Plaid Cymru Senedd Member Lindsay Whittle believes more must be done to help people understand what the Senedd does and how it impacts their lives.
Lindsay Whittle, who represents Blaenau Gwent, Caerffili, Rhymni, tabled a question on the issue to the Senedd Commission.
He said: “There is a strong feeling among many people in our communities—from Brynmawr and Tredegar through to Caerphilly and Rhymney—that the Senedd feels like something that is 'over there in Cardiff' and far removed from their everyday lives.
“Will the Commission commit to trying to increase the number of face-to-face visits because they are so important and try to increase the direct outreach projects in these local areas—rather than relying solely on digital materials —to ensure that local people do not feel they have been forgotten?”
Huw Irranca-Davies, Llywydd and Senedd Commission Chair, responding said the Senedd had received a fair bit of recognition” for its outreach work within Blaenau Gwent, Caerffili, Rhymni.
“Our education and youth engagement teams has delivered 29 outreach sessions in schools, colleges and youth groups in the area , working with more than 2,000 young people. A further 11 education sessions have been held in Cardiff Bay, involving 337 young people from that area.
“We could always do more, of course, and our team is keen to get out there and invite members along as well because we think members are an important part of that engagement process.”