The “Hapus i Siarad” scheme is an innovative initiative aimed at encouraging Welsh learners to practice their language skills in local businesses that can offer a Welsh-language service.
We at Menter Fflint a Wrecsam have been fortunate to be part of this scheme from the beginning, participating in the pilot project trialed in four counties, including Flintshire and Wrexham, last year.
In the heart of Wrexham city and Mold, the scheme has had a positive impact on the local community, creating opportunities for new speakers to use the language in everyday situations while also encouraging businesses to use more Welsh when interacting with customers.
What is “Hapus i Siarad”?
“Hapus i Siarad” is a project launched by the National Centre for Learning Welsh and Mentrau Iaith, to connect Welsh learners with local businesses willing to hold conversations in Welsh. Participating businesses display a “Hapus i Siarad” poster to indicate that they welcome conversations in Welsh.
Participating Businesses in Wrexham and Mold
In Mold, several businesses have joined the scheme, including:
- Siop y Siswrn – (Mon–Sat 09:00–16:30 [Closed Thurs and Sun])
- Daniel Morris (Family Butcher) – (Tues–Sat 09:00–17:00)
- P&L Homeworks – (Mon–Sat 09:00–17:00)
- Flowers by Anne – (When open)
- Spaven’s – (When open)
- Jane Davies – (Tues and Sat)
- Caffi’r Cob – (09:00–11:00 and after 14:00)
- Tafarn Yr Wyddgrug – (Wed and Sat 14:00–22:00, Thurs, Fri, and Sun 15:00–22:00)
- Yr Helfan – (Sat 09:00–11:00 and after 14:00)
- Ac ar y gweill – Hadyn (New Sandwich Bar in Mold)
In Wrexham, the following businesses are part of the scheme:
- Siop Siwan – (When open)
- Wrexham Visitor Centre – (Tues and Wed 09:00–13:00)
- Drawing Board – (Tues, Thurs, Fri, and Sat 10:00–16:00)
- Pencilcraftsman – Artist – (Mon–Sat 10:00–14:00)
- Saith Seren – (Thursday evenings)
- Xplore – (Look for the orange badge during opening hours)
- Wrexham Library
These businesses provide a friendly environment where learners can practice their Welsh without feeling pressured.
How Does the Scheme Work?
Last year, learners received a card to collect stamps or signatures from businesses when they visited and had a conversation. Once the card was full (only three stamps were needed), they returned it to their tutor or sent a picture to the local Menter Iaith. The card was then entered into a raffle to win a voucher for participating businesses in the area.
This year, completed cards will be entered into a new raffle to win a residential weekend to practice or improve their Welsh.
Impact on the Community
The scheme has strengthened connections between learners and the local business community, promoting the daily use of Welsh. It has also increased awareness of the language and encouraged more people to consider learning Welsh. We are proud to be part of this scheme and we encourage everyone to use the Welsh they know, whether it’s a simple “Bore da” or “Diolch” or a full conversation.
How to Get Involved
If you’re learning Welsh and want to take part in the project, contact your class tutor or Menter Iaith Fflint a Wrecsam to receive a card. If you run a small business, or work in one, and want to become a “Hapus i Siarad” business, contact Menter Iaith Fflint a Wrecsam for a chat and to receive a pack.
“Hapus i Siarad” is a fantastic example of how communities can work together to promote and sustain the Welsh language, ensuring it continues to thrive in our daily lives.