The Healthy Start Scheme is available to make sure pregnant women and young children get access to healthy food and vitamins.

Women who are more than 10 weeks pregnant, or have a child under four, and are in receipt of certain benefits are eligible for more than £1,200 to spend on healthy food.

Under the Healthy Start scheme, families can get a pre-paid card that is topped up every four weeks with credit to help buy healthy food such as fruit, vegetables, pulses, milk, and infant formula. Eligible families can also get free Healthy Start vitamins.

Figures show that nearly 40 per cent of people within Wales who are eligible for the scheme are currently not claiming it. If you think you might be eligible, please apply online: www.healthystart.nhs.uk/.

The annual Newport Women’s Forum bursary of up to £1,500 is currently open for applications.

For the past 26 years, the aim of the bursary is to help individuals, or groups of women who live in Newport, who are 18 and over, in their personal development.

This will mean different things to different people so applicants should consider their own development needs.

All applications will be considered by an independent panel and must demonstrate that the money will make a significant difference to an aspect of their life. Funding could be given to help achieve a goal, whatever that might be. Examples could include training fees, purchase of tools and equipment or materials, travel and much more. It’s very much about the individual and their specific ambition.

The application form for the bursary is available from the Women’s Forum website. The closing date is Friday, May 27. For more information please see their website: newportwf.wordpress.com/.

The Welsh Government has supported, through Sport Wales funding, an over 60s health and well-being exercise programme held at the Newport Centre.

The new low intensity sessions are tailored specifically for people aged 60 and older and include exercises such as Zumba, tai chi, chair Pilates and more.

Newport Live also offers classes for those over 60s looking for higher intensity exercise. For more information about the 60 Plus programme call 01633 656757 or email customerservice@newportlive.co.uk.

As always, if there is anything at all I can help with related to the Senedd, or if you have any issues or concerns, please get in touch. Your comments and suggestions are always welcome: Jayne.Bryant@Senedd.Wales or call: 01633 376627.