‘Ein Cegin’ strengthens community connections through food, creativity, and sustainable growth
As the cost-of-living crisis continues to impact families across the UK, nearly one in four working parents now rely on food banks. In response to this growing need, Ein Cegin in Cardigan has developed an innovative, community-led model that is being recognised as a template for other towns across Ceredigion.
Located within the revitalised Guildhall, Cardigan, a hall that has recently been significantly regenerated with the support of Transforming Towns funding from the Welsh Government alongside capital investment from Ceredigion County Council. The improvements have improved the building's community focus, improved customer experience, and enabled the successful return of market activity and existing businesses.
Ein Cegin supports the Farmers’ Market while delivering a vibrant programme of community art projects and cookery workshops in partnership with local organisations and artists. The initiative is part-funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and delivered by the Cynnal y Cardi team on behalf of Ceredigion County Council, responding directly to priorities set out in the 2023–2028 Local Wellbeing Plan.
Research shows Ceredigion has one of the highest child poverty rates in Wales, with around 30% of children affected. Ein Cegin aims to improve access to fresh, seasonal, locally produced food while supporting sustainable food production and the transition toward Net Zero.
The new Farmers’ Market has created opportunities for over twenty local producers to reach new customers, strengthening the town’s local food economy. The market plays a key role in increasing access to nutritious produce, particularly for families experiencing deprivation.
Alongside the market, textile art workshops and practical cookery sessions have fostered skills, confidence, and a sense of belonging among participants. The collaborative quilted banners now proudly hang in the Guildhall as a symbol of community ownership.
By combining food access, education, creativity, and sustainability, Ein Cegin demonstrates how local markets can serve as resilient community hubs - offering a practical and replicable model for communities across Ceredigion.
Councillor Clive Davies, Ceredigion Cabinet Member for Economy, Regeneration and Carbon Management said: "Ein Cegin clearly shows what can be achieved when an entire community comes together. As families continue to feel the impact of the cost-of-living crisis, this initiative not only improves access to healthy food but also strengthens our local economy and builds community resilience. It is an inspiring model for the town and the wider county."
For further information, please contact the Cynnal y Cardi Team at: ce.cynnalycardi@ceredigion.gov.uk
23/02/2026