Meinir Davies JCP

JCP Solicitors is a regional law firm with offices in Swansea, Cardiff, Caerphilly, Carmarthenshire, Stonebridge and Pembrokeshire.

Five years ago, JCP Solicitors were one of the first organisations to receive the Cynnig Cymraeg. What motivated you to take that step?

It has always been central to JCP Solicitors’ ethos that we are an integral part of the communities that we serve, and the ability to communicate with our clients in the language that they are most comfortable in is key to this approach. We had already been liaising with the Welsh Language Commissioner’s ‘Hybu’ team in preparing our Welsh Language Policy and championing the use of Welsh in business for many years, so applying for and receiving the Cynnig Cymraeg was a natural progression for us.

At the time what were your main goals in highlighting your support for the Welsh language?

Our Welsh speaking colleagues have always been encouraged to use Welsh in their day to day work and we had been supporting Welsh language community events and sponsoring both the National Eisteddfod and the Urdd Eisteddfod. The Cynnig Cymraeg allowed us to showcase this.  We have developed a bilingual website, an automated payment line, and produced information leaflets and other marketing materials bilingually too. 

What feedback have you received from clients and the wider community regarding your support for the Welsh language and ability to discuss matters in Welsh?

We receive very positive feedback – the Welsh Business Breakfasts that we have organised are especially appreciated as a great opportunity for businesses and contacts to develop and strengthen relationships through the medium of Welsh.

Why do you think it is important for law firms in Wales to be able to discuss matters with clients in Welsh?

Many private clients may be instructing solicitors at difficult times in their lives and if they are able to discuss matters in the language that they are most comfortable in, this can alleviate some of the stress. Building relationships is key to a thriving business and the ability to speak Welsh can only strengthen these links.

Now that 5 years have passed, what are your future plans for increasing the use of Welsh in your business?

We continue to look for opportunities to support Welsh in the communities that we work in, through support for local events and larger organisations that promote the use of Welsh. We will continue to organise Welsh Business Breakfasts and similar events as an opportunity to promote the use of Welsh whilst also ensuring that the workplace is an environment where speaking Welsh is natural and encouraged.

What advice would you give to other businesses considering going for the Cynnig Cymraeg?

Go for it! The process of liaising with the Welsh Language Commissioner’s ‘Hybu’ team is very positive. You are supported to assess your current situation, and to develop a Welsh language plan/policy. The team provide suggestions and targets on how to develop your use of Welsh and how to go about achieving your goals.