In 2025, we reaffirmed our commitment to the people of Pembrokeshire, providing financial support to communities to the value of half a million pound.

As part of this, more than £80,000 was available to local charities and community groups through applications to its Community Fund, managed by the Pembrokeshire Association of Voluntary Services (PAVS).

This marks another impactful year of support in projects that strengthen communities, empower young people, improve safety, and support environmental resilience across the county.

From lifesaving equipment and inclusive sports initiatives to energy efficient upgrades and youth development programmes, the Community Fund continues to help local organisations turn ideas into action - with real benefits for people of all ages and backgrounds.

 

Keeping Pembrokeshire’s Waterways Safe and Inclusive

The Milford Haven Waterway, and wider Pembrokeshire coastline, are at the heart of community life and ensuring they are safe and accessible for everyone remains a priority.

This year, the fund supported several projects dedicated to creating a Safe & Inclusive Waterway, including:

  • Tenby Surf Life Saving Club and Porthmawr Surf Life Saving Club, which received funding for vital training and safety equipment, helping volunteers continue their lifesaving work with confidence.
  • Paddle West, enabling the purchase of buoyancy aids to ensure participants can enjoy paddle sports safely.
  • Blue Horizon, which received part funding for new surfboards to expand their inclusive surfing sessions for people of all abilities.

Together, these projects help ensure that coastal activities remain safe, welcoming, and inclusive - whether people are learning lifesaving skills or simply enjoying time on the water.

 

Building a Vibrant and Prosperous Community

The Community Fund also continues to support initiatives that invest in people -particularly young people - by building confidence, skills, and a sense of belonging. This is now ‘A skilled and confident community’, with a particular focus on young people.

Projects supported under the Vibrant & Prosperous Community theme included:

  • Friends of Ysgol Harri Tudur, which received funding to establish a breakfast club, helping children start the school day nourished, focused, and ready to learn.
  • Tir Coed, which secured part funding for its Tree to Bench project, connecting disengaged young people with nature through heritage crafts and green skills training.
  • Multiple sports clubs across Pembrokeshire, supported with kit and equipment to encourage participation, teamwork, resilience, and confidence.
  • Mission to Seafarers, helping to sustain vital welfare services for those working at sea.
  • The 3 Amigos Toy Run, supporting its much loved annual initiative that brings joy and community spirit to families across Pembrokeshire.

These initiatives reflect the fund’s belief that thriving communities begin with opportunities - particularly for younger generations.

 

Supporting a Sustainable and Resilient Environment

Environmental responsibility also plays a key role in the Community Fund’s impact. In 2025, funding helped organisations reduce costs whilst lowering their carbon footprint through targeted, practical improvements.

Supported projects included:

  • Pembroke Dock Harlequins RFC, which received part funding for energy efficient windows and doors, reducing running costs and improving sustainability.
  • Martletwy YFC Club Committee (Hall), which upgraded to new energy efficient light fittings to cut long-term costs and environmental impact.

These improvements allow community spaces to remain accessible and affordable, while supporting wider sustainability goals.

 

A Partnership with Purpose

Anna Malloy, Communications and Marketing Director at the Port of Milford Haven, highlighted the significance of the fund’s impact:

“Our community investments are some of the most rewarding ways we support people across Pembrokeshire.

Every year, we see incredible dedication from local groups working to make our communities safer, more inclusive and more inspiring - especially for young people.

By focusing on helping people gain skills, confidence and opportunity, we are investing in stronger, more resilient communities for the future. The fund is administered in partnership with the Pembrokeshire Association of Voluntary Services (PAVS), ensuring support reaches where it is needed most.”

Lorna Livock, Senior Funding Development Officer at PAVS, emphasised the value of this collaboration:

“The Port of Milford Haven’s continued commitment to community wellbeing has a real and lasting impact. Through the Community Fund, groups across Pembrokeshire can access the resources they need to grow, innovate, and support local people. We encourage any organisation with a project that aligns with the fund themes to apply.”

 

Applying to the Community Fund

Applications to the Port of Milford Haven Community Fund are managed through PAVS and are open throughout the year. Eligible groups include charities, community organisations, clubs, and social enterprises operating within Pembrokeshire.

In 2026, the fund will place an increased focus on projects that help young people build confidence and develop skills.

To apply:

  • Visit the PAVS website and search for the Port of Milford Haven Community Fund
  • Review the eligibility criteria and guidance notes
  • Submit an online application outlining your project, its community impact, and how it aligns with one of the fund’s themes

Funding decisions are made by a dedicated panel of Port staff.

To find out more about the Port of Milford Haven’s wider support for the community, visit: https://www.mhpa.co.uk/about/environment-society-governance/community.