Pembrokeshire County Council made a landmark public commitment to the Welsh language this week, formally signing the Twf Welsh Language at Work Charter during a special ceremony at the National Eisteddfod at Llantwd in the north of the county.
The signing took place on Wednesday 5 August, with the Eisteddfod still in full swing on its final days. The moment carried additional symbolism given that this year's festival marks the 850th anniversary of the very first Eisteddfod, held just a few miles away at Cardigan Castle.
The Twf Charter was developed by TUC Cymru and provides a practical framework for employers, trade unions and employees to work together towards genuinely inclusive, bilingual workplaces. It aims to increase the opportunities available for staff to use, learn and develop their Welsh language skills throughout their careers, whatever their starting point.
By signing up, the council is committing to work alongside recognised trade unions to foster a culture where Welsh speakers, learners and those simply wishing to improve their confidence in the language all feel actively supported. The move also aligns with the Welsh Government's Cymraeg 2050 strategy, which sets out national ambitions to grow the number of Welsh speakers across Wales.
What it means for staff and services
For the council's thousands of employees — and for residents who contact the authority — the pledge signals an intention to make Welsh a more visible and usable language in day-to-day working life, rather than a tick-box requirement. The council joins a growing number of organisations across Wales that have already adopted the Charter.
Council Chairman Cllr Delme Harries, who also serves as the authority's Welsh Language Champion, said the council was delighted to strengthen its commitment to the language, describing Welsh as a vital part of the county's culture, heritage and identity. Chief Executive Will Bramble added that the principles of the Charter closely match the council's broader ambitions around an inclusive workplace.
The National Eisteddfod itself — Eisteddfod y Garreg Las — ran from 1 to 8 August at Llantwd, and brought performers, writers, artists, choirs, competitors and visitors from across Wales together for eight days of competitions, concerts and exhibitions. The council's own space on the Maes, Pentre'r Garreg Las, featured talks, performances and demonstrations throughout the week, with displays from Visit Pembrokeshire, Pembrokeshire Archives and Pembrokeshire Education.
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