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Red Brand Media (RBM) is expanding its leadership team and is now inviting applications for new Directors who can help guide the organisation’s future. RBM works across West Wales to support ethical journalism, positive storytelling, and community‑focused media. As the organisation continues to grow, it is seeking Directors who can bring ideas, leadership, and passion to its mission. Directors will help shape RBM’s long‑term strategy, strengthen its governance, and support the development of new projects based at CETMA’s Llanelli and Swansea offices. The role is ideal for individuals who care about community impact and want to contribute to a forward‑thinking media organisation. RBM welcomes interest from people with backgrounds in media, communications, community development, business, or organisational leadership — but above all, from those who believe in making a real difference to not only the company but to the community as well. Anyone interested in joining the Board is encouraged to contact Keith Evans‑Hurley at kevans@redbrandmedia.org.uk.

Red Brand Media (RBM) has opened a new round of volunteer and work‑experience opportunities, offering people across West Wales the chance to develop practical media and office skills in a supportive, community‑focused environment. Volunteers will be based at CETMA’s Llanelli or Swansea offices, where they will contribute to RBM’s ongoing work in community journalism, digital media, and local storytelling. The role is flexible and suitable for people of all ages and experience levels. Tasks include: general administration research for articles and community projects uploading news stories to various websites writing short articles and community updates answering phone calls and emails using social media to share news and information RBM Director Keith Evans‑Hurley said: The opportunities are ideal for anyone looking to build confidence, gain hands‑on experience, or explore a future in media, communications, or community work. He added that: Volunteers will be supported throughout and encouraged to develop skills at their own pace. The organisation is particularly keen to hear from people who are reliable, friendly, and interested in contributing to positive local news and community engagement. How to Apply Anyone interested in volunteering is invited to contact Keith Evans‑Hurley via email at kevans@redbrandmedia.org.uk. Applicants should include: which office (Llanelli or Swansea) is closest to them their general availability a short introduction about themselves and why they’d like to get involved RBM welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds and aims to create an inclusive, encouraging environment for everyone who joins.

West Wales based social enterprise, Red Brand Media (RBM), is today celebrating after being awarded £20,000 in National Lottery funding to support its work [with the LGBTIA+ Community. The group, based in Carmarthenshire, will use the money to create, edit and distribute four editions of Reach Out, the LGBTQIA+ Newsletter. RBM have been running since 2019 and is staffed mostly by volunteers. RBM provides online community news via The Llanelli Standard, Carmarthenshire Standard, West Wales Chronicle and Swansea Standard.  It has also distributed print newspapers and offers graphic and web design. The project will see the Reach Out LGBTQIA+ Newspaper printed and distributed across South, Mid and West Wales. The new funding from The National Lottery Community Fund, which distributes money raised by National Lottery players for good causes and is the largest community funder in the UK, will see Reach Out provide the community with; a) positive news, b) a voice c) promotion for the people and projects. Keith Evans-Hurley, MD of RBM, says: “We’re delighted that The National Lottery Community Fund has recognised our work in this way. Now, thanks to National Lottery players we will be able to support the LGBTQIA+ Community.” “This is important because the community have faced many challenges over the last few years.  Reach Out will also be able to help deliver news to the hard to reach members who do not use social media due to the issues they face, and /or from hate towards the LGBTQ+ community.” The National Lottery Community Fund recently launched its strategy, ‘It starts with community’, which will underpin its efforts to distribute at least £4 billion of National Lottery funding by 2030. As part of this, the funder has four key missions, which are to support communities to come together, be environmentally sustainable, help children and young people thrive and enable people to live healthier lives. National Lottery players raise over £30 million a week for good causes across the UK. Thanks to them, last year (2023/24) The National Lottery Community Fund awarded over half a billion pounds (£686.3 million) of life-changing funding to communities across the UK, supporting over 13,700  projects to turn their great ideas into reality. To find out more visit www.TNLCommunityFund.org.uk

Red Brand Media Ltd is pleased to announce that Keith Evans-Hurley, Managing Director, attended a crucial training course on Ethical Journalism and the Use of AI, held on June 24th, 2025, at Microsoft’s office in Paddington, London. The course was organised and run by Impress, the UK’s independent press regulator. This training, which focused on the growing intersection of artificial intelligence and ethical journalism, provided key insights into how emerging technologies can be used responsibly within the media industry. As part of Red Brand Media’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of journalism, Keith Evans-Hurley took this opportunity to enhance his knowledge and understanding of how AI is shaping the future of media, as well as the ethical considerations involved in its use. Keith Evans-Hurley remarked:“Attending this course has been an invaluable experience. As AI continues to evolve and influence the media landscape, it is essential to ensure we are using these technologies ethically and responsibly. I look forward to integrating the insights I’ve gained into Red Brand Media’s operations to ensure we maintain the highest standards in both journalism and the use of AI. I will also be developing an AI policy which will be implimented across all of our publications.” The training course covered a range of critical topics, including how AI can be leveraged to enhance journalistic practices while maintaining transparency, accountability, and trust. It also addressed the importance of regulatory frameworks and how media organisations can adapt to the changing landscape of digital news and technology. Red Brand Media Ltd remains committed to staying at the forefront of media industry developments, prioritising ethical journalism and responsible use of AI in all aspects of its work.

Red Brand Media Ltd is excited to announce the appointment of Neil Cole as the company’s new Director. Appointed on June 10th, 2025, Neil will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the company’s arts and heritage division, bringing his extensive experience and passion for art and the rich history of Wales to the forefront of the company’s operations. Keith Evans-Hurley, Managing Director of Red Brand Media, expressed his enthusiasm for Neil’s appointment:“We welcome Neil on board with Red Brand Media with open arms. Neil’s passion for art and the history of Wales is unparalleled, and his deep understanding of the arts and heritage sector will undoubtedly elevate our company to new heights. We are confident that Neil will help us continue to drive innovation and creativity, ensuring that Red Brand Media remains a creative force in the industry.” Neil Cole brings with him a wealth of experience and a true dedication to preserving and promoting cultural heritage. His appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Red Brand Media as the company looks to expand its influence and continue its commitment to the arts.

Experts urge UK public to check for ‘clover leaf’ shaped plug that can cause fire or electric shock Fears online sellers have exploited cash strapped households this Christmas and sold them substandard electronics Public encouraged to #postyourplug to reveal dangerous clover leaf plugs lurking in people’s homes Millions of households are being urged to stop using their Christmas gifts immediately if it comes with a specific plug, rendering it substandard and a potential fire risk. With more than half of the public having done their Christmas shopping for electronics via online marketplaces, leading charity Electrical Safety First is concerned that dangerous gifts will unknowingly be being used by households up and down the country. Whilst it is difficult to tell if you have a dangerous product in your home, the charity is urging people to check their plug for one obvious sign that is it not safe for use. “If the Christmas gadget you received this year came with what we call a clover leaf-shaped plug, stop using it immediately,” Giuseppe Capanna, Product Safety Engineer at Electrical Safety First, warns. Clover leaf plugs are small in their size, not meeting the legal requirements of a plug to be sold in the UK and are frequently found to be missing a fuse, risking a potential fire. The charity has previously found these types of plugs on a variety of popular electrical products including hair dryers, e-bike and e-scooter chargers, hair straighteners and more. Caption: A heater with a clover leaf plug previously found for sale. Credit: Electrical Safety First Images released by the charity demonstrate just how small and unusual in shape these plugs are. Plug pins on the device are too close to the edges of the plug mold, risking the user coming into contact with them when inserting or removing, from a mains socket, risking electric shock.          A lack of a visible fuse also presents a potential fire risk, with images from a previous investigation by Electrical Safety First revealing no fuse inside the device when it was opened up. Caption: A clover leaf plug previously found for sale online by Electrical Safety First. When opened the plug contained no fuse, presenting a risk of fire Credit: Electrical Safety First “Your plug is the most obvious tell-tale sign as to whether your product is compliant and safe,” Giuseppe Capanna explains. “A gift you received or a bargain you might have bagged should be fused so that the device can cut out in the event of a fault. It should also have a distance of 9.5mm between the plug pins and the edge of the plug. If the plug attached to your device is clover in shape such as the one in the image, stop using it immediately and return it.” The charity is encouraging the public to #postyourplug in order to identify more of these dangerous clover leaf-shaped plugs households may have accidentally received over the Christmas period and January sales. “We  find these plugs more frequently when electronics are purchased via online marketplaces,” Giuseppe Capanna adds. “They are  substandard and illegal for sale in the UK. The best way to protect yourself is to stick to reputable high street retailers.” How to identify if your Christmas or sales gadget is substandard: Check the plug: if your item comes with a clover leaf shaped plug, stop using it immediately. Ensure your plug has a fuse so that it can cut out in the event of a fault. Look out for spelling mistakes on packaging and manuals, good manufacturers will pay attention to the small details and not make these mistakes. If your gadget comes with a foreign plug and a travel adaptor don’t use it, it’s a sign that the seller has not taken the time to comply with UK standards as all products sold into the UK market are required to come with a compliant UK plug.

LAL Fragrance, a bespoke fragrant experience curated by the visionary Fiona Stephens, is proud to announce its grand entrance into the world of luxury fragrances. Built on the belief that memories are the true wealth of life, LAL Fragrance is here to redefine the holiday gifting experience. Fiona Stephens, the creative force behind LAL Fragrance, envisions a world where each inhale carries with it the power to transport, evoke, and cherish memories. As a connoisseur of exquisite fragrances since her very first paycheck, Fiona has seamlessly blended her passion for scents with the art of handcrafting to create a unique range of products that leave an indelible mark. Crafted with Passion, Gifted with Love At LAL Fragrance, Fiona takes pride in the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into each product. Fiona’s personal touch ensures that every fragrance, candle, and creation emanates not just sophistication but a warmth that resonates with the recipient. The result? A luxurious collection that transcends the ordinary, offering a sensory journey unlike any other. Fiona Stephens shares her philosophy, stating, “I truly believe in the power of fragrance. Every time someone takes a Lal Fragrance home, they have the opportunity to create new memories or cherish their own precious moments and indulge in the essence of those memories for as long as they can!”   Unveiling the Essence of Luxury at www.lalfragrance.co.uk LAL Fragrance invites you to explore its captivating range of products at www.lalfragrance.co.uk.  As the holiday season approaches, immerse yourself in the world of opulence and thoughtful gifting. Whether you’re in search of the perfect present for him or her, LAL Fragrance promises an experience that goes beyond the tangible, creating an enduring memory.   About LAL Fragrance Founded in Bargoed, Wales by Fiona Stephens, LAL Fragrance is a celebration of life’s moments through the power of scent. Each product is meticulously handcrafted, ensuring a personal touch that elevates the olfactory experience. LAL Fragrance invites you to discover a world where memories and scents intertwine to create a symphony of delight.

Red Brand Media is proud to announce the launch of its latest LGBTQ+ publication, REACHOUT, available now at www.reachoutnews.org.uk. This exciting new platform is dedicated to providing a voice for the LGBTQ+ community, fostering inclusivity, and creating a safe space for open dialogue on important issues.   REACHOUT is more than just a publication; it’s a digital hub that brings together diverse voices, stories, and perspectives from the LGBTQ+ community and its allies. With a commitment to authenticity, diversity, and community building, REACHOUT aims to empower individuals, celebrate identities, and amplify LGBTQ+ experiences in all their forms.   Key features of REACHOUT include:   **Inclusive Content**: REACHOUT will feature a wide range of content, including articles, interviews, personal stories, and opinion pieces that touch upon a variety of LGBTQ+ topics, including advocacy, culture, entertainment, health, and much more.   **Community Engagement**: The platform encourages community engagement through forums, comments, and submissions from readers. REACHOUT seeks to be a platform where everyone can share their experiences and insights.   **Resource Hub**: In addition to news and features, REACHOUT will serve as a valuable resource hub, providing information on LGBTQ+ organizations, events, support networks, and educational materials.   **Visibility and Representation**: One of the core missions of REACHOUT is to promote visibility and representation of LGBTQ+ individuals and their stories, fostering a sense of belonging and understanding.   Red Brand Media believes that REACHOUT will not only be a source of information but also a source of inspiration for those seeking to connect, learn, and make a positive impact within the LGBTQ+ community.   “We are thrilled to introduce REACHOUT to the world,” said Ryan Thomas, Director of Red Brand Media & Editor of REACHOUT. “Our goal is to create a vibrant and inclusive space where the LGBTQ+ community and their allies can come together to share, learn, and grow. We are committed to promoting diversity, equality, and understanding, and we believe REACHOUT will be an important platform to achieve these goals.”   To explore the rich content and resources available on REACHOUT, visit www.reachoutnews.org.uk today. Join the conversation on social media by following  https://twitter.com/ReachOutMag20 on Twitter, or https://www.facebook.com/ReachOutMag on Facebook. For media inquiries, interviews, or partnership opportunities, please contact: Keith Evans-Hurley on kevans@redbrandmedia.org.uk or 01554 556886

Llanelli’s own free community newspaper, the Llanelli Standard earlier this year celebrated its 4th birthday. Run by Red Brand Media from the Marsh Street office, The Llanelli Standard has produced 50 editions, with the latest edition being the 51st edition. We have ensured that each of those 51 editions remained free for the reader. However, the feedback received from the readership over the past year, is that the news can become outdated very quickly.  Therefore, as a monthly newspaper, we have made a decision to move with the times and cease printing. We will instead focus on our digital editions and the website which will provide more up to date news  which are fully interactive with clickable elements and are fully accessible. Keith Evans-Hurley, the managing director of Red Brand Media said: “The decision to cease print and take a more digital presence is a positive one. Whilst I understand that some readers would prefer a physical copy and may struggle with getting online, we are also dedicated to assisting them by working with CETMA as a digital inclusion partner .” “With the cost of printing rising since the pandemic, the number one issue that we faced was obtaining new advertisers in order to break even each month. Now we can cut those core costs and pass on the savings to the advertisers that have looked after us for the last 4 years, which I’m sure have a financial burden while we are living in the cost of living crisis.” Ryan Thomas, the editor of the Llanelli Standard said: “I have felt blessed to have run the Llanelli Standard for the last few years and agree with the feedback that we have been given. It is time for us to move with the times and with being digital, we can produce editions at a much more frequent rate.”

While WordPress is a popular and user-friendly content management system, like any software, it can encounter issues from time to time. Here are five common errors that WordPress users may encounter and some tips on how to fix them: 1. White Screen of Death (WSOD): – Possible Causes: Plugin or theme conflicts, PHP errors, memory limit exhaustion. – Solutions: Disable plugins and switch to a default theme to identify the cause. Increase PHP memory limit in wp-config.php or php.ini file. Check error logs for specific PHP errors and resolve them. 2. 404 Page Not Found Errors: – Possible Causes: Permalinks not set up correctly, deleted or moved pages/posts, server configuration issues. – Solutions: Update the permalink structure in WordPress settings. Restore deleted or moved pages/posts. Check server configuration for any issues and consult your hosting provider if needed. 3. Internal Server Error: – Possible Causes: Plugin or theme conflicts, corrupted .htaccess file, PHP memory limit reached. – Solutions: Rename the .htaccess file to generate a new one. Deactivate plugins and switch to a default theme to identify the cause. Increase PHP memory limit in wp-config.php or php.ini file. 4. Connection Timed Out/Error Establishing Database Connection: – Possible Causes: Incorrect database credentials, database server issues, high traffic or resource usage. – Solutions: Check database credentials in wp-config.php and ensure they are correct. Verify the database server is running. Contact your hosting provider if necessary. Optimize your website for better performance and consider upgrading hosting resources if the issue persists. 5. Mixed Content/Insecure Content Warning: – Possible Causes: Loading insecure resources (e.g., images, scripts) on a secure (HTTPS) page. – Solutions: Use HTTPS for all resources on your website. Update image and script URLs to use HTTPS. Use a plugin or manual methods to update database URLs to HTTPS. Remember, before making any changes to your WordPress installation, it’s important to have a backup of your website files and database. This allows you to restore your site if any issues arise during the troubleshooting process. If you’re unsure about making changes yourself, consider consulting with a WordPress developer or seeking support from the WordPress community or your hosting provider.