better tomorrow for them."
The Citizen Assembly will meet for the final time on Saturday February 14.
Plans for a Torfaen Deal follows other measures taken by the council to address health inequalities, reducing budgets and increased demand.
Last year, the council became the first federated local authority with Blaenau Gwent and both became Wales' first joint Marmot Councils.
Citizen Assembly meetings are also taking place in Blaenau Gwent to develop a separate Blaenau Gwent Deal.
You can find out more information about the plans for a Torfaen Deal by visiting Get Involved Torfaen.
Find out about the council's 2026/7 budget plans.