tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87534188622457731832024-03-18T11:54:58.254+00:00Powys Mental Health BlogJackie Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05293038655478909058noreply@blogger.comBlogger454125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8753418862245773183.post-47915124536524560542024-03-12T11:23:00.000+00:002024-03-12T11:23:28.326+00:00Powys Substance Use Harm Reduction Plan launch <div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ZVPFfpYQDeVLq3w8DqiZHxvHkhOVrB07_Miyk7FS5SohN1Nswi3yESSZqWvt6bC9-GbRDHXcxAV2g4TWHiar1FsQ1z37506oPU4vpXOl9sO2chT5suoUrpG-E1ktW3xJU0vvtYnNje5DLHpjK-o-l2y8cRjs_D4QYL2HtGReEZKaFWZFrTKj9q4SczbS/s894/Harm%20Reduction%20day%20(3a).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="894" data-original-width="800" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ZVPFfpYQDeVLq3w8DqiZHxvHkhOVrB07_Miyk7FS5SohN1Nswi3yESSZqWvt6bC9-GbRDHXcxAV2g4TWHiar1FsQ1z37506oPU4vpXOl9sO2chT5suoUrpG-E1ktW3xJU0vvtYnNje5DLHpjK-o-l2y8cRjs_D4QYL2HtGReEZKaFWZFrTKj9q4SczbS/w352-h394/Harm%20Reduction%20day%20(3a).jpg" width="352" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda Hutchings, Brecon peer support worker</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: medium;">“Developing a partnership response to Harm Reduction across Powys </span></b></div></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: medium;">to meet the needs of people with drug and alcohol concerns.”</span></b></div><br />The first thing I picked up at this Harm Reduction Plan launch recently was a flyer about nitazenes (synthetic opioids known for their potent nature) and the changing face of heroin. I hadn’t even pinned on my attendee badge. The bizarre names of drugs like naloxone (a potentially life-saving medication) and nitazene (an extremely harmful drug) were scattered throughout the day and I realised I had a lot to learn. <br /><br />Fortunately this highly informative day at the Metropole Hotel in Llandrindod brought together a multitude of statutory and voluntary sector agencies with a wealth of knowledge and experience around substance misuse. But perhaps even more importantly it called upon those with the lived experience of the harm that can be caused by substance misuse - be that alcohol or drugs - and the often catastrophic effects resulting in damaged mental and physical health, relationships, living arrangements (homelessness and debt being extreme but not unusual outcomes) and an increased likelihood of coming into contact with the criminal justice system.</span><div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgox9HZma5q8snXKhoj0_fPLWf4iI7TEvwfeG8zjVvb768_Gcd2_pZ_u1kz_QNskALmsvQ11n_UigQeugOhYpOw2yYciXsGVuSZn3M3rEDaHeirhd1uXsmSnQchLwd4MdAjnPWtK95mL1XyvMGorKPbjBLYUo9J5_TacBaKG4ouxH6M_VwnlHlMwFXcYpCN/s1069/Harm%20Reduction%20day%20(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="773" data-original-width="1069" height="322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgox9HZma5q8snXKhoj0_fPLWf4iI7TEvwfeG8zjVvb768_Gcd2_pZ_u1kz_QNskALmsvQ11n_UigQeugOhYpOw2yYciXsGVuSZn3M3rEDaHeirhd1uXsmSnQchLwd4MdAjnPWtK95mL1XyvMGorKPbjBLYUo9J5_TacBaKG4ouxH6M_VwnlHlMwFXcYpCN/w446-h322/Harm%20Reduction%20day%20(1).jpg" width="446" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jan Roberts (Suicide Prevention, Harm
Reduction & Postvention Quality Improvement Lead), Joy Garfitt (Interim Executive Director of Operations, Mental Health Services) & Carol Daly (Harm Prevention & Reduction Lead - Substance Misuse) <br />Powys Teaching Health Board<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Joy Garfitt, Interim Executive Director of Operations - Mental Health Services in Powys, and chair of the Area Planning Board, welcomed everyone.</b> She explained that the APB brought together agencies across the county with the shared ambition of reducing harm from substance use. (There is a longer definition in the Welsh Government document <a href="https://www.gov.wales/sites/default/files/publications/2019-02/revised-guidance-for-substance-misuse-area-planning-boards-2017.pdf" target="_blank">Working together to reduce harm</a>). The APB plans, commissions and delivers services and also brings networks together. As Joy explained, Powys is actually as long as the distance between the Severn Bridge and the Marble Arch, so this is quite challenging!</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjALsY0dH_m8MHHkTnidW6plD4z7iBNJBFPs4lOWlGGOVssjOFrQ8aybqFSanyVkL4jfaM_kiPNGQQLv1s0kUi8g4mCQj5KAvju1eDJvIJd1C2ecfjq3XJs7ByEucuHOSy395nDlqVw0FtDKZGqgAwhzhvRRtk9nH9_4DrgX4L5okF_n79f1VtRZB61ajWd/s909/Harm%20Reduction%20day%20(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="909" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjALsY0dH_m8MHHkTnidW6plD4z7iBNJBFPs4lOWlGGOVssjOFrQ8aybqFSanyVkL4jfaM_kiPNGQQLv1s0kUi8g4mCQj5KAvju1eDJvIJd1C2ecfjq3XJs7ByEucuHOSy395nDlqVw0FtDKZGqgAwhzhvRRtk9nH9_4DrgX4L5okF_n79f1VtRZB61ajWd/w454-h404/Harm%20Reduction%20day%20(2).jpg" width="454" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b>What is harm reduction and how can it benefit Powys - Rick Lines, Public Health Wales, Head of Programmes, Substance Use</b><br /><br />Rick described how he was first introduced to harm reduction 30 years ago in his hometown of Toronto in Canada. He worked supporting prisoners who, he explained, were inevitably using drugs. His experience supporting people who had been traumatised by early life events, and went on to use drugs, led him to ask in court: <i>“Have you heard this woman’s story? Why is the state looking at it through the context of drugs?”</i> Rick highlighted that putting this particular woman in prison repeated the trauma she had experienced from authority figures when she was a child. <br /><br />Rick saw the same scenario play out when he later worked in Eastern Europe. He said 90% of drug use is not problematic (how many people do we know who use alcohol on a regular basis socially…?) and asked what we can do to reduce deaths, to show that we care whether people live or die, and to help reduce the risk of using drugs in a risky fashion. We should be respecting the dignity of people who use drugs by providing services, and reducing feelings of vulnerability and stigma.<br /><br />Recent concerns are around changes in the drug market whereby synthetic and highly dangerous drugs (like nitazenes) are increasingly coming onto the market. Rick championed the ongoing work in the 3rd sector and community pharmacies to provide harm reduction services - <i>“it is the people on the ground who are making the difference”.</i><br /><br /><a href="https://www.gov.wales/drug-misuse-dependency#:~:text=We%20want%20to%20reduce%20hazardous,minimum%20price%20for%20selling%20alcohol.&text=A%20summary%20of%20how%20the,affect%20a%20number%20of%20areas.&text=An%20assessment%20of%20how%20our,misuse%20affects%20the%20Welsh%20language." target="_blank">Welsh Government policy</a> is committed to harm reduction, and is unique in the United Kingdom, and rare in the world. This policy influences how the police, prisons and partners regard substance use and filters down to the statutory and community organisations.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5LdRWsplZ24Gg3W5oX6MuqPblil6snsdg1eNMlczDXZsGhXfqJRUNb2_OtjH5MaZaHFEQt2dS42OYy0kCEsjoiwZKZKj8wsEEZ2pQ7tXEMW5hIs947_se1N2DduvpX8Pms34OdL5annWZcjr6vPG41xd-3LMWMnch6ZWShzu_AeP3QWipTeQ8Eq9cyj3J/s1257/Harm%20Reduction%20day%20(4).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1257" data-original-width="1000" height="429" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5LdRWsplZ24Gg3W5oX6MuqPblil6snsdg1eNMlczDXZsGhXfqJRUNb2_OtjH5MaZaHFEQt2dS42OYy0kCEsjoiwZKZKj8wsEEZ2pQ7tXEMW5hIs947_se1N2DduvpX8Pms34OdL5annWZcjr6vPG41xd-3LMWMnch6ZWShzu_AeP3QWipTeQ8Eq9cyj3J/w342-h429/Harm%20Reduction%20day%20(4).jpg" width="342" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b>Current position in Powys and the focus of Harm Reduction - Carol Daly, Harm Prevention and Reduction Lead (Substance Misuse) </b><br /><br />Carol’s aim is to set up a multi-agency Powys Harm Reduction sub-group (one of seven across Wales) to drive action across the county. This would draw on the knowledge of local organisations to deliver the key priorities, including: <br /><br />Supporting the work of the Health Board in working to the World Health Organisation's global aim of eliminating Blood Borne Viruses by 2030. Powys is rolling out treatment and testing for people at risk of Blood Borne Viruses such as HIV, Hepatitis B and C.<br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Training up peer supporters and carers.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Developing pharmacy services to increase the uptake of Needle and Syringe Provision and Blood Borne Virus Testing.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Raising awareness of the real risks of synthetic drugs coming onto the market.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Increasing availability of Naloxone across partner agencies.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Addressing the stigma (it was again pointed out that most people use some sort of substance, for example, alcohol).</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Prevention - the APB has commissioned services to educate children and young people about drugs, and Carol is working with Child & Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) to increase knowledge of new synthetic opiates.</span></li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>This important agenda would save lives - and has saved thousands of lives already with the information and tools to help people who take drugs do so in a safer manner. <br /><br />During discussion Barry Eveleigh from <a href="https://kaleidoscope68.org/services/kaleidoscope-powys/" target="_blank">Kaleidoscope</a> (the local substance misuse service provider) highlighted the financial element - if you can keep someone out of A&E you can save £2000. A liver transplant is £150,000. It costs £1000 a week to keep someone in prison. In comparison to these figures the costs of providing safe drug alternatives are minor.<br /><br />There were also questions about decriminalising drugs as has happened in other countries such as Portugal, where the person using drugs is regarded as a patient rather than a criminal. Michael Curties from the Welsh Government explained that the criminal justice system is not devolved to Wales so this is not an option open to the Welsh Government.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfi4tF0sSaQAFA_dFnufh4_ngEEiJUZ46eTuPUHvPH84J6bpP6IDk8e701yz9_8Um8OBGF2yaI7LTFUIxLqAo71UajWzQoGHAH9PorBD_m-iH_90jjHX2SIUavpdShkogSMtD2Iu1r7eJHyuUXP_TKaoBq2BCapqXud45IaG5PyvkyhCBhM4-MPyu3lyBY/s1300/Harm%20Reduction%20day%20(7).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: arial; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="732" data-original-width="1300" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfi4tF0sSaQAFA_dFnufh4_ngEEiJUZ46eTuPUHvPH84J6bpP6IDk8e701yz9_8Um8OBGF2yaI7LTFUIxLqAo71UajWzQoGHAH9PorBD_m-iH_90jjHX2SIUavpdShkogSMtD2Iu1r7eJHyuUXP_TKaoBq2BCapqXud45IaG5PyvkyhCBhM4-MPyu3lyBY/w534-h300/Harm%20Reduction%20day%20(7).jpg" width="534" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b>What’s already being done and what are our priorities? - Neville Brookes, Area Planning Board Manager </b><br /><br />Neville asked: <i>“how can co-production work with this agenda?” </i>We need to learn from people with lived experience, and spend time with individuals in the treatment system. <i>“Who better to talk to when waiting for a service than another peer?”</i><br /><br />Peers design relapse prevention programmes - they know what works. If people become part of a peer mentor programme they often give back to services and there is an onward pathway to work within the field if they choose.<br /><br />He also said:<br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Harm reduction should be on all our agendas - not just thought of as a clinical intervention.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Out of hours community support is needed (this was identified by focus groups).</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">We need to simplify the service so that individuals have a single pathway.</span></li></ul>The overall outcome would be to enhance and improve systems and processes for everyone involved.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxNudgxCiMZgM8hnra-yq2ADCMNUefaatgx6n58tcFRZdug2BOUkRjovz88T8ws_uWIY9qbmL2UyiVqcG4kh-muYbgv5j0DyoY1HoL75rMSymdyQeUJlC0J5sneGH2sRph1-njYbM2gf1nOhJgM03CjEfUO09gcwG06IOYI-bfQDUyvK1-klcoFO6MSF3X/s1200/Harm%20Reduction%20day%20(6).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="771" data-original-width="1200" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxNudgxCiMZgM8hnra-yq2ADCMNUefaatgx6n58tcFRZdug2BOUkRjovz88T8ws_uWIY9qbmL2UyiVqcG4kh-muYbgv5j0DyoY1HoL75rMSymdyQeUJlC0J5sneGH2sRph1-njYbM2gf1nOhJgM03CjEfUO09gcwG06IOYI-bfQDUyvK1-klcoFO6MSF3X/w526-h338/Harm%20Reduction%20day%20(6).jpg" width="526" /></a></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>How we use peers, with lived experience, to enhance service provision - Elwyn Thomas, Co-production Lead, Kaleidoscope </b><br /><br />Elwyn has been in post for 18 months now. He started as a peer on a script in a prison cell. He worked on a Welsh Government peer to peer support project providing the heroin substitute naloxone - over an 8 week period 237 kits were delivered! Amazingly eighty people did not even know that it existed. <br /><br />There are now seven teams across Wales delivering this important service. Everyone was trained in just a year, and other initiatives have also been put into place including creating pathways to treatment and needle exchange schemes. Elwyn spoke of how people’s esteem and self-worth was raised after having access to the training, with peer uniforms (branded “ask me about Naloxone”) and lanyards breaking barriers. <br /><br />In 2 years the delivery of harm reduction has changed massively in Wales, from prescribed scripts from nurses to working alongside peers. <br /><br />Linda Hutchings, a Brecon peer, has lived experience for many years using drugs but is now drug free. She agreed that people can be the best they can be with training and involvement. She is now accepted in her community, not as a drug addict, but as someone with lived experience. <i>“I built up belief in myself as I didn’t have any.”</i> Linda started work with peer mentoring service Cyfle Cymru on 8 February.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ6qG_PKj3RxeZkXQfTk0JW2Js7ekFgphuXiaORsd-OaeK5JUWyThttmRJ6rRRf11rBkKjcRZT-95N9XH7w-XdRt1cbcDmLIRn2zvFeHNHslMCy3VFJwtttUBaI6pkm8haBJx07ngapOz4IK4w9eRqL2-u6fvwL23ofVUGg68dyBPhb4DgvFGJuevY0qbQ/s1100/Harm%20Reduction%20day%20(11).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="646" data-original-width="1100" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ6qG_PKj3RxeZkXQfTk0JW2Js7ekFgphuXiaORsd-OaeK5JUWyThttmRJ6rRRf11rBkKjcRZT-95N9XH7w-XdRt1cbcDmLIRn2zvFeHNHslMCy3VFJwtttUBaI6pkm8haBJx07ngapOz4IK4w9eRqL2-u6fvwL23ofVUGg68dyBPhb4DgvFGJuevY0qbQ/w554-h326/Harm%20Reduction%20day%20(11).jpg" width="554" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b>Round table discussions & feedback </b><br /><br />In round table discussions we looked closely at Powys challenges and priorities. The top three challenges on our table were: rurality, silos and stigma. We were very keen to promote the idea of a support bus which could travel the whole length of the county, the distance from the Severn Bridge to Marble Arch - and back again! <br /><br />Our priorities were - prevention, communication and collaboration. We agreed that it was important to reach out into the community (it’s that bus again!) rather than expect people to come to us.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1BjPid3JCe0NW69VZyMyNVBv578tQTDHYsgTGXXD4guLMqzfIK135d6NtWFSk2zdnknmc80hrPampCMlXqUxqYaYAIngv1M11OXRxJyOxTo9vbYM0Jamktj4KMg_QNztX5Vdxp9_uiYsJuKS3ai7voeiiggCrY4St7SfnVTcgFajVryBmaKfSoV2WLKxf/s1100/Harm%20Reduction%20day%20(8).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="664" data-original-width="1100" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1BjPid3JCe0NW69VZyMyNVBv578tQTDHYsgTGXXD4guLMqzfIK135d6NtWFSk2zdnknmc80hrPampCMlXqUxqYaYAIngv1M11OXRxJyOxTo9vbYM0Jamktj4KMg_QNztX5Vdxp9_uiYsJuKS3ai7voeiiggCrY4St7SfnVTcgFajVryBmaKfSoV2WLKxf/w547-h330/Harm%20Reduction%20day%20(8).jpg" width="547" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />Overall it felt that there was a great enthusiasm in the room for genuine collaboration and partnership working to make real change so that people using drugs and alcohol, for whatever reason, could live well in the county.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIacJmZJbbwyVd03lB2PRzQ1gkeYvcReTa-Y_SJb1TBNUiHljYvBNzsl82fbdYWhPHFXVIQWJUmUO_H_O7s6dT9fkOp9DQVpJpb0xiX0c8vhl9UYh7Bqzc9JsHndKBcOiWXOICkraNe4pOlspZEGDguTE6tQ_X9Hp-OenFb9vEnH8W2OBNjH2cGePupjZ5/s1200/Harm%20Reduction%20day%20(10).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="736" data-original-width="1200" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIacJmZJbbwyVd03lB2PRzQ1gkeYvcReTa-Y_SJb1TBNUiHljYvBNzsl82fbdYWhPHFXVIQWJUmUO_H_O7s6dT9fkOp9DQVpJpb0xiX0c8vhl9UYh7Bqzc9JsHndKBcOiWXOICkraNe4pOlspZEGDguTE6tQ_X9Hp-OenFb9vEnH8W2OBNjH2cGePupjZ5/w545-h334/Harm%20Reduction%20day%20(10).jpg" width="545" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b>Closing remarks - Michael Curties, Substance Misuse Policy Team, Welsh Government</b><br /><br />Michael raised many relevant and important topics in his summing up in relation to the APB, data sharing, working more closely with GPs and prevention, etc. To finish off I’ll highlight just a couple of his comments that particularly resonated with me: <br /><br />The Harm Reduction challenge is the same as it is for all other services - we solve it by working together. <i>“How do we get to the point where there is no wrong door? Where people walk in and get a service wherever they are?” </i><br /><br /><i>“Coproduction is about learning - what do we say that gets in your way? We need to hear if there are those barriers. Ask - can we do it differently?” </i><br /><br />I look forward to finding out more about developing drug and alcohol services in Powys as Carol continues her vital work on the Harm Reduction plan.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrdDn2ELkmyUJDRWOvs1sM-5_0sc-xOSg6gccPbnjdK8ovx7DoXG3yvRNCLdooKhS37c0IjoRDC7PouK6XXi0rZUlFaTeNQnd_F5sd6gzom2uox1jpQOXAc9azwPauf2_rPVg-NEnBF-8CsuwlwDzor2St7XyAoPZya36YYYs0Asxi35J1Gmuyix6XtGXr/s729/Harm%20Reduction%20day%20(9a).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="524" data-original-width="729" height="373" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrdDn2ELkmyUJDRWOvs1sM-5_0sc-xOSg6gccPbnjdK8ovx7DoXG3yvRNCLdooKhS37c0IjoRDC7PouK6XXi0rZUlFaTeNQnd_F5sd6gzom2uox1jpQOXAc9azwPauf2_rPVg-NEnBF-8CsuwlwDzor2St7XyAoPZya36YYYs0Asxi35J1Gmuyix6XtGXr/w519-h373/Harm%20Reduction%20day%20(9a).jpg" width="519" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">You find out more about Alcohol and Substance Misuse resources</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://pthb.nhs.wales/staying-healthy/alcohol-substance-misuse/" target="_blank">on this Powys Teaching Health Board website page.</a></span></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Jackie Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05293038655478909058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8753418862245773183.post-45815467972691039832024-01-30T09:46:00.000+00:002024-01-30T09:46:19.397+00:00Area 43 – Powys schools & community-based counselling services<p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSKD593Ie2sn50wYenrnT7zOGQc_iVbSFDjwwEI3Ovbc1B6Yo2iF6j99U2CjWehbGQKz6jsWIpZQOZBz1c66WOHeFD8o_2brM8I9kDtP4hYid6bIKf5wvfUZGgxYakCLuHH6z5lcw3lRQFAIXncpSbyg10zCGqCGNXWqBwvHmyQCr_2cuu-OW8XD8pbJ8c/s1000/Area%2043%20(4).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="341" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSKD593Ie2sn50wYenrnT7zOGQc_iVbSFDjwwEI3Ovbc1B6Yo2iF6j99U2CjWehbGQKz6jsWIpZQOZBz1c66WOHeFD8o_2brM8I9kDtP4hYid6bIKf5wvfUZGgxYakCLuHH6z5lcw3lRQFAIXncpSbyg10zCGqCGNXWqBwvHmyQCr_2cuu-OW8XD8pbJ8c/w455-h341/Area%2043%20(4).jpg" width="455" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Lisa Head is the Communications & Engagement Manager, she has been at the charity <a href="https://www.area43.co.uk/" target="_blank">Area 43</a> since 2017. She joined the organisation as a Senior Youth Support Worker, then moved to Centre Manager, Services Manager and Operations Manager, before commencing her current role. Area 43 provides safe spaces, information, support, counselling and training to young people aged 11 – 25 at their flagship Youth Café, Depot in Cardigan in West Wales. Their counselling services span the whole of the mid and west Wales area supporting children and young people aged 3 – 30. <br /><br />In October 2023 Area 43 became the new provider of <a href="https://www.area43.co.uk/powys/" target="_blank">I</a><a href="https://www.area43.co.uk/powys/" target="_blank">ndependent School and Community Based Counselling Services for Powys.</a><br /><br />I recently met up with Lisa to find out more about the work of Area 43. </i><br /><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>What drew you to your role at Area 43? </b><br /><br />It’s a long story. I am a single parent of 2 girls, one of which was particularly challenging when she was younger. They are both in their 20s now, but when they were little, I was so disillusioned by the lack of support available to children, young people and their families that I embarked on an Open University degree to learn how to support my children better. It began as something I was doing for my own personal interest, but the more I learned, the more I realised I could do to help others in my community. <br /><br />In 2011, I set up a youth club in the village where I lived, the young people wanted to launch the club with a mini music festival, so they worked with me to plan, coordinate and manage the event. I had a background in Arts Marketing, so I had the marketing and events management knowledge and plenty of contacts who were happy to perform. We attracted over 1000 visitors and the youth club went from strength to strength. I ran the club for about 8 years and over that time we expanded on the music festival idea to re-establish a village carnival, with young people in the lead. We ran that event 3 times. <br /><br />I had known about the work of Area 43 for a long time, but at that time they only worked with 16 – 25 year olds and my children were much younger. However, when I saw the Senior Youth Support Worker role advertised early in 2017, I jumped at the opportunity to join the team and put all my learning and experience into practice. <br /><br />During the lockdowns of the Covid pandemic, Area 43 took the opportunity to conduct a large-scale consultation with young people in the Ceredigion area to ask them what they felt they needed in Cardigan. They overwhelmingly told us that they needed safe spaces and an affordable café, where they could hang out and socialise without the pressure of having to spend money or feeling that they are not welcome… And so, Depot was the result.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Z7Vt00l2QUDLg-8w9nMzX23rRcMg8I-IPinY-SPIXmaxlJS8Z_iVga_a4mVfgdztrWLdPIUqLqyo5A-suOuyaUNI5QhsaghEi076wMdcW3DgO6F1ByCT-x5iSmkb1Xr2gtg9jY9N6L1mKFgyIDCiJNyhjqprMCxnz9y-tLrfalCjDh0fM9JKh5xsBYMU/s1200/Area%2043%20(3).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="828" data-original-width="1200" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Z7Vt00l2QUDLg-8w9nMzX23rRcMg8I-IPinY-SPIXmaxlJS8Z_iVga_a4mVfgdztrWLdPIUqLqyo5A-suOuyaUNI5QhsaghEi076wMdcW3DgO6F1ByCT-x5iSmkb1Xr2gtg9jY9N6L1mKFgyIDCiJNyhjqprMCxnz9y-tLrfalCjDh0fM9JKh5xsBYMU/w458-h316/Area%2043%20(3).jpg" width="458" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Tell us briefly how Area 43 came about </b><br /><br />Area 43 was born out of a community needs-led project in 1996. Back then there were 30 odd pubs in Cardigan and all the young people were hanging around playing pool and there were issues with them not going to school or college. It was identified that they really needed a place to go to that was not alcohol-fuelled or potentially putting them at risk. A group came together to put in a lottery bid to establish Cardigan Youth Project. They were successful in receiving lottery money and it snowballed from there.<br /><br />From the early days, we had volunteers and eventually staff – including counsellors and support workers. We were quite early in offering counselling to young disadvantaged people in this area. When it became statutory law in Wales to offer counselling in schools in 2008 we were successful in tendering for a couple of those contracts because of this experience, and have held on to most of those ever since. <br /><br />We now deliver services throughout Powys, Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion and will see in the region of 5000+ individuals this year.<br /><br />There are a total of 30 counsellors and therapists in Powys and another 28 covering West Wales. When Area 43 recently took over the contract from Kooth, most of the staff transferred over, so they all have plenty of experience with young people in the Powys area. <br /><br /><b>How can counselling help children and young people who may be struggling with their mental health? </b><br /><br />Area 43’s counselling service is delivered by highly trained professionals and managed by people who fully understand the values, aims and limitations of counselling.<br /><br />Counselling can allow a space for children and young people where they feel they are not judged and offers the opportunity to increase self-awareness, develop personal resources and understand their problems. It is a skilled way of helping those with personal, emotional and developmental issues or difficulties that takes place in a safe and confidential environment. This allows them to explore, discover and embed strategies to cope with change and live in a more satisfying, resourceful way.<br /><br />By helping children and young people to share their worries and concerns with a counsellor or therapist, the young person can gain a better understanding of themselves, making sense of what they are experiencing, which helps them gain clarity and build resilience within themselves.<br /> <br /><b>How is the school counselling going in Powys and what do you offer? </b><br /><br />Thanks to the great team that Area 43 inherited from the previous provider, our service is running seamlessly. Area 43 will continue to provide counselling services for all eligible young people to the age of 25. The Powys model works slightly differently from the west Wales model, but essentially there are counsellors and therapists in all the secondary school settings and selected primaries. <br /><br />Counselling is predominantly delivered face to face with the flexibility for online provision for those aged 10 – 19 (year 6 to Year 13) in education settings, but there is also an option for up to 25 year-olds to access counselling support either online or in the community.<br /><br /> All young people in Powys up to age 25 are eligible to access the counselling service. <br /><br />We have 20 counsellors and therapists available for 37 days per week in secondary schools, 11 counsellors and therapists based in 15 of the primary school settings and we provide at least 3 days per week of online or community counselling sessions.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4VWzHfM1hodmuMShxm3bw0E9jTdk_uz1FQtNhmcIoUn6w0uIUiYCcc_x1LpWphyphenhyphen_moRAwarEX_bpdgi6ibPO1g_t7zMT3iqt1r0XAVSbT3bXnIlZ8r5a0pt-bKLKqZdOWuN4CVvgSXMow9puAu-Z3RXOrySA1zspgsaO6GYzTgOEzk8w_o9CrXNaEJ1Rs/s1200/Area%2043%20(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="809" data-original-width="1200" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4VWzHfM1hodmuMShxm3bw0E9jTdk_uz1FQtNhmcIoUn6w0uIUiYCcc_x1LpWphyphenhyphen_moRAwarEX_bpdgi6ibPO1g_t7zMT3iqt1r0XAVSbT3bXnIlZ8r5a0pt-bKLKqZdOWuN4CVvgSXMow9puAu-Z3RXOrySA1zspgsaO6GYzTgOEzk8w_o9CrXNaEJ1Rs/w466-h315/Area%2043%20(2).jpg" width="466" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>How are children and young people in Powys referred for counselling support? </b><br /><br />Whilst parents and professionals can use our referral forms, any young person can register in exactly the same way and we encourage self-referral. It helps young people to feel ownership of the counselling support and let’s be honest, counselling or therapy isn’t something that can be done to somebody, it’s a meaningful, emotional process that takes a lot of commitment and vulnerability. <br /><br />Referral forms, support resources and counselling information to help children, young people, parents and education staff to have discussions about counselling and decide whether it is suitable for them can be accessed through the Area 43 website page <a href="https://www.area43.co.uk/powys/">Powys Counselling</a>.<br /><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Tell us more about the Youth Café you run in Cardigan </b><br /><br />It’s about driving young people’s dreams forward, allowing their voice, hearing them and acting upon their needs. We utilised the lockdown scenario to do some online consultation and canvassed young people in the whole of our area as well as external services, to see what they would like from Area 43. Young people told us overwhelmingly that they needed safe spaces to hang out and socialise with friends where caring professionals could offer alternative views and provide additional support. <br /><br />They also explained that they didn’t feel welcome in the town centre cafés - they felt stigmatised walking in as a group. The result of the consultation is Depot, which is led by young people for young people - it is their space, we just facilitate it and keep it safe.<br /><br />In the youth café, young people don’t need to buy anything, they can just come in to keep warm and see other people. We heavily subsidise the cost of food and drink. We have managed to access some food poverty grants to keep costs as low as we can, and we work with Neighbourly and Fareshare for surplus foods, so we are often able to offer free meals. <br /><br />Our Cardigan building is open 6 days a week up to 7pm for 14 – 25 year olds, we also hold transition sessions on Saturday mornings for 11 – 13 year olds. There are young people out there essentially living independently at the age of 14 – 16 including homeless young people, sofa surfing or sleeping rough. They come to Area 43 to stay warm, have human contact, receive support from our team, and link up with existing specialist services - drugs and alcohol, or housing options, and we facilitate this. <br /><br />We also offer supported paid work placements for young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET) to help them develop the skills to progress into the workplace from a safe, supportive environment where they can make mistakes and learn from them without dire consequences.<br /> <b><br />Do you have plans to develop and expand your offer in Powys? </b><br /><br />We are working closely with Powys County Council, watch this space…</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY4_SLzGl2C6rajrRRO-BmRd3OfMIzpRP9lRUIziMJoEw3y_NOQ0ai97-kXc7YTBiZY8N-L_POa1hVeyslWL3l1sD0iCRt9TRcuN4Bkm0M2pf5txJxq6HGvBu43bCYQPsTMMppG6i2yB77ZQ2Swz3oMcjc53yFGmHOv4ugE2f7PhHWTjhQRxgj63Eki1cF/s1000/Area%2043%20(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="1000" height="322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY4_SLzGl2C6rajrRRO-BmRd3OfMIzpRP9lRUIziMJoEw3y_NOQ0ai97-kXc7YTBiZY8N-L_POa1hVeyslWL3l1sD0iCRt9TRcuN4Bkm0M2pf5txJxq6HGvBu43bCYQPsTMMppG6i2yB77ZQ2Swz3oMcjc53yFGmHOv4ugE2f7PhHWTjhQRxgj63Eki1cF/w466-h322/Area%2043%20(1).jpg" width="466" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>What are the main challenges working in this field? </b><br /><br />I guess the main issue is securing consistent funding to provide these essential services. There is no doubt that the need for mental health support is very real. Whilst talking about mental health difficulties more openly has decreased the stigma, it has also opened the floodgates, and the need for support and counselling services means the demand is great and waiting lists across the sector are growing. <br /><br />Contracts for counselling services go through a competitive tendering process and although we support the campaign by Young Minds and Dr Alex George (UK Youth Mental Health Ambassador) to obtain statutory funding for early intervention mental health hubs, we are still heavily reliant upon grant funders like the National Lottery.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b>Tell us about some of the most rewarding work you have done at Area 43 </b><br /><br />Seeing the Youth Café come to fruition is a proud achievement, we see over 200 young people every week, and last year had over 1600 visitors, it’s amazing and proves how much the safe space is needed by young people. <br /><br />The most rewarding work is the direct work with young people, slowly building trust, and learning about them, their needs, background and challenges. Then having the honour of being permitted to walk with them on their journey and see them grow as they navigate the obstacles, dramas and emotions that fall in their way. I have seen some young people come from the most distressing situations where they have a lack of supportive adults at home, a tough time in education (if they attend), and substance misuse, bullying or other abuse in their lives, manage to find themselves and their strength because they learned that they had someone they could trust, who believed them and wanted the best for them. It’s amazing what young people can achieve with the right support if they want to. <br /><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>How do you like spending your time when you’re not working? </b><br /><br />I like peace and quiet and the opportunity to rejuvenate when I’m not working. I love a spa day! I also like to curl up in a cosy armchair with a book or to get out in nature, walk with my dogs on the beach or through the woods.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b>Feedback from children & young people who have been supported by Area 43 </b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><i>About counselling and therapy</i></b><br /><br /><i>"Helped me release all me feeling and emotions." <br /><br />"It has been helpful to be able to talk to someone. It has helped all the negative energy and thoughts to disappear." <br /><br />"It helped me by boosting my self-esteem and giving me more confidence in making the right choices for myself, it also really helped with my family and friends relationships which i am thankful for."<br /><br />"It was good to have someone to talk when my anxiety was a problem. I was able to work out how to control my anxiety and now have way to stop it." <br /><br /></i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><i><b>About the Youth Café </b><br /><br />“The first time I went to the Youth Café I was an upset teenager determined not to speak to anyone. But after a Youth Support Worker coming up to chat with me I opened up more than I had in a while. I felt a lot lighter when I left.”<br /><br />“Coming here (Depot) for the past 3 years has done more for my confidence than almost a decade of support groups.” <br /><br />“I feel that Depot youth café is a treasure to the community for young people, as a mental health sufferer this place has helped me get out of a dark place, the support I have received from the youth workers has changed me massively in ways I didn't think was possible. I've made new friends, I've learned to accept myself for my self with my mental illness and I don't feel like I'm figuring it out anymore. I have started to come out the house more as I'm less anxious of the outside world."</i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><i><br /></i><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWm0mxy8zyKnC8dhLU-KvAurff6NudTaqSGOz9RDYVoO_bW-YmEvCGLhtkkDZQPK4frMaPXn8PJaLk0g4wJzXXq1gOhyphenhyphenQoEPVRFIlFsEGhMjnchqwjQytg2of4-O3IpoStkqyonuqr2zQUpihH3n6vVzGkRTcZB1vCkcgW5mClfY4aMDNxXH1b4k7nT0yz/s204/Area%2043%20twitter%20logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="202" data-original-width="204" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWm0mxy8zyKnC8dhLU-KvAurff6NudTaqSGOz9RDYVoO_bW-YmEvCGLhtkkDZQPK4frMaPXn8PJaLk0g4wJzXXq1gOhyphenhyphenQoEPVRFIlFsEGhMjnchqwjQytg2of4-O3IpoStkqyonuqr2zQUpihH3n6vVzGkRTcZB1vCkcgW5mClfY4aMDNxXH1b4k7nT0yz/w226-h224/Area%2043%20twitter%20logo.png" width="226" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div> <i><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Many thanks to Lisa for telling us about the work of Area 43. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>If you want to find out more you can contact Lisa by emailing <a href="mailto:lisa@area43.co.uk">lisa@area43.co.uk</a></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>There is also further information on the Area 43 website <a href="https://www.area43.co.uk/powys/" target="_blank">including an online referral form.</a></i></div></i></span></div>Jackie Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05293038655478909058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8753418862245773183.post-91832784719926563602024-01-17T11:59:00.000+00:002024-01-17T11:59:10.318+00:00The future of the Wales Mental Health & Wellbeing Forum<div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIe4GJVaBrzcsKwXwVAEoMwOzHq6yRabcGP91NthTr8v8SRXriqkbjrINdMK5AHE_FmruBcu7hFqqE_UUILvwSApWaaFkhFw37VqZwyS6EkgkH15LTJxkiE-giXk-FBPiRE7m951odRkgQf2Y2feSCiVEK3bDw0BYe7FIJjaBya3GYMYP0xe2BuGrH0SbU/s1200/MH%20reps%20summer%20(6).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="951" data-original-width="1200" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIe4GJVaBrzcsKwXwVAEoMwOzHq6yRabcGP91NthTr8v8SRXriqkbjrINdMK5AHE_FmruBcu7hFqqE_UUILvwSApWaaFkhFw37VqZwyS6EkgkH15LTJxkiE-giXk-FBPiRE7m951odRkgQf2Y2feSCiVEK3bDw0BYe7FIJjaBya3GYMYP0xe2BuGrH0SbU/w448-h356/MH%20reps%20summer%20(6).jpg" width="448" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">John Lilley (Individual Representative, Mental Health) and Josh Beynon (Practice Solutions)</td></tr></tbody></table></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: medium;">Improving mental health and wellbeing by respecting and </span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: medium;">empowering people to influence decision making</span></b></div><br />The <a href="https://www.mentalhealthforum.cymru/what-we-do/" target="_blank">Wales Mental Health and Wellbeing Forum</a> is made up of people with lived experience of mental health issues and their friends and families. The members come from a range of different backgrounds and reflect the diversity of the people of Wales. Here in Powys John Lilley - more from him below - joins Rhydian and Sally to bring the voice of Powys service users and carers to the table. <br /><br />Forum members work collaboratively with other key stakeholders to influence Welsh Government policy by using the skills, knowledge and experience they have gained within the field of mental health. They play a very important role in helping shape future mental health services within Wales.<br /><br />We recently heard that <a href="https://www.practice-solutions.co.uk/" target="_blank">Practice Solutions Ltd</a>, the organisation which has provided support to the Forum over recent years, has been awarded the tender to support the Wales Mental Health and Wellbeing Forum for the next 3 years.<br /><br />Since the Forum started working on the contract with Practice Solutions it has gone from strength to strength and a huge part of this has come from the fact that Practice Solutions staff have instilled in members that it is their Forum and they should lead the direction of the work and how this looks in the future. The members are then able to use the knowledge and experience of Practice Solutions’ staff to inform and guide them in the best way forward when developing projects.<br /><br />Since the Forum started working with Practice Solutions there have been lots of exciting developments. The Forum changed its name from the National Mental Health Forum to the Wales Mental Health and Wellbeing Forum. It was felt that this better represented the Forum’s work focus - what happens within services in Wales.</span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="font-family: arial; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirZUTsWEOAI1QVligWivHXZblb_G8zE632-jzn7L_PgyQ2YNI7ni4NCdua8acq4jjO2GsoLgc8q_bywIXDHpzLSsUEJ5O7eUtz4czlggDbFrVpUp7rOexuPCKrod0gzPUanN-ppzkurfAO_6TNuwVeHr3AX02SEhcv5jFh25o6UHUc749FuJm5YuveM9Jb/s1300/MH%20reps%20summer%202023%20(3).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="925" data-original-width="1300" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirZUTsWEOAI1QVligWivHXZblb_G8zE632-jzn7L_PgyQ2YNI7ni4NCdua8acq4jjO2GsoLgc8q_bywIXDHpzLSsUEJ5O7eUtz4czlggDbFrVpUp7rOexuPCKrod0gzPUanN-ppzkurfAO_6TNuwVeHr3AX02SEhcv5jFh25o6UHUc749FuJm5YuveM9Jb/w468-h334/MH%20reps%20summer%202023%20(3).jpg" width="468" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">John Lilley chairing a Wales Mental Health & Wellbeing forum meeting<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></div><span style="font-family: arial;">The Forum also designed their own logo and branding which is now used on their promotional material and on their social media platforms and this enables the Forum to create a professional image when speaking to organisations.<br /><br />With guidance from Practice Solutions' staff the Forum also established separate working groups alongside the quarterly meetings and these included Communications & Marketing, Future Planning & Recruitment, and Reward & Engagement. These groups enable some of the members to focus on particular aspects of the Forum such as designing a logo or their website, promoting the Forum and attending events. Proposals and ideas are taken to the main quarterly meeting for agreement and voting by all members.<br /><br />Another huge part of the Forum’s growth has involved the development of the website which allows members to inform people about their work, share good news stories, promote events and publish some of the papers that the Forum has produced. The Forum has also been privileged to have members share their mental health journey through the production of digital stories. These can be extremely powerful in highlighting the issues that people with mental health face.<br /><br />The Forum is looking forward to continuing its work with Practice Solutions and seeing where the future journey takes them. Onwards and upwards…!<br /><br />Josh Beynon, who is an Associate at Practice Solutions, and provides support to the Forum as part of his role, says: <i>“It’s great to be supporting and working with the forum again to improve services and put the voice of service users and carers at the heart of decision making”.<br /></i><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_FPn4DTWDBT_-f5ka-WwBkyssKH9SwwQD9OpBQn0hRrMdrsx1yOxrhagb8LYu2TgulkV4AyGkyN07ZMwQ6Ynq5VBpsSYOD03J_zmY7tSV2We7GSdrsON-pSplDjQknoxE91-KLkKWd-5-tWbJOGn8qPw0V266mK_o6t2iYBkKyAU9JCUV3mD0E2adPgkm/s1400/SharedPower23%20(54).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1056" data-original-width="1400" height="343" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_FPn4DTWDBT_-f5ka-WwBkyssKH9SwwQD9OpBQn0hRrMdrsx1yOxrhagb8LYu2TgulkV4AyGkyN07ZMwQ6Ynq5VBpsSYOD03J_zmY7tSV2We7GSdrsON-pSplDjQknoxE91-KLkKWd-5-tWbJOGn8qPw0V266mK_o6t2iYBkKyAU9JCUV3mD0E2adPgkm/w455-h343/SharedPower23%20(54).jpg" width="455" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">John Lilley, Individual Rep Mental Health,<br /> at a <a href="https://powysmentalhealth.blogspot.com/2023/03/shared-power-training.html" target="_blank">Shared Power training session</a> last year</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>John Lilley is the expert on the Forum locally here in Powys as he has been a member for several years now. He says: <i>“I became a Mental Health Service User Representative as I felt my experience as a service user, and as someone with lived experience of mental health issues, could help to give a voice and attempt to improve access and care within the mental health services.</i></span></div><div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><i><br /></i></span><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjw1T9iZ4R5RGEnCilKS5hZjHOv4fO58GKb2wBPhu1c4_EdpMGq2NSNz4HzEPXRC-v8J6VodwdDCnVe6oYXBxFyr3cWDT9kxY2o72TzSr6LozXy-H1OHSxnQdzUdh86enFv53Z718FhrIHTbgjjTrN4qG7VR9S_aUWiH2A6_mZurq2DqcfeLdK_FamxxfX/s572/John%20Lilley%20(4).jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="572" data-original-width="500" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjw1T9iZ4R5RGEnCilKS5hZjHOv4fO58GKb2wBPhu1c4_EdpMGq2NSNz4HzEPXRC-v8J6VodwdDCnVe6oYXBxFyr3cWDT9kxY2o72TzSr6LozXy-H1OHSxnQdzUdh86enFv53Z718FhrIHTbgjjTrN4qG7VR9S_aUWiH2A6_mZurq2DqcfeLdK_FamxxfX/w198-h226/John%20Lilley%20(4).jpg" width="198" /></a></div></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">“<i>I was diagnosed with bi-polar in 2013 and before that with clinical depression as a result of life changing neurosurgery in 2000. After a three month stay as a patient in Bronllys, and attending Patients’ Council meetings whilst there, I decided that following recovery I would join <a href="https://www.powysmentalhealth.org.uk/powys-patients-council/" target="_blank">Powys Patients’ Counci</a>l as a volunteer. I believe this helped in my recovery and boosted my self-esteem and confidence.</i><br /><br />“<i>After being a volunteer for over 5 years I became a Mental Health Service User Representative in Powys in 2021. During my time as a rep I have also joined the <a href="https://www.practicesolutions-ltd.co.uk/en/page/mental-health-forum" target="_blank">Wales Mental Health and Wellbeing Forum</a> to represent Powys. This national forum meets regularly and reports to the Welsh Government on issues affecting service users and carers locally. I have also been a member of the Powys Crisis Care forum which oversees the delivery of the <a href="https://gov.wales/sites/default/files/publications/2019-10/wales-crisis-care-concordat-national-action-plan-2019-2022.pdf" target="_blank">Mental Health Crisis Care Concordat </a>in Powys. This measures the effectiveness of how Powys deals with people in Mental Health Crisis.”</i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><i><br /></i></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCu915Omo4WVoWNL1NfPfABfYuMN_GZmFmbpL6kgxdW5LXlbrZloZAvlVDqcshNAo6dS5vBQOMdUXbNsB6qD7E4V1kuAMBEJ11iC0qoxDZEjHA3eES9ILaQ27_CIQQrSoIrTaIY79nRbUPIyCJWLdvTRBQwdQ1uTEPdPu0My0yekUqQPUrSkr7gehyphenhyphenkNAq/s424/Wales%20MH%20&%20Wellbeing%20Forum.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="142" data-original-width="424" height="138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCu915Omo4WVoWNL1NfPfABfYuMN_GZmFmbpL6kgxdW5LXlbrZloZAvlVDqcshNAo6dS5vBQOMdUXbNsB6qD7E4V1kuAMBEJ11iC0qoxDZEjHA3eES9ILaQ27_CIQQrSoIrTaIY79nRbUPIyCJWLdvTRBQwdQ1uTEPdPu0My0yekUqQPUrSkr7gehyphenhyphenkNAq/w412-h138/Wales%20MH%20&%20Wellbeing%20Forum.png" width="412" /></a></div></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.mentalhealthforum.cymru/what-we-do/">Find out more about the work of the Wales Mental Health & Wellbeing Forum.</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.powysmentalhealth.org.uk/become-a-rep/">Find out more about becoming a Mental Health Rep in Powys.</a></div></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-6f19e6e2-7fff-4160-8aae-d6e6346a0464"><div><br /></div></span></div></div></div></div>Jackie Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05293038655478909058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8753418862245773183.post-78484824699036727532024-01-04T12:08:00.002+00:002024-01-04T12:09:34.810+00:00New Year Nature challenges for improved wellbeing<div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFP0JMaxFTxxt8GHA_-6egeuoU3y5i6WbEgBW6ZuEUkBZJEDQm9qEwC9LasTRbp_FocExQ8o6D1z5YNLqHpJN5q4SWTmfy4epL_BEiL5V52MckN-z5xhTXi_DeKm93nvWTbGxcXQPviNNJAoqhwRo47ywZYc5LxCsuAqDCZK4znryyh1ZVrl97YHjz94Gl/s1059/RWT%20litter%20pick.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="539" data-original-width="1059" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFP0JMaxFTxxt8GHA_-6egeuoU3y5i6WbEgBW6ZuEUkBZJEDQm9qEwC9LasTRbp_FocExQ8o6D1z5YNLqHpJN5q4SWTmfy4epL_BEiL5V52MckN-z5xhTXi_DeKm93nvWTbGxcXQPviNNJAoqhwRo47ywZYc5LxCsuAqDCZK4znryyh1ZVrl97YHjz94Gl/w553-h282/RWT%20litter%20pick.JPG" width="553" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; text-align: start;">Plast Off! litter pick - Radnorshire Wildlife Trust volunteers</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;">It can be easy at this time of year to retreat into a cosy home or bury ourselves in work. Living through some of the shortest days of the year in challenging weather conditions can seem relentless sometimes (though - fingers crossed - we are promised a drier spell is on the cards for the rest of January 2024!) And winter weather conditions can definitely impact on our mental health. So, what can we do to renew, refresh and generally feel better about life at the start of 2024?<br /><br /><b>For some people, after the excesses of the festive season, it’s time to take on a new challenge</b></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">This could be changing or adapting our diet with a dip into <a href="https://veganuary.com/" target="_blank">Veganuary</a> <i>“for a greener planet, lower food bills, better health and kindness to animals”. </i><br /><br />Giving up alcohol for January is also a popular option with <a href="https://alcoholchange.org.uk/help-and-support/managing-your-drinking/dry-january" target="_blank">Dry January</a> encouraging growing numbers to go sober to start the new year <i>“for a body and mind reset”.</i> Others determined to improve both their physical health and emotional wellbeing opt for new exercise routines - perhaps they join a gym, try a new sport or sign up for online classes or the local weekly Parkrun.<br /><br />Yet another option, and one we want to explore more here, is getting outdoors to appreciate and do our bit for Nature in this, our wonderful county of Powys!<br /><br />Here are some activities, (along with details of helpful organisations), that can encourage just that, with the added benefit of social interaction in most cases for those that want to make new friends (or just meet up with family and friends to take part). Litter picking, bird watching and wildlife walking are all suitable too for those needing some space, perhaps time for themselves to recharge their batteries, after a busy or draining festive time - many people have to work through the winter break after all!</span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwUc71dhTNqm0sUkk0_M7Z4exQ4Z5PuZWTWGbgp3mta95h_1niTrxWSRv4BJqmzDN-itrepgDLQqXmuoXdIevEvlDaX7X_MvSIPzc02KrW7tm67AXH5bSNya65wQQ6xXe-ka9vQs0H2KPIYQsDuJTQONHGzmTnT_w6ktZtz4chrVnyRyN94YyoslTJXBMG/s1280/bottle-2349136_1280.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="708" data-original-width="1280" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwUc71dhTNqm0sUkk0_M7Z4exQ4Z5PuZWTWGbgp3mta95h_1niTrxWSRv4BJqmzDN-itrepgDLQqXmuoXdIevEvlDaX7X_MvSIPzc02KrW7tm67AXH5bSNya65wQQ6xXe-ka9vQs0H2KPIYQsDuJTQONHGzmTnT_w6ktZtz4chrVnyRyN94YyoslTJXBMG/w539-h298/bottle-2349136_1280.jpg" width="539" /></a></div><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><br /></b></span></div>Plast Off! litter pick - Radnorshire Wildlife Trust - 13 January</b><br /><br />Kick-start your New Year with a litter pick and do something positive for local wildlife! Join Radnorshire Wildlife Trust and the Lakeside Boathouse on Saturday 13th January in Llandrindod Wells anytime between 10am until 1pm. Free hot drinks will be provided for those taking part!<br /><br />Plast Off! is a Wales wide event, organised by Stand for Nature Wales youth groups around the country. The aim is to remove plastic and other litter from the environment that could cause harm to our wildlife.<br /><br />There is no need to book this event, just turn up! This event is in association with the Lakeside Boathouse.<br /><br />More information <a href="https://www.rwtwales.org/events/2024-01-13-plastoff-litter-pick-2024" target="_blank">HERE.</a></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOP1NQjp9-s5dD5B05bVu-UparIBN5I0zgCYdohmZ-KzoBlYDmTKieYWAh28ubsVZZTJ2Vc0cP-blw8_oU5KnXXtm6ROa2qoTyEJYES-hCTSIETTXyjaF9N0X8GswOUYEbT5uCCaous0H_efJQDtyiRrEJ2OA4oMamsPsx1T2jCnd1Pxyt-MRuUoRNR5z8/s1280/robin-1149855_1280.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOP1NQjp9-s5dD5B05bVu-UparIBN5I0zgCYdohmZ-KzoBlYDmTKieYWAh28ubsVZZTJ2Vc0cP-blw8_oU5KnXXtm6ROa2qoTyEJYES-hCTSIETTXyjaF9N0X8GswOUYEbT5uCCaous0H_efJQDtyiRrEJ2OA4oMamsPsx1T2jCnd1Pxyt-MRuUoRNR5z8/w511-h340/robin-1149855_1280.jpg" width="511" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><b>Big Garden Birdwatch from the RSPB - 26 - 28 January</b><br /><br />Join the world’s largest garden wildlife survey!<br /><br />Every year, hundreds of thousands of nature lovers take part, helping to build a picture of how garden birds are faring.<br /><br />All you have to do is spend an hour watching the birds in your patch, between 26 and 28 January, and record the birds that land (so not those which just fly by). Then you can record your sightings on the RSPB website. <br /><br />Last year half a million people took part in the Big Garden Birdwatch recording an amazing 9.1 million birds! House sparrow took the top spot. Which birds will you spot on your patch this year…?<br /><br />More information <a href="https://www.rspb.org.uk/whats-happening/big-garden-birdwatch?sourcecode=bwmith0230&utm_source=googleads&utm_medium=paid-search&utm_campaign=bgbw-2024&utm_content=ppc&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAqNSsBhAvEiwAn_tmxW697zmQ-OCSxJGgI-AhlKZtwhPxhMOH2NmjrCl7X99JVYkkPSwfQxoC3cUQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank">HERE.</a></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMn_dL2DDeSkr8f5F7VsqfPy_F0TF2NChofOKqaGQzLIye4K_ZOOL6ezBl4ryrF8y8Rim8qKNX0TSnM6yDDd6yB7VNHQy0YNjJ0nfnX-riFSutVZzLJhmY7_aMY0IxsvlnnepL5yoQMLLYJ8u6oobPqt4jy2p4tgy4338oQat37YR09oIQEWjCGAm6Xl7-/s1280/wales-4776694_1280.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="787" data-original-width="1280" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMn_dL2DDeSkr8f5F7VsqfPy_F0TF2NChofOKqaGQzLIye4K_ZOOL6ezBl4ryrF8y8Rim8qKNX0TSnM6yDDd6yB7VNHQy0YNjJ0nfnX-riFSutVZzLJhmY7_aMY0IxsvlnnepL5yoQMLLYJ8u6oobPqt4jy2p4tgy4338oQat37YR09oIQEWjCGAm6Xl7-/w536-h330/wales-4776694_1280.jpg" width="536" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><b>Wildlife walking - Winter Bird Walk in Builth Wells with South & West Wales Wildlife Trust - 10 February</b><br /><br />A four hour walk from Builth Wells to spot resident and visiting winter birds with the County Recorder for Brecknock, Andrew King. With a mixture of habitats including the River Wye, woodland, and farmland there is a chance to see a wide variety of birds.<br /><br />Please bring your own binoculars and wear warm wet weather gear and appropriate footwear. Also bring some snacks or lunch and a drink. Please note that dogs are not allowed on this walk.</span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">More information and booking online (essential) </span><a href="https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/winter-bird-walk-builth-wells-tickets-763417441117?aff=oddtdtcreator" style="font-family: arial;" target="_blank">HERE.</a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii3HAt5AOayYW8TBCpRwp0tHioV94D5RET5SuWcL73VXf7JDDYbTwPnAD7NeProxo8mD3EAB3LTXjgjzRFEVikjVQZ9xK8EScANLmladfKYOOtgE9_vDt3m0QeBR-h5fzSyy_RksVhOcQv409ouwy5wo2uf1SlVbhElcOE2Fx7_hMXjTGn0C-AR_VlIUZt/s1100/Glaslyn%20reserve%202023.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="619" data-original-width="1100" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii3HAt5AOayYW8TBCpRwp0tHioV94D5RET5SuWcL73VXf7JDDYbTwPnAD7NeProxo8mD3EAB3LTXjgjzRFEVikjVQZ9xK8EScANLmladfKYOOtgE9_vDt3m0QeBR-h5fzSyy_RksVhOcQv409ouwy5wo2uf1SlVbhElcOE2Fx7_hMXjTGn0C-AR_VlIUZt/w551-h310/Glaslyn%20reserve%202023.jpg" width="551" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Nature reserve maintenance - local wildlife trusts, ongoing</b></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Our local wildlife trusts are always on the lookout for keen volunteers to help look after the many and varied reserves in the county. What better way to keep fit, meet like-minded people and see some of the stunning wildlife we share this beautiful county of Powys with?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">If you are interested then contact your nearest wildlife trust:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">North Powys - </span><a href="https://www.montwt.co.uk/volunteer-habitat-management" style="font-family: arial;" target="_blank">Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust</a><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Mid Powys - </span><a href="https://www.rwtwales.org/habitat-management" style="font-family: arial;" target="_blank">Radnorshire Wildlife Trust</a><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">South Powys -</span><a href="https://www.welshwildlife.org/get-involved/volunteer" style="font-family: arial;" target="_blank"> Wildlife Trust of South & West Wales</a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-z8KqxIe7LPJY8mCo2j7EQ5iokO2RGqx_7OepIaRWeAMJSx2zOIDkDc0Grp98HOraGkI_aVSkHx_ncv2jGDt4pxh9gkLuW1uGgDZLWSasfWYx-mQXjhMfBuYMb0-Li8ASPYDHaL74YsNW59-dJqkZTR5KxKQuzlSi9_CLiD2VfaMBpgvk200Vf7AsVKbH/s800/litter%20pic%202024.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-z8KqxIe7LPJY8mCo2j7EQ5iokO2RGqx_7OepIaRWeAMJSx2zOIDkDc0Grp98HOraGkI_aVSkHx_ncv2jGDt4pxh9gkLuW1uGgDZLWSasfWYx-mQXjhMfBuYMb0-Li8ASPYDHaL74YsNW59-dJqkZTR5KxKQuzlSi9_CLiD2VfaMBpgvk200Vf7AsVKbH/w440-h330/litter%20pic%202024.jpg" width="440" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Spring Clean Cymru with Keep Wales Tidy - 15 - 3 March</b></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Spring Clean Cymru is part of the Great British Spring Clean, the nation’s biggest mass-action environmental campaign.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">7,000 “litter heroes” collected more than 4,000 bags of litter and recycling last year!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>“Keep Wales Tidy believe that everyone deserves to live in a community they can be proud of but according to UK figures, less than half of UK adults (43%) currently agree that they feel proud of their community.”</i></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">Litter picking is a simple action that anyone can do to make an immediate and visible difference to their area.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">If you want to be one of the first to pledge your support, you can register your interest </span><a href="https://keepwalestidy.cymru/events/spring-clean-cymru-2024/" style="font-family: arial;" target="_blank">HERE</a><span style="font-family: arial;">. More information coming in February 2024!</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ4wtUFj8myJj6Vh5q_8UEi8njj6LNYenk9KOi7buO5bbMVmv0PZpW1Y-6b2H5uR2PaN9R6IUaxWpJ-MYoJHFhuMxWKz6443F7SrraUI3I0Oa34vRRDZ1s8ICVmHY6yMSZuMbxhyphenhyphensQ4wYtBTubnuionIcuVxD_0h1b7pic5q-X2K-47E_JH5olwwGoUVjq/s1280/redwing-7019815_1280.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="764" data-original-width="1280" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ4wtUFj8myJj6Vh5q_8UEi8njj6LNYenk9KOi7buO5bbMVmv0PZpW1Y-6b2H5uR2PaN9R6IUaxWpJ-MYoJHFhuMxWKz6443F7SrraUI3I0Oa34vRRDZ1s8ICVmHY6yMSZuMbxhyphenhyphensQ4wYtBTubnuionIcuVxD_0h1b7pic5q-X2K-47E_JH5olwwGoUVjq/w513-h306/redwing-7019815_1280.jpg" width="513" /></a></div><br /></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;">These wonderful voluntary organisations have contributed a huge amount of energy and enthusiasm into organising these events - so let’s support them, wildlife and the environment, whilst at the same time boosting our own positive mental health. Whilst all these events are free, donations are welcomed.</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: arial;">Finally Happy New Year 2024 from everyone at PAVO’s mental health team! </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: arial;">We’d love to hear more if you have ideas about getting outdoors in Nature, </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: arial;">to help the local environment and boost your wellbeing. </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: arial;">Let us know in the comments below.</b></div><span id="docs-internal-guid-9104b95e-7fff-bf06-3a0e-57df147b7e5c"><div><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div></span></div></div></div></div>Jackie Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05293038655478909058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8753418862245773183.post-74444205544390104112023-12-19T09:33:00.000+00:002023-12-19T09:33:01.101+00:00A Private Land Art Lab – Gweithdy Celf TirDiaffordd<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjExu-HQwBCxdV_HdRT9GG36pwkAmSqMjWB2kcG1KUyBAkKC6SNZGF5RQ-dcUmV03RqL-eHrwi7rwwnPqZSdjcL9PDZZRieA3WzKmIgY6GIB4UVV1zz5atC97XMh7iGtvsTx30ZIXAc4NEEvk4pNu_Tytac5r7VoeAxCtvJN_138m-pDX5rx_3i5FG17KU/s1000/A_Private_Land_1%20smaller.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="674" data-original-width="1000" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjExu-HQwBCxdV_HdRT9GG36pwkAmSqMjWB2kcG1KUyBAkKC6SNZGF5RQ-dcUmV03RqL-eHrwi7rwwnPqZSdjcL9PDZZRieA3WzKmIgY6GIB4UVV1zz5atC97XMh7iGtvsTx30ZIXAc4NEEvk4pNu_Tytac5r7VoeAxCtvJN_138m-pDX5rx_3i5FG17KU/w527-h356/A_Private_Land_1%20smaller.jpg" width="527" /></a></div> <p></p><span style="font-family: arial;"><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Sat 28 – Sun 29 October 2023</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: medium;">by Penny Hallas & Susan Adams</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>The Art Lab was the culmination of <a href="https://powysmentalhealth.blogspot.com/2023/08/a-private-land-project-tir-diarffordd.html" target="_blank">A Private Land project,</a> featuring 2 days of co-produced, collaborative art including sculpture, video, painting, drawing, animation - and events featuring performance poetry, music and projection. Having an Art Lab rather than an exhibition felt like the work was live, a workshop, generating collaborative activity and conversations, a work in progress. We offered free refreshments to visitors while they looked around, there was also a relaxed area with sofas, books, things to do, or just sit, talk or contemplate. <br /><br />The chosen venue was the Muse in Brecon, which had the advantage of being familiar to many of our participants from <a href="https://breconmind.org.uk/" target="_blank">Brecon and District Mind</a>, and also just a lovely characterful and friendly place, usually used for clubs and music nights. Some of the 155 visitors stayed for the majority of both days; people came mainly from a 30 mile radius, but also from Bristol, Cambridge, London, Newport, Cardiff, Hereford and the Midlands. Most moving was the way people came especially to share their stories and memories – of their own or loved one’s experiences of care at the old Mid-Wales Hospital and elsewhere. <br /><br />After you entered the space you were faced with an off-kilter arch that Susan had made with <br />drawers from various chests, reflecting the heaps of moldering furniture inside the old hospital when it was abandoned. It could be that the arch echoed the grand portico of the Mid Wales Hospital, entry through which must have been a terrifying experience for some. Also that the inside of a drawer – in this case, painted with imagery - feels like the only space allotted you that feels private when you entered the hospital as an inpatient.<br /><br />We wanted many of the artworks to invite interaction and a feeling of playfulness instead of the detached contemplation that visitors to art exhibitions might expect. We also wanted our art to be seen on a par with our participants and the work intermingled. Rather than the solidity of walls, rickety support structures formed from rusty reclaimed reinforcement rods held much of the work, perhaps echoing the fragility of the collapsing Mid-Wales Hospital and the experiences of those who lived there.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikSOx2Pw-J34DkvER52KIzKAymvZGo3W1tvTD7DiZUjujlT-iRPYHJ_w5j21iq14tefsKjjgZKvh5vyVY-kbuVCMSHfq66EgDTp5O23J1MD7IqTm8SVJDitCXCBXWh2h_9ptHI-RndjNFJlz6tbGQIlMyfIT_1D8m7vzpJ4bYVPt2CLoiMocl4M5bNiybO/s1200/A_Private_Land_2%20smaller.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="363" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikSOx2Pw-J34DkvER52KIzKAymvZGo3W1tvTD7DiZUjujlT-iRPYHJ_w5j21iq14tefsKjjgZKvh5vyVY-kbuVCMSHfq66EgDTp5O23J1MD7IqTm8SVJDitCXCBXWh2h_9ptHI-RndjNFJlz6tbGQIlMyfIT_1D8m7vzpJ4bYVPt2CLoiMocl4M5bNiybO/w546-h363/A_Private_Land_2%20smaller.jpg" width="546" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />People took down and spun the thaumatropes - disks that rely on persistence of vision to come to life – that Susan and Mind members had made. Though playful, the optical toys also feel uncanny and disquieting because they offer a glimpse of something that isn’t really there. (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/100005092112014/videos/356982810137422/">Click here</a> to see a few spin). The disks were partly inspired by our visit to the Powys Archives where we saw the 1900-1923 records of those admitted to the Brecon and Radnor Asylum, many of which were accompanied by circular photographic portraits. They were also inspired by the card games played at Mind meetings we joined, which eased social interaction and helped people feel relaxed.</span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixOk5unLOWeQfriIVrml5LqJXL3cBIWx9nsexKl6hbgQYWKFVCAa60u4OJ6OQQ9Iccf3Z6zhzlY-CXjmh2KdEpfMz51EimQn4CQ59OlgnmmpDGP8cY43tVLbxrmdslxfTFxKKfAqSqTzY1_tyl7SIjPXJWyLCqoEcvCoX8iFMn0STLE9wOa90hoWx8c5Nd/s1300/A_Private_Land_3%20smaller.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="521" data-original-width="1300" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixOk5unLOWeQfriIVrml5LqJXL3cBIWx9nsexKl6hbgQYWKFVCAa60u4OJ6OQQ9Iccf3Z6zhzlY-CXjmh2KdEpfMz51EimQn4CQ59OlgnmmpDGP8cY43tVLbxrmdslxfTFxKKfAqSqTzY1_tyl7SIjPXJWyLCqoEcvCoX8iFMn0STLE9wOa90hoWx8c5Nd/w538-h215/A_Private_Land_3%20smaller.jpg" width="538" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;">Our participants were so generous with their time and creativity, extra to the workshops; artist and poet Eve Thomas produced photo-works, poems, and made jam from blackberries growing at the Mid Wales site for the Art Lab. Other participants made free-standing sculptural works and wrote poetry. We were very honoured also to have recorded conversations with two individuals who were treated at the Mid-Wales, and these were quietly playing at opposite ends of the room.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirvLQ1kHsF-G37Ir9Bf7c1HjbLbIbIOqwUg07b5_tfnyfOS8MjUySX1pVTuhFuxESKsEk3L5KLYQuoLW-unJcl3Us0c4-K2CZrKf2vx_HsSB4Qr1_nDuN7n2hj_BTRRRlp765fl_X2fXJaEgFTd5MmvKF2NZz_O-g2Zi-9_4_XA4SupgWHqNnCJbMPuvaj/s1000/A_Private_Land_4%20smaller.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="565" data-original-width="1000" height="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirvLQ1kHsF-G37Ir9Bf7c1HjbLbIbIOqwUg07b5_tfnyfOS8MjUySX1pVTuhFuxESKsEk3L5KLYQuoLW-unJcl3Us0c4-K2CZrKf2vx_HsSB4Qr1_nDuN7n2hj_BTRRRlp765fl_X2fXJaEgFTd5MmvKF2NZz_O-g2Zi-9_4_XA4SupgWHqNnCJbMPuvaj/w543-h307/A_Private_Land_4%20smaller.jpg" width="543" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Penny drew over 75 portraits inspired by the photos we saw in the archives. These were mounted on recycled manila folders with redacted details of previous contents, to try to give a visual equivalent to institutional record keeping. At the centre of the structure was a video made of the 130 flower slides made in our workshops.<br /><br />One of the activities offered in our workshops was weaving with nettles, brambles, briars - plants that are slowly taking over the grounds of the old Hospital. Often seen simply as weeds, they have a protective role and have been highly valued in the past. Penny combined the weavings with large works of her own to create sculptural pieces, suggesting sometimes shelters, and sometimes traps. The hope was that this would offer a kind of parallel experience to Art Lab visitors and this in fact happened with people temporarily inhabiting and animating them. Some people found them spiky and felt off-balance whilst others found them comforting, like the nests children make in bushes. One person said that his was a voluntary admission, but that he wouldn't be staying in for long.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFVIA10NBzpSEkbSkdNtMhAbF8hONc7vsFzjuujH4YO6hM2ri__9Si9hyqVKmeFhnlSN3gauWhaIiD_ST8JYXm_XI7QlcvUPs1RdO6qkQ8ANqs-EeRFPJmHKazfeEYk4ZLf00SwtXALjP2kpdn7vlRK45UyNL51J6kE3urRynkD9d4prPDBm8daIwqyrfL/s1536/A_Private_Land_5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1011" data-original-width="1536" height="345" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFVIA10NBzpSEkbSkdNtMhAbF8hONc7vsFzjuujH4YO6hM2ri__9Si9hyqVKmeFhnlSN3gauWhaIiD_ST8JYXm_XI7QlcvUPs1RdO6qkQ8ANqs-EeRFPJmHKazfeEYk4ZLf00SwtXALjP2kpdn7vlRK45UyNL51J6kE3urRynkD9d4prPDBm8daIwqyrfL/w524-h345/A_Private_Land_5.jpg" width="524" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />On 2 television screens people could sit and watch an absorbing 30 minute video in 6 chapters reflecting Penny’s personal experiences through the project and something of how she chose to position herself in relation to its complexity and multiple challenges. Lyndon Davies provided a hauntingly beautiful sound-piece, amplifying and carrying the narrative. To see and hear a tiny clip, click <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Cz-jkA3Ka-J/?hl=en">here</a>.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYVWoLaUdTgIUSJqzJw04rlhpNF0Eh8-yfhWv7-dL8QU15bTV9U1vUzk-qftAnA-iQ2CbElZayjK_J_E0L982iWykGQzMbc1vGLbyK2GgqLkHlEk4nyEEzrBCQqk44TaZsQ7HiKLXLv2k1K2RjckxiL1wz5g3tm4yu5qEYFSFeXdy6Aq0EDsr6J7eC2nR9/s1536/A_Private_Land_6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="864" data-original-width="1536" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYVWoLaUdTgIUSJqzJw04rlhpNF0Eh8-yfhWv7-dL8QU15bTV9U1vUzk-qftAnA-iQ2CbElZayjK_J_E0L982iWykGQzMbc1vGLbyK2GgqLkHlEk4nyEEzrBCQqk44TaZsQ7HiKLXLv2k1K2RjckxiL1wz5g3tm4yu5qEYFSFeXdy6Aq0EDsr6J7eC2nR9/w520-h294/A_Private_Land_6.jpg" width="520" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>A sculptural piece by Susan involved a little blanket clad theatre atop an Edwardian what-not from which emerged woven willow tubes and horns. The little theatre is based on the stage in the dining hall at the Mid-Wales Hospital, the blankets for her a recurring metaphor, reflecting the dichotomy of comfort and restraint, or care and control. In the theatre a pencil drawn animation played, looking at cycles within nature and the irony of the ‘butterfly’ design of the hospital.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUVpfjSExRFFhvIfILd9KIvUQzRuuegHVzQmRlkhkHQLo4QHerZAIXg55DUGnrvu8VC4p84myZpfk5w1Msic50WwBVVcxxRQYGvVlhbyC6qblZ0dQ0T2hlFc77ksb8sYl-FpvqZmGbR9q-CeZGuezEowFQFzDNDRjtiKqrcQw6j_b3tx6cYF-JCYJmbwUK/s800/A_Private_Land_7%20smaller.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="593" data-original-width="800" height="387" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUVpfjSExRFFhvIfILd9KIvUQzRuuegHVzQmRlkhkHQLo4QHerZAIXg55DUGnrvu8VC4p84myZpfk5w1Msic50WwBVVcxxRQYGvVlhbyC6qblZ0dQ0T2hlFc77ksb8sYl-FpvqZmGbR9q-CeZGuezEowFQFzDNDRjtiKqrcQw6j_b3tx6cYF-JCYJmbwUK/w523-h387/A_Private_Land_7%20smaller.jpg" width="523" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>The Saturday evening event wasn't like a normal art opening, it felt like the heart of the Lab, with people really focusing on the experience of being there. We had performative events interspersed by periods when people could refresh their drinks and continue conversations.<br /><br />The poet Angela Morton spent time in the Mid Wales hospital and wrote about her life during periods of mental illness and experiences in the hospital. Her daughter, Becky was going to read from Angela’s collection the Holding Ground, (the collective press 2002) but our dates coincided with a trip away, so she liaised with close friend and colleague, poet Graham Hartill, who read for her, shared his own memories of Angela and reflected on her poems. Her grandson musician Gwyn Daggett and creative partner Beth Flynn played some of their new material, it was beautiful.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNsRlrpTAwPnRBLHgQFpI9d6qBVuqUvStB-_-05YgUImIwd9zAyqeJoyqNje4O2FfQzY5rAakLCJOi53ZhqbgHM36go6qKMKpMCV3OQWjKKXfQTPtiUXPw_dkfJ-zk6gvDEKOXNOzT_EGQPCAx1o4Xy80ef72yspsl9e3FMHsI6yQ46koXHIb6RFxV93T4/s1400/A_Private_Land_8%20smaller.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="364" data-original-width="1400" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNsRlrpTAwPnRBLHgQFpI9d6qBVuqUvStB-_-05YgUImIwd9zAyqeJoyqNje4O2FfQzY5rAakLCJOi53ZhqbgHM36go6qKMKpMCV3OQWjKKXfQTPtiUXPw_dkfJ-zk6gvDEKOXNOzT_EGQPCAx1o4Xy80ef72yspsl9e3FMHsI6yQ46koXHIb6RFxV93T4/w575-h149/A_Private_Land_8%20smaller.jpg" width="575" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Eve Thomas began and ended the evening with reading poetry and speaking from the heart about mental health challenges. Well over £100 was raised for Brecon and District Min<br /><br />The following day in the afternoon we held a talk and feedback discussion, about 25 people came along, including Brecon and District Mind members, Stella Man and Cerys from Glenside Hospital Museum, psychotherapists, curators, historians, artists, participatory arts workers, a psychoanalyst and doctor. During the discussion we learnt that the books we had to fight so hard to see at the Archives were almost discarded when the hospital had closed – the attitude had gone from extreme carelessness to hyper vigilance and restricted access.<br /><br />Afterwards people stayed to look around at the artworks and the discussions continued in smaller informal groups. Like everything during the Lab weekend, there was a feeling of energy in that so many interesting ideas were shared in a short period of time with a buzz of potential for what could be.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPYyLu4sHGa8ig0gtjcBYZYwlgvrNJbrBwK3sCO2fx_dFLRD-mGIYU0IsguOZC5wmpc9eUG34nf9FCabBY8gBKTIswTxWIur0JEoHDfQN1rKh5en-zSIqRIV1___h5uNxEyLaZJ0BQJhQMykPD9jUvv2-wZP239wKmQvZZWUE9vByUJL88VRfPqNB2v5Qm/s1440/A_Private_Land_9.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" height="371" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPYyLu4sHGa8ig0gtjcBYZYwlgvrNJbrBwK3sCO2fx_dFLRD-mGIYU0IsguOZC5wmpc9eUG34nf9FCabBY8gBKTIswTxWIur0JEoHDfQN1rKh5en-zSIqRIV1___h5uNxEyLaZJ0BQJhQMykPD9jUvv2-wZP239wKmQvZZWUE9vByUJL88VRfPqNB2v5Qm/w496-h371/A_Private_Land_9.jpg" width="496" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><b>Here’s just a little of the feedback we received about A Private Land and the Art Lab:</b><br /><i><br />'I was so impressed to see so many people come through the doors and share their stories reflecting on the old Mid Wales Hospital ruin in Talgarth. It felt so valuable and necessary to take this time to talk about the hospital and the people who lived, worked and died there. <br /> <br /> Taking part in this project has been so affirming for me. It’s made me certain that I want to pursue a career as an artist as much as I possibly can. This was the first time I’ve ever stood up in front of a room full of people and talked about my art processes and shared my poetry - and the feedback I received was invaluable. I’ve gained some interesting insights about my work, and the confidence to seek out this kind of experience again. Massive thanks to Susan and Penny who created the project and let me be involved - you supported and inspired me throughout.’<br /><br /> ‘I feel a deep resonance between the works here and my own lived experience as someone impacted by mental health issues. Privacy, emotional intelligence, confidence and self expression explored and shared here in a nurturing space has been profoundly affecting. Thank you for this unique experience facilitating the unfurling of much of my vulnerability.’<br /><br />‘LOVE this so much – the art feels really alive and so many different elements. Immersive, intriguing and fascinating reaction and response to a place – its history, stories and its demise. The way the artists have involved others in the creative process including at the exhibition itself is great – the slide making is a huge hit with my son! Thanks.’<br /><br />‘An emotive exhibition which captured the negative and supportive lifestyle of people in the hospital.’<br /><br />‘Evoked so many memories of people we have known and loved.’<br /><br />‘We really enjoyed this show and loved the way it had interactive parts! Wonderful! Hauntingly Beautiful with a dose of playful innocence. Loved it! ‘<br /><br />‘Thank you so much for the experience and the opportunities brought by this event. Words are not enough.’<br /><br />‘A Private Land’ stretched my thinking, so many threads spinning on conversations had and not had. Thank you.’</i></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b>Resources and links </b><br /><br />PEAK cymru <a href="https://www.peakcymru.org/">https://www.peakcymru.org</a> <br /><br />Talgarth Museum <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TalgarthMuseum">https://www.facebook.com/TalgarthMuseum</a> <br /><br />Glenside Hospital Museum <a href="https://www.glensidemuseum.org.uk/">https://www.glensidemuseum.org.uk</a> <br /><br />Bethlem Gallery <a href="https://bethlemgallery.com/">https://bethlemgallery.com</a> <br /><br />Outside In <a href="https://www.instagram.com/outsidein_uk/?hl=en">https://www.instagram.com/outsidein_uk/?hl=en</a> <br /><br />The restoration Trust Change Minds Project <a href="https://restorationtrust.org.uk/change-minds/">https://restorationtrust.org.uk/change-minds/</a> <br /><br />Mendip Hospital Cemetery http://www.mendiphospitalcemetery.org.uk <br /><br />High Royds Hospital website, Talgarth page <br /><br /><a href="http://www.highroydshospital.com/resource/mid-wales-hospital-talgarth/">http://www.highroydshospital.com/resource/mid-wales-hospital-talgarth/</a> <br /><br />The role of Arts in Improving Health and Wellbeing <br /><br /><a href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/929773/DCMS_report_April_2020_finalx__1_.pdf">https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/929773/DCMS_report_April_2020_finalx__1_.pdf</a> <br /><br /><a href="https://www.wahwn.cymru/">The Wales Arts Health & Wellbeing Network (WAHWN)</a> <a href="https://wahwn.cymru/">https://wahwn.cymru</a></span></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigDVrTA11cZG0S7CG3tsjAtMxwalbMuesyWPh_KIR1kKVWUBwGRGHc95qHxmP7q1Q417VkngDjXq4n0ruHCuX-QuzFZfaAIMy33DPawT-0Vi7Ue1KOKL4zLt8LllDDbfOc0kKPGanLgSbRV7JY65MzMxWYsE8Gzomsp95j5PHr3hJ_jkHZPAsLyjdCUl_7/s300/A%20Private%20Land.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigDVrTA11cZG0S7CG3tsjAtMxwalbMuesyWPh_KIR1kKVWUBwGRGHc95qHxmP7q1Q417VkngDjXq4n0ruHCuX-QuzFZfaAIMy33DPawT-0Vi7Ue1KOKL4zLt8LllDDbfOc0kKPGanLgSbRV7JY65MzMxWYsE8Gzomsp95j5PHr3hJ_jkHZPAsLyjdCUl_7/w201-h201/A%20Private%20Land.png" width="201" /></a><span style="text-align: right;"> </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVMbubIij_DEMIENq1355-MiRHD6jP-SvCiUFbC53GtbyFuj5kLP7GYq93JkP1St4oQyPP5t9_esxop1i83VRzwDd48Tm40U6-cQNJJpJ5lygDHhYB2Ml2wW3VCgxSbqXdByyzCcefOO7XgVJQAi_c-_-RPhon5IMGnoEiyfiYioV9IhtHCgDYZDYza77R/s1080/private%20land%20logos.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: right;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVMbubIij_DEMIENq1355-MiRHD6jP-SvCiUFbC53GtbyFuj5kLP7GYq93JkP1St4oQyPP5t9_esxop1i83VRzwDd48Tm40U6-cQNJJpJ5lygDHhYB2Ml2wW3VCgxSbqXdByyzCcefOO7XgVJQAi_c-_-RPhon5IMGnoEiyfiYioV9IhtHCgDYZDYza77R/w231-h231/private%20land%20logos.jpg" width="231" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div>Jackie Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05293038655478909058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8753418862245773183.post-59082674433079520802023-12-12T08:43:00.000+00:002023-12-12T08:43:09.804+00:00The value of play to children's emotional wellbeing<p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdAek7-5QwT0x3t3ABR_A-XetlTG2YjKoMYbnmMIG2eNcGwL8SCAajFsXJFYcM5zJJjzUHR2NXL0HowmFR0J9PcVuFM4iWByeAyfbVJ01KZE0LO-BBRoMOOeJMSgL6KyVEZzsccPtmuVWmVgNPVk4mWciElhanV4UVpOjRZPQLiexf1QZ76293SYtokV6z/s600/Play%20Radnor%206.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="495" data-original-width="600" height="387" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdAek7-5QwT0x3t3ABR_A-XetlTG2YjKoMYbnmMIG2eNcGwL8SCAajFsXJFYcM5zJJjzUHR2NXL0HowmFR0J9PcVuFM4iWByeAyfbVJ01KZE0LO-BBRoMOOeJMSgL6KyVEZzsccPtmuVWmVgNPVk4mWciElhanV4UVpOjRZPQLiexf1QZ76293SYtokV6z/w469-h387/Play%20Radnor%206.jpg" width="469" /></a></div><p></p><span style="font-family: arial;"><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: medium;">by Rachel Maflin, Manager, Play Radnor</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b>“Children need the freedom and the time to play;</b></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b>play is not a luxury, play is a necessity.”</b></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Kay Redfield Jamison</b></i></div></span><div><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;">We know that allowing children time to play brings enormous benefits to children’s development. Play helps children to make sense of the world, through exploration, imagination and experience. It helps children to express themselves, regulate their emotions and cope with their feelings. Playing with others enables them to learn how their behaviour affects others and develop empathy. <br /><br />Play is vital for a child’s emotional development in so many ways….<br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Emotional resilience.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Self-esteem.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Self-confidence.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Reduced anxiety.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Self-worth.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Understanding winning and losing.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Exploring feelings.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Self-expression.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Empathy.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Understanding the world they live in.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Dealing with fear in a safe environment.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Problem solving.</span></li></ul><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy3OMYvaG9mefKipMC94lGfIhkcrQUWP1-ynGS1QPErE9SDSPD_JAIPpJ1zryYe0AbPg82wnfzlIZ1QARosboLVMwNzmYSQcU7cfVjpkxxefggNuuzFaKa0I1MgV6Xibze9NgkbbEyyJJHBuYX-WEZ64EkJbf2XJz4tpu_pBtTrALFT4wMi21L6gox6nmz/s500/Play%20Radnor%204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="366" data-original-width="500" height="341" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy3OMYvaG9mefKipMC94lGfIhkcrQUWP1-ynGS1QPErE9SDSPD_JAIPpJ1zryYe0AbPg82wnfzlIZ1QARosboLVMwNzmYSQcU7cfVjpkxxefggNuuzFaKa0I1MgV6Xibze9NgkbbEyyJJHBuYX-WEZ64EkJbf2XJz4tpu_pBtTrALFT4wMi21L6gox6nmz/w466-h341/Play%20Radnor%204.jpg" width="466" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>The benefits of play can be found in a wide range of play opportunities, such as:<br /></span><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Playing outside e.g. swinging, climbing trees, running, jumping.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Pretend play e.g. dressing up or den building.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Adventurous play e.g. climbing, balancing, rope swinging.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Group activities - playing with other people helps children express and control their emotions with others e.g. creating their own play ideas.</span></li></ul><span style="font-family: arial;">Activities don’t need to be expensive, the simplest stuff is often the best. We have a low cost / no cost approach using wherever possible loose parts – a variety of objects both natural and man made which can be used in a variety of ways. Loose parts play uses a range of resources that can be found both in nature and around the house, such as ….<br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Cardboard boxes, paper, shredded paper.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Materials – old sheets, duvet covers, shower curtain, wool, ribbons, old clothes for dressing up, bandages for role play.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Buckets, tubs, tubes, pipes, containers of all shapes and sizes, funnels, plastic bottles, guttering.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Kitchen equipment – mashers, whisks, pots, pans, sieves – mud kitchens.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Sand, water, mud.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Old phones, computer keyboards for role play.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Crates, tarps, rope / string.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Great outdoors for sticks, leaves, seeds, moss, shells, stones, pine cones, conkers, flowers, herbs e.g. potion making.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Chalk, pens, pencils, etc.</span></li></ul><div><br /></div></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5EyePiG7kJbXWJVcPuu0l8UGL-5YigoI-6ekzoiePStHsmCruMVoFOUnbaHdD490E4PNy-T-8Q_RoNWHez9Gij0RUX6ow4Jj4HGkJzVom7Fw6520tig8JTneP1fUJmshxftXNE7s7EGzYQ5_ek1-AYVZrpmkZiT54FtorrU7qlPJIYV8vicQqP2N2lyYa/s700/Play%20Radnor%208.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="394" data-original-width="700" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5EyePiG7kJbXWJVcPuu0l8UGL-5YigoI-6ekzoiePStHsmCruMVoFOUnbaHdD490E4PNy-T-8Q_RoNWHez9Gij0RUX6ow4Jj4HGkJzVom7Fw6520tig8JTneP1fUJmshxftXNE7s7EGzYQ5_ek1-AYVZrpmkZiT54FtorrU7qlPJIYV8vicQqP2N2lyYa/w548-h308/Play%20Radnor%208.jpg" width="548" /></a></div><br /><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b>‘When children interact with loose parts, they enter a world of “what if” that promotes the type of thinking that leads to problem solving and theoretical reasoning. Loose parts enhance children’s ability to think imaginatively and see solutions, and they bring a sense of adventure and excitement to children’s play.’ </b></i><b>(Daly and Beloglovsky, 2015)</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHEnnxKich88ko-LWwRiarv_4A3eK-uc39dZy2IaeEdNDop_LMs9RR_a6vfoP-5XO4XI9-vne4VdZhz_SQyPu2Lf-8S-dIsN3D3A5gXeBVLaxxxTIHeQUmHyp5-4UCLOM9d47Dm1pu6v4L30V-3DSfRsZGXT_tJN0EHMUF8lJpGmlaguQsFWfgReiL6rZs/s600/Play%20Radnor%209.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="301" data-original-width="600" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHEnnxKich88ko-LWwRiarv_4A3eK-uc39dZy2IaeEdNDop_LMs9RR_a6vfoP-5XO4XI9-vne4VdZhz_SQyPu2Lf-8S-dIsN3D3A5gXeBVLaxxxTIHeQUmHyp5-4UCLOM9d47Dm1pu6v4L30V-3DSfRsZGXT_tJN0EHMUF8lJpGmlaguQsFWfgReiL6rZs/w428-h216/Play%20Radnor%209.jpg" width="428" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><span style="font-family: arial;">Loose parts create richer environments for children to play. As they are flexible, they can be used in a variety of ways, providing limitless opportunities. These play experiences promote imagination and curiosity, problem solving and independence, with children being able to choose their own direction of play. <br /><br />With Christmas just around the corner, make a little space for play. Like your grandma used to say, they’ll leave the present and play with the cardboard box. It’s often the cardboard box that has the greatest amount of play value.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsN4GJi-QZCwGOYw4hSj6aR_6a6-1_xiQeTPPjYt4RCduUcaVCFDE2MC45e3epMDsTfXEKOfLW2w_05QFkKwkyL6WcxchQ_Gpzx7wLXcY8ZFaodt4f7YkCO0Xts_nYhIFZPdkgpD0ii1bOE2Re7mlDuVfiW9YeU5UuEzn3WXFlm3bproCM-B-iureDWwgi/s500/Play%20Radnor%202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="388" data-original-width="500" height="357" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsN4GJi-QZCwGOYw4hSj6aR_6a6-1_xiQeTPPjYt4RCduUcaVCFDE2MC45e3epMDsTfXEKOfLW2w_05QFkKwkyL6WcxchQ_Gpzx7wLXcY8ZFaodt4f7YkCO0Xts_nYhIFZPdkgpD0ii1bOE2Re7mlDuVfiW9YeU5UuEzn3WXFlm3bproCM-B-iureDWwgi/w461-h357/Play%20Radnor%202.jpg" width="461" /></a></div><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><a href="https://www.facebook.com/playradnor">Play Radnor/Chwarae Maesyfed</a> is a rural children’s charity that provides play, leisure and recreational opportunities for children and young people in Powys. We run a number of projects for children, young people and families both at our dedicated centre in Llandrindod Wells and through our outreach work. These include: <br /><br /><b>Play Rangers project: </b>Delivering open access outreach play sessions on green spaces within local communities during school holidays. <br /><br /><b>Thumbs UP! Club:</b> A project for families who have a child with a disability or additional need and their siblings. We run weekly sessions for children aged 5-11 and 12+. <br /><br /><b>Mud and Sticks:</b> A Children in Need funded outdoor parent and toddler group (0-5) that meets in the woods for regular play sessions. Our aim is to inspire greater confidence in getting outdoors more as a family and develop strong relationships.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivARAEdroMAyaPEfexdplxjWSkHdeOKl8RdXrT9Wcq8SezQLXOrPFp3yVEWAseeDiSzox2aOMhDt0APS2QGR4DhJ2zYKenbz6Y3gLeCKGR43ztEcoYaTbKrJ8yfJ3-C4nYO_rTPxsHLFs4Ogw0UtXB9NZpYOhBXX8X3AMD6ZPEtzHIczyg3hbqYRKL889x/s445/Play%20Radnor%203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="445" data-original-width="400" height="373" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivARAEdroMAyaPEfexdplxjWSkHdeOKl8RdXrT9Wcq8SezQLXOrPFp3yVEWAseeDiSzox2aOMhDt0APS2QGR4DhJ2zYKenbz6Y3gLeCKGR43ztEcoYaTbKrJ8yfJ3-C4nYO_rTPxsHLFs4Ogw0UtXB9NZpYOhBXX8X3AMD6ZPEtzHIczyg3hbqYRKL889x/w336-h373/Play%20Radnor%203.jpg" width="336" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Toy Library: </b>a low cost service enabling families to borrow toys and resources that encourage children's educational and social development. These include a wide range of physical, imaginative and multisensory resources. <br /><br /><b>Wildcraft:</b> A twice weekly group for children aged 5-7 and 8-11 that offers opportunities for a variety of outdoor play. This could include campfire cooking, nature crafts, simple wood working, den making etc. We also run a monthly weekend session for parents and children to attend which offers low cost / no cost ideas for outdoor play. <br /><br /><b>Cooking Club:</b> Sessions delivered in our community kitchen for a range of ages. Learning important life skills, cooking healthy and tasty food. <br /><b><br />Stay and Play / Fun Fridays:</b> Two hour play sessions for children aged 0-5 yrs and their parent/carer to have fun, play and socialise with others. Facilitated by volunteers. <br /><b><br />Messy Play</b> – Occasional sessions for parents and children aged 0-5 during school holidays and term time.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpJqE2PWjmoWwgh4uy_nKBCTq3h2CGR2tY96j6lTofDUgPgCN-gtDZ3Od3mvH0XjyETluRgF-LM56qj3Co_5NY6_xMh2m9kgfJxhuvWCG2ah-YaNDkAvsJmlq39wj4zWS5ZbMnzgbI2HpuTWCMU7lo4Fgz5NwbYkXgDuuM6V2w4t8vnAAUHzTpuDaPL0wV/s379/Play%20Radnor%20logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="379" data-original-width="379" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpJqE2PWjmoWwgh4uy_nKBCTq3h2CGR2tY96j6lTofDUgPgCN-gtDZ3Od3mvH0XjyETluRgF-LM56qj3Co_5NY6_xMh2m9kgfJxhuvWCG2ah-YaNDkAvsJmlq39wj4zWS5ZbMnzgbI2HpuTWCMU7lo4Fgz5NwbYkXgDuuM6V2w4t8vnAAUHzTpuDaPL0wV/w204-h204/Play%20Radnor%20logo.png" width="204" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div>Jackie Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05293038655478909058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8753418862245773183.post-48115466668427413352023-12-05T09:14:00.000+00:002023-12-05T09:14:30.293+00:00Volunteering at Christmas & New Year<div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrsgnjzUWLj-JNPjDshCs28jNdOtZ-teEUuN71Yj_zOPj8SnqvfFCL40swv2Bz2yVgOCNI-4HUn9UF_Ai3oCBcfNMw8gl_E9dOi-JnTViQujAq6UxMSlsNJoVa4yx2XLPNruApcQdJXlTyVlhiNNdEFIuP41FPo_y_zw1NB46Gtr6gpWobqJ4IxBWngV5M/s1343/Gareth%20Ratcliffe,%20Hay%20on%20Wye.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="1343" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrsgnjzUWLj-JNPjDshCs28jNdOtZ-teEUuN71Yj_zOPj8SnqvfFCL40swv2Bz2yVgOCNI-4HUn9UF_Ai3oCBcfNMw8gl_E9dOi-JnTViQujAq6UxMSlsNJoVa4yx2XLPNruApcQdJXlTyVlhiNNdEFIuP41FPo_y_zw1NB46Gtr6gpWobqJ4IxBWngV5M/w560-h266/Gareth%20Ratcliffe,%20Hay%20on%20Wye.jpeg" width="560" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gareth Ratcliffe (sat centre) and the team of Hay on Wye Christmas volunteers</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">This seasonal blog post is about the benefits volunteering can bring to so many people and organisations over the Christmas season. There are so many volunteering options out there during the deep mid winter. It can make a refreshing change to do something different at this time of year, especially if you like to escape the more traditional Christmas activities, or just need a change of scene, (or people!).</span></div></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />Traditionally homeless centres, churches, care homes, mental health charities and telephone befriending services all seek volunteers over the Christmas period to provide practical support and friendship during a season which can be very difficult for many. However, the opportunities are endless and varied - it pays to do a little research and commit yourself in advance to get the best out of your contribution - not just for the organisation you sign up with but also yourself.<br /><br />We asked some PAVO colleagues, with past experience of volunteering over the seasonal period, or perhaps dipping their toes in for the first time, to tell us more about the benefits.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Gareth Ratcliffe - Health Promotion Facilitator</b></div><b><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: red;">Bringing joy to Hay-on-Wye: Volunteers join forces to welcome Father Christmas</span></b></div></b><br />Each year, the small town of Hay-on-Wye experiences a magical event that warms the hearts of both young and old—the visit of Father Christmas. This enchanting tradition is made possible by a dedicated group of local volunteers who come together to create a festive atmosphere and spread Christmas cheer throughout the community. This was a tradition that was reintroduced over the Covid period. When I was a child, I always remember the visit on the back of the local steam engine a few days before Christmas. These memories have lasted forever. <br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><b><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: red;">Volunteer spirit: Spreading the magic of Christmas</span></b></div></b><br />The heartwarming sight of Santa Claus and his supportive elves traversing the streets of Hay-on-Wye is made possible by the dedicated volunteers who give their time and energy to make this event a reality. Their efforts go beyond organising the route and ensuring a smooth procession; they play a crucial role in creating an unforgettable experience for the entire community. With Christmas tunes blasting out, the bells ringing and little treats for the girls and boys on Santa's good list.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: red;">The magic of Santa: Uniting generations</span></b></div><br />The joy that radiates from the faces of children and the smiles exchanged between neighbours as Santa Claus makes his way through town are immeasurable. It's a reminder that the holiday season is not just about gifts but about coming together as a community, sharing in the wonder of the festive season, and creating cherished moments that will be remembered for years to come.<br /><br />As the volunteers of Hay-on-Wye prepare to welcome Father Christmas, they embody the true spirit of the season—selflessness, community, and the joy of giving. Through their collective efforts, they bring to life the magic of Christmas and make it a season to remember for everyone in Hay-on-Wye.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: red;">Bringing communities together: A fundraising twist</span></b></div><br />Each year we also like to raise funds for those who want to donate to a local event for the community. In the true spirit of giving, they are raising funds for the Hay Summer Show, a local event that celebrates the community's talents and achievements. The generosity of those who choose to donate during Santa's visit will contribute to the success of this beloved summer showcase.</span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR2hpzRJ7FIL9uE8tW_7mZb5Moq8P0odr-ckb-Pd81Iox5P7w0Y35zgkyCFRteqoG7f6sIb-hM8mU4IssVAUiIJog_p229pEFONy0JyACDyDfhsnKqqLzRla-eQboh6Chf92ZwAYo6XNaGOSAVCpun4y5FVM9MgqjqwofKfTBmXHK771nGdnFaARu-N_b3/s1080/wildflowers.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="1080" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR2hpzRJ7FIL9uE8tW_7mZb5Moq8P0odr-ckb-Pd81Iox5P7w0Y35zgkyCFRteqoG7f6sIb-hM8mU4IssVAUiIJog_p229pEFONy0JyACDyDfhsnKqqLzRla-eQboh6Chf92ZwAYo6XNaGOSAVCpun4y5FVM9MgqjqwofKfTBmXHK771nGdnFaARu-N_b3/w445-h334/wildflowers.jpg" width="445" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winter wildflowers in Powys</td></tr></tbody></table></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Lucy Taylor - Community Wellbeing Officer Children and Young People</b></div><b><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #6aa84f;">New Year Plant Hunt</span></b></div></b><br />My family and I will be volunteering for the Botanical Society of Britain & Ireland on their annual <a href="https://bsbi.org/new-year-plant-hunt">New Year Plant Survey</a> which takes place from Saturday 30 December 2023 to Tuesday 2 January 2024.<br /><br />The plant survey helps build a picture of biodiversity and decline so that decline in species, and how species are reacting to climate change, can be recorded and then these issues can be addressed / mitigated. As the survey has been done for 30 odd years it is building a great picture of our wildflowers. Citizen research projects are so interesting to take part in, to feel part of that wider community.<br /><br />I love to walk and always look at the flowers and plants around, so to do so with a purpose and effect will be really nice. It makes you feel useful and that is always good. A walk at Christmas / New Year time with the family is always great so with this in mind everyone can join in. Done year on year you build up your own image of how plants are faring in your local area.<br /><br />My top tip for anyone wishing to volunteer for the first time at Christmas & New Year is - think about it in advance and plan your time so it does not become a panic in the hustle and bustle of the season. Why not volunteer with friends and family?</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo5b6rrTCZNRD84hgZYaQ3sqGfb9rQ8Gby5aes3K2oZt4cJeV9KhrWviureyAwAEp3flIEZI825MhkRigt5fJUrmwTQ_y5-iP29SuNPf_NDTokEjj8ol4wwRdk4uqjKNcp5sjH382qqC3Ekimnd8bd9lfeABaekG2JHpQs5Ct-8e9btE3hn-7t5ksGyH-K/s1000/Trish%20Varley%20hats%20(2)%20edit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="735" data-original-width="1000" height="329" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo5b6rrTCZNRD84hgZYaQ3sqGfb9rQ8Gby5aes3K2oZt4cJeV9KhrWviureyAwAEp3flIEZI825MhkRigt5fJUrmwTQ_y5-iP29SuNPf_NDTokEjj8ol4wwRdk4uqjKNcp5sjH382qqC3Ekimnd8bd9lfeABaekG2JHpQs5Ct-8e9btE3hn-7t5ksGyH-K/w448-h329/Trish%20Varley%20hats%20(2)%20edit.jpg" width="448" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Trish Varley - Finance Officer</b></div><b><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: red;">Knitting for Young Farmers’ Clubs supporting homeless people</span></b></div></b><br />I was asked if I'd like to knit some bobble hats for the local Young Farmers’ club as they were going to be distributed to the homeless as part of one of the YFC projects. The YFC regularly have projects that involve their members collecting, or creating items for competitions, that then get distributed for the benefit of various good causes. This time it was a request for members to come up with colourful bobble hats which would then be donated to homeless people.<br /><br />As I have a passion for knitting and crocheting, I am always glad of any opportunity to make something that might help an individual or group and this was perfect. Throughout the last year I have been crocheting colourful blankets for dementia patients in NHS hospitals which was very satisfying.</span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7SyjbB2SwR6Fk8e_dD25wuYra5Mv1I47Cb6Eb21C9TpQ81UKLCwAgqI5M_avJAzGKnwjw6gskpWj8eo9d0_1X3LqtLm7yKCjJQF6_byqO28ZBXwWsKmEzB0vOqnu1R9bpKguBVA7XeeEiwxE4mUlM1w8BurCrktvGOH-dWYr3o8-QQjchyphenhypheno3j1PLMLjdH/s1200/Trish%20Varley%20hats%20(1)%20edit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="983" data-original-width="1200" height="363" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7SyjbB2SwR6Fk8e_dD25wuYra5Mv1I47Cb6Eb21C9TpQ81UKLCwAgqI5M_avJAzGKnwjw6gskpWj8eo9d0_1X3LqtLm7yKCjJQF6_byqO28ZBXwWsKmEzB0vOqnu1R9bpKguBVA7XeeEiwxE4mUlM1w8BurCrktvGOH-dWYr3o8-QQjchyphenhypheno3j1PLMLjdH/w443-h363/Trish%20Varley%20hats%20(1)%20edit.jpg" width="443" /></a></div><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;">I have enjoyed making these hats so much that I have continued to knit more in the hope that they can be donated wherever they might be needed and I am currently on the 6th hat since I started 2 weeks ago.<br /><br />My tip for volunteering is to look for opportunities that might involve something that you enjoy doing, that way it feels even more beneficial to use your skills doing something you love to benefit another person.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGvU2PhknCw76c4kV5KsvCWa5Am43ibkurgV_JCW3hecLpCJGTjMZjHHU034l6rZHvDgdQnsGNfnI9FQ2MtEKK_3K1DPWFSzZL5LfvU_swOl1sCDOSfcsOfj30eu-6fsvuTZuZeTeT19AieSlEqfp2MyOPvyeAyqYLTo0wboYvAPAOjeCex9Y67c4vHzsV/s1000/Toasting%20Marshmallows%20-%20Mont%20Brownies.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="341" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGvU2PhknCw76c4kV5KsvCWa5Am43ibkurgV_JCW3hecLpCJGTjMZjHHU034l6rZHvDgdQnsGNfnI9FQ2MtEKK_3K1DPWFSzZL5LfvU_swOl1sCDOSfcsOfj30eu-6fsvuTZuZeTeT19AieSlEqfp2MyOPvyeAyqYLTo0wboYvAPAOjeCex9Y67c4vHzsV/w454-h341/Toasting%20Marshmallows%20-%20Mont%20Brownies.jpg" width="454" /></a></div><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Jen Hawkins - Senior Officer Community Wellbeing</b></div><b><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Volunteering with the Montgomery Brownies</span></b></div></b><br />I'll be volunteering and supporting the 1st Montgomery Brownies. We have approximately 20 girls ranging from 7-10 years old. We have three older girls leaving us at Christmas to join the Guides and they're working on finishing off their brownie badges in time to move up. We'll also be going climbing and going to the cinema with the girls, whilst finishing off our Castle badges, perfect to commemorate the 800th anniversary of Montgomery Castle. There'll be an end of term party to celebrate our achievements this term with some fun and games and probably chocolate !<br /><br />The girls benefit from learning new skills and working together as a team, helping them to grow in confidence, developing interests that they might not have considered before and making friends for life. The age range encourages the girls to work together and support each other with the older girls taking more responsibilities as sixers and seconders, helping and supporting the younger girls.<br /><br />I have a lot of fun supporting the girls. Sometimes the activities take me out of my comfort zone and can stretch me in new ways too, making origami toadstools was not easy! It's good to learn with the girls and to recognise that in life we are constantly learning and it's OK to make mistakes, learn and move on. Working with young people is also rewarding, watching them grow in confidence and have fun. I think it helps me to feel young at heart and embrace the fun side of life too.<br /><br />My top tip for anyone wishing to volunteer for the first time at Christmas & New Year is: Jump in and have a go, you never know what new skills you might learn or what you might discover about yourself, you'll have fun too.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCRCKMlan2MRSkn2zOlKqzLL3K4pBjTXR3qP6UmRkMEVVP-sgHziGSnVFDlByPJst8sC_l1lObJ9Exmc1v6AgzuZbit9EppTYhw7szRYKLT2boegSdKcBKF9LOSclhaawkD3tyfMVDi0JbRFbxZJ3-PYFVEN_P9dlN0nfWAUQj-yFM49tJH0VgIv03Au6g/s838/Louise%20(2)%20edit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="838" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCRCKMlan2MRSkn2zOlKqzLL3K4pBjTXR3qP6UmRkMEVVP-sgHziGSnVFDlByPJst8sC_l1lObJ9Exmc1v6AgzuZbit9EppTYhw7szRYKLT2boegSdKcBKF9LOSclhaawkD3tyfMVDi0JbRFbxZJ3-PYFVEN_P9dlN0nfWAUQj-yFM49tJH0VgIv03Au6g/w401-h344/Louise%20(2)%20edit.jpg" width="401" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><b><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Louise Hardwick - Development Officer</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: red;">Cooking & delivering Christmas meals in Knighton</span></b></div></b><br />Over previous years I have volunteered my time in cooking and delivering hot Christmas dinners and puds on Christmas Day for 44 people in and around Knighton. My family all helped out, with everything from washing up, putting together a little gift for each recipient, and I sourced donations to cover all of the costs. I recruited a band of volunteers who helped me with serving and delivering the meals. This year my youngest daughter, age 10, and myself are going to be volunteering for a morning at our local Foodbank and helping with packaging up Christmas parcels ready to be delivered to families. My daughter Zara loves to support the foodbank and has already dropped off a recent order of groceries and supplies which she picked out and paid for herself.<br /><br />Having gone through difficult times myself it is nice to be able to pay it forward and support others who may find times challenging. Also giving a helping hand to Helen, our wonderful foodbank manager in her busiest season, by helping her prepare parcels.<br /><br />Some of the benefits to me include: continuing to teach my children to always be grateful for what we have, but to be compassionate and empathetic towards others, and be able and willing to help in any way we can. The 'feel-good' factor of helping others is like no other feeling. It's not about getting something physical or financial, knowing that the tiny amount of help we give will help put a little smile on someone else's face is priceless.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSs0nWdsfk59Id7lRtArPWtHjvKTY-tKvvUJ05D-gG_1UJ0wNQkql1GnD5V4fbeUi0Qa539edKzWcS_pDiZHjFqEu6DMOuY4EhApu-OSnDnegPqbpi30-a8tul14ncqZb4ETUgJXfjFRSfCaYM9zv1cr1o92NLYBCjiH9rEggZTbhsNJL2F1pnyTDVdMrh/s915/Louise%20(1)%20edit.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="736" data-original-width="915" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSs0nWdsfk59Id7lRtArPWtHjvKTY-tKvvUJ05D-gG_1UJ0wNQkql1GnD5V4fbeUi0Qa539edKzWcS_pDiZHjFqEu6DMOuY4EhApu-OSnDnegPqbpi30-a8tul14ncqZb4ETUgJXfjFRSfCaYM9zv1cr1o92NLYBCjiH9rEggZTbhsNJL2F1pnyTDVdMrh/w451-h362/Louise%20(1)%20edit.jpg" width="451" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Louise and her son Owen serving up meals for delivery</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">My top tip for volunteering at this time of year: Just do it! It doesn't matter how much time you can give, even just a one off hour is so very helpful. There are so many volunteer opportunities around - it could even be helping a neighbour with that bit of festive shopping they can't quite manage to get, or assisting them in wrapping presents for their family members. Go in with open arms and an open mind and you won't be disappointed. Volunteering at any age is such a rewarding thing to do.</span></div></div><span><br /><div style="font-family: arial; text-align: center;"><i>A BIG thanks to colleagues for telling us about their seasonal volunteering experiences. If you would like to discuss the volunteering opportunities that are available in your area in Powys then do get in touch with the <a href="https://www.pavo.org.uk/help-for-people/volunteering.html">Powys Volunteer Centre.</a></i></div><div style="font-family: arial; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC-NH8AjKR7-GDh2zGHBOkWbBtpUWWIU7_bb68i8bQueQ4CryZvuaVbejOQB0F5n_ZqZMLSgbkQ62xFGPv0ryHIUUPVvBI9IgE1qfUBPHX74VokQrFkM-9bAehz6VnjUK1MXvlfYf9He8DUuNm958TbojFPLRjwnW1lbFvP7XiYDaUk58yPHTSUnkxUZnG/s800/Powys%20Volunteer%20Centre%20logo.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="428" data-original-width="800" height="171" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC-NH8AjKR7-GDh2zGHBOkWbBtpUWWIU7_bb68i8bQueQ4CryZvuaVbejOQB0F5n_ZqZMLSgbkQ62xFGPv0ryHIUUPVvBI9IgE1qfUBPHX74VokQrFkM-9bAehz6VnjUK1MXvlfYf9He8DUuNm958TbojFPLRjwnW1lbFvP7XiYDaUk58yPHTSUnkxUZnG/s320/Powys%20Volunteer%20Centre%20logo.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: red; font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">A peaceful Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our readers near and far</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div></div></div></div></div>Jackie Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05293038655478909058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8753418862245773183.post-85185449979899558052023-11-14T10:13:00.000+00:002023-11-14T10:13:59.482+00:00It’s Welsh Charities Week - let's celebrate our Powys mental health charities<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyoRAz-01lwIpE7PI-jVeiH5t3OnWhI5IbepEy9DaSbWjwp4H0g_voP4JKIc_XeDpJsSy1yR7PuPE61F8Xiuyw1LWCijh77fK4-Jjn7dzvhgj6k3wMiGQRneOlKkvXZTyHbWj7xGGwRfYH1HfJXW41I6qIgq0Pth9-g_3_ykrqoDweI_uJCh_Bo_skhvfQ/s1280/Welsh%20Charities%20Week%20collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyoRAz-01lwIpE7PI-jVeiH5t3OnWhI5IbepEy9DaSbWjwp4H0g_voP4JKIc_XeDpJsSy1yR7PuPE61F8Xiuyw1LWCijh77fK4-Jjn7dzvhgj6k3wMiGQRneOlKkvXZTyHbWj7xGGwRfYH1HfJXW41I6qIgq0Pth9-g_3_ykrqoDweI_uJCh_Bo_skhvfQ/w492-h368/Welsh%20Charities%20Week%20collage.jpg" width="492" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b> This week, 13 – 17 November 2023, <a href="https://wcva.cymru/welsh-charities-week-is-back-for-2023/#:~:text=This%20week%20is%20Welsh%20Charities,of%20challenges%20and%20difficult%20circumstances." target="_blank">is Welsh Charities Week!</a> It’s a chance to recognise and share the good work of charities, social enterprises, voluntary organisations and community and volunteer groups in Powys.</b><br /><br />According to WCVA, which hosts Welsh Charities Week: <i>“The last few years have seen the sector and country as a whole endure a series of challenges and difficult circumstances. Welsh Charities Week is a chance to recognise and celebrate all the work that people and organisations across the voluntary sector in Wales do to shine a bit of light in the dark. It’s an opportunity to come together and show appreciation, to remind people that what they do makes a difference.”</i><br /><br />To celebrate the wonderful work of our Powys mental health charities for Welsh Charities Week we decided to showcase one of the current activities or services available from each organisation. There is so much support out there for people who need help to boost their emotional wellbeing, we need to shout loud and make sure everyone, absolutely everyone, knows about it. We never know when any one of us - you, me, our family and friends, may find ourselves struggling with our mental health and need that support.<br /><br />So support these local charities, because they support us. Show them some love, because they are lifesavers, literally in some cases. You could help spread the word about their services, you could join in their fundraising activities, you could volunteer at their centres. There are so many ways to celebrate and support their essential work.<br /><br />Let’s hear more about them. From South to North up through our magnificent and large county of Powys:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1LLG_DU2qU8UtoeJJOGKSYQw17Z5OXx03RJfWg6Qq-_WIhYZGYvOo5UmjKnedeW4H25fnNvCOgCCG7zGrx5QuSH521KFO22-U5D7KrSwhewvz-CRwLuDOlwh2skLG3XNpzrFkEy7vwMTbDH1G25ARrxV2cymARfVgyLAUVscayqaoOOjUqxKKIOEeDcQd/s5472/dylan-gillis-KdeqA3aTnBY-unsplash.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="359" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1LLG_DU2qU8UtoeJJOGKSYQw17Z5OXx03RJfWg6Qq-_WIhYZGYvOo5UmjKnedeW4H25fnNvCOgCCG7zGrx5QuSH521KFO22-U5D7KrSwhewvz-CRwLuDOlwh2skLG3XNpzrFkEy7vwMTbDH1G25ARrxV2cymARfVgyLAUVscayqaoOOjUqxKKIOEeDcQd/w540-h359/dylan-gillis-KdeqA3aTnBY-unsplash.jpg" width="540" /></a></div></div></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Ystradgynlais Mind - In-work support service</b><br /><br />The In-Work Support Service is a new, Welsh Government funded service being delivered by Minds in Powys. It is a 2 years’ project focussed on reducing the impact of health issues in the workplace. It is aimed at individuals and businesses, providing therapeutic support for employees and training and advice to businesses throughout Powys.<br /><br />The new 'In Work Support Service' at Ystradgynlais Mind can help those who are struggling with their mental health whilst working.<br /><br />The free service provides therapeutic support to help people who are absent from work, or at risk of becoming absent, due to their ill-health.<br /><br />Head over to the <a href="https://minditv.org.uk/our-services/in-work-support-service-iwss/?fbclid=IwAR04JoFBAvSdQ-VPxS9bqn6V0rsr3wDjGbak4DUYr_ZBP6LVNJDUpNWUYJM" target="_blank">Ystradgynlais Mind website </a>to find out more!<br /><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQNAo46zpWr2KFeOt0_gQevdumvkbVnQ8-rqVxQZEsE7lxPSRpJtzHxS7Xw9Bey54lPQmywv15kn4pRAsmhQXYupVXhZ-NBeEUneljcjQJ0-XMFqYa6IJOPNkdpUAd2u7bcTttdAhWyylX1RcI40S9llQNbseAIUaHUZHsURyytAYriOmy-kNkCimFAFgN/s1280/newborn-2186612_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="854" data-original-width="1280" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQNAo46zpWr2KFeOt0_gQevdumvkbVnQ8-rqVxQZEsE7lxPSRpJtzHxS7Xw9Bey54lPQmywv15kn4pRAsmhQXYupVXhZ-NBeEUneljcjQJ0-XMFqYa6IJOPNkdpUAd2u7bcTttdAhWyylX1RcI40S9llQNbseAIUaHUZHsURyytAYriOmy-kNkCimFAFgN/w536-h358/newborn-2186612_1280.jpg" width="536" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Brecon & District Mind - Mums Matter</b><br /><br />Mums Matter is a National Mind programme that was created by Mums for Mums with babies up to two years old to help them to adjust to motherhood. Brecon and District Mind have been delivering it for nearly five years now. The six-week face to face course runs for groups of Mums for two hours each week; childcare is also provided. <br /><br />There is a strong emphasis on peer support and being able to have honest conversations about the inevitable challenges that come with being a mum – tiredness, perhaps a loss of identity, anxiety, guilt and loneliness.<br /><br />If you miss a course, there are always new courses coming up. The latest course starts in Brecon this week at the Subud Centre, and there is also a Mums' Social group during term time which is open to expectant Mums too. It's a great place to chit chat and get to know the Family Team at Brecon & District Mind. </span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Find out more on the <a href="https://breconmind.org.uk/mums-matter/">Brecon & District Mind website.</a></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP_stIGgDuzdZ30fcfVG6EbUfECZy66dVUZfoNdWU1BoB6bIR6zZygMJYQhW0lDtuiL1HMz1MHz0MMwvRdql4FiiXwWz2xSPr65FH7zxMVSjoZkJ0Yn4b1bXO9u5wUq3orMHDdjYQx9dH0BsD36VoY15wCr3CKkO5KSvLV04XZGu0CqfX4QkBSTGQ_D0aj/s1280/women-2300105_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP_stIGgDuzdZ30fcfVG6EbUfECZy66dVUZfoNdWU1BoB6bIR6zZygMJYQhW0lDtuiL1HMz1MHz0MMwvRdql4FiiXwWz2xSPr65FH7zxMVSjoZkJ0Yn4b1bXO9u5wUq3orMHDdjYQx9dH0BsD36VoY15wCr3CKkO5KSvLV04XZGu0CqfX4QkBSTGQ_D0aj/w532-h400/women-2300105_1280.jpg" width="532" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><b>Mid & North Powys Mind - Bereavement Cafe</b><br /><br />If you are experiencing grief and loss and would like to connect with others who have, or who are undergoing, a similar experience, why not consider going along to Mid & North Powys Mind’s Bereavement Cafe.<br /><br />It takes place on the first Friday of every month at All Saints’ Church in Newtown at 6.30pm. <br /><br />The cafe is part of a Bereavement Support service offered by the organisation. You can be matched with a Bereavement Supporter who will work alongside you, listening and helping you work through your grief in your own way, on a one to one basis. Your Bereavement Supporter is a volunteer who has undergone extensive training.<br /><br />Each session will last about an hour and will continue for an average of 6 sessions. Support can be face to face and/or telephone/Zoom, depending on what works for you. Anything you say is kept in the strictest confidence, unless someone’s safety is at risk. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Check out the <a href="https://mnpmind.org.uk/bereavement-support-service/" target="_blank">Mid & North Powys Mind website</a> to find out more.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGuuf2gWY9G8JJ9QLEt6TIlkFg6n8tz4Oaa0VLy3GQkCx-Y6vQ7xPTjW59XNHm2qQ8w2iPVIxAmZ3t_FY2FE5OCO-1VY_GvM3l-bBNAy_PKbneddtk8Oj41RoGQB68za4fNZMUlglOUV7G6teO5NEGPe19yc0yW2PzNGgVh4sEi8TG5iP6k-Af2jEqKi_I/s806/Ponthafren%20Gym%20(3).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="501" data-original-width="806" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGuuf2gWY9G8JJ9QLEt6TIlkFg6n8tz4Oaa0VLy3GQkCx-Y6vQ7xPTjW59XNHm2qQ8w2iPVIxAmZ3t_FY2FE5OCO-1VY_GvM3l-bBNAy_PKbneddtk8Oj41RoGQB68za4fNZMUlglOUV7G6teO5NEGPe19yc0yW2PzNGgVh4sEi8TG5iP6k-Af2jEqKi_I/w534-h332/Ponthafren%20Gym%20(3).jpg" width="534" /></a></div><br /><b>Ponthafren - the Gym</b><br /><br />Ponthafren recently announced the opening of the new Ponthafren Gym at the Armoury in Welshpool.<br /><br />It has been shown that doing physical activity can help improve your mental health. Physical activity can help with:<br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Sleeping better.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Feeling happier.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Managing stress.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Managing anxiety or intrusive thoughts.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Improving self image.</span></li></ul>Ponthafren Gym is a great place to get healthier in a relaxed non-judgmental atmosphere. <br /><br />Come along and join for a Healthy Mind & Body with Ponthafren. Membership is just £15 per month. You must complete a compulsory induction before using the equipment. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">All you need to know is on the <a href="https://www.ponthafren.org.uk/ponthafren-gym">Ponthafren website.</a></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoFi7Hnbb9xRG25_zR9q4yHLbP6CKUXwzZBLZNHn2SRYq1f4hTmy8_L9-xU0cGjp3VyY8c5M8rgeBYWXaHuShHE1-cFpmLpKOwcWsIu5Pp8a3oBFcFuC0tf3H4r34FTFN10ow7nJsnUQCQVNNn-bET3gIouFejiqPdxg-9Ge0rNXvhPCqfM4gaTAUE1P2u/s300/WCW2023.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="180" data-original-width="300" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoFi7Hnbb9xRG25_zR9q4yHLbP6CKUXwzZBLZNHn2SRYq1f4hTmy8_L9-xU0cGjp3VyY8c5M8rgeBYWXaHuShHE1-cFpmLpKOwcWsIu5Pp8a3oBFcFuC0tf3H4r34FTFN10ow7nJsnUQCQVNNn-bET3gIouFejiqPdxg-9Ge0rNXvhPCqfM4gaTAUE1P2u/s1600/WCW2023.png" width="300" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: arial;">We wish our local mental health charities all the best for Welsh Charities Week 2023! </b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: arial;">Long may they continue to support our communities.</b></p><p></p><span id="docs-internal-guid-a16bf6cd-7fff-60c3-72b1-7cb521438b95"><div><span style="color: #050505; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div></span></div></div>Jackie Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05293038655478909058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8753418862245773183.post-5773600845481315082023-10-19T09:13:00.000+01:002023-10-19T09:13:14.069+01:00The DPJ Foundation launches vital children’s books <h4 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: arial;">Lawnsiad Sefydliad DPJ o lyfrau plant hanfodol</span></h4><div><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiHp1AVlRoJprdkDnQ1I60CD9qvFAlmFP-S3EPdz-iOFuNgWPqjEccKbkLeocphuPnuDwhWv6HfikhlFgYjtHQkFCngmkFV8ycU5pJbAiB80ojru-H6Ak6yHp3-IQE7cCE0xUM2aenFKexnwdb4E4s2NFi8hqVKoyq4WUVzXbhG-J6k58m4NPwdhyphenhyphenNleHG/s1676/DPJ%20kids%20books%20(2).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1676" data-original-width="1536" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiHp1AVlRoJprdkDnQ1I60CD9qvFAlmFP-S3EPdz-iOFuNgWPqjEccKbkLeocphuPnuDwhWv6HfikhlFgYjtHQkFCngmkFV8ycU5pJbAiB80ojru-H6Ak6yHp3-IQE7cCE0xUM2aenFKexnwdb4E4s2NFi8hqVKoyq4WUVzXbhG-J6k58m4NPwdhyphenhyphenNleHG/w341-h372/DPJ%20kids%20books%20(2).jpg" width="341" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DPJ founder Emma's children - Trystan, Mali & Erin <br /><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Plant Emma, sylfaenydd DPJ - Trystan, Mali ac Erin</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><b>On Tuesday 10 October 2023, World Mental Health Awareness Day, The DPJ Foundation shared their first series of therapeutic children’s picture books the “Dan Y Bont” series with schools across Wales.</b></div></div><br /><a href="https://www.thedpjfoundation.co.uk/" target="_blank">The DPJ Foundation,</a> founded in 2016, supports the mental health of agricultural communities across Wales, providing a <a href="https://www.thedpjfoundation.co.uk/contact-us/" target="_blank">24/7 helpline ‘Share The Load’.</a> This includes supporting those who are bereaved and are experiencing grief.</span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: arial;"><b>Ar ddydd Mawrth 10fed o Hydref, 2023, Diwrnod Ymwybyddiaeth Iechyd Meddwl y Byd, rhannodd Sefydliad DPJ, gydag ysgolion ledled Cymru, llyfrau “Dan Y Bont”, eu cyfres gyntaf o lyfrau lluniau therapiwtig i blant. </b><br /><br />Mae Sefydliad DPJ, a sefydlwyd yn 2016, yn cefnogi iechyd meddwl cymunedau amaethyddol ar draws Cymru, gan ddarparu llinell gymorth 24/7 ‘Rhannwch y Baich’. Mae hyn yn cynnwys cymorth i’r rhai hynny sydd wedi cael profedigaeth ac sy’n galaru.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />The idea for this project came from the DPJ Foundation’s charity manager, Kate Miles. Kate recognized the increasing need for bereavement support for children in rural communities, especially those in agriculture and often found parents turning to the DPJ Foundation for assistance when their children were grappling with the complexities of grief. Thanks to a grant from the Welsh Government’s Bereavement Support Fund, the charity was able to create a collection of three books specifically tailored to primary-age children, aiming to provide them with much-needed support during difficult times. Fundraising from within the agricultural community has enabled the DPJ Foundation to place books within schools and libraries across the country. Kate said: <br /><br /><i>“We know that everyone will experience bereavement at some point, and dealing with this as a child can be difficult. We wanted to support parents, grandparents and teachers to have conversations that can enable their children to deal with often overwhelming feelings. We know that it is hard to support your child whilst trying to face your own loss so we wanted to offer something that may help.”</i></span></div><div><br /></div><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: arial;">Lluniwyd y prosiect yn dilyn awgrymiadau Kate Miles, rheolwr elusen Sefydliad DPJ, a oedd wedi adnabod yr angen cynyddol am gefnogaeth profedigaeth i blant mewn cymunedau gwledig, yn enwedig cymunedau amaethyddol. Roedd hi’n aml yn gweld rhieni’n troi at Sefydliad DPJ am help pan roedd eu plant yn brwydro gyda chymhlethdodau galar. Diolch i grant oddiwrth Gronfa Cynnal Profedigaeth Llywodraeth Cymru, fe’m galluogwyd ni i greu casgliad o dri llyfr a deilwrwyd yn arbennig ar gyfer plant oed cynradd, gan anelu at ddarparu’r gefnogaeth sydd mawr ei hangen arnynt yn ystod dyddiau tywyll. Mae gwaith codi arian yn y gymuned amaethyddol wedi galluogi Sefydliad DPJ i osod llyfrau mewn ysgolion a llyfrgelloedd ar draws y wlad. Dywedodd Kate: <br /><br /><i>“Mae pawb yn dioddef profedigaeth ar ryw adeg. Gall delio â hyn pan yn blentyn fod yn anodd. Roeddwn am gefnogi rhieni, neiniau a theidiau ac athrawon i gynnal sgyrsiau a allai alluogi eu plant i ddelio â theimladau sydd, yn aml, yn gwbl llethol. Deallwn ei fod yn anodd cefnogi’ch plentyn tra’n ceisio wynebu’ch colled eich hun, felly roeddwn am gynnig rhywbeth a allai fod o gymorth”. </i></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhITOj5-s62-XbubjNlpzBnl80Jv4PqclGUhPWuqT6SXqNxs-fxIAL28sgp_jTXXtGkBYlSPjacUTjlHWOpIpYnUmrczVoW-I200E1N0_22FgHqNmBBnVYi5I8kdUxM9jMaFmwSNGOv2W09RGZLhWkYibFvD6Vgl-s9qyBct9qJndDB3mLLCJbXIh-NhVs5/s871/Screenshot%202023-10-13%20152123.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="748" data-original-width="871" height="395" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhITOj5-s62-XbubjNlpzBnl80Jv4PqclGUhPWuqT6SXqNxs-fxIAL28sgp_jTXXtGkBYlSPjacUTjlHWOpIpYnUmrczVoW-I200E1N0_22FgHqNmBBnVYi5I8kdUxM9jMaFmwSNGOv2W09RGZLhWkYibFvD6Vgl-s9qyBct9qJndDB3mLLCJbXIh-NhVs5/w459-h395/Screenshot%202023-10-13%20152123.png" width="459" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Collaborating with the dedicated team at </span><a href="https://www.greenwelliespublishing.com/" style="font-family: arial;" target="_blank">Green Wellies Publishing</a><span style="font-family: arial;"> in Builth Wells, the Charity’s founder, Emma O’Sullivan alongside Kate, worked to lay the foundations for these stories. Anwen Nicholls and Kenneth Rees then skilfully crafted the words and illustrations to bring these ideas to life.</span></div></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />The Dan Y Bont series revolves around the lives of three children in a small village, each of whom has experienced a different type of loss—whether it's the passing of a grandparent, the sudden loss of a sibling, or the tragedy of a parent's suicide. These books approach these sensitive topics with great care and in a child-friendly manner, offering children explanations and suggestions for moving forward while reinforcing the message that it's okay not to feel okay during such difficult times.</span></div><div><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: arial;"><br />Wrth gydweithio’n agos gyda thîm cyhoeddi ymroddgar Green Wellies yn Llanfair ym Muallt, aeth Emma O’Sullivan, sylfaenydd yr elusen, a Kate ati i ddatblygu seiliau cysyniadol y llyfrau hyn. Yna, defnyddiwyd talent creadigol Anwen Nicholls a Kenneth Rees i ysgrifennu a darlunio’r storïau er mwyn rhoi bywyd i’r syniadau hyn. <br /><br />Troella gyfres Dan Y Bont o gwmpas bywydau tri o blant mewn pentref bach, ac mae pob un ohonynt wedi dioddef colled wahanol - p’un ai bod hynny’n farwolaeth tadcu neu famgu, colli brawd neu chwaer yn sydyn neu hunan-laddiad trasig rhiant. Mae’r llyfrau hyn yn trafod y themáu sensitif hyn gyda gofal mawr ac mewn dull cyfeillgar i blant wrth gynnig esboniadau ac awgrymiadau ynghylch symud ymlaen, tra’n atgyfnerthu’r neges ei fod yn iawn i beidio â theimlo’n iawn mewn cyfnodau mor anodd.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span>Emma, who is also a primary school teacher, established The DPJ Foundation after losing her husband Daniel Picton-Jones to suicide. Emma's personal experiences with her own children following the loss of Daniel served as inspiration for these books. Emma says: <br /><br /><i>“I am so proud of what we have achieved with these books, alongside the team at Green Wellies. When Mali and Trystan lost their dad, there was little support for them so to now see these books available for children who are experiencing grief is wonderful. As a teacher, I see the impact of books every day and I’m glad we can now contribute to that with our own books.”</i></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Sefydlodd Emma, sydd hefyd yn athrawes ysgol gynradd, Sefydliad DPJ wedi iddi golli ei gŵr, Daniel Picton-Jones, drwy hunanladdiad. Hysbrydolodd profiadau personol Emma gyda’i phlant ei hun yn dilyn colli Daniel i fynd ati i lunio’r llyfrau hyn. Dyma oedd gan Emma i’w ddweud: <br /><br /><i>“Dw i mor falch o’r hyn ‘rydym ni, ochr yn ochr â’r tîm yn Green Wellies, wedi’i gyflawni. Pan gollodd Mali a Thrystan eu tad doedd fawr o gefnogaeth ar gael iddynt, felly mae’n hyfryd gweld bod y llyfrau hyn ar gael i blant sy’n galaru. Fel athrawes, gwelaf yn ddyddiol effaith llyfrau a dw i mor falch ein bod yn gallu cyfrannu at hynny gyda’n llyfrau ni’n hunain”. </i></span></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-KCQlQFi4tCL-NiTpYgcDOV6F46ka81RhUZg5R4INVdxqvBBVKriADJj9tsCkK7QvRGjAok4Ve9VXxAHOqjWMcipYwpOoAsE4FDg4-P7nGslZSLVAE-gvPzd_nwxqDBw0Cof2eyspHfje60lQ_2MjLdDxumAXLXNPj2Sd6Q6dsbywFG86WJoAm87aWi5J/s2048/DPJ%20kids%20books%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1304" data-original-width="2048" height="345" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-KCQlQFi4tCL-NiTpYgcDOV6F46ka81RhUZg5R4INVdxqvBBVKriADJj9tsCkK7QvRGjAok4Ve9VXxAHOqjWMcipYwpOoAsE4FDg4-P7nGslZSLVAE-gvPzd_nwxqDBw0Cof2eyspHfje60lQ_2MjLdDxumAXLXNPj2Sd6Q6dsbywFG86WJoAm87aWi5J/w541-h345/DPJ%20kids%20books%20(1).jpg" width="541" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;">Books have been distributed to over 160 schools right across the country along with an accompanying assembly that is available in both English and Welsh and which can be delivered to introduce the books and open the conversation around bereavement and mental health. Assemblies will be delivered in some schools by the DPJ Foundation’s Regional Champion volunteers, including one by Mali, Emma’s daughter, who had also fundraised along with her brother Trystan and friends Reuben, Freddie and Isla who are also helping to distribute the books. Mali said: <br /><br /><i>“When mum told us about the books, we all decided to wanted to fundraise to make sure we could get these books out to schools. We didn’t have anything like this when we lost dad so it’s nice that other children and families can use the books to help.” </i><br /><br />Trystan said <i>“I really liked being able to look in a book and see another child who had lost their dad too and was able to get help and understand what happened. I think they will be really good for other children who have been through the same thing as me.”</i></span></div><div><br /></div><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: arial;">Mae llyfrau wedi’u dosbarthu i dros 160 o ysgolion ar draws y wlad, ynghyd â gwasanaethau boreuol cyfrwng Cymraeg a Saesneg. Mae modd eu defnyddio i gyflwyno’r llyfrau a dechrau’r sgwrs am brofedigaeth ac iechyd meddwl. Cafodd rhai o’r gwasanaethau eu cyflwyno yn yr ysgolion gan wirfoddolwyr Pencampwyr Rhanbarthol Sefydliad DPJ, gan gynnwys un gan Mali, merch Emma, a oedd hefyd wedi bod yn codi arian yng nghwmi ei brawd Trystan a’i ffrindiau Reuben, Freddie ac Isla, sydd hefyd yn helpu dosbarthu’r llyfrau. Dyma a oedd gan Mali i’w ddweud: <br /><br /><i>“Pan soniodd mam am y llyfrau, roedd pob un ohonom wedi penderfynu ein bod am godi arian i wneud yn siwr bod y llyfrau hyn yn cyrraedd ysgolion. Doedd dim byd tebyg ar gael i ni pan gollon ni Dad. Felly, mae’n braf bod plant a theuluoedd eraill yn gallu defnyddio’r llyfrau i’w helpu”. </i><br /><br />Dywedodd Trystan <i>“Roeddwn wir yn hoffi darllen am blentyn arall a oedd hefyd wedi colli ei dad a chael help yn ogystal â deall yr hyn a oedd wedi digwydd. Dw i’n credu y byddant yn dda iawn ar gyfer plant eraill sydd wedi profi’r un sefyllfa”.</i></span></div><div><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: arial;"><i><br /></i></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbX-QYeGvDw0nj_VettCAtgj2TfYyY133Q-h-m3olFv1fKQag9im8k2yKxmrtTcmH1YN2rNPFpJmQom24HwB6hM0JS7zJttu4d0ell8yQHouPBT9__uLpwYOPi432_n9lPNjwOd6ArD41gre3bYRSpa3up3WyQJ-5YF_axsx7DbyyZPuaJSe1YW7GV5dII/s1290/DPJ%20kids%20books%20(3).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1092" data-original-width="1290" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbX-QYeGvDw0nj_VettCAtgj2TfYyY133Q-h-m3olFv1fKQag9im8k2yKxmrtTcmH1YN2rNPFpJmQom24HwB6hM0JS7zJttu4d0ell8yQHouPBT9__uLpwYOPi432_n9lPNjwOd6ArD41gre3bYRSpa3up3WyQJ-5YF_axsx7DbyyZPuaJSe1YW7GV5dII/w457-h388/DPJ%20kids%20books%20(3).jpg" width="457" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;">The charity was committed to making the books available in both English and Welsh to ensure widespread accessibility and Welsh books are currently in the print stage. <br /><br />Anwen Nicholls and Ken Rees of Green Wellies Publishing are proud to have worked on these books. They said: <br /><br /><i>“We hope that the books offer some support to families when they are facing sadness, and looking to find images and words to help make sense of the challenging times in their lives. It has been an honour and great responsibility working with the DPJ on this project, and we would like to extend our thanks for being tasked with this very important piece of work.”</i></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: arial;">Roedd yr elusen wedi’i hymrwymo i sicrau bod y llyfrau ar gael yn Gymraeg a Saesneg, fel eu bod yn hygyrch i bawb, ac mae’r fersiynau Cymraeg yn nwylo’r argraffwyr ar hyn o bryd. <br /><br />Mae Anwen Nicholls a Ken Rees o gwmni cyhoeddi Green Wellies yn falch eu bod wedi gweithio ar y llyfrau hyn. Dyma oedd ganddynt i’w ddweud: <br /><br /><i>“Rydym yn gobeithio y bydd y llyfrau’n cynnig rhywfaint o gymorth i deuluoedd pan y maen nhw’n wynebu tristwch, ac yn chwilio am luniau a geiriau sy’n helpu gwneud synnwyr mewn cyfnodau heriol yn eu bywydau. Mae wedi bod yn anrhydedd a chyfrifoldeb mawr i weithio gyda DPJ ar y prosiect hwn, ac hoffwn estyn ein diolch iddynt am gael y fraint o weithio ar y darn pwysig yma o waith”.</i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span>As the week commencing 10th-16th October was also ‘Ag Mental Health Week’, it’s an important opportunity for the charity to highlight the support available for mental health in agriculture, including around bereavement. Kate was keen to highlight that the books are just one aspect of the support available from the DPJ Foundation: <br /><br /><i>“We all cope differently with loss and for those that need a bit of extra help, we are here at the DPJ Foundation to listen and to support, including with counselling and other therapy. We have developed some information about the practical aspects of a death in agriculture and hope that this along with these books will help make things if not easier, then a little less hard. We also have developed free training for those in the community who want to support others with their bereavement.”</i></span></div><div><br /></div><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: arial;">Gan fod wythnos y 10fed – 16eg o Hydref hefyd yn ‘Wythnos Iechyd Meddwl Amaeth’, mae’n gyfle pwysig i’r elusen i amlygu’r gefnogaeth sydd ar gael ar gyfer iechyd meddwl mewn amaeth, gan gynnwys profedigaeth. Roedd Kate yn awyddus i ddweud bod y llyfrau ond yn un agwedd o’r gefnogaeth sydd ar gael gan Sefydliad DPJ: <br /><br /><i>“Mae pawb yn ymdopi â cholled mewn gwahanol ffordd ac, i’r rhai hynny sydd angen ychydig mwy o help, rydym yma yn Sefydliad DPJ i wrando a chefnogi, gan gynnwys cynnig cwnsela a therapi arall. Rydym wedi datblygu peth gwybodaeth ynghylch yr agweddau ymarferol yn dilyn marwolaeth ym myd amaeth, ac yn mawr obeithio y bydd hyn, ynghyd â’r llyfrau, yn gwneud pethau’n ychydig llai anodd, os nad yn haws. Rydym hefyd wedi datblygu hyfforddiant am ddim i’r rhai hynny yn y gymuned sydd am gefnogi eraill sydd wedi dioddef profedigaeth”.</i></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsPcidoJG8h_mV5Ha9r61_haH0TM8QbxKCs0ejmBR-JBf_HpLBoYi5EggtRTYFXYJ8wdirOGf8H2ecQs4mzWtT5NbzHBAg7WN-4k-4h4qjo3mubG_gnseQ9lLRFGzhhGMW8nlgm-BVkvoHpa7aW2K5odhgxJVONrPd_l-m9GXdlgxubxk0XWuy154dKUI9/s879/Screenshot%202023-10-13%20152053.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="754" data-original-width="879" height="379" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsPcidoJG8h_mV5Ha9r61_haH0TM8QbxKCs0ejmBR-JBf_HpLBoYi5EggtRTYFXYJ8wdirOGf8H2ecQs4mzWtT5NbzHBAg7WN-4k-4h4qjo3mubG_gnseQ9lLRFGzhhGMW8nlgm-BVkvoHpa7aW2K5odhgxJVONrPd_l-m9GXdlgxubxk0XWuy154dKUI9/w442-h379/Screenshot%202023-10-13%20152053.png" width="442" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;">To find out more about The DPJ Foundation, their picture book launch and their services, make sure to follow them on social media. You can find them on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, Snapchat and TikTok. <br /><br />If you believe that individual children or families in your school would benefit from their own copy of a book, please contact the DPJ Foundation. <br /><br />If you need mental health support, you can call them free on 0800 587 4262 or text them on 07860 048 799 (this number doesn’t accept calls).</span></div><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: arial;"><br />I wybod mwy am waith Sefydliad DPJ, y lansiad o’i llyfrau lluniau a’n gwasanaethau, gwnewch yn siwr eich bod yn ein dilyn ar gyfryngau cymdeithasol yr wythnos hon. Gallwch ddod o hyd i ni ar Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, Snapchat a TikTok. <br /><br />Os ydych o’r farn y byddai plant neu deuluoedd unigol yn eich hysgol yn elwa ar dderbyn copi personol o lyfr, cysylltwch â Sefydliad DPJ os gwelwch yn dda. <br /><br />Os oes angen arnoch gefnogaeth iechyd meddwl gallwch ein ffonio’n ddi-dâl ar 0800 587 4262 neu anfon neges testun ar 07860 048 799 (nid yw’r rhif hwn yn derbyn galwadau).</span></div><div><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVwVMK8cuf9RBQE0VE9OwGHKS2exgNeXj7Ng2e9Iht5l5aeT9VirvulhU3fXeBsmx8P1PS5GjmzgUjDVbpWhgHyMXNqOII7pWh8ouOdLthGi2xg5skXEwH20DYS7bpiHCtazsNz0_dw5XcFYLGMGm8M4vZuA_T13j6LHFA-Epzj68orBdK83O-BVOEaME9/s641/dpj%20green%20wellies%20logo.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="543" data-original-width="641" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVwVMK8cuf9RBQE0VE9OwGHKS2exgNeXj7Ng2e9Iht5l5aeT9VirvulhU3fXeBsmx8P1PS5GjmzgUjDVbpWhgHyMXNqOII7pWh8ouOdLthGi2xg5skXEwH20DYS7bpiHCtazsNz0_dw5XcFYLGMGm8M4vZuA_T13j6LHFA-Epzj68orBdK83O-BVOEaME9/w212-h180/dpj%20green%20wellies%20logo.JPG" width="212" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div></div>Jackie Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05293038655478909058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8753418862245773183.post-20753317411520815492023-10-10T09:39:00.002+01:002023-10-10T09:39:45.459+01:00World Mental Health Day 2023 - mental health is a universal human right<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8wPbRzzkvi2gX49LfZLLofoDAgwxy8atI7HPk2AFiiJpVeoQLhVmBtPSyLIcHGW8yVfjPqZdCDdUCYCFVMdoP0_4h2rmJhKNtfAAE0a31LY40Ok1Ds5bYZchR-EsH2o89z2toM0TWpemvtsc9jKv4c92mwpe1karhc_51koMT9rGztHQrHlBmGQkw0Y4D/s1000/WMHD%201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="626" data-original-width="1000" height="325" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8wPbRzzkvi2gX49LfZLLofoDAgwxy8atI7HPk2AFiiJpVeoQLhVmBtPSyLIcHGW8yVfjPqZdCDdUCYCFVMdoP0_4h2rmJhKNtfAAE0a31LY40Ok1Ds5bYZchR-EsH2o89z2toM0TWpemvtsc9jKv4c92mwpe1karhc_51koMT9rGztHQrHlBmGQkw0Y4D/w520-h325/WMHD%201.jpg" width="520" /></a></div><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b> What is World Mental Health Day?</b><br /><br />The <a href="https://wfmh.global/">World Federation for Mental Health</a> was founded in 1948 in the same era as the United Nations (UN) and the World Health Organization (WHO). This year, along with the NHS, it celebrates its 75th birthday.<br /><br />1992 saw the first World Mental Health Day, <a href="https://wfmh.global/news/2023.23-06-01_2023-world-mental-health-global-awareness-campaign">so this year’s awareness day on 10 October</a> is the 32nd, with a theme of “mental health is a universal human right.”<br /><br />The WFMH asks us to: <i>“Join us in this journey as we unite to raise awareness about the importance of mental health as an indispensable universal human right, with the vision of fostering a world that values and nurtures the well-being of all.”</i><br /><br /><b>Mental health is a universal human right</b><br /><br /><i>“Mental health must be squarely placed in a human rights framework to re-cast the aspiration for sound mental health as a fundamental human right. Ensuring access to mental health services must be an obligation and responsibility of state and global organisations which can no longer be ignored. Access to better living conditions, security, food, shelter and housing are all necessary for people's mental health. Mental health is a universal right to all citizens of the world and consistent with the 1948 founding principles of the World Federation for Mental Health.”</i> Nassa Lozer, President, WFMH<br /><br /><i>Investment and transformation in mental health is needed to help stop the widespread human rights violations that people with mental health conditions continue to experience worldwide.</i><br /><br /><b>How rights to mental health can be respected</b><br /><br />The World Federation for Mental Health believes that everyone, wherever they live, should receive appropriate and quality care if they are experiencing mental health distress (issues, problems, difficulties or struggles, call them what you will).<br /><br />This includes the right to be protected from “known harms to mental health”, which would surely cover poverty, unemployment, lack of housing, adverse childhood experiences and any of the other <a href="https://www.who.int/health-topics/social-determinants-of-health#tab=tab_1">social determinants of good mental health.</a> <br /><br />It also includes the right to freedom, “including the right of choice.”<br /><br /><b>More about human rights</b><br /><br />1948 also saw the United Nations launch of the <a href="https://www.un.org/sites/un2.un.org/files/2021/03/udhr.pdf">Universal Declaration of Human Rights</a> aimed at all peoples and nations, setting out as it does fundamental human rights to be universally protected.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.un.org/en/about-us">The United Nations</a> is an international organisation made up of 193 member states:<br /><br /><i>“One place where the world's nations can gather together, discuss common problems and find shared solutions”.</i><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisIh0DTl1a8VIVh37XD2FqpGiOR9i4AKXT5ccin48Lr4DfLj2Dris6CsZB4aHg_-XBJaB8VyXEoqA0dteVjvmvNfLBwpm7JM59kmI4LJN27FPDRZxqNAmvN74V8B0vZeQjFyZJcec4jX6RAR_2dn_a_qntT-FYKSNnbyqhPV9Qv-_7QpXNAdpO_M1XUCNP/s1000/WMHD%202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="714" data-original-width="1000" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisIh0DTl1a8VIVh37XD2FqpGiOR9i4AKXT5ccin48Lr4DfLj2Dris6CsZB4aHg_-XBJaB8VyXEoqA0dteVjvmvNfLBwpm7JM59kmI4LJN27FPDRZxqNAmvN74V8B0vZeQjFyZJcec4jX6RAR_2dn_a_qntT-FYKSNnbyqhPV9Qv-_7QpXNAdpO_M1XUCNP/w457-h326/WMHD%202.jpg" width="457" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><b>What is rights-based support?</b><br /><br />Three years ago there was an important report to the Human Rights Council of the United Nations on a topic high on everyone’s agenda:<br /><br /><i>“The right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health.”</i><br /><br />The focus of the report was to set a “rights-based” global agenda for advancing the right to mental health.<br /><br />In this <a href="https://documents-dds-ny.un.org/doc/UNDOC/GEN/G20/094/45/PDF/G2009445.pdf?OpenElement">2020 United Nations report to the Human Rights Counci</a>l, the Special Rapporteur addresses the need for a global agenda for mental health that is human rights-based. (Special rapporteurs are independent human rights experts whose expertise is called upon by the United Nations to report or advise on human rights from a thematic or country-specific perspective). </span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">In this case <a href="https://www.ohchr.org/en/special-procedures/sr-health/mr-dainius-puras-former-special-rapporteur-2014-2020">the Special Rapporteur was Mr. Dainius Pūras</a> from Lithuania,<i>"a medical doctor and human rights advocate who has been actively involved during the last 30 years in the process of transforming public health policies and services, with special focus on the rights of children, persons with mental disabilities, and other groups in vulnerable situations.”</i><br /><br />The report identifies that while many people understand their mental health challenges through a medical lens, many do not. It makes sense, then, that it is crucial to build space for <i>“a diversity of creative approaches and experiences within and outside existing mental health systems.”</i><br /><br />Some of the creative approaches which are referred to in the report include: <i>“highly localised innovations in different resource settings around the world, such as Soteria House, Open Dialogue, peer-respite centres, medication-free wards, recovery communities and community development models”. </i>Topics we have been covering on the Powys Mental Health blog for over 10 years now.<br /><br /><b>Examples from the blog:</b><br /><br /><a href="https://powysmentalhealth.blogspot.com/2020/01/compassionate-mental-health-conference.html">Challenging the medical model of mental health distress</a><br /><br /><a href="https://powysmentalhealth.blogspot.com/2022/10/world-mental-health-day-2022-make.html">World Mental Health Day 2022 - make mental health and wellbeing for all a global priority</a><br /><br />As the report suggests: <i>“A quiet revolution has been occurring in neighbourhoods and communities worldwide. At the root of these alternatives is a deep commitment to human rights, dignity and non-coercive practices, all of which remain an elusive challenge in traditional mental health systems too heavily reliant on a biomedical paradigm”. </i><br /><br />The report suggests that rather than describing such approaches as “alternatives”, which means they are more likely to be ignored because they are outside the mainstream, that they are called “rights-based supports.”<br /><b><br />Key principles of rights-based support</b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Dignity and autonomy.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Social inclusion.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Participation.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Equality and non-discrimination.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Diversity of care.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Underlying social and psychosocial determinants of mental health.</span></li></ul>Reading the report it becomes clear that the responsibility for good mental health does not just lie with individuals and their health providers, but with policy-makers - governments and statutory authorities. And not just policy-making in relation to health but policies affecting all areas of our lives that have a massive impact on our health.<br /><br />We need to promote healthy, resilient communities where everyone feels supported and able to live a good life, not just the few with the most wealth. And promotion can take place not just in health settings but in all areas of our day-to-day lives - workplaces, schools, homes and communities.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd4FPMnKJMduqZ85bj_Avqd97Sp3H5neOckL6y1DJLSiMgX187VbmTHf3stjxxY0SPUB5e7ENG78ZWAAOPthvt4qP5WYrqw9Y7tUaa3ETaL4Np_t3ydXXi9219UivAwh-wHxN5rhneaCFBr06zw_AViL3kMKTCex-mLQ4TCwOgWvmYsu7tYCiQrVo1iCq5/s1000/WMHD%203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="774" data-original-width="1000" height="359" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd4FPMnKJMduqZ85bj_Avqd97Sp3H5neOckL6y1DJLSiMgX187VbmTHf3stjxxY0SPUB5e7ENG78ZWAAOPthvt4qP5WYrqw9Y7tUaa3ETaL4Np_t3ydXXi9219UivAwh-wHxN5rhneaCFBr06zw_AViL3kMKTCex-mLQ4TCwOgWvmYsu7tYCiQrVo1iCq5/w463-h359/WMHD%203.jpg" width="463" /></a></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b>Action we can take</b><br /><br />The report goes on to say: <br /><br /><i>“Movements of service users, of persons with psychosocial disabilities, of mad people, of people who hear voices, who are rights holders in all their diversity, must be at the forefront of efforts for rights-based change. Scaling up rights-based support within and outside existing mental health systems holds much promise for the changes that are needed.”</i><br /><br />In one of 7 recommendations to member States the report recommends that they: <br /><br /><i>“Promote mental health by increasing financial support to sustainable, cross-cutting programmes that reduce poverty, inequalities, discrimination on all grounds and violence in all settings, so that the main determinants of mental health are effectively addressed.”</i><br /><br />It all sounds very similar to the recommendations at the recent Bevan Commission conference which we attended: <a href="https://bit.ly/TippingPointConference">The Tipping Point - where next for health and care in Wales?</a><br /><b><br />Steps in the right direction</b><br /><br />I recently found out about the <a href="https://solutionsplatform.co.uk/about/">Welsh Health Equity Solutions platform</a>. The platform has been designed as a resource to find data and solutions relating to health equity - <i>“a gateway to data, evidence, health economics and modelling, policies, good practice, innovative tools and practical solutions to help improve population wellbeing and reduce the health equity gap in Wales and beyond.”</i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaXn4WNkwUN9NRjT13cqBZfqsuP3isiRCLv_nHdRajTT5a6q2JsG2Ef301yfMuASHvAvgBwKXnUh6AF1JCcRnlZjhkwi1fc-Ln_0hi_JSeBE7afZS040IZN4yVNx9Abky6dAY8e62nsB6XdjdSbEKZSzFKTGexm-8Bg_s1af977HzUxd723lDBZ9RkMRcP/s533/5%20Essential%20conditions%20Health%20Equity.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="523" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaXn4WNkwUN9NRjT13cqBZfqsuP3isiRCLv_nHdRajTT5a6q2JsG2Ef301yfMuASHvAvgBwKXnUh6AF1JCcRnlZjhkwi1fc-Ln_0hi_JSeBE7afZS040IZN4yVNx9Abky6dAY8e62nsB6XdjdSbEKZSzFKTGexm-8Bg_s1af977HzUxd723lDBZ9RkMRcP/s320/5%20Essential%20conditions%20Health%20Equity.JPG" width="314" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;">It is a partnership project of Public Health Wales, Welsh Government and the World Health Organisation. The platform is based around five essential conditions for healthy and prosperous lives for all. There are also opportunities for people to <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=j&url=https%3A%2F%2Fcopronet.wales%2Fhome%2Fcoproduction%2F&uct=1659944965&usg=cEWtRzOoOjs52NVS8wAkBAZEjlI.&opi=98421741" target="_blank"></a>get involved in <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=j&url=https%3A%2F%2Fcopronet.wales%2Fhome%2Fcoproduction%2F&uct=1659944965&usg=cEWtRzOoOjs52NVS8wAkBAZEjlI.&opi=98421741" target="_blank">co-producing solutions</a>, developing case studies and contributing to learning on solutions-focused action to reduce health inequities. It sounds like a really interesting initiative.<br /><br /><b>And finally</b><br /><br />Alongside changes in policy and support, we need to look at how we provide care to people around their mental health. It’s not about asking what is “wrong” with someone, but what has “happened” to them. Until we reframe the questions, how can we start to work with someone to help find relevant solutions…? <br /><br />What do you think about mental health as a universal human right? Let us know in the comments below.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRO8ASYvnk4So0jurSwgcQEF5ZOhbytIdPVapR0PhV91Uf3J3LdNVtaBnwmMeMeOhM3-2LhM1b2-Qbu75XIU1uSc1EaG6Gu_A1sBJJkSA61bz_9blyRHi5KUmWQfvH-P3nCQD_-1YzEtN0i2V05Ea6dQQ6kos_hIbGgH4BmWf5ezc5RvKTxr22qDqWHM50/s700/23-06-01_2023-world-mental-health-global-awareness-campaign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="700" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRO8ASYvnk4So0jurSwgcQEF5ZOhbytIdPVapR0PhV91Uf3J3LdNVtaBnwmMeMeOhM3-2LhM1b2-Qbu75XIU1uSc1EaG6Gu_A1sBJJkSA61bz_9blyRHi5KUmWQfvH-P3nCQD_-1YzEtN0i2V05Ea6dQQ6kos_hIbGgH4BmWf5ezc5RvKTxr22qDqWHM50/w206-h206/23-06-01_2023-world-mental-health-global-awareness-campaign.jpg" width="206" /></a></div></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-c66b5259-7fff-3925-6bf7-1a15afc6e0f9"><div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div></span></div>Jackie Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05293038655478909058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8753418862245773183.post-90570416081011378602023-09-19T11:31:00.001+01:002023-09-19T11:31:28.784+01:00New In-Work Support Service launched at Mid & North Powys Mind<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS4clR2VJKxJeeSUSJwkIPjVuuAyjsF2TXbwCgJG4TOCxO1pSlgXxW5MjByUbQ9GMB8irKjpYTgVENXt7fpVz0F4u9WiFsbJ791tQu8VMIMRn4q0PLxVWvNT8sti1oN9x2PPp59ZO0nISZixYNF5eR21Fg9kuyEfqa2HiiAoSHIY1Upe8FD9g1DfAHTu2Q/s1000/in%20work%20support%202%20edit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="795" data-original-width="1000" height="389" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS4clR2VJKxJeeSUSJwkIPjVuuAyjsF2TXbwCgJG4TOCxO1pSlgXxW5MjByUbQ9GMB8irKjpYTgVENXt7fpVz0F4u9WiFsbJ791tQu8VMIMRn4q0PLxVWvNT8sti1oN9x2PPp59ZO0nISZixYNF5eR21Fg9kuyEfqa2HiiAoSHIY1Upe8FD9g1DfAHTu2Q/w489-h389/in%20work%20support%202%20edit.jpg" width="489" /></a><br /></p><span style="color: #1e73e3; font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: center;"> <b>by Anna Poulton </b></div></span><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #1e73e3; font-size: medium;"><b>In-Work Support Service Coordinator, Mid & North Powys Mind</b></span></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />The In-Work Support Service is a new, Welsh Government funded service being delivered by Minds in Powys. It is a 2 years’ project focussed on reducing the impact of health issues in the workplace. It is aimed at individuals and businesses, providing therapeutic support for employees and training and advice to businesses throughout Powys. <br /><br />Namrata Bhardwa (Nami) and I (Anna Poulton) are the manager and coordinator for the service respectively and we have recently been employed by <a href="https://mnpmind.org.uk/" target="_blank">Mid and North Powys Mind</a> who are facilitating the service. The In-Work support service will be using therapies offered by regional Minds in Powys to deliver the Mental Health individual therapies and the wellbeing and training aspects of business support.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT67n0MV7INV7g3QNHR0dV-c8ivJcangR4mINAJYxhAnW9YdzYyv7xj1Na9fqT-uT06pCZ840HA6zifs947WgBkefYTP76-5FQ5zlyTDJ_AeMVEGlhUQStbTFEK_D4G0M0dbmo_aMghw8zBUj9I9_PLmoa90YuombzfPPetwNmDSNHIg5x_19ULEyokqBu/s1536/in%20work%20support%205%20edit.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1481" data-original-width="1536" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT67n0MV7INV7g3QNHR0dV-c8ivJcangR4mINAJYxhAnW9YdzYyv7xj1Na9fqT-uT06pCZ840HA6zifs947WgBkefYTP76-5FQ5zlyTDJ_AeMVEGlhUQStbTFEK_D4G0M0dbmo_aMghw8zBUj9I9_PLmoa90YuombzfPPetwNmDSNHIg5x_19ULEyokqBu/w371-h358/in%20work%20support%205%20edit.jpg" width="371" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anna and Nami</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Why are we needed? </b><br /><br />The service has been available in other areas of Wales for a while now, and our service now means that all local authorities in Wales have an In-Work Support Service. The Welsh Government is developing <a href="https://www.gov.wales/mental-health-strategy#:~:text=The%20strategy%20will%20guide%20the,these%20strategies%20is%20now%20complete." target="_blank">a new strategy for Mental Health 2023</a> and this service, which is also part of <a href="https://phw.nhs.wales/services-and-teams/healthy-working-wales/" target="_blank">Healthy Working Wales</a>, will help to deliver this. <br /><br /><b>Who can use the service? </b><br /><br />Anyone 16 or over who is in employment or off sick from their job, an apprentice or self-employed who lives in Powys can access our support. Referrals can come from anyone, yourself, your GP, your employer, etc. You can contact via the website, email or a phone call to Nami or Anna is all that’s needed. The same applies to businesses, and small/medium enterprises based in Powys are eligible for support.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRvhn2rVdxa4C_Bt8mDhsDrC_EKk2OV37RPpfHbxdQItpnASX5A7UXZHWiGmm6YJCb_I7i1DqD_XZj0p6Av1LJE2r0T015_izXnRE4gWizydE3dP2aiu1sJ3Zfs0nMYlgvMVByn8JzfzDcXPA4_QS3dVSmqGLEuhnL1ZOsD8WFbnBKllaw5UgVbUg3aX8z/s999/in%20work%20support%208%20edit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="679" data-original-width="999" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRvhn2rVdxa4C_Bt8mDhsDrC_EKk2OV37RPpfHbxdQItpnASX5A7UXZHWiGmm6YJCb_I7i1DqD_XZj0p6Av1LJE2r0T015_izXnRE4gWizydE3dP2aiu1sJ3Zfs0nMYlgvMVByn8JzfzDcXPA4_QS3dVSmqGLEuhnL1ZOsD8WFbnBKllaw5UgVbUg3aX8z/w524-h356/in%20work%20support%208%20edit.jpg" width="524" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>What support can we offer? </b><br /><br />We can offer rapid access to high quality mental health and physical therapies, training and specialist support delivered by Mid & North Powys Mind, Brecon & District Mind, Mind Ystradgynlais and a range of external partners. <br /><br /><b>We can currently offer:</b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Counselling.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">One to One support.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Supported Self Help.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) and Hypnotherapy.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Physiotherapy.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Osteopathy.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Employee training.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Wellbeing advice & support.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Employment law specialist support.<br /><br /></span></li></ul>The therapeutic support is set out across up to 6 free sessions, and the business support is delivered in a tailored package by either Nami, Mind’s training staff, or Rradar-our specialist law firm – depending on their needs. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">As an example, we could provide advice around employee policies such as creating, updating or overhauling a family friendly policy. We could provide legal advice around HR issues. We could help with implementing wellbeing tools into the workplace such as a Wellbeing Hour. Staff training could be provided to some or all staff; examples of this training are: 5 Ways to Wellbeing, Mental Health Awareness, Tai Chi and other relaxation techniques, Assertiveness Skills and Stress & Anxiety Management and many more which can be adapted to suit a business’s needs. <br /><br />At the moment Nami and I are meeting and getting to know other services available to the people we will be supporting. This will help us to signpost to further support, provide a continuation of support for people who are receiving support elsewhere and to make sure that we can signpost people to the appropriate support if they don’t match our criteria.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">It has been great to meet so many like-minded people and learn about all of the other great support providers in Powys. We have already made some really valuable connections and are continuing to make more and more as time goes on.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRRMo4G7XspWtWlupO14iR0YqjW5q_vn7EI2fyCrTirKmijWC5OYlG8l1zkbXGN_VGfn0CQzwt9rTJol4RfuGQeviEPKnoVAvAboCk5zB0Fmsrot52tpUZRQSBAtRBqA0h72yChoa_xA2OZlIFTkK048g4-MpzJbwmmHAyq3XmMH63xtUjN8FjtXDfiLzN/s1536/in%20work%20support%207%20edit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="859" data-original-width="1536" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRRMo4G7XspWtWlupO14iR0YqjW5q_vn7EI2fyCrTirKmijWC5OYlG8l1zkbXGN_VGfn0CQzwt9rTJol4RfuGQeviEPKnoVAvAboCk5zB0Fmsrot52tpUZRQSBAtRBqA0h72yChoa_xA2OZlIFTkK048g4-MpzJbwmmHAyq3XmMH63xtUjN8FjtXDfiLzN/w554-h310/in%20work%20support%207%20edit.jpg" width="554" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>We held a launch day at PAVO in Llandrindod Wells on the 4th of September. Nami and I presented an overview of the service to the audience including: local businesses, Mind employees, Welsh Government representatives, colleagues from other support providers such as Department for Work & Pensions and members of the public. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">The launch went really well; I had never presented to a room full of people before so I was very nervous! We started off with a short quiz as an icebreaker which also helped to settle my nerves. The room at Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations was really well set out. It was bright, the technology all worked and we had plenty of space. We had a warm welcome and everybody enjoyed the lunch at the end which was supplied by The Herb Garden. I’d like to thank PAVO in Llandrindod Wells for all of their help.<br /><br /><b>Who am I? </b><br /><br />I’m Anna, I have recently begun working for Mid and North Powys Mind in Llandrindod Wells and have 20 years’ experience of previously working in the adult health care and support sector. My job as Service Coordinator is doing the admin for the service, I run the social media and I meet clients to see if they are eligible. I have also spent some of my time out in the community promoting the service at events such as the Cost of Living Fair in the Pavilion in Llandrindod Wells and in some supermarket foyers across Powys. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNhq5MC2IbFqNtOybG6B5yDGaco-9s8DdOIYG3IMrOQWCmlRhP8D78AR8BFLn5h1y86uRfTk05caIJTw1tzjU9LOSbiIR34ZuV-mMGx9Q1YSD2cKxXErOPjkpZvpuuE8XqKfYY_vHYDqFQz0X2jeXagSP8p-rT6PRyH3GMimcbpwcPRLWcBwUsxZCHCkBB/s1200/in%20work%20support%2012.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="1200" height="287" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNhq5MC2IbFqNtOybG6B5yDGaco-9s8DdOIYG3IMrOQWCmlRhP8D78AR8BFLn5h1y86uRfTk05caIJTw1tzjU9LOSbiIR34ZuV-mMGx9Q1YSD2cKxXErOPjkpZvpuuE8XqKfYY_vHYDqFQz0X2jeXagSP8p-rT6PRyH3GMimcbpwcPRLWcBwUsxZCHCkBB/w510-h287/in%20work%20support%2012.jpg" width="510" /></a></div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">In my spare time I am an animal lover, I have 3 dogs and 2 cats who take up a lot of my time! I am a volunteer for Many Tears Animal Rescue, I check that people’s homes are suitable for the pet that they would like to adopt. I also enjoy craft, especially knitting and making Christmas decorations.</span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><span style="font-family: arial;">For more information about the service and how to refer yourself, <a href="https://iwsspowys.org.uk/en/" target="_blank">please visit our dedicated In-Work Support Service Powys website.</a> </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzDuemXQalU5BlAKLFPStKPG2dnjnbxPEeYuIMyzUawXe9zteHSExcXMBgzigxQ4maXyzUpqMzqB-4TPMwJe6-bwDOBgJIZqJ_0eOtsSuSGs2rpm7Ip4Vj5gUKbx-10N1oZHWxPUc1SKJ58AnIXji91HmdTaciks32lrAaxA5Nx5BCArssIqYzZmwaiq1c/s1920/in%20work%20support%20logos.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="1920" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzDuemXQalU5BlAKLFPStKPG2dnjnbxPEeYuIMyzUawXe9zteHSExcXMBgzigxQ4maXyzUpqMzqB-4TPMwJe6-bwDOBgJIZqJ_0eOtsSuSGs2rpm7Ip4Vj5gUKbx-10N1oZHWxPUc1SKJ58AnIXji91HmdTaciks32lrAaxA5Nx5BCArssIqYzZmwaiq1c/w410-h194/in%20work%20support%20logos.jpg" width="410" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>Jackie Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05293038655478909058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8753418862245773183.post-86420501713016822962023-09-06T09:40:00.003+01:002023-09-06T10:01:16.016+01:00World Suicide Prevention Day 2023<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh086iFOxNxwk03qrJz50FtLw9REWnqlkzdhG8rgc6PI1TMopUHi09RJXWnyaVzRpzw1MWl2y30DpCD0hlD5zbgIhzE8tO-x38JmzxJGJDTYbAzsMJowZUvdK5EXMafAA97fmBhQluQ5T8L6_dBvqJ31uLodfiBeMofE6hNCM4CYcFbvePO4_HlkhDzh3cS/s1100/suicide%20prevention%20blog%20(2).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="574" data-original-width="1100" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh086iFOxNxwk03qrJz50FtLw9REWnqlkzdhG8rgc6PI1TMopUHi09RJXWnyaVzRpzw1MWl2y30DpCD0hlD5zbgIhzE8tO-x38JmzxJGJDTYbAzsMJowZUvdK5EXMafAA97fmBhQluQ5T8L6_dBvqJ31uLodfiBeMofE6hNCM4CYcFbvePO4_HlkhDzh3cS/w585-h305/suicide%20prevention%20blog%20(2).jpg" width="585" /></a></div><span style="color: #bf9000;"><br /></span></div><span style="color: #bf9000; font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Sunday 10 September 2023 is World Suicide Prevention Day across the globe</b></div></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">It is 20 years since the first World Suicide Prevention Day was launched in 2003 by the <a href="https://www.iasp.info/" target="_blank">International Association for Suicide Prevention</a> in association with the World Health Organisation. The idea was to raise awareness of the problem world-wide, to reiterate the message that “suicides are preventable.”<br /><br />Taking time to reach out to someone in your community – a family member, friend, colleague or even a stranger – could change the course of another person's life. <br /><br /><i>"You can help give someone hope by showing that you care. All of us can play a role, no matter how small. We may never know what we do that makes a difference. We all can reach in and ask somebody. You do not need to tell them what to do or have solutions, but simply making the time and space to listen to someone about their experiences of distress or suicidal thoughts can help. Small talk can save lives and create a sense of connection and hope in somebody who may be struggling." </i>International Association for Suicide Prevention.<br /><b><br />Powys and suicide</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />The issue of suicide is as relevant in Powys as it is anywhere else in the world. <a href="https://www.samaritans.org/wales/branches/llandrindod-wells/powys-samaritans-info-pages/suicide-powys/#:~:text=Suicide%20in%20Powys-,Powys%20has%20the%20highest%20suicide%20rate%20in%20Wales.,looked%20in%20terms%20of%20funding." target="_blank">According to the Samaritans Powys has the highest suicide rate in Wales.</a> <i>“Someone takes their life every 3.5 weeks. We are a remote rural farming community, which tends to get overlooked in terms of funding. Low income, unmanageable debt, unemployment, poor housing & other socio-economic factors contribute to high suicide rates in most disadvantaged communities.”<br /></i><br />We wrote last summer about the <a href="https://bit.ly/PowysSuicideForum" target="_blank">New Suicide and Self Harm Forum for Powys</a> and the three main areas of work to be followed up by the forum - suicide, self-harm and postvention (activities to support those bereaved by suicide to help with their recovery). </span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibp5QNT93ZUG0jjQCy7B3qCAzQuQcK8HrPjz5fBKXn-ERXm8K9OUgURx7K9suMm_OCv1-HTPiC7uGykT0IaH3dG8oV5GlHf71yOwaK3Y9IMKsGGKgCc25y1zSVpF2oCd13AnyHi58Cxf7gYGTse7HEoXcrmwrlajw2Sj7_2wnkJRQYEgmmXv0PCvbQLbz3/s1600/World%20Suicide%20Prevention%20Day%20banner.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibp5QNT93ZUG0jjQCy7B3qCAzQuQcK8HrPjz5fBKXn-ERXm8K9OUgURx7K9suMm_OCv1-HTPiC7uGykT0IaH3dG8oV5GlHf71yOwaK3Y9IMKsGGKgCc25y1zSVpF2oCd13AnyHi58Cxf7gYGTse7HEoXcrmwrlajw2Sj7_2wnkJRQYEgmmXv0PCvbQLbz3/w512-h288/World%20Suicide%20Prevention%20Day%20banner.jpg" width="512" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b>Welsh Government - Suicide Prevention Cross Party Group</b><br /><br />This <a href="https://business.senedd.wales/mgOutsideBodyDetails.aspx?ID=820" target="_blank">Suicide Prevention Cross Party Group</a> raises awareness and campaigns on a cross party basis to drive change on suicide prevention in Wales.</span><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b><br />National and Mid & West Wales Regional Suicide and Self Harm Prevention Programme</b><br /><br />The <a href="https://gov.wales/suicide-and-self-harm-prevention-strategy-2015-2020">national suicide and self-harm prevention strategy 2015-2020, ‘Talk to me 2’</a> was extended to 2022 as a result of the Covid 19 pandemic. The strategy has 6 key objectives, including to: <i>“Further improve awareness, knowledge and understanding of suicide and self harm amongst the public, individuals who frequently come into contact with people at risk of suicide and self harm, and professionals.”</i><br /><br /><a href="https://www.gov.wales/sites/default/files/statistics-and-research/2023-03/review-of-together-for-mental-health-and-talk-to-me-2-strategies.pdf">Following a recent public consultation on the strategy</a> work is underway on the development of the new suicide and self harm strategy for Wales which is expected to be published in 2024. <br /><br />Strategy implementation is guided by a National Advisory Group which is made up of statutory, voluntary and charity agencies who are involved in suicide and self-harm prevention in Wales. Implementation of the Talk to me 2 strategy has been split into 3 regions across Wales with 3 Regional leads:</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF85BUh6uAWjejwFfho0G-ovdqQfCZMSb5ToofgFV44oYVfCeS_jf4UYoyIYkFaR8e7USXkyOYQHcpVivBRp4ENWOt-zU-5qF1qr7K0NhW3ueR3ar0AtvrIPKZkpThc5sU8SGbNhnxTMD6kp2C9dkZl1trBgq7rMxPzml8F8OSxWR7T34wH6judKduRzpq/s1123/Powys%20map%20regional%20suicide%20prevention%20edit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="712" data-original-width="1123" height="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF85BUh6uAWjejwFfho0G-ovdqQfCZMSb5ToofgFV44oYVfCeS_jf4UYoyIYkFaR8e7USXkyOYQHcpVivBRp4ENWOt-zU-5qF1qr7K0NhW3ueR3ar0AtvrIPKZkpThc5sU8SGbNhnxTMD6kp2C9dkZl1trBgq7rMxPzml8F8OSxWR7T34wH6judKduRzpq/w484-h307/Powys%20map%20regional%20suicide%20prevention%20edit.jpg" width="484" /></a></div><br /><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">Laura Tranter is the Mid & West Wales Regional Suicide and Self Harm Prevention Lead.<br /><br />One of the objectives of the Regional Coordinator role is to support the Mid & West Wales Regional Suicide and Self harm Prevention Forum is to support the development of regional action plans that connect national strategy with more localised strategies and plans, across sectoral boundaries. Over the past year the regional forum has been identifying its priorities for the region and has developed a number of sub groups to coordinate action. These sub groups will focus on:<br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Children and young people.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Prevention.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Lived experience.</span></li></ul>There are also local suicide and self harm prevention forums across the Mid & West Wales region.<br /><br />The Powys Talk to Me 2 Delivery Group works across organisations to bring together and coordinate actions within Powys to ensure effective local delivery of the T2M2 strategy.<br /><br /><b>Digital hub</b><br /><br />The National Suicide and Self Harm Team have been developing a<a href="https://sshp.wales/en/"> digital hub</a> where users can explore training options, get the latest updates and find out about future events.<br /><br />The digital hub currently hosts videos and presentations from the<a href="https://sshp.wales/en/suicide-and-self-harm-national-conference/"> Suicide and Self-harm National Conference held on 2 March 2023 at Cardiff City Hall.</a></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://sshp.wales/en/suicide-and-self-harm-national-conference/"></a><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgObhc7oEP1WKazk2DNrGHY6YzOy_ZNBSsGQWkHj3yZ7VW6MQglxFYxKxOIuwDtY73CNevObpG0ijCB3aDRfY9KL5pWC7Y0dHp72wIoqy6BF-3wxo2oLRpoq0EYu39Wwxv0978X9dn-C8yYcBUCnXNhBwNAiNxMSrs_Hh3HUn3uYigPGR4XYqit4Lk1CigA/s1580/Help%20is%20at%20Hand.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="691" data-original-width="1580" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgObhc7oEP1WKazk2DNrGHY6YzOy_ZNBSsGQWkHj3yZ7VW6MQglxFYxKxOIuwDtY73CNevObpG0ijCB3aDRfY9KL5pWC7Y0dHp72wIoqy6BF-3wxo2oLRpoq0EYu39Wwxv0978X9dn-C8yYcBUCnXNhBwNAiNxMSrs_Hh3HUn3uYigPGR4XYqit4Lk1CigA/w589-h258/Help%20is%20at%20Hand.jpg" width="589" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div>The digital hub also hosts the digitised version of <a href="https://sshp.wales/en/help-is-at-hand/">Help is at Hand</a> - a guide for those who are unexpectedly bereaved by suicide or working with someone who has been.<br /><br /><b>Rapid Response</b><br /><br />Across the Mid & West Wales region a Rapid Response Pilot has been being implemented since September 2022. This is a process that engages safeguarding and other partners to determine the impact of a suspected suicide and to ensure there is a support system and resources to support those affected or impacted by the death.<br /><b><br />National guidance on how we respond to those affected or bereaved by suicide</b><br /><br />A national multi-agency working group has been working in collaboration with the National Suicide and Self Harm prevention Team to develop guidance on responding to people affected by suicide. The draft guidance was published by Welsh Government for consultation. <a href="https://www.gov.wales/sites/default/files/consultations/2023-03/summary-of-responses_3.pdf">Feedback has been analysed and published by the Welsh Government Policy Team.</a><br /><br /><b>Powys Suicide Bereavement Service</b><br /><br />This service aims to provide early assistance, practical support and signposting to people bereaved by suicide or suspected suicide within the last two years, e.g. support with arranging a funeral, advice on finance difficulties, advise on the coroner inquest procedure, and referral to specialist counselling. <br /><br />The service can also provide support to those bereaved by suicide historically, e.g. signposting to specialist counselling. You can find out more on the Powys Teaching Health Board website: <a href="https://pthb.nhs.wales/services/adult-and-older-peoples-mental-health-services/bereavement-support/bereaved-by-suicide-support/">Bereaved by Suicide or Suspected Suicide Support</a>.<br /><br />For further information about suicide and self harm prevention across Mid & West Wales please contact Laura Tranter at <a href="mailto:sshp.cymru@wales.nhs.uk">sshp.cymru@wales.nhs.uk<br /></a></span><br /><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>Other sources of support</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Suicide prevention pledge - Mid & North Powys Mind</b><br /><br />The Suicide Prevention Pledge is the initiative of Mid and North Powys Mind - in response to the high rate of suicides in Powys. Suicide is the biggest cause of death in men under 40.<br /><br /><i>“Talking about suicide can seem scary and some people can feel if they mention suicide it can put the thought in someone’s head. There is NO evidence of this and in fact talking about it actually helps and is one of the easiest ways to prevent suicide.<br /><br />We need to make a change. We need to say it’s okay to feel sad. It’s okay to cry. It’s okay to not be okay.<br /><br />We understand it can be daunting to talk to professionals, so the pledge is designed to make it easier to talk to friends and family, as well as to know where to encourage people to get help from."</i><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #bf9000; font-size: medium;">Sometimes all that’s needed is for someone to listen</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy-q5P3zemZ63INvKKxVdS_1XJXLZObWiwLHrjoCT-tAlntjArrkCeC0qzT_fSh3tdjqA9TThX2GnzlRtp9aTJVKXvnlCrccRtRrEHbENH-7JsSDnH5-7BOnixebnOaOLdNy4MLaXBu7d6jHEkuQwL-Ee2dF7AhaDCTXwZtTXLSEBH8WaAw57RD_Xj2-il/s678/Suicide%20prevention%20pledge.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="478" data-original-width="678" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy-q5P3zemZ63INvKKxVdS_1XJXLZObWiwLHrjoCT-tAlntjArrkCeC0qzT_fSh3tdjqA9TThX2GnzlRtp9aTJVKXvnlCrccRtRrEHbENH-7JsSDnH5-7BOnixebnOaOLdNy4MLaXBu7d6jHEkuQwL-Ee2dF7AhaDCTXwZtTXLSEBH8WaAw57RD_Xj2-il/w484-h342/Suicide%20prevention%20pledge.JPG" width="484" /></a></div></b></div><br />The pledge cards <a href="https://mnpmind.org.uk/suicide-prevention-pledge/" target="_blank">can be downloaded from the Mid & North Powys Mind website</a>. <br /><br />People sign up to support others, and also to contact sources of support if they are struggling.<br /><br />As well as services such as 1:1 support and counselling, Mid & North Powys Mind also provide courses on Mental Health Awareness and Mental Health First Aid to help people find out more about how they can support people to prevent suicide happening.<br /><br />Nicki (not her real name) was helped by the 1:1 support service and Mums Matter course at Mid & North Powys Mind after struggling with anxiety and depression. She <i>“also found it very difficult to remember to take medication, and sometimes felt suicidal.”</i> She describes how her life turned round after working with Mind to put coping strategies in place. You can read Nicki’s full account of what happened <a href="https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/your-stories/my-local-mind-helped-me-realise-my-self-worth/?fbclid=IwAR0NF5JNog7LvMevpCsGtOudEWQPSRg5w04MY2_aHc_Ayocm6zJQMpW4SpQ" target="_blank">on the Mind website.</a></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGotuRvi0F8CEVLugggobIR5p0V-5_rDWNAXVGjZc6BPRmO_mZmSdysM6Lcpzah52YNlBXNTmmscJT9y2heHE4Akfhb7FDJ07q86SWWzL2HYvZQO24sdrPfkVbSJzhjP7QQ_CtehjEJwMMNwvXLz36Vo9f1N0k1pW2AE4xqlhDKi73vdX7aUTwg47Y_6jo/s1366/Support%20after%20Suicide%20Powys%20edit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="669" data-original-width="1366" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGotuRvi0F8CEVLugggobIR5p0V-5_rDWNAXVGjZc6BPRmO_mZmSdysM6Lcpzah52YNlBXNTmmscJT9y2heHE4Akfhb7FDJ07q86SWWzL2HYvZQO24sdrPfkVbSJzhjP7QQ_CtehjEJwMMNwvXLz36Vo9f1N0k1pW2AE4xqlhDKi73vdX7aUTwg47Y_6jo/w501-h245/Support%20after%20Suicide%20Powys%20edit.jpg" width="501" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><b>Support after Suicide - North Powys</b><br /><br />This is a new support group on Facebook which has been set up by the local mental health charities Ponthafren and Mid & North Powys Mind:<br /><br /><i>“Many of us have lost a loved one through suicide and we recognise how difficult this can be.<br /><br />Ponthafren and Mind are helping to deliver a regular support group for people bereaved by suicide."</i><br /><br />Face to face meetings are held regularly on the first Tuesday of the month at Hafan yr Afan in Newtown, 7 - 9pm. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SupportAfterSuicidePowys" target="_blank">You can find out more on the Facebook page.</a></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span id="docs-internal-guid-01c2676a-7fff-9c56-6334-9f25e2a11ad0"><p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: arial; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><b>Bereaved by Suicide Walk - South Powys</b></span></p></span><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />This bereaved by suicide peer support group walk is on the 3rd Tuesday of every month. If the weather is bad, the group moves to a nearby rugby club for tea and coffee. <br /><br />This support group is suitable for anyone living in, or around, the Ystradgynlais area, who is over 18, and has been bereaved by suicide. If you are interested in attending you can find out more <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MindCymruYstradgynlais/">on the Ystradgynlais Mind Facebook page here.</a></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwkDP2USOhM_YrkUCnEqF3OmcH67jm426XRx8bNpKJ3gqNg5p1gBqrSJ17IKjObv9l9PwjvRzk1sJnGtQe-1ahmUXupal5HDO01gg1cH-tUIN3LCVxaMmf-w4ZgrsmtNQA2wb08D4RYdjI2wiTnMLvtFFyIYlP9WTmcRFqj763pEtUwZyvU82RCgZNPQtI/s1200/Papyrus%202.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="656" data-original-width="1200" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwkDP2USOhM_YrkUCnEqF3OmcH67jm426XRx8bNpKJ3gqNg5p1gBqrSJ17IKjObv9l9PwjvRzk1sJnGtQe-1ahmUXupal5HDO01gg1cH-tUIN3LCVxaMmf-w4ZgrsmtNQA2wb08D4RYdjI2wiTnMLvtFFyIYlP9WTmcRFqj763pEtUwZyvU82RCgZNPQtI/w507-h278/Papyrus%202.jpg" width="507" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Papyrus - Prevention of Young Suicide</b><br /><br />Suicide is the biggest killer of young people aged 25 - 35 in the UK. Male and female. Every year many thousands more attempt or contemplate suicide, harm themselves or suffer alone, afraid to speak openly about how they are feeling.<br /><br />The <a href="https://www.papyrus-uk.org/" target="_blank">UK-wide charity Papyrus</a> is there to help.<br /><br />Kate Heneghan, Head in Wales of the charity Papyrus, <a href="https://bit.ly/PapyrusBlog" target="_blank">wrote last year about her work with Papyrus</a> in Wales to support, equip and influence to help prevent suicide in young people.<br /><br /><b>Other resources </b><br /><br /><a href="http://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help-you/contact-us" target="_blank">Samaritans provide a helpline</a> 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. And you can find more about the local Brecon & Radnor branch <a href="http://www.samaritans.org/branches/samaritans-brecon-and-radnor" target="_blank">here</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.callhelpline.org.uk/" target="_blank">C.A.L.L. Helpline</a> offers a confidential listening and support service. Anyone concerned about their own mental health, or that of a relative or friend, can access the service.<br /><br />The NHS has a very useful webpage on <a href="http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Suicide/Pages/helping-others.aspx" target="_blank">Help for suicidal thoughts.</a> <br /><br />The charity Mind has a range of information on its website relating to suicide, including sections about <a href="https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/suicidal-feelings/helping-yourself-now/" target="_blank">Suicidal feelings</a> and <a href="https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/helping-someone-else/supporting-someone-who-feels-suicidal/making-a-support-plan/" target="_blank">Creating a support plan</a> to use if someone is feeling suicidal.<br /><br /><a href="https://uksobs.org/" target="_blank">Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide</a> is a self-help organisation which exists to meet the needs and break the isolation experienced by those bereaved by suicide.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.spuk.org.uk/world-suicide-prevention-day-2022/" target="_blank">World Suicide Prevention Day 2023</a> information.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtdKPjm8osBg9GnPV6KuL8w8CbkRY0R0rSS3cgOJONtM3UM_XAxLucMnRMwxDLXIML0gMjud_HaBb0NuPghzhX9VUSDzygC9UWxjVxkVywNPkyTLh5LEKX-b2gvQjD9TC_u43ytBaeO367nXS_jWm5WPjt6aeqKKYQJE5_ATsLAqRWaEtWy2ISKu4Avywj/s299/iasp%20banner.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="168" data-original-width="299" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtdKPjm8osBg9GnPV6KuL8w8CbkRY0R0rSS3cgOJONtM3UM_XAxLucMnRMwxDLXIML0gMjud_HaBb0NuPghzhX9VUSDzygC9UWxjVxkVywNPkyTLh5LEKX-b2gvQjD9TC_u43ytBaeO367nXS_jWm5WPjt6aeqKKYQJE5_ATsLAqRWaEtWy2ISKu4Avywj/w341-h191/iasp%20banner.jpg" width="341" /></a></div></div><div><span id="docs-internal-guid-61a18700-7fff-902f-d3cf-b3f5f6eb0959"><div><span face="Arial, sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div></span></div></div></div></div>Jackie Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05293038655478909058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8753418862245773183.post-7755718459150567192023-08-31T09:38:00.000+01:002023-08-31T09:38:00.556+01:00The NEST / NYTH Framework – supporting babies, children, young people & families <p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJyMzhXbYHvxmUsK9JHuJ8-ovjRtU_3lahrASfqlIzZTBtQTNLLb6hh-1FMx1LMkd3Mi_8GgYAym72MkfjUxCTdA4pmR9yBhrRDX1U2a-YqeQCxQlwfMkp-B8g7vz_YvqoWY6UfaAGX5B7dItT-O6yMOrzlMVPYN-EtkZ5T6W59nPm6NoP9E5egQ87zMJn/s1280/cuddly-toys-7596017_1280%20edit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="351" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJyMzhXbYHvxmUsK9JHuJ8-ovjRtU_3lahrASfqlIzZTBtQTNLLb6hh-1FMx1LMkd3Mi_8GgYAym72MkfjUxCTdA4pmR9yBhrRDX1U2a-YqeQCxQlwfMkp-B8g7vz_YvqoWY6UfaAGX5B7dItT-O6yMOrzlMVPYN-EtkZ5T6W59nPm6NoP9E5egQ87zMJn/w467-h351/cuddly-toys-7596017_1280%20edit.jpg" width="467" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: medium;"><br />by Sharon Titley</span></b></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Children’s Commissioning & Transformation Team</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Powys County Council</span></b></div><br />NEST is a planning tool for Regional Partnership Boards across Wales, to support the development of a whole system approach to mental health and wellbeing support services who work with babies, children, young people, and families. The NEST Framework was created in collaboration with children, young people and families, alongside other professionals throughout Wales, ensuring that their voices are at the heart of what we do, and inform us how best to support them. <br /><br />This video introduces the NEST framework:</span><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span face=""Arial Nova",sans-serif" style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Helvetica Neue";"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="344" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wYvU5t9vopI" width="525" youtube-src-id="wYvU5t9vopI"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><div>Children, young people, and families that worked together to create the Framework adopted the term NEST. This is based on the notion that a NEST has a caring quality and contains many different levels. They liked the notion that all support services adhered to this theme, making sure that they all felt nurturing, empowering, safe, and trustworthy.</div><div><br /></div></span><div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSS8HKiZnSUGCEBNGC26xdAGN1loaa_ZcfIOs_5SqFilADjbTQRog9_27yoDslwTmdIg0qXrLuSezv4p50ISda5V2gxFm0aRE7pImcyoYMuYl5xR0uXnd4-Z8OprItWTl7x-MqueIoCsC4Mm7KzBUK2E9_ezECuJNUmQiqa28R27sEu9ABkTx8f8jZbab3/s768/nest%201.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="768" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSS8HKiZnSUGCEBNGC26xdAGN1loaa_ZcfIOs_5SqFilADjbTQRog9_27yoDslwTmdIg0qXrLuSezv4p50ISda5V2gxFm0aRE7pImcyoYMuYl5xR0uXnd4-Z8OprItWTl7x-MqueIoCsC4Mm7KzBUK2E9_ezECuJNUmQiqa28R27sEu9ABkTx8f8jZbab3/w541-h225/nest%201.JPG" width="541" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Some of the main aims of NEST are to:</b></div></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Broaden the conversation around mental health and move away from thinking that only specialist services can provide help. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Provide access to expertise and advice more quickly and easily. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Make sure that trusted adults closest to the child understand what they can do to help and give them the skills and confidence to do so. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">A ‘No Wrong Door’ approach to those who might need extra support. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Giving babies, children, young people, and families the right help, at the right time, in the right way. </span></li></ul>This is the NEST framework; the acronym is around the outside of the circle and then the stakeholders in the second circle. The white segments of the circle give us the 6 core principles of NEST. The inner circle contains the underpinning values of NEST which show the expectation of services and their strategic context being psychologically informed, adopting a children’s right based approach in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, respecting equality, and inclusion, being values led and being led by a child’s development rather than their age or predetermined stage.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv-GN2ru251jlTdk8gewsahheRozVVI8X5whuD0Y6qYwikVzEpnc1wtL7DIscRL3TGPGHSsFiAzmcE5vTq5tCVKTos0GyAMWaYuMcz2s3CoNCrjcF_1Ys7imbQ06TaIcVlZvul6BGfIfToFSpvQLhtEcZD1FEsLDmD63Hkg54fk5z4gSjcskFCQEFx_GDD/s2500/nest%202.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1406" data-original-width="2500" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv-GN2ru251jlTdk8gewsahheRozVVI8X5whuD0Y6qYwikVzEpnc1wtL7DIscRL3TGPGHSsFiAzmcE5vTq5tCVKTos0GyAMWaYuMcz2s3CoNCrjcF_1Ys7imbQ06TaIcVlZvul6BGfIfToFSpvQLhtEcZD1FEsLDmD63Hkg54fk5z4gSjcskFCQEFx_GDD/w529-h298/nest%202.png" width="529" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Powys Regional Partnership Board recognises and welcomes the introduction of the NYTH NEST Framework:</b></div><br /><i>“It emphasises that every relationship and every service need to work together to prioritise what is needed most if we are to build the foundations for positive mental health and wellbeing. These qualities are even more important for those who are struggling most, which is why it is about prevention AND intervention. The NEST Framework helps us keep an overview on how everything and everyone works together to achieve the best outcome.”</i><br /><br />The RPB's Start Well Partnership is responsible for taking forward the Regional Partnership Board’s work to strengthen and transform services for children and young people in Powys as set out in Powys’ Health and Care Strategy and will therefore be leading on the implementation of NEST in Powys. Partners of the Start Well Board have developed a multi-agency model to respond to and support the emotional health and wellbeing needs of children and young people in Powys.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2-0sb5CUd3f96UHAN__QIbHgfcmLxHKWNZ5ndh2W4ud4dvwHVfmME8OM43YrOuY35wjA4tZa4VXOG4QUcgB7u746rULxOc74A2QTSDjm_aAF69y7zlWJ9eoaaRGSnXt3NDSeOJdGAMN3E45mNgsQwYkHzViRWINWcRPPBd9ZYczH-dSnAFVn5HLVwLCnK/s810/nest%203.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="573" data-original-width="810" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2-0sb5CUd3f96UHAN__QIbHgfcmLxHKWNZ5ndh2W4ud4dvwHVfmME8OM43YrOuY35wjA4tZa4VXOG4QUcgB7u746rULxOc74A2QTSDjm_aAF69y7zlWJ9eoaaRGSnXt3NDSeOJdGAMN3E45mNgsQwYkHzViRWINWcRPPBd9ZYczH-dSnAFVn5HLVwLCnK/w442-h312/nest%203.png" width="442" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The Powys model recognises the importance of the community where a child lives, the schools they attend, as well as the important relationships in a child’s life which can be strengthened to support children and young people to prevent their needs from escalating into specialised mental health and statutory services. It also focusses on early intervention and prevention, a whole systems approach, which avoids duplication and allows for integrated access to service.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div></div></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsS30Hjol5KUlNB7eXdG7hUnqh8YagEcsDEDO-Wk4NalL3BPrCl00Q0xEOTfe0p7BfoJadDoO6Pko7D3vgS_iS-dKlFEhudLSXYLkYMFURwIs4EAHhb4IV4qXOaxoIGxaZREW-Gu4UhA8n5AYIAcR8LchYrn9Q9MjpG9OxB5kwtTBXBY9Gd09SFthCoMz3/s1920/hands-4803176_1920%20edit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsS30Hjol5KUlNB7eXdG7hUnqh8YagEcsDEDO-Wk4NalL3BPrCl00Q0xEOTfe0p7BfoJadDoO6Pko7D3vgS_iS-dKlFEhudLSXYLkYMFURwIs4EAHhb4IV4qXOaxoIGxaZREW-Gu4UhA8n5AYIAcR8LchYrn9Q9MjpG9OxB5kwtTBXBY9Gd09SFthCoMz3/w503-h283/hands-4803176_1920%20edit.jpg" width="503" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">This model acknowledges that children and young people are more likely to communicate with adults that they know and trust. The need to focus on the adoption and embedding of early help offers has never been more important. It aims to bring about the kind of transformational change that children, young people, and their families tell us they want.</span></div></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />The ambition for every relationship and every environment to feel: <br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Safe, nurturing base. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Enabled to fly the nest.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Return to the nest if need to. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Unique to the individual. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Builds on natural resources. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Multi-layered. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Same basic need for every child – but some need additional layers. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Every interaction is an intervention. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">It is the little things that make the biggest difference.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Culture shift away from ‘What is wrong with a child?’ towards asking ‘What is a child’s NEST like?’<br /><br /></span></li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzJQ-JHiwrO_BvXTj2pSRdRVgAyk4-IGK-taU9cWvsz0mQyOm8mYwvgJrD2mLTQW-UbXrCaNirqemJmoNgwSuw3sH1zhjuGYQkPXTff7IigUzDgsf-vrEsdpwOMDPD7RnU_4J4fxqUuXCCujVFCKwaf10wiZ7_hguFQoklIQk2LODmsLUxZTT4R77Ts7PN/s1920/teddy-bear-7850186_1920.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1101" data-original-width="1920" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzJQ-JHiwrO_BvXTj2pSRdRVgAyk4-IGK-taU9cWvsz0mQyOm8mYwvgJrD2mLTQW-UbXrCaNirqemJmoNgwSuw3sH1zhjuGYQkPXTff7IigUzDgsf-vrEsdpwOMDPD7RnU_4J4fxqUuXCCujVFCKwaf10wiZ7_hguFQoklIQk2LODmsLUxZTT4R77Ts7PN/w493-h284/teddy-bear-7850186_1920.jpg" width="493" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><b>How NEST is being implemented nationally</b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Community of Practice. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">National Training Programme. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">A Self-Assessment and Implementation Tool. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Aligning cross policy work.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Regional Partnership Board Leads' meetings.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Built into Regional Integration Fund.</span></li></ul><b><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><br /></b></span></div>How NEST is being implemented in Powys</b><br /><br />Start Well Partnership met in October 2022 to develop a Powys Implementation Plan, which includes some of the following actions -<br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Coordinating an initial NEST self-assessment across services working with babies, children, young people, and families.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Supporting a culture change through developing a suite of training opportunities, as well as offering accessible training on values that enhance the framework e.g. Dr Treisman training. </span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Defining areas of development e.g. improving coproduction and community engagement.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">A NEST Steering Group has been established to develop a collaborative approach to embedding the NEST Framework in Powys, bringing stakeholders together to develop a shared understanding of the sustainable long-term change that is required.</span></li></ul><div style="text-align: center;"><i>If you would like to learn more about the NEST Framework in Powys, or would like to discuss any training requirements, then please contact Sharon Titley</i> – <a href="mailto:sharon.titley@powys.gov.uk">sharon.titley@powys.gov.uk</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsyp2lStw75OHIMpmCbUyA4jP6Pwp8OT3R0ellGoHwztKbum-VkXeAsPzxZyyPvhBOMAzzayXu6BP3bJrvuxqyWgc41jfjDCMOKf-ciyKcJFwXC-brUtX5A3jTpUjTYiMiaA4cA4z9X-lIqmfFYPjj7U0fH6FND1rF6BRwt8X5xzG-mTrd75WBTV_LIIib/s1280/background-4637841_1280%20edit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsyp2lStw75OHIMpmCbUyA4jP6Pwp8OT3R0ellGoHwztKbum-VkXeAsPzxZyyPvhBOMAzzayXu6BP3bJrvuxqyWgc41jfjDCMOKf-ciyKcJFwXC-brUtX5A3jTpUjTYiMiaA4cA4z9X-lIqmfFYPjj7U0fH6FND1rF6BRwt8X5xzG-mTrd75WBTV_LIIib/w526-h296/background-4637841_1280%20edit.jpg" width="526" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>You can read about case studies, including the Development of the Team Around the Cluster Model in Powys, in the recent Welsh Government publication: </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.pavo.org.uk/policy-and-partnerships/children-young-people/news/article/news/nyth-nest-in-action.html">“NYTH / NEST in action - Good Practice Examples of the implementation </a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.pavo.org.uk/policy-and-partnerships/children-young-people/news/article/news/nyth-nest-in-action.html">of the NYTH / NEST framework 2023.”</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Black and white photographs by Myléne from Pixabay.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i><br /></i></span></div><p></p></div></div>Jackie Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05293038655478909058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8753418862245773183.post-49309016409949012012023-08-15T09:31:00.001+01:002023-08-21T09:21:22.004+01:00A Private Land Project Tir Diarffordd <p style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsTTyjJEql3YF4Cp1SiEJ1hP8VNju6M36Dv028vJUF6JzzIQV2kML-w_34MjQxWd9Je43Sxr-fZ_OJfPcXlPOvqX89w876VK-HhkGSpqDeQcjxhiubUiwFpk0UWufCpy6RRFj_tFne1lOKFFGUxMbjjofxCkGLJx8fXt2izQX9Cnx-KeoXZnc6v33cUHgs/s1000/A%20Private%20Land.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="615" data-original-width="1000" height="335" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsTTyjJEql3YF4Cp1SiEJ1hP8VNju6M36Dv028vJUF6JzzIQV2kML-w_34MjQxWd9Je43Sxr-fZ_OJfPcXlPOvqX89w876VK-HhkGSpqDeQcjxhiubUiwFpk0UWufCpy6RRFj_tFne1lOKFFGUxMbjjofxCkGLJx8fXt2izQX9Cnx-KeoXZnc6v33cUHgs/w544-h335/A%20Private%20Land.jpg" width="544" /></a><br /><b style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #bf9000; font-size: medium;"><br />by Susan Adams and Penny Hallas</span></b></p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>What is A Private Land? </b><br /><br />A Private Land is an art-based research and development project, supported by Arts Council Wales and undertaken in collaboration with community groups, with a central theme of the links between emotional and environmental health. Its funded timeframe is February - October 2023, but it is expected that relationships and processes developed in this R&D phase will inform on-going projects.<br /><br /><b>How did the project start? </b><br /><br />Artists <a href="https://susan-adams.co.uk/">Susan Adams</a> and <a href="https://www.pennyhallas.co.uk/">Penny Hallas</a> share deep interest in inner and outer worlds: the intersections between the visible world and the realm of imagination. In searching for a collaborative project in which we could explore these concerns further, we were drawn to the former Mid Wales Hospital, Talgarth, Powys, Wales. After more than a century, its physical remains are falling into the final stages of dissolution and will most likely soon be demolished. But it is of historic importance to the local community and former patients and continues to be a site of intense and complex emotional resonance for many different communities and groups.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidniyCv3IrL9EPm9TCLQwasJKF5T_92dOWYMZgbogI3rTHfoOhGZNNvxvQONrgr8-zwv5wlxERr8JsbYZ8MBuJGM8FJDcvHJITdnEmFnj4-rr12PB4eKuW6bmrGlEj76VzPSYty1-NYVRTNKEistp2wc9ZU8pIQlN9f6JokrM5LTeumpERT4ZlQy_78mOp/s1500/hospt.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1001" data-original-width="1500" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidniyCv3IrL9EPm9TCLQwasJKF5T_92dOWYMZgbogI3rTHfoOhGZNNvxvQONrgr8-zwv5wlxERr8JsbYZ8MBuJGM8FJDcvHJITdnEmFnj4-rr12PB4eKuW6bmrGlEj76VzPSYty1-NYVRTNKEistp2wc9ZU8pIQlN9f6JokrM5LTeumpERT4ZlQy_78mOp/w523-h350/hospt.jpg" width="523" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><b>What are the main themes?</b></div><br />Our project references geographical and psychological territories and the nature of the boundaries that may both protect and / or restrict us. Where are we positioned in relation to boundaries: how much choice do we have and can past actions and decisions be reconsidered? Whose voices are heard and who is remembered? Whereas many other former hospitals (e.g. Ely or Whitchurch in Cardiff, Bethlem in London and Glenside in Bristol) have preserved memories and artefacts, patient voices and stories, we've noticed that it is particularly difficult to find accounts from the people who received treatment at Talgarth. So we have tried to enter imaginatively into the Talgarth site and the hidden stories it suggests, and we invite the voices of people who have experienced mental health issues there or do so currently in the community. Culminating in co-produced arts events/installations, we are trying to form new narratives in creative ways before both site and memories are lost to us. <br /><br />Our project touches on important but sensitive issues and themes, and we are aware of the need for both courage and delicacy to work together with everyone involved to follow the project through with care. Negotiating strong and contradictory feelings evoked by the project themes in participants, communities, organisations and ourselves is a large part of our work. This includes adapting to a wide and sometimes conflicting range of views as to what is or 'should be' private and what can be shared. <br /><br /><b>Who are your partners?</b><br /><br />We are encouraged by the support and involvement of our partners. Arts Council of Wales; Brecon and District MIND; Powys Teaching Health Board; Research partner, writer and historian Dr Bob Adams, BSc, MB BS, FRCPsych, M Psychotherapy; Creative mentor, Mel Brimfield, Royal College of Art. We're particularly grateful to Marie Davies, CEO at Brecon and District MIND and to Lucinda Bevan, Arts in Health Co-ordinator, Powys Teaching Health Board, for the inspiration, experience and ideas that shaped our plans as well as the support in safeguarding, risk assessments, levels of consent and observation of service protocols that gave us confidence to go ahead. <br /><br />These were our key partners, but one of the pleasures of the project has been the way unexpected alliances have emerged. For example, the arts organisation PEAKcymru have lent us technology that was outside our budget but has been key to engagement. And mid-way through the project, artists, writers and an art psychotherapist responded to our invitation to form a community artist peer discussion group, inspired by Bethlem Gallery's Questions of Care online workshop earlier this year. Together we shared some of the dilemmas and pleasures of community engagement and all agreed this should be an on going group. <br /><br />In methodology, our project follows the many existing models of good practice in exploring these themes, including artist-led projects, some of which are listed in the resources and links section.<br /><br /><b>What has been happening in the project so far?</b><br /><br />Our activities have included looking inward to our own emotional and artistic journeys, and outward - to historical archives, online resources, other former hospital sites and communities and arts engagement with local community groups.<br /><br />Research activities have included initial consultation with our research partner and our creative mentor to deepen our understanding of historical context and help identify the shape of our own and collaborative art activities. We visited Glenside Hospital Museum to see how they have turned their former chapel into a lively resource for the local community and a centre of good practice in dealing with historic and current attitudes to mental health.<br /><br />From the earliest days of the project we knew that a visit to the Mid Wales Hospital archives, held at Powys Archives in Llandrindod Wells, would be vital to getting a sense of hidden stories. We were able to view registers, case notes, maps and other documents that fall outside the 100 year limitation on viewing but it was the personal accounts, letters and photographs that touched our hearts. We're unable to share photos for this research and development project, but this may be possible in any future phase. Both of us have made images inspired by what we saw. This one is by Susan.</span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaB7ie9sZAmi8XPhwJhWHF8g_y-CmwlTGLOwyyQUmmHmDresvr0098L_5mUITkskctzJxW88CsByJ7Xv7T8JX-haiNZhAGoQLV7yXsG31IPaZS893asBApQq2s9geVMyFd7czUR6InsAdDTld06HdW2_CE0HAEX_uHKjjAwpN1mZ4sH0MZNnD6ai-ZKE8h/s1024/withblanketreduced.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1000" height="403" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaB7ie9sZAmi8XPhwJhWHF8g_y-CmwlTGLOwyyQUmmHmDresvr0098L_5mUITkskctzJxW88CsByJ7Xv7T8JX-haiNZhAGoQLV7yXsG31IPaZS893asBApQq2s9geVMyFd7czUR6InsAdDTld06HdW2_CE0HAEX_uHKjjAwpN1mZ4sH0MZNnD6ai-ZKE8h/w394-h403/withblanketreduced.jpg" width="394" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;">Arts engagement has been through a series of arts workshops as well as digital input and engagement to extend reach. Our initial ideas were simply to offer a broad range of options for workshop participation including audio, video, animation, textiles as well as more traditional art media, based on the areas of expertise we have developed in our own practices. We wanted to meet people first though, to find out what they would like to happen so we had three initial meetings, at Brecon, Talgarth and Hay Mind groups. From these meetings we learnt that some people were interested in the Mid Wales Hospital and had memories to share, whilst others made it clear that they preferred to focus on the natural and environmental elements of the project. So we devised four activities that we offered across all three groups: weaving with foraged and natural materials, making simple animations, making slides for projection with flowers and creating a thaumatrope - an optical toy. We hoped that all these activities would allow multiple points of entry so that people could join in to the level that they felt comfortable with. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7dzFVo8u4h5gd24NJzleHZvkR58X_PFQwVhzYysSaVulayiW0c6mPAAaYWOT6zzh6Zr4YomYyZ3rE_5hKNfPXCqveE2fHPbRE-VroNEVpAauZU9dN52pPTTIK56VjKb3c1m9pHIkUeChjvRrChy72crrYFvYpSebMGQhk8q2q2cz87CmnDcV-uJF8LsdM/s3000/private%20land%20collage%204.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="3000" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7dzFVo8u4h5gd24NJzleHZvkR58X_PFQwVhzYysSaVulayiW0c6mPAAaYWOT6zzh6Zr4YomYyZ3rE_5hKNfPXCqveE2fHPbRE-VroNEVpAauZU9dN52pPTTIK56VjKb3c1m9pHIkUeChjvRrChy72crrYFvYpSebMGQhk8q2q2cz87CmnDcV-uJF8LsdM/w582-h209/private%20land%20collage%204.jpg" width="582" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">There have been six workshops so far and we will be doing a demonstration / workshop at Felindre Ward, Bronllys Hospital too. We've seen amazing levels of engagement and enthusiasm. Quite a few people wanted more time to continue their artworks, so in addition to the workshops we have supplied materials and activity packs. We have welcomed the contribution of people who preferred not to use art materials, but who kept us company and joined in the conversations.</span></div></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidBRDAUepXzmnMl1eqbU3sKGTX5h6r4AXIPbGbUhl4arNyvAWGwN21FPnlpAwMg17SlETh4PnxeYDprN9d84EQBqielJyUhdWSDYr5dpi3EEYO0dLjCRIf5l8Gg5lMU8ed4rL_XY07dsCDNFCTlRvJ3KCu4Nlq1zFtXe_UyIbRYqJ0br-yuUQo011t0q1h/s2500/private%20land%20collage%203.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="2500" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidBRDAUepXzmnMl1eqbU3sKGTX5h6r4AXIPbGbUhl4arNyvAWGwN21FPnlpAwMg17SlETh4PnxeYDprN9d84EQBqielJyUhdWSDYr5dpi3EEYO0dLjCRIf5l8Gg5lMU8ed4rL_XY07dsCDNFCTlRvJ3KCu4Nlq1zFtXe_UyIbRYqJ0br-yuUQo011t0q1h/w584-h210/private%20land%20collage%203.jpg" width="584" /></a></div></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />Participants at the Brecon & District Mind workshops told us about the tiny but packed Museum in the Old Post Office in Talgarth which they thought would have artefacts relating to A Private Land. So we made a visit and were surprised and delighted to find objects, images, artworks and records from the Mid Wales Hospital, donated by the community. <br /><br />We met so many people with fascinating tales to tell. This thread has led us to adapt our plans for final events in order to be part of the Talgarth Festival <br /><br /><b>What will happen next and how can people get involved? </b><br /><br />We'll be having final events to show what we have all done together in the project and to continue to gather stories and memories. We'll be inviting people to bring any artefacts they may have from the old hospital site to help form an archive and preserve memories. The events are free and open to all, so please do come along and spread the word. <br /><br />We'll be having a stall at <b>Talgarth Festival on Saturday 26th August</b> making contacts, offering more opportunities for sharing stories verbally, through art making and display of objects. We plan a shared walk up to the old hospital site, late afternoon / early evening. <br /><br />There will be a co-produced exhibition at <b>The Muse, Brecon, 28th and 29th October</b>, with guest artists, a writing / poetry workshop, performers and poetry reading. And of course, more opportunities for people to contribute. Full details of all our events will be posted on A Private Land / Tir Diarffordd Facebook page <br /><br />We've only been able to give a broad overview of our complex project in this blog, but if you would like to see more we have been keeping a record of most of our activities and engagement on our Artist Information Company blog: <a href="https://www.a-n.co.uk/blogs/a-private-land-tir-diarffordd/">https://www.a-n.co.uk/blogs/a-private-land-tir-diarffordd/</a> Brecon and District Mind suggested we set up a Facebook page (QR code below) to help keep in touch with participants and as a focus for ideas / exchanges so there's lots to see there too and we'd love it if people would like to add comments and posts. We're happy for people to contribute in language of choice. Croeso i chi gyfrannu yn y Gymraeg!<br /><b><br />About the artists</b><br /><br />Susan Adams lives near Brecon and Penny Hallas lives near Crickhowell, forming a kind of triangle with Talgarth. Both artists have extensive experience of working with communities, in education, health and with a wide range of organisations and institutions. They have exhibited widely in Wales and internationally. You can see more of their work on the links below.<br /><br />Susan Adams <a href="https://susan-adams.co.uk/">https://susan-adams.co.uk</a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/susan_j_adams/?hl=en">https://www.instagram.com/susan_j_adams/?hl=en</a><br /><br />Penny Hallas <a href="https://www.pennyhallas.co.uk/">https://www.pennyhallas.co.uk</a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/pennyhallas/?hl=en">https://www.instagram.com/pennyhallas/?hl=en</a><br /><br /><b>Resources and links </b><br /><br />PEAK cymru <a href="https://www.peakcymru.org/">https://www.peakcymru.org</a><br /><br />Talgarth Museum <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TalgarthMuseum">https://www.facebook.com/TalgarthMuseum</a><br /><br />Glenside Hospital Museum <a href="https://www.glensidemuseum.org.uk/">https://www.glensidemuseum.org.uk</a> <br /><br />Bethlem Gallery <a href="https://bethlemgallery.com/">https://bethlemgallery.com</a> <br /><br />Outside In <a href="https://www.instagram.com/outsidein_uk/?hl=en">https://www.instagram.com/outsidein_uk/?hl=en</a> <br /><br />The restoration Trust Change Minds Project <a href="https://restorationtrust.org.uk/change-minds/">https://restorationtrust.org.uk/change-minds/</a><br /><br />Mendip Hospital Cemetery <a href="http://www.mendiphospitalcemetery.org.uk">http://www.mendiphospitalcemetery.org.uk</a><br /><br />High Royds Hospital website, Talgarth page <a href="http://www.highroydshospital.com/resource/mid-wales-hospital-talgarth/">http://www.highroydshospital.com/resource/mid-wales-hospital-talgarth/</a><br /><br />The role of Arts in Improving Health and Wellbeing </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/929773/DCMS_report_April_2020_finalx__1_.pdf">https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/929773/DCMS_report_April_2020_finalx__1_.pdf</a><br /><br /><a href="https://www.wahwn.cymru/"></a>The Wales Arts Health & Wellbeing Network (WAHWN)<a href="https://www.wahwn.cymru/"></a> <a href="https://wahwn.cymru/">https://wahwn.cymru</a></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO4UNP3WJ379ryGuvuIpaDP1eb_xt17we1RSjS76k4fteBdPnKLSSN68sPMygU5Gfn2rp3HLQTslu_kpm2kzXSNpCLiBY7D_Q4z4x7f2B8djC8wCp-H6v-SFUJp8HEvPYDx2zqWIjDKvcfplUvm-5bxmTC4lm_-2vculSe4MCfMytWB4aLEOGggQ6S5t25/s300/A%20Private%20Land.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO4UNP3WJ379ryGuvuIpaDP1eb_xt17we1RSjS76k4fteBdPnKLSSN68sPMygU5Gfn2rp3HLQTslu_kpm2kzXSNpCLiBY7D_Q4z4x7f2B8djC8wCp-H6v-SFUJp8HEvPYDx2zqWIjDKvcfplUvm-5bxmTC4lm_-2vculSe4MCfMytWB4aLEOGggQ6S5t25/w216-h216/A%20Private%20Land.png" width="216" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcqy9LH4trkCR0YkjegtXdDe_7LLCpZ6LXs8wCMaXK-9-B85UQXgQN_J0-qg0nB1qnfIQQnPGmA5HDk1dFteYjLxcRX3tq4FHtF8UwgjAusZnvf-w2cnwnvD2Txymze4qUNIg1M9kn1_A1nz-1rqK3E0TK3wSPIKv-q9OF0DjjDv4-K_1Jh0K4Ghb4-jyq/s1080/private%20land%20logos.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcqy9LH4trkCR0YkjegtXdDe_7LLCpZ6LXs8wCMaXK-9-B85UQXgQN_J0-qg0nB1qnfIQQnPGmA5HDk1dFteYjLxcRX3tq4FHtF8UwgjAusZnvf-w2cnwnvD2Txymze4qUNIg1M9kn1_A1nz-1rqK3E0TK3wSPIKv-q9OF0DjjDv4-K_1Jh0K4Ghb4-jyq/w236-h236/private%20land%20logos.jpg" width="236" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>Jackie Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05293038655478909058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8753418862245773183.post-82453947802230502182023-07-27T11:01:00.000+01:002023-07-27T11:01:00.635+01:00A busy summer for our mental health reps<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidjjz-0vINNRESR2hr5y6ZdRBxLsL-yr84rq50-it9QkgMQJc-zpnL2d9UPF0LBgAq0WN6LUvrtCKObbm9X-IxFRM2LI-pno9-3_0obrJCUwt6Af-h3CrbobPkYtUo9HK1Qgg7o0-0JSRbBSwc2b96fGUhwbgKDZyj5H4bh7XKp48rCi-Y2Wyl6UYtQu6O/s900/MH%20reps%20summer%202023%20(4).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><img border="0" data-original-height="755" data-original-width="900" height="413" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidjjz-0vINNRESR2hr5y6ZdRBxLsL-yr84rq50-it9QkgMQJc-zpnL2d9UPF0LBgAq0WN6LUvrtCKObbm9X-IxFRM2LI-pno9-3_0obrJCUwt6Af-h3CrbobPkYtUo9HK1Qgg7o0-0JSRbBSwc2b96fGUhwbgKDZyj5H4bh7XKp48rCi-Y2Wyl6UYtQu6O/w493-h413/MH%20reps%20summer%202023%20(4).jpg" width="493" /></span></a></div></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: medium;">by Owen Griffkin, Mental Health Participation Officer</span></b></div><br />The Mental Health Service User and Carer Representatives have had an enormously busy summer so far this year. I have been with them all over Powys helping them get out and about around the county.<br /><br />When I first started in my role as Mental Health Participation Officer in 2017 it seemed that I was constantly out and about around Powys. Most of my work involved attending meetings or events either on my own, or accompanying the mental health reps to their meetings. Obviously lockdown meant that much of work life moved online, and one benefit of this was that lots of these work meetings continued online. This allows us to have people from all over Powys, and sometimes Wales, present at a discussion instead of having to travel to Llandrindod, or Newtown or wherever the meeting is. This is really useful in some situations, and it has allowed the reps more access to people working in Mental Health services in Powys.<br /><br />Unfortunately, there was also a downside, as there was less opportunity for the reps to speak to people in communities which is the most important part of their role. That’s why it has been so refreshing to start running Meet The Rep events all over Powys, and to start attending community events with the reps. I think I have driven more miles in the last month than I did in the previous year.</span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmgs3dGwiGHph-RQ4CJWNkig4s04iAaDdXzYbsfvQX6zhcVhyJdoW1rvQIM2auOuTu8bIWe3g5wBTih3C3KUvE_d6LBGv4w-7Yky_LqCXgXnBsLPPmYVa14aGGeRqGEa-Yd_GI83Iktz5o-5A_QouviBV7m2Rrke0v-zGTXpphqm2h8YahnDVTKm9tWMWU/s1000/MH%20reps%20summer%202023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="976" data-original-width="1000" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmgs3dGwiGHph-RQ4CJWNkig4s04iAaDdXzYbsfvQX6zhcVhyJdoW1rvQIM2auOuTu8bIWe3g5wBTih3C3KUvE_d6LBGv4w-7Yky_LqCXgXnBsLPPmYVa14aGGeRqGEa-Yd_GI83Iktz5o-5A_QouviBV7m2Rrke0v-zGTXpphqm2h8YahnDVTKm9tWMWU/w445-h434/MH%20reps%20summer%202023.jpg" width="445" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sally and Sarah at the Help & Information event in Machynlleth</td></tr></tbody></table></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://www.powysmentalhealth.org.uk/meet-your-reps/" target="_blank"><br />The current reps - John, Sally, Sarah and Rhydian, </a>decided that they wanted to get back out and make sure people knew who they were, and who they could speak to if they wanted to have a say in the way the Mental Health service is delivered. Therefore in June we held two Meet The Rep events in Newtown and Welshpool Ponthafren, and also attended a community Help and Information event in Machynlleth and a Pride Picnic organised by Credu at Llanfyllin Workhouse. <br /><br />The reps set up stalls full of information about their roles, and spoke to people about their experiences of mental health services. There were activities as well that were relevant to the event. For example at the Pride Picnic, Sarah made some paper fortune teller origami sets. These were fun and dispensed tips on self-care as well as drawing people to our stall.<br /><br />Sarah Dale said: <i>"We as reps have been extremely busy in the north of Powys, out meeting people and discussing the work we do and some of you shared your views on the service. I believe as reps we cannot represent mental health service users and carers without gathering feedback. Every piece of information we gather does make a difference. Sometimes we may be able to help get you in touch with other organisations that may be able to help such as community mental health advocates. I understand that from the outside you may not know what happened to your feedback. I want you to know I try my very best to ensure each issue is addressed and actions taken to ensure that the service is fit for purpose.<br /><br />I really enjoy organising activities for community engagement and meeting different people and networking with local organisations. I like listening to other people's experiences. Just listening can make a person in a difficult situation feel less alone, and talking to someone who has no affiliation with a specific organisation (I am just another service user) makes them feel more heard and understood, and brings that trust that we will ensure that their voice is heard. It can give people hope.<br /><br />After a long break hopefully you will see us out and about again real soon.”</i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivTwWxDf7qJ4f0eAgqk_MqiRFJ1-dcn2Vfi8ipratPzRBQeNgSF6q43S5KipfHfnv1LiFbcAoIgQa9qA-BNgP1IF7yOQenUjh2mb5WcQaMN7eUIOkKSH2m-jFnOhYTxBg3sjkV4vHR_h_4XaIB-6kUgCremUf4of1MckUL_3FdJbKX2oyItn72EU5hf-kG/s1000/MH%20reps%20summer%20(5).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="707" data-original-width="1000" height="343" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivTwWxDf7qJ4f0eAgqk_MqiRFJ1-dcn2Vfi8ipratPzRBQeNgSF6q43S5KipfHfnv1LiFbcAoIgQa9qA-BNgP1IF7yOQenUjh2mb5WcQaMN7eUIOkKSH2m-jFnOhYTxBg3sjkV4vHR_h_4XaIB-6kUgCremUf4of1MckUL_3FdJbKX2oyItn72EU5hf-kG/w486-h343/MH%20reps%20summer%20(5).jpg" width="486" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sarah and Sally at the Pride Picnic in Llanfyllin</td></tr></tbody></table></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />The serious part of the events was making sure that we gathered feedback from people about their experience in Powys and added these to an issues log. This issues log is then taken to a quarterly meeting with the Service Managers for Mental Health in Powys and any actions that are taken due to the feedback are noted and can be reported back to the person who gave the feedback in the first place. <br /><br />Sally Houghton-Wilson said: <i>“Having attended a few events, it's been really helpful to understand people's opinions, point of view and feedback on how they are finding the services, and what works best for them, what hasn't been helpful, and what their expectations are. It's nice to learn all about their experiences. And gives a clear indication of what's lacking within the system.”</i><br /><br />The reps have also been continuing with their normal duties, attending Engage to Change and the <a href="https://www.powysmentalhealth.org.uk/mental-health-services-in-powys/nhs-mental-health-services-planning/">Mental Health Planning and Development Partnership</a>, which takes up a lot of their time. In fact, the reps now chair the Engage to Change meeting. <i><span style="color: #6aa84f;">(The Engage to Change group has been established to more widely promote the Mental Health Planning and Development Partnership’s activity, to proactively challenge any stigma associated with mental health and to collect service user views / experiences, co-ordinate resolution and feedback on resulting change, to people using services).</span></i></span></div><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><div><span style="font-family: arial;">There have also been three <a href="https://www.powysmentalhealth.org.uk/powys-patients-council/ppc-meeting-updates/" target="_blank">Patients’ Council meetings</a> where the reps listen to people’s experiences on the Felindre Ward.<br /><br />Sarah delivered three Self Injury Awareness sessions to foster carers, staff from Child & Adolescent Mental Health Services’ teams and school nurses. These have been very well received and are helping to give people who are likely to come into contact with people who self harm the knowledge they need to have a caring and compassionate conversation, and not judge the people they speak to.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxI8XlsDAHJjXnQsdg9a8D3g1qZZxOdH79G3143NJkeb9Dru0xdprFRjdHnv3e-Ptk3BZJOYvqfLVe-TDQvlzhmdzTgzswBdcxuKdjaPDgVNvMna5gFDd6ZrYTRK0YYS_vscqEiNUIRcOCgMNS-ejZacYxnS-2HvgY8r3xmUFOEu-AjYmRSKkPGmuvbQSz/s1200/MH%20reps%20summer%20(6).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="951" data-original-width="1200" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxI8XlsDAHJjXnQsdg9a8D3g1qZZxOdH79G3143NJkeb9Dru0xdprFRjdHnv3e-Ptk3BZJOYvqfLVe-TDQvlzhmdzTgzswBdcxuKdjaPDgVNvMna5gFDd6ZrYTRK0YYS_vscqEiNUIRcOCgMNS-ejZacYxnS-2HvgY8r3xmUFOEu-AjYmRSKkPGmuvbQSz/w464-h368/MH%20reps%20summer%20(6).jpg" width="464" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">John and Josh at the Wales Mental Health & Wellbeing Forum in Llandrindod</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;">It was also a pleasure for Powys to host the quarterly meeting of the Wales Mental Health and Wellbeing Forum in Llandrindod. This national group is a chance for all the service user reps from around Wales to meet and discuss what is happening in their area, and prepare reports that are sent to the Welsh Government. As Powys was the host, it fell upon John Lilley to chair the meeting. John gave an overview of co-production in Powys Mental Health services and there was a lot of approval from the group in regards to the work we are doing here.<br /><br />John Lilley said: <i>“Having attended several national forums in the past, and chairing one online during Covid, I knew roughly what was expected when it came to chairing in person. I was still a little nervous when the date came round and was grateful for Josh from Practice Solutions (who facilitates the forum) for co-chairing and Owen’s help in the regional update.<br /><br />Knowing most of the attendees certainly helped calm the nerves and on the whole, I enjoyed the experience, though being a hybrid meeting I found it challenging to monitor the online screen for hands raised but with help from Josh I managed. <br /><br />At times it was difficult to keep discussions relevant and on time but with gentle reminders of the agenda this became easier. Would I do it again? Yes and I also recommend people to try it. I found it a great learning opportunity and it boosts one’s confidence.”</i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizJ0sQ7uFaYMRS1d6iDMIIsS3NUNnqM36gtXB4u3SG2IaJ1o0tvqa_2Q6kKFyss8p9Dq-EN8LQf_V94-63KWl-XRTJbZPcY_-c5P6BWH6p1Jr0BfSF-dQa5SFSOZUR5LwHKzpSYpY9m9WFnf8CgoJtPhcWnmSbDKFJ_lPrrn1Tmt4ThLxwma-rApAAWkek/s1300/MH%20reps%20summer%202023%20(3).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="925" data-original-width="1300" height="349" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizJ0sQ7uFaYMRS1d6iDMIIsS3NUNnqM36gtXB4u3SG2IaJ1o0tvqa_2Q6kKFyss8p9Dq-EN8LQf_V94-63KWl-XRTJbZPcY_-c5P6BWH6p1Jr0BfSF-dQa5SFSOZUR5LwHKzpSYpY9m9WFnf8CgoJtPhcWnmSbDKFJ_lPrrn1Tmt4ThLxwma-rApAAWkek/w490-h349/MH%20reps%20summer%202023%20(3).jpg" width="490" /></a></div></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />Summer is traditionally a quiet time for the reps, a time to reflect on the year so far and plan for the future. However this summer they have really gone above and beyond what is expected of them in their roles, proving how much they deserved to receive the <a href="https://bit.ly/PVOY2023MHreps" target="_blank">Outstanding Contribution award at this year's Powys Volunteer of The Year Awards.</a><br /><br />If you would like to get involved in having your say in services, and be informed when there are future vacancies, then please fill in this expression of interest form <a href="https://forms.gle/mTVbMGWz6qaVxwNW7" target="_blank">here.</a></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdFLLfVwhC_OReCDiJHhqiq2OynNS_gqKzqRMVr6NaGOq6BnT_CvyGf5oubl8Qq2FKOOBvzg56JGP6IvDRbEud_TrbFr0zsNqQdI2Hlf70SOfdLW-bZP1EUgOCSOwx3QQsnyDi37BfDDXgmGXja8JuYWGrloTkLxsq1kZsWjrgNgfvvMFp98AKDZsY69-8/s1136/FB%20Experts%20by%20Experience%20logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="639" data-original-width="1136" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdFLLfVwhC_OReCDiJHhqiq2OynNS_gqKzqRMVr6NaGOq6BnT_CvyGf5oubl8Qq2FKOOBvzg56JGP6IvDRbEud_TrbFr0zsNqQdI2Hlf70SOfdLW-bZP1EUgOCSOwx3QQsnyDi37BfDDXgmGXja8JuYWGrloTkLxsq1kZsWjrgNgfvvMFp98AKDZsY69-8/w275-h155/FB%20Experts%20by%20Experience%20logo.jpg" width="275" /></a></div></div><span id="docs-internal-guid-d1e24b26-7fff-d2c5-77a5-ef8b4f043165"><div><br /></div></span></div>Jackie Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05293038655478909058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8753418862245773183.post-48111163682954609772023-07-20T12:00:00.002+01:002023-07-31T14:18:21.487+01:00The Tipping Point: Where next for health and care in Wales?<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfuZgaPaT3UJZuD5l4zJjkUz6RcdLaQKbHXM19XllMic0_ZOY-GGser2be0rGwGITPuzDmPrMu1eCFzQfxew1fRWhAtUsyVeOBoX2tzW6s-oNH630qSX_9IdlJF_ABg0sVuJXlUGEDBH9b0hckyB8p5WjSCrbxln2PxciRsbBZAOFdvjVedwzDp1LTxoxZ/s900/Bevan%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="639" data-original-width="900" height="343" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfuZgaPaT3UJZuD5l4zJjkUz6RcdLaQKbHXM19XllMic0_ZOY-GGser2be0rGwGITPuzDmPrMu1eCFzQfxew1fRWhAtUsyVeOBoX2tzW6s-oNH630qSX_9IdlJF_ABg0sVuJXlUGEDBH9b0hckyB8p5WjSCrbxln2PxciRsbBZAOFdvjVedwzDp1LTxoxZ/w484-h343/Bevan%20(1).jpg" width="484" /></a></div></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /> On 6 July my colleague Sue Newham and I attended the second day of <a href="https://www.bevancommission.org/app/uploads/2023/06/Agenda-for-Tipping-Point-Conference.pdf" target="_blank">this Bevan Commission conference</a> at the Celtic Manor Resort in Newport. <a href="https://www.bevancommission.org/" target="_blank">The Bevan Commission</a> is Wales’ leading health and care think tank - aiming to “challenge, change and champion thinking and practice to ensure sustainable health and care that is fit for the future.”<br /><br />Celebrating 75 years of the NHS in Wales, the conference was described as the “opportunity for an open and honest conversation about the future of our health service.” It was attended primarily by NHS and social care professionals from across Wales, and perhaps more importantly the organisers asked those attending - “What role will you play in finding ways to influence and make change?”<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: medium;"><i>“We are at a tipping point. It is now time for us to face these challenges together and rebuild our health and social care systems to thrive in tomorrow’s world.”</i> </span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: medium;">Bevan Commission</span></b></div><br />The day was packed with knowledgeable and inspiring speakers, presentation sessions broken up by break-out workshops where Bevan Exemplars* and others described their ground-breaking work within the NHS and social care sectors in Wales. The previous day our colleague Sharon Healey (PAVO Head of Health, Wellbeing & Partnerships) had spoken on the work of the PAVO Community Connector Service alongside Dr Carolyn Wallace (Director of the Wales School of Social Prescribing Research) in relation to social prescribing. <br /><br />The key message that came out of the day for me was that the NHS can no longer continue to provide care in quite the same way as it has for the past 75 years. It’s just not sustainable. The NHS employs more people than ever before in its entire history, yet the demand for services is insatiable and cannot be met. It never will be. Because as new treatments are developed, rolled out and information about them shared, people’s expectations and demand for services increases.<br /><br />The day was a bit of a roller coaster mix of highs and lows. Some of the stats around health inequalities were very concerning. But the enthusiasm for innovation, the stories I heard of good practice already happening around the UK - well, there was plenty to be excited about. <br /><br />So here is a small dip into Day 2 at the conference. All of the speakers referred to challenges as well as opportunities. <br /><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: medium;">"The world will not be destroyed by those who do evil, but by those </span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: medium;">who watch them without doing anything." </span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: medium;"><i> </i>Albert Einstein</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></b></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig-GSBaVUGudVS8T8BeZ5lPROb8pZTrTnkdec4CULmiHB3iu6pxsdMVayfpaSudby6b52-YCAHQp6gRq4Yz6OcAljcBveWAvV8yYDyvnWGv0zX72GvwGr3JRE7jBG-R1F9Of1131lzEx9Kq5TzXtvF9rgH6uWh8nvZc-7gDwuWzPdRobqBOCeZths1WrJD/s1002/Bevan%20(4).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1002" data-original-width="900" height="351" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig-GSBaVUGudVS8T8BeZ5lPROb8pZTrTnkdec4CULmiHB3iu6pxsdMVayfpaSudby6b52-YCAHQp6gRq4Yz6OcAljcBveWAvV8yYDyvnWGv0zX72GvwGr3JRE7jBG-R1F9Of1131lzEx9Kq5TzXtvF9rgH6uWh8nvZc-7gDwuWzPdRobqBOCeZths1WrJD/w315-h351/Bevan%20(4).jpg" width="315" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><b>Frank Atherton - Chief Medical Officer for Wales</b><br /><br />Frank spoke about some of the “wicked problems” or constraints to refreshing and carrying out the Welsh Government’s route map of <a href="https://www.gov.wales/healthier-wales-long-term-plan-health-and-social-care" target="_blank">A Healthier Wales - the long term plan for health and social care</a>:<br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: arial;">An ageing and frail population.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">The need for the social care system to mirror the NHS.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Vacancies in the workforce.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Capital infrastructure is not fit for current times.</span></li></ul>Frank also spoke about the public health agenda. In 2003 Sir Derek Wanless, a banker and health advisor, was asked to identify cost-effective approaches to improving public health, prevention and reducing health inequalities. His final report, <a href="https://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/ukgwa/20130107105354/http://www.dh.gov.uk/prod_consum_dh/groups/dh_digitalassets/@dh/@en/documents/digitalasset/dh_4076134.pdf" target="_blank">Securing good health for the whole population</a>, suggested that a shift in focus was needed away from just caring for the sick and into promoting good health.<br /><br />Frank believes that our health is shaped by our environment. He described how all our communities are being increasingly exposed to fast food restaurants, gambling and vaping shops, for example. We need to think about how we address some of these concerns and have “deep, deep engagement with our communities.”<br /><br />After highlighting some of this year’s priorities around redesigning the model Frank said that the “NHS will survive. It needs to grow, transform and develop … with public health at its absolute heart.”<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbOcCM-coqPGaH6d-nWbzJeDD1ncstuY3TrgyWe6VmG54BKsDoBcCMO7x_Cy3p0v2b5m8m-cyE-O3920icVy3zd0RZiRUI6V2Yd31eLlncaj1se5vyBxyoaexSNAXpjZWG5U7y7mLz8gA4FPKitfslGt-LELeOkSMy_DrZJ8ZptTpVIQZEQbz8vegmDaTp/s1200/Bevan%20(6).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="808" data-original-width="1200" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbOcCM-coqPGaH6d-nWbzJeDD1ncstuY3TrgyWe6VmG54BKsDoBcCMO7x_Cy3p0v2b5m8m-cyE-O3920icVy3zd0RZiRUI6V2Yd31eLlncaj1se5vyBxyoaexSNAXpjZWG5U7y7mLz8gA4FPKitfslGt-LELeOkSMy_DrZJ8ZptTpVIQZEQbz8vegmDaTp/w391-h263/Bevan%20(6).jpg" width="391" /></a></div></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Eluned Morgan - Minister for Health & Social Services</span></div><br />“The very fact that we have an ageing population is a sign of the success of the NHS. But we all know that the system is under strain like never before:”<br /><br />More people will be living with dementia, cancer, coronary heart disease, vascular challenges, diabetes and poor mental health. And many people will be living with multiple examples of these challenges.<br /><br />There is a worldwide shortage of health workers.<br /><br />The vision:<br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: arial;">People live longer and healthier lives.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">They remain active and independent.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">They live in a whole system approach which achieves high quality care for everyone in Wales.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Focusing not just on physical but on mental health.</span></li><li>A switch to a system which anticipates health needs and prevents illness.</li></ul>Eluned was clear that If we want a sustainable NHS to hand on to our children and grandchildren we need to work at managing our own health conditions, and also look at our lifestyles - around healthy diet, increased exercise, and alcohol reduction for example - to help lower the demand on the NHS. We need to listen to what matters to patients, but they also need to listen about the limitations of a sustainable NHS.<br /><br />Whilst researching the conference I came across an online piece by Marion Foreman, an NHS nurse, who wrote powerfully in 2018 about an individual’s responsibility to look after their own health: <a href="https://www.england.nhs.uk/blog/our-health-our-responsibility/" target="_blank">Our health, our responsibility.</a> <br /><br />Prevention is key… but how to ensure that this message is heard and taken on board by the population of Wales…?<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: medium;"><i>“Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. </i></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: medium;"><i>We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.” </i></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: medium;">Barack Obama </span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></b></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqgvbvrGOjpy_1KYGtlph9kPH0Nq6xJcv_CXU22W2xidpLFo3tdcck0XzrrZBo7EAmDUnKJuqHKXmgIbB1C0HFHYgN-GsPlJLeYICFTfDpWp2mveSAubaA6H5I_lV8lFpKzjsxcec9ZeFvL2YoGNkUOhcXIgyfbJADy_ZdrI2jGlbXbJozp4G8Bnqnslir/s1300/Bevan%20(3).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="753" data-original-width="1300" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqgvbvrGOjpy_1KYGtlph9kPH0Nq6xJcv_CXU22W2xidpLFo3tdcck0XzrrZBo7EAmDUnKJuqHKXmgIbB1C0HFHYgN-GsPlJLeYICFTfDpWp2mveSAubaA6H5I_lV8lFpKzjsxcec9ZeFvL2YoGNkUOhcXIgyfbJADy_ZdrI2jGlbXbJozp4G8Bnqnslir/w542-h313/Bevan%20(3).jpg" width="542" /></a></div><br /><b>Professor Sir Michael Marmot - The Marmot Approach</b><br /><br />Michael Marmot is Director of the (University College of London) Health Institute of Health Equity, and author of “The Health Gap: the challenge of an unequal world”.<br /><br />Michael’s concern is with <a href="https://www.instituteofhealthequity.org/about-our-work/action-on-the-social-determinants-of-health-" target="_blank">the social determinants of health</a> - “the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work and age and which can lead to health inequalities.” The 2010 Marmot Review looked at the differences in health and wellbeing between social groups and “describes how the social gradient on health inequalities is reflected in the social gradient on educational attainment, employment, income, quality of neighbourhood and so on”.<br /><br />“Why treat people and send them back to the conditions that made them sick?”<br /><br />People in more deprived areas used more NHS services/money than those in less deprived areas. “The UK is a very bad place to be poor.”<br /><br />The framework for action created at the time of the review is known as the Marmot Principles, of which there are now 8 (the original review was revisited in 2020) - early years development (x 2), employment, living standards, communities, ill-health prevention, discrimination, and environmental sustainability. These principles have been taken on by some health boards and Gwent is the first Marmot region in Wales - <a href="https://abuhb.nhs.wales/files/building-a-healthier-gwent/building-a-fairer-gwent/" target="_blank">Building a fairer Gwent: Why Gwent is a Marmot region.</a> <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIf2cmyplWYfpuGMeW9V3DS3zs6E87si5nIGDQlHUXH7gaTbsQ-FXWnv9FEGnz5Um789jPJAFzVYjFavUXzJGGd2dUyND1tgUJE3KXk65bFSbXS61DGjlLNaXViQ9SB-rOFVFzelfWQ9yS1xvybF39I_7F_mfkU0Exa0X2gXSXTqQxLLybgreV1iihoiTH/s1200/Bevan%20(5).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="1200" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIf2cmyplWYfpuGMeW9V3DS3zs6E87si5nIGDQlHUXH7gaTbsQ-FXWnv9FEGnz5Um789jPJAFzVYjFavUXzJGGd2dUyND1tgUJE3KXk65bFSbXS61DGjlLNaXViQ9SB-rOFVFzelfWQ9yS1xvybF39I_7F_mfkU0Exa0X2gXSXTqQxLLybgreV1iihoiTH/w539-h303/Bevan%20(5).jpg" width="539" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><b>Derek Walker - Future Generations’ Commissioner for Wales</b><br /><br />“Acting today for a better tomorrow” - in essence sums up what the Wellbeing of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015 is all about. “And that means in practice, for health, a long-term integrated preventative approach to our health system here in Wales.”<br /><br />One of the five ways of working in the Act is prevention. Everyone agrees that prevention is key, Derek said, but not enough is happening. Derek asked “what is preventing us from putting the focus on prevention?” He pointed out that mental health issues in young people are continuing to rise, and 50% are established by as early as age 14, but there is not enough emphasis on early intervention. <br /><br />Derek spoke <a href="https://www.futuregenerations.wales/resources_posts/advice-to-welsh-government-on-taking-account-of-the-well-being-of-future-generations-act-in-the-budget-process/" target="_blank">of the 4 levels of prevention</a> that have been developed with the Welsh Government and his predecessor Sophie Howe. Each level can reduce demand for the next. The levels start at Primary prevention - building resilience, and build up to Acute spending - which speaks for itself! “(According to Public Health Wales, mental ill health costs society in Wales £7 billion a year.”) The question now is how we spend more time at Level 1.<br /><br />“We need to increase our spend on the social determinants of health faster than acute medical care spending.” <br /><br />Derek noted that the Fire Service has managed to achieve massive change to bring about a 52% reduction in incidents through its investment in prevention and education. Whilst the “example doesn’t transfer automatically across to health care, it is a clear demonstration of where investment in prevention efforts can make a difference.”<br /><br /><a href="https://www.futuregenerations.wales/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/FINAL-Healthier-Wales-Topic-4.pdf" target="_blank">A Journey to a Healthier Wales</a>, from the Future Generations’ office, with a big emphasis on prevention and social prescribing, is well worth a read.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib9p6j-0Hlz_KAHkpcTqiNgTtSxX_jcTUx9GbS-BDrGVdNVlEFHNqgpv0Dbl0wIEwEXrwKNvGPces90Wr8f6gERqo5xaVB3gShJ3LWZthUFL7H3tuWJl-YlouPyQ3z3gRUQMpZgX30v2yH7kbbhl270i4f8TGs3hCKhfiUrEB47ZpZp-Q6UoIoMfAxnnCI/s1200/Bevan%20(2).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="702" data-original-width="1200" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib9p6j-0Hlz_KAHkpcTqiNgTtSxX_jcTUx9GbS-BDrGVdNVlEFHNqgpv0Dbl0wIEwEXrwKNvGPces90Wr8f6gERqo5xaVB3gShJ3LWZthUFL7H3tuWJl-YlouPyQ3z3gRUQMpZgX30v2yH7kbbhl270i4f8TGs3hCKhfiUrEB47ZpZp-Q6UoIoMfAxnnCI/w534-h312/Bevan%20(2).jpg" width="534" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><b>Professor Donna Hall - The Wigan Deal</b><br /><br />Donna Hall, who is described as a “public service pioneer,” is the Chair of <a href="https://www.newlocal.org.uk/" target="_blank">Innovative National Think Tank “Think Local”.</a> She was awarded a CBE in 2009 for innovation in public service.<br /><br />In this 2018 video she speaks to Chris Ham about what happened in Wigan, where she was Chief Executive of the council in 2011, when £160 million was taken out of their budget. They had to transform services and their relationships with the community, NHS and other providers. One of the elements of The Deal was that people took better care of their health. Amazingly The Wigan Deal improved services and resident satisfaction!</span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="344" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mYoepud2Azc" width="525" youtube-src-id="mYoepud2Azc"></iframe></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /><b>Ashley Gould - The Big Nudge </b><br /><br />As part of this inspirational day Sue and I attended a workshop called The Big Nudge on changing people’s behaviours. It was facilitated by Ashley Gould, Programme Director of the Behavioural Science Unit at Public Health Wales. He introduced us to <a href="https://phwwhocc.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/A-Guide-to-Using-Behavioural-Science_ENGLISH.pdf" target="_blank">“Improving health and wellbeing: A guide to using behavioural science in policy and practice.”</a> <br /><br />Here in the mental health team at PAVO we’re more inclined towards the small nudge, and encouraging people to adopt positive behaviours by showing how much difference they have made to other people’s lives, specifically their mental health, be that by <a href="https://bit.ly/WalkTalkBobBlog" target="_blank">walking</a>, <a href="https://bit.ly/LifeAtNo27" target="_blank">gardening</a>, <a href="https://bit.ly/PAVOMHsport" target="_blank">getting active</a> or <a href="https://bit.ly/XmasChoirs22" target="_blank">singing</a>, for example.<br /><br />We’d like to make more of a difference, of course, and look forward to working more closely with not just the NHS but other organisations in Powys to help make the Prevention agenda key to improving people’s health and wellbeing. (We absolutely want the NHS to be around for another 75 years!) If you have any ideas about how we, and the Third Sector in Powys, could work more collaboratively to help bring prevention to the fore, then <a href="https://www.powysmentalhealth.org.uk/contact/" target="_blank">please get in touch</a>!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Gl-k6v4f_tPr9y2xDlY5yRUcPW_D4dhuR2MqG_8pbmLYE-RQqdUSfpDNId1HjWUxdnc1NdbuyFSL6ifJFNPSrC2V9qAOYs9FC_QOyHxjp7uoi2vHuN_XblyjGFrZGg9s6XSnQRF6OzYJtVlw6Q02QpIrbQ1lD2YhmsDs7wQjUCaz751wZtBhGybAxQVd/s1000/Bevan%20(7).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="597" data-original-width="1000" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Gl-k6v4f_tPr9y2xDlY5yRUcPW_D4dhuR2MqG_8pbmLYE-RQqdUSfpDNId1HjWUxdnc1NdbuyFSL6ifJFNPSrC2V9qAOYs9FC_QOyHxjp7uoi2vHuN_XblyjGFrZGg9s6XSnQRF6OzYJtVlw6Q02QpIrbQ1lD2YhmsDs7wQjUCaz751wZtBhGybAxQVd/w453-h271/Bevan%20(7).jpg" width="453" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>You can watch videos of all the keynote speeches at this conference <a href="https://www.bevancommission.org/tipping-point/" target="_blank">here</a>.</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>* <i>Through the Bevan Exemplar Programme, health and care staff across Wales are supported to develop and test their own prudent ideas to improve and transform health and care. Their projects, which are exemplars of innovation and transformation in clinical and community settings, can inform and inspire others to adopt and spread new ways of working across Wales and internationally.</i></span></div>Jackie Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05293038655478909058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8753418862245773183.post-88371085416454878102023-07-13T11:12:00.000+01:002023-07-13T11:12:04.005+01:00Life at No 27 - growing for wellbeing<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXAbatTU6ociVTuLNz6c3GDupEDvbQi8Q5OT8wulRVBH6vh5mMxhirGPXqoXyRaDkqAVJ7zS8XWgjbaxbfnuG_tXfyqPQOt1pLCQ-nkvDcQ03fYHw5dt1d0GbYwUQk7wPS5VrZpxcXiMCzkzS7lhN4TTIDphjvVvosp_AxPyRhLt8ClkLMGHmFIFbZBVJB/s1000/Life%20at%20No%2027%20(7).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="665" data-original-width="1000" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXAbatTU6ociVTuLNz6c3GDupEDvbQi8Q5OT8wulRVBH6vh5mMxhirGPXqoXyRaDkqAVJ7zS8XWgjbaxbfnuG_tXfyqPQOt1pLCQ-nkvDcQ03fYHw5dt1d0GbYwUQk7wPS5VrZpxcXiMCzkzS7lhN4TTIDphjvVvosp_AxPyRhLt8ClkLMGHmFIFbZBVJB/w493-h328/Life%20at%20No%2027%20(7).jpg" width="493" /></a></div></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><i> Life at No.27 is a leading horticultural therapy and mental health counselling provider run as a social enterprise, built with passion at its core and designed to improve lives. The organisation uses nature, conversation and human connection to support anyone experiencing poor mental health, low confidence, self-esteem, and isolation. <br /><br />Since our involvement with the <a href="https://bit.ly/PowysFoodNetwork1">Grow, Cook, Share Powys Network</a> has now come to a close, we are keen to find out more about the opportunities in Powys for therapeutic gardening so that we can promote them far and wide. So we got in touch. <br /><br />Annabelle Padwick, the founder, was more than happy to tell us about <a href="https://lifeatno27.com/">Life at No.27.</a></i> <br /><br /><b>Why did you set up Life at No. 27? And what is the story behind the name? </b><br /><br />I set up the organisation following my own experience with mental ill health and recovery, and the observation that the two things which helped me were private mental health psychotherapy and me getting my allotment. I wanted to create a safe space for others that combined these two therapeutic opportunities into one unique approach that was accessible for everyone. A safe space to talk, explore thoughts and feelings including past trauma, process and heal, alongside a practical outdoor environment to learn new skills, release energy safely, look to the future and believe in myself and my ability with practical tangible evidence. <br /><br />The name, Life at No.27, came in 2015, when I started a blog about my own allotment and mental health journey. I didn’t want the blog to say mental health or gardening as I didn’t want the title to automatically say what it was about, other than my life. I wanted other people to want to read it. My original personal allotment plot number was 27, and I was also 27 when I started the blog.<br /> <br /> Since then, the name has stayed the same and my client allotmenteers have said they like it, especially as it doesn’t say what it is. It gives them more choice on how much they want to tell others about the service.</span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWQmR-f41tvDquk4k8wsnMrzQluXKkcYzKsVEweWsfGztp6byyySzrmK9IFIOn30IN5Fk5Ew0g5q9U26mEQGmKlPHhuSBvw6JFNUOwMU391q-CQcxd5ioGU8t7ELDI_fujQhISjkqro_nD_s-s98Ba5kTsrEVKAtgI7IYOegKZmh2PUHgvbxiNRQG4GX-n/s960/331735794_1371217217048401_1803150967611121526_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="541" data-original-width="960" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWQmR-f41tvDquk4k8wsnMrzQluXKkcYzKsVEweWsfGztp6byyySzrmK9IFIOn30IN5Fk5Ew0g5q9U26mEQGmKlPHhuSBvw6JFNUOwMU391q-CQcxd5ioGU8t7ELDI_fujQhISjkqro_nD_s-s98Ba5kTsrEVKAtgI7IYOegKZmh2PUHgvbxiNRQG4GX-n/w512-h288/331735794_1371217217048401_1803150967611121526_n.jpg" width="512" /></a></div></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b>Tell us briefly about the organisation’s main activities now </b><br /><br />We deliver weekly adult group and 1-1 sessions for all ages over 18, where we offer local people their own Life at No.27 allotment, or access to a Life at No.27 therapy garden for a year, as well a mental health counsellor and therapeutic horticulturalist to support them mentally and practically with learning to grow produce. This is at our therapy garden in Craig y Nos Country Park in South Powys. <a href="https://lifeatno27.com/powys-swansea/" target="_blank">These spaces are free with GP, psychiatrist or social worker referral.</a> We also welcome self-referrals. <br /><br />We also offer fun and relaxing weekly after school club sessions for children aged five years old and above, as well as 1-1 sessions, school intervention programmes and holiday activity clubs. All children are welcome, but the sessions are designed for children struggling with anxiety, low confidence, difficulty understanding and managing emotions and/or have social and emotional needs. <br /><br /><b>Why the move to Wales?</b><br /><br />We moved to Wales personally, and this area in particular, because we love it and wanted to be closer to where my husband was born and his family are, near Swansea and Carmarthenshire. <br /><br /><b>The strapline at Life at No.27 is “It’s not what you grow, it’s how YOU grow!” Tell us more</b><br /><br />It fundamentally means that it doesn’t matter what you choose to grow, whether that’s flowers, carrots, pumpkins or much bigger life ambitions. We want to support you every step of the way and how you grow as a person in the process is what is important.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoF2CTDCrRvJBuJtj0GH3lMHarPS47WdKFo0erLNb4sn9srP_3P_VlOEq4iJ874EbR7zLlvzo3skTumUOYU_dXjwZSRpTqs5oV-NUSERSTH5rTPoFQfGEBcDU1W_mQBmkGtzljyT-bcaWmbSruCw14b9iwvBgD-hHBHQVDZ3qVGwK_YfKYxzpnUVvYmkOg/s800/Life%20at%20No%2027%20(2).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="646" data-original-width="800" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoF2CTDCrRvJBuJtj0GH3lMHarPS47WdKFo0erLNb4sn9srP_3P_VlOEq4iJ874EbR7zLlvzo3skTumUOYU_dXjwZSRpTqs5oV-NUSERSTH5rTPoFQfGEBcDU1W_mQBmkGtzljyT-bcaWmbSruCw14b9iwvBgD-hHBHQVDZ3qVGwK_YfKYxzpnUVvYmkOg/w412-h332/Life%20at%20No%2027%20(2).jpg" width="412" /></a></div></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b>What is it about being outdoors, in Nature, that you think has such an impact on positive mental health? </b><br /><br />I think it’s the combination of being in nature, learning new skills and having a safe, confidential space to talk and explore feelings that can help create positive mental health. <br /> <br /> In terms of being in nature specifically, it’s the most natural and free therapeutic resource for us all. If we slow down and pay attention, nature teaches about patience, resilience, the importance of being present in the moment and the enhanced satisfaction and joy we feel in life when we do slow down and feel every moment. It also teaches us exactly what we need to thrive as well. I always say to people if you forget how to look after yourself, just think about what a plant needs, and if you forget how to look after a plant, think about what you need - it’s the exact same things. Yet at the time it shows our uniqueness, we all have the same but also different needs. We all need food, love, sunshine, nurturing, space to grow, minimal enforced disruption, air, and patience – just in different quantities and ways, and plants are the same. <br /><br />Layer this with the practical elements of getting our hands in the soil and the sensory play experience of feeling, smelling and seeing different plants. We can then lose ourselves in the moment; the fragrances, the noises of grasses and birds, the textures of bark, furry petals or the mindful process of many gardening activities. <br /><br /><b>You have a number of projects running at Life at No.27. Tell us more </b><br /><br />We have our beautiful therapy garden in <a href="https://lifeatno27.com/powys-swansea/">Craig-y-Nos</a>, where we offer a range of services for those experiencing mental ill health, isolation, anxiety, low confidence and/or self-esteem. <br /><br />Here we deliver <a href="https://lifeatno27.com/powys-swansea/">group adult sessions</a> for up to 6 people on Friday mornings, from 10 – 12. These sessions are part of our year long programme mentioned earlier and are free with referral. We come together relax, have a cuppa or two, chat and garden together in our beautiful surroundings. There is no pressure to chat or share with others unless you want to, as I mentioned earlier, it’s all about coming, for yourself, and giving it a go. <br /><br />We also offer 1-1 sessions for adults here which are available on request to suit their availability. <br /><br />Here in Craig-y-Nos, we also offer two-hour adult Seed Sowing and Gardening through the Year workshops every month on Friday afternoons for anyone who just wants to come garden aka play, have a cuppa and relax with others. These sessions are between £15 - £20, with all proceeds going towards our free mental health support services.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJx56BocsCGOQmdIzYjrQpnYeGbeNLV1QkQAltbG_UWyByi_cy42RhQsBwi13ZldcCu0G0G9YW0C7zA-YRJMdqBIuRwLoFsGnB1aGHa2zPrqV45e_VPnMwNbzztKj7B4ThlpQkKgHy2DAcmaW-KKl3He_Rik2SgwVdi5UHEZZzU3bqvr-uV8rv_uhuO3KE/s1200/Life%20at%20No%2027%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1018" data-original-width="1200" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJx56BocsCGOQmdIzYjrQpnYeGbeNLV1QkQAltbG_UWyByi_cy42RhQsBwi13ZldcCu0G0G9YW0C7zA-YRJMdqBIuRwLoFsGnB1aGHa2zPrqV45e_VPnMwNbzztKj7B4ThlpQkKgHy2DAcmaW-KKl3He_Rik2SgwVdi5UHEZZzU3bqvr-uV8rv_uhuO3KE/w444-h376/Life%20at%20No%2027%20(1).jpg" width="444" /></a></div><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>How did you get to work with the Prince and Princess of Wales and how’s that going? </b><br /><br />We were very fortunate that the team from their charity, The Royal Foundation, contacted us after seeing a recent Crowdfunder fundraising campaign we set up for here in Wales, and were really interested in what we do. Following some conversations, the Prince and Princess of Wales were keen to meet with me, help us grow in the area, build more sites and be able to offer our unique programmes to more people. So, at the beginning of this year they announced they wanted to partner with us and start to create a legacy project, that will hopefully mean that they and their team will be on hand for support or guidance when we need it. <br /><br />It’s still early days regarding their support, but I really hope it helps us achieve our vision. <br /><br /><b>Tell us more about your role as an Advisor to the House of Lords </b><br /><br />Yes, this was a wonderful surprise invitation and surreal experience. In June this year, I was invited by the Horticultural Sector Committee to advise and give oral evidence regarding the current landscape of horticulture and mental health. This is part of a horticulture wide industry enquiry and report they are carrying out this year, to look at what is happening on the ground and what legislations need to change in the future in order for the industry to remain sustainable and bright. <br /><br /> I spoke about the work we do, the challenges we face, how social prescribing is currently working for us and what legislations we need urgently for safe, professional care. I also shared my experience and knowledge regarding the challenges within the media’s representation of gardening, and the compelling differences between the mental health of hobby gardeners and those who work as professional gardeners, landscapers or large-scale growers. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtLeOqR6f8HmeFGbTkeV2cNZufjlNG1jmJjO1P5sEs3Qxpz691h7JniZiYWj6EhAq4F2Icv7z5PNUmH3QMwdY0NbKLDWE9zkO3X3Tnpoyinzsva3Sum232xmW4IFR7hv9nd3yQ7RwTs1Se6q0OOjSlT71YhlTtwTqIcgswoH-vyFWuEiVmGBwum_5ZvAOt/s900/Life%20at%20No%2027%20(5).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="753" data-original-width="900" height="367" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtLeOqR6f8HmeFGbTkeV2cNZufjlNG1jmJjO1P5sEs3Qxpz691h7JniZiYWj6EhAq4F2Icv7z5PNUmH3QMwdY0NbKLDWE9zkO3X3Tnpoyinzsva3Sum232xmW4IFR7hv9nd3yQ7RwTs1Se6q0OOjSlT71YhlTtwTqIcgswoH-vyFWuEiVmGBwum_5ZvAOt/w438-h367/Life%20at%20No%2027%20(5).jpg" width="438" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><b>Are school sessions available in Powys schools now, and what happens at those? </b><br /><br />Absolutely! They are available for primary and secondary age school children, across the area. <br /> <br /> Our <a href="https://lifeatno27.com/school-programmes/">alternative education school programmes</a> for children are designed specifically for those who are struggling with the mainstream school environment. The 6 – 12 week, or ongoing two hour weekly sessions, give selected individuals an opportunity to gain more time, space and attention away from the distractions of the classroom. Pupils who benefit massively from these sessions are those struggling with mental health illnesses, difficult home situations, anxiety and low confidence, including those already with a Child & Adolescent Mental Health team and on the SEND (Special Educational Needs & Disability) register with SEMH (Social, Emotional & Mental Health) needs. <br /><br /><b>Feedback from students:</b></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><br /></b><i> “It’s been great! It’s really boosted my confidence.”<br /> <br /> “I really enjoyed the programme and I recommend it to anyone else as it’s really fun and a good opportunity to make cool things and meet new people.”<br /><br /> “It has helped me come out of my shell and have more confidence. I have made a new friend and it has helped me deal with my feelings.”</i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM1dTWhLesaX2Y55TXNHG4esfSNQUAxA-LGvLyIbIn7_DhhfU0KErxAIgUN6D15WDX1Y9OyylQML_XlrqiQ1yyZGR_kMSob5y0ghvGSuRVTKpMPnnedfpj-T0oj4b58qk6-akjQkgkGMYbm5xLvI2eGMHssX_BmqIFWP4rO2TjgHL40vrLQIVhUw3vVxy6/s1100/Life%20at%20No%2027%20(3).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="874" data-original-width="1100" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM1dTWhLesaX2Y55TXNHG4esfSNQUAxA-LGvLyIbIn7_DhhfU0KErxAIgUN6D15WDX1Y9OyylQML_XlrqiQ1yyZGR_kMSob5y0ghvGSuRVTKpMPnnedfpj-T0oj4b58qk6-akjQkgkGMYbm5xLvI2eGMHssX_BmqIFWP4rO2TjgHL40vrLQIVhUw3vVxy6/w431-h342/Life%20at%20No%2027%20(3).jpg" width="431" /></a></div><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>What are the main challenges of your role? </b><br /><br />Funding, accessibility and recruiting currently, and trying to work with and juggle all those challenges at the same time is probably a good summary. <br /> <br /> Accessibility feels challenging right now for us, especially navigating how to engage with other services locally and GP practices who can refer local people to our services. So, any help would be greatly appreciated!<br /> <br /><b> Tell us about some of the most rewarding work you have done at Life at No.27 </b><br /><br />It has to be helping children understand and express their emotions freely and safely. Whether that’s talking, running, sitting quietly and noticing wildlife or covering themselves head to toe in soil. Helping teenagers release the pressures and frustrations they feel, so that they can be a child again for the time they are with me, has to be up there with one of the most rewarding parts of our work too. <br /> <br /> I will never forget seeing one of our past adult allotmenteers taking home a full family meal worth of home grown produce they had grown with no previous experience and their pride when they cooked and served it for their wife and two children. <br /><br />I could keep going, but I guess for me the most rewarding work is when I see people being able to be fully themselves, with no restrictions or societal pressures impacting how they feel and behave. As well as teaching people new practical and emotional skills that really help them grow in confidence and self-belief. Those smiles, release in their eyes, the pride in their stance and weight off their shoulders. <br /><br /><i> “Meeting Annabelle and joining the Life at No.27 programme changed the course of my life, and I will forever be grateful for her and her team for being there for me when I felt unheard and alone. Life at No.27 was pivotal for me. I have a long way to go on my mental health journey, but knowing she will always be there if I ever needed her again, is comfort enough to try to work through life’s challenges.” </i><br /><br />You can read their full testimonial <a href="https://lifeatno27.com/2023/02/10/testimonial-from-a-life-at-no-27-allotment-holder/">here</a>. <br /><br /><b>When you’re not working how do you enjoy spending your time? </b><br /><br />I love anything creative, so painting, drawing and printmaking in my studio, and I spend a lot of my spare time growing my own produce and currently getting ready to welcome our own sheep. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9OyxqM1M0AhKT2etjA0RhgCTi-bK-kVdHCDfJ1U0OyhDcWNrciz8wB-P9xXlrImaQo8Pe-rpJRps1y6LvtLVAb_nqMfcvDrlper3Zrd5BGel_QTfBJEzxceD-axvJhiIa4KFjfJu9sSilLIPl-jVTT55PHpTkYk_M4gwtYU1YhPYV-AzYAXltFAK_A-R9/s3495/Life%20at%20No.27_header%20+%20slogan.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="988" data-original-width="3495" height="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9OyxqM1M0AhKT2etjA0RhgCTi-bK-kVdHCDfJ1U0OyhDcWNrciz8wB-P9xXlrImaQo8Pe-rpJRps1y6LvtLVAb_nqMfcvDrlper3Zrd5BGel_QTfBJEzxceD-axvJhiIa4KFjfJu9sSilLIPl-jVTT55PHpTkYk_M4gwtYU1YhPYV-AzYAXltFAK_A-R9/w502-h141/Life%20at%20No.27_header%20+%20slogan.jpg" width="502" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Many thanks to Annabelle for telling us all about Life at No.27. </i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>If you would like to find out more, <a href="https://lifeatno27.com/">check out the website</a> or contact Annabelle by emailing: <a href="file:///C:/Users/a_pad/Downloads/annabelle@lifeatno27.com">annabelle@lifeatno27.com</a></i></span></div></div>Jackie Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05293038655478909058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8753418862245773183.post-3311691991455326072023-06-29T10:30:00.000+01:002023-06-29T10:30:52.120+01:00The Fathom Trust – health and healing through Green crafts<p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLMvUR8I7wBW5tJ7umihhSVXDo1oGj_LPHTpAUms_x43I-zPRaVBxQUN6xcefEVmNDBHzie5KXsIiu-XZbq6o_ftVb2Q08FP-LGb3u6BrTqi1hBy-TOoZwNoVOZbaPxGtsJuL3h2oPMLeP4huDOsMl-GA57cu37_O3VKDdYwMQdhKumpV0PSoPOFt1aM6P/s700/Cob%20Building.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="552" data-original-width="700" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLMvUR8I7wBW5tJ7umihhSVXDo1oGj_LPHTpAUms_x43I-zPRaVBxQUN6xcefEVmNDBHzie5KXsIiu-XZbq6o_ftVb2Q08FP-LGb3u6BrTqi1hBy-TOoZwNoVOZbaPxGtsJuL3h2oPMLeP4huDOsMl-GA57cu37_O3VKDdYwMQdhKumpV0PSoPOFt1aM6P/w406-h320/Cob%20Building.png" width="406" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Back in 2020 Jess Tanner worked for Brecon & District Mind as an Ecotherapist <a href="https://powysmentalhealth.blogspot.com/2020/02/green-minds-ecotherapy-project-south.html">leading the Green Minds Ecotherapy Project</a>. Jess now works for the Powys charity The Fathom Trust as an Ecotherapist and Community Gardener. <br /><br />We spoke to Jess to find out more about The Fathom Trust, and how coming together as a community to craft and connect with nature can enrich lives.</i></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6d2g9LGliUqjfBaY2iN3jbK-uiVBa5juOneFZY5Vi3QdGkKOkDPWgHNR26hZ4Db45MOSqDznukp10NgBDz3uPbJN8D4WFP4scwAb8xzLjclIj2w3Is5yKW8wfFhBFYidDqum7cMyGZjsmhuvusVcCVcmG37FPi04SrPvt47GNYeVU552srxSR4HMcHRtv/s600/Jess%20Tanner%20_%20course%20lead.jpg" style="clear: left; font-family: arial; font-weight: 700; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="544" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6d2g9LGliUqjfBaY2iN3jbK-uiVBa5juOneFZY5Vi3QdGkKOkDPWgHNR26hZ4Db45MOSqDznukp10NgBDz3uPbJN8D4WFP4scwAb8xzLjclIj2w3Is5yKW8wfFhBFYidDqum7cMyGZjsmhuvusVcCVcmG37FPi04SrPvt47GNYeVU552srxSR4HMcHRtv/w236-h260/Jess%20Tanner%20_%20course%20lead.jpg" width="236" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jess Tanner, Ecotherapist</td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>What is your role with The Fathom Trust? </b><br /><br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;">I lead the six week <a href="file:///C:/Users/jackie.newey/Documents/PAVO%20Mental%20Health%20team/social%20media/blog%20articles%20others/Blog%20question%20posts/Fathom%20Trust%20blog%20post%20(2).odt#:~:text=The%20Fathom%20Trust&text=By%20learning%20to%20reflect%20on,others%2C%20and%20the%20natural%20world.">“Making Well – Health & Healing through Green Crafts”</a> course at <a href="https://fathomtrust.com/stories/making-well-health-healing-through-green-crafts/">The Fathom Trust</a>. Located in Bwlch, Making Well runs four times a year and is centred around the kitchen and cut flower gardens and outdoor craft workshops. We work alongside a local, visiting craft practitioner on every course. <br /><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div>Crafts taught at Making Well have included willow weaving, horticulture, pottery, green woodwork and cob building. Our sessions are rooted in the seasons and our craft practice is very much guided by nature and the growing gardens that surround us. <br /><br />We’re currently working to build stronger referral partnerships through our local GP surgeries, Brecon & District Mind as well as Credu, who we are welcoming to Making Well for the first time this summer for series of day-long craft and nature-connection workshops. We welcome referrals from mental health teams in the community, and self-referrals are also welcome if people feel the course will benefit them.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Tell us more about The Fathom Trust </b><br /><br />The charity, which is based between Brecon and Crickhowell in south Powys, was founded three years ago by Dr William Beharrell, formerly a trainee psychiatrist and NHS Manager, with an interest in health innovation. Its mission is <i>“to promote physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing using traditional crafts to restore life-giving connections to body, soul, nature and society.” </i>It has lots of new projects developing. <br /><br /><b>Craftsmanship, Conservation and Contemplation – how do these three aspects work together to support healing? </b><br /><br />It's about tending and coming into relationship with all three of these aspects – how we tend to ourselves, others and the landscape around us. By working with our hands; with willow, wood and earth, and through gentle mindfulness and movement practices we come into a practice of noticing ourselves and the world around us. At Making Well we hold nurturing and healing spaces in which to come together as a community to share our individual and collective experience. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYAC2Fon7agHSCylAdfZF3_-GNkF79gHpScg61jq6GPM8HxGbpu0tQ0fhprRhj_4UgNCFzChuqRz5qkXj-JmlirM-oNPlx4kuL0FQ4xdXb-urknJLlv7gtNfQsxveGqGy1m1qIxifMvoAqXy9bkCpvPMCyNtxXC5iRPvKdtaQqMcVbzVT7HKYIC-OHCR-A/s785/Willow%20work.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="538" data-original-width="785" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYAC2Fon7agHSCylAdfZF3_-GNkF79gHpScg61jq6GPM8HxGbpu0tQ0fhprRhj_4UgNCFzChuqRz5qkXj-JmlirM-oNPlx4kuL0FQ4xdXb-urknJLlv7gtNfQsxveGqGy1m1qIxifMvoAqXy9bkCpvPMCyNtxXC5iRPvKdtaQqMcVbzVT7HKYIC-OHCR-A/w413-h282/Willow%20work.png" width="413" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>How can The Fathom Trust support people who are struggling with their mental health?</b></div><br />We support participants to improve their current health and wellbeing by cultivating skills, friendships and a deeper connection to nature. Our team of experienced practitioners provide a nurturing space for groups to come together, and are on hand to offer the compassion and guidance needed to meet people at their own pace. Our practitioners come from a diversity of backgrounds within wellbeing and craft-making and there is a real sense of collaboration within each Making Well course. <br /><br />We offer a taster day ahead of each course which gives people chance to meet the team and each other and get a sense of whether the course is something they'd like to take part in. We feel that the taster days are a really important aspect of the course and help people to see what might be possible for them and what they might be able to achieve over the 6 weeks, especially after any long periods of ill health or feelings of isolation. If throughout the day participants find taking part in the group activities a challenge, we have a therapeutic practitioner at Making Well that is able to offer 1-1 walk and talks if needed. Each Making Well course is a closed group which we find helps build a stronger sense of community over a short period of time, and provides a fertile space in which to develop new skills and meaningful friendships. <br /><br /><b>What happens on the course? </b><br /><br />Each session follows the same rhythm of coming together for a morning grounding and contemplative nature-connection practice, followed by small group morning and afternoon craft sessions. Halfway through our day we stop for a seasonal, nutritious lunch which is cooked onsite in our outdoor kitchen. We also weave in time throughout the day for time to reflect and share in our different experiences of crafting and being in nature. <br /><br />Welcoming new craft practitioners keeps our work growing and evolving. It's great to be able to come into contact with so many different natural materials which often bring about a different set of experiences for those taking part. There are different challenges and moments of insight that can be discovered within each material and craft-making process.</span></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnFyJrRB2X7uFh4wveASDqby8PvZkwZOPW9RApupZ2hkSszM0Vbp9ftwvybiQIqL2jgkxIjHDnoz2qWXVDa-L89OBxoPz6OuOnlMnBgG23gEbrJHABrzfcZCRCTpR2xzONEybNcY_IBPQ5ubC1OVTtTnW35D5pZ76t4mDcDMK5Q9LSKunLN1TtINqGukuS/s843/Planting.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="843" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnFyJrRB2X7uFh4wveASDqby8PvZkwZOPW9RApupZ2hkSszM0Vbp9ftwvybiQIqL2jgkxIjHDnoz2qWXVDa-L89OBxoPz6OuOnlMnBgG23gEbrJHABrzfcZCRCTpR2xzONEybNcY_IBPQ5ubC1OVTtTnW35D5pZ76t4mDcDMK5Q9LSKunLN1TtINqGukuS/w450-h294/Planting.png" width="450" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="font-family: arial;">Can 6 weeks make a big difference?</b></div></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />From my own experience of the healing and restorative potential held within nature, and from the privilege I have of guiding and witnessing others through their own experience throughout the 6 weeks, I do believe so. I am reminded of a Mary Oliver poem “When I am Among the Trees” and the constant source of reconnection and sense of belonging that she speaks of that is never too distant, and that through a slow crafting of tending to each moment within us and around us, we can begin to see and experience life in new ways. <br /><br />We are in the process of creating a new digital story bank at Fathom with the intention of weaving together the many and diverse experiences of the way participants have valued their time at Making Well. Once these are published we will be able to draw upon a much wider range of the depth of experience each course can offer. It's really important for us to keep growing and to know that what we offer here is always in service to our community and to the landscapes we inhabit, so these story sharing opportunities are vital for our continued practice of being able to respond to, and be malleable, within times of change and uncertainty that many of us are constantly adapting to.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirD4OQUD_DUvBxfi0vtY5czKRtF81uSKmwIwz3yyuNg_jGUWPMRNxtKFnIG5TPzSFIM-XsTpffdtf7dus0LwTs1Ddp5tJ2TGW64lhQXJKqU-kMizrkF8cmOZC6N11YDn8NIz75uWnBDLiD75ZwRxCdmY_12TEHbT03RjPY1ptUewn5_ISSgk_mlHh-4bvd/s841/Cob%20making.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="545" data-original-width="841" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirD4OQUD_DUvBxfi0vtY5czKRtF81uSKmwIwz3yyuNg_jGUWPMRNxtKFnIG5TPzSFIM-XsTpffdtf7dus0LwTs1Ddp5tJ2TGW64lhQXJKqU-kMizrkF8cmOZC6N11YDn8NIz75uWnBDLiD75ZwRxCdmY_12TEHbT03RjPY1ptUewn5_ISSgk_mlHh-4bvd/w439-h284/Cob%20making.png" width="439" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Although everything that we offer at Making Well is invitational, it is through participation that we can experience the most benefit, so we encourage and support everyone to take part wherever they can. We don’t see Making Well as an isolated experience and we hold and nurture a space together as a community over the 6 weeks that might help to cultivate new ways of thinking, feeling, and experiencing that we hope will offer little seeds that people will continue to tend to. Tending is a big theme of what we cultivate – tending to the garden, one another and ourselves and the realisation that we are all part of this world. We all share similar stories around our struggles, our fears and feelings of isolation. At Making Well we create a space to share and support one another, and that can offer a huge sense of relief and respite to those that join us.</span></div></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b>What impact does this course have on participants? </b><br /><br />There is some really interesting evaluation work that has been done on this by the Wales School of Social Prescribing Research in conjunction with several universities. You can read more on our website <a href="https://fathomtrust.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Impact-Day-Fathom-Trust-Updated-Report-30.01.23.pdf">here.</a> <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmw1Nr3rPZCNfJZ7JAUCbaDCJWP1-xWmOo6Dg4w2GdzknbfWrNpyYuL6DuqZQ_kdIc2cfDayfsIpZ22gYkgOVMh8_zbnPPujRmXlGTjgUIdyw6nZfcmKVKF6bSgVG2StnQeChul20HwA048lx_qq-mMlMAh9_iFE-u-7I3zPXPKcpYfLaAoQWjIG7B4r2j/s800/Heather%20dickens_willow%20worker.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmw1Nr3rPZCNfJZ7JAUCbaDCJWP1-xWmOo6Dg4w2GdzknbfWrNpyYuL6DuqZQ_kdIc2cfDayfsIpZ22gYkgOVMh8_zbnPPujRmXlGTjgUIdyw6nZfcmKVKF6bSgVG2StnQeChul20HwA048lx_qq-mMlMAh9_iFE-u-7I3zPXPKcpYfLaAoQWjIG7B4r2j/w393-h294/Heather%20dickens_willow%20worker.jpeg" width="393" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heather Dickens, willow weaver</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><b>How can people and communities contribute and benefit from The Fathom Trust? </b><br /><br />The Trust is trying to grow wellbeing and craft hubs – and also to grow the network of landowners and practitioners taking part across Powys. We have a Crafters’ Café at Brecon Cathedral which is part of Making Well – it’s a drop-in craft café in the Tithe Barn every Tuesday within term time run by Heather Dickens our willow weaver. <br /><br />The Trust is also looking for other sites to set up more Making Well programmes – with a vision to link each cluster of GP surgeries to a 6 week course, so that the referrals are held much more within our local communities. Currently some people travel from a fair distance and we want to limit that where we can within Powys. <br /><br />Long-term, funding permitting, we hope Making Well courses will pop up throughout the county. They might be shaped a little differently according to the surrounding landscapes and local need, but each will be anchored in our approach to craft, conservation and contemplation. <br /><br /><b>Which other organisations are you working with this summer? </b><br /><br />We’re also working with Credu (Connecting Carers) over the summer holidays for the first time offering sessions for young and adult carers’ groups.</span></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-vwy0aHGn4oCDx9fDla9-J2HnSm7zH1mw6TymqJva8DuGklzm01-QWVQBD1fBKCvnSVVLxYtmMjyQMEdav2qk_LFmVZF4rES1CI1Fcd5IFGcjaT6Zo_7z226QnRDXtTpQ63CkOg9oBzrLgx9xkhQ4czasDvJmhQDXKEyoeC4yp5S_3vdxMVabDP8yvKIJ/s819/Lantern%20Making.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="585" data-original-width="819" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-vwy0aHGn4oCDx9fDla9-J2HnSm7zH1mw6TymqJva8DuGklzm01-QWVQBD1fBKCvnSVVLxYtmMjyQMEdav2qk_LFmVZF4rES1CI1Fcd5IFGcjaT6Zo_7z226QnRDXtTpQ63CkOg9oBzrLgx9xkhQ4czasDvJmhQDXKEyoeC4yp5S_3vdxMVabDP8yvKIJ/w406-h290/Lantern%20Making.png" width="406" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="font-family: arial;">What are the main challenges of your role?</b></div></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />It’s getting the message out there and reaching people, it takes time but we are starting to build momentum as we strengthen our local partnerships. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">By working outdoors, we also work with the changing weather and terrain, we want Making Well to be as accessible to as many people as possible, so we are constantly looking at ways that we can adapt our offer to suit everyone’s mental and physical strengths and limitations. <br /><br />We will be inviting professionals to come and join us for an open day to see how Making Well can support those they are supporting. Some of the <a href="https://www.pavo.org.uk/help-for-people/community-connectors.html" target="_blank">PAVO Community Connectors</a> have taken part so can then speak about it which is especially useful for those referring in. That’s worked out to be a very natural partnership that we hope to keep growing. <br /><br /><b>What do you get out of working for The Fathom Trust? </b><br /><br />So much. I am always reminded how important it is to come together as a community and how much we all need that and the space to come and share and express who we are in a supportive environment. I get huge joy in sharing the many nature-connection activities we offer, gardening together in groups, skill sharing, and holding space for people – it feels a real honour to do that. Also seeing the difference in people from a taster day to the end of the course is wonderful and the ways that people slowly unfurl themselves and open out to the world around them as the course goes on. <br /><br />It's such a joy to see how participants on Making Well make each invitation to explore nature and craft-making their own, and take time to tune into nature and themselves in ways they might not have done or had the time to do so before. It's just a great privilege to see the growth that can happen over such a short period of time and the friendships that blossom and how people begin to trust in their own capacity for becoming and being well. We work with the natural world to create a rhythm and a nurturing environment for people to come into, but it’s always about the unique constellation of participants that join us that make each course the healing and regenerative experience it becomes. <br /><br /><b>When you are not working for The Fathom Trust, how do you enjoy spending your time?</b><br /><br />I love to potter, grow and make things. I like to write songs and take long walks with my hammock. In the garden, or under the night’s sky, is where I find my sense of sanctuary.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn7_QzvslXZdj8SJT5iSyf7Jpbics6HyXnmef6ASMC9qUpYeCDVRy_Vg1I-wjHO0hb8lcj2v0-m0XbHvP2bX0_iPTO1D9RZ6FNnsQ2dcd8du44YdKxSO6GrpoBEvZ_vwE-U8cc3HiSxbdu-R_--EqLoBp_LdtvjXG1nPkFUdS7hith4_aif6Ns3O7NDQdp/s400/fathom%20trust%202.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="400" height="152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn7_QzvslXZdj8SJT5iSyf7Jpbics6HyXnmef6ASMC9qUpYeCDVRy_Vg1I-wjHO0hb8lcj2v0-m0XbHvP2bX0_iPTO1D9RZ6FNnsQ2dcd8du44YdKxSO6GrpoBEvZ_vwE-U8cc3HiSxbdu-R_--EqLoBp_LdtvjXG1nPkFUdS7hith4_aif6Ns3O7NDQdp/w152-h152/fathom%20trust%202.jpg" width="152" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i>If you want to find out more about The Fathom Trust, </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>you can contact Jess by emailing: <a href="file:///Users/jessicatanner/Desktop/jess@fathomtrust.com">jess@fathomtrust.com</a></i></div><i><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>The next Making Well session starts with a taster day on 14 September. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>You can sign up on the online referral form <a href="https://forms.gle/cj1YEWwdVigaT2f78">here.</a></i></div></i></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></div></div>Jackie Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05293038655478909058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8753418862245773183.post-85996902746309956172023-06-22T14:07:00.001+01:002023-06-22T14:25:18.622+01:00Our team Get Active for positive mental health!<p style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9bRFet3jz2ObAp9gxsXAW6YBouNBHrtubZI7bDfH_xMMtWjcL3dP0GeHkkOIosUSOj2Ztphe7ry0iLGIwzwMErn7eoHW2NtcPekeuFQOsaqo1GMJBJTQyth6vsFT8wAfVCTlp39o6WSk3IZgt-RYWUmSxJEEIAsxh7IYZiTkbTVbNWXYAJLQb9lRFfJFa/s1000/Staff%20development%20day%20walk%201%20edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="851" data-original-width="1000" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9bRFet3jz2ObAp9gxsXAW6YBouNBHrtubZI7bDfH_xMMtWjcL3dP0GeHkkOIosUSOj2Ztphe7ry0iLGIwzwMErn7eoHW2NtcPekeuFQOsaqo1GMJBJTQyth6vsFT8wAfVCTlp39o6WSk3IZgt-RYWUmSxJEEIAsxh7IYZiTkbTVbNWXYAJLQb9lRFfJFa/w499-h424/Staff%20development%20day%20walk%201%20edit.jpg" width="499" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Owen Griffkin, Mental Health Participation Officer, on a walk with PAVO colleagues</td></tr></tbody></table></p><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>There is plenty of evidence that getting active is beneficial to your mental health. </i><a href="https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/a-z-topics/physical-activity-and-mental-health" style="font-style: italic;">The Mental Health Foundation</a><i> and </i><a href="https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/tips-for-everyday-living/physical-activity-and-your-mental-health/about-physical-activity/" style="font-style: italic;">Mind</a><i> have both written extensively on the subject, and in previous blog posts we have featured Be Active as one of the </i><a href="https://powysmentalhealth.blogspot.com/2017/11/five-on-five-ways-to-wellbeing.html" style="font-style: italic;">Five Ways to Wellbeing</a><i>.</i><br /><br /><i>This summer of sport we asked the members of our PAVO Health & Wellbeing team: </i>“How does a sport or physical activity that you take part in impact positively on your mental health and emotional wellbeing…?"<br /><br /><i>Here are some of the team's favourite ways to exercise to good mental health.</i><br /><b><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Andrew Davies - Participation Officer, Health & Wellbeing</b></div></b></span><div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Tug of War</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: arial;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxXZEINsa3ngJNu-jGsnpvEKOUmA7sUvaulq7GOTEskflE9_HaUcc-SP_WgumLoD2n8W1J8JetZDRR2cp7R__Ce8DzG3yQIVEFG5oREnBFrD2Xi-TteZl8vkAk3EN1TanRLnwZ0nyfA_f11AmKhwhA0WfkdZ-GxEXtsjCw6xk0ZRFAFWaq-HrT7bEqHwl0/s1100/Andrew%20tug%20of%20war%20edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="1100" height="337" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxXZEINsa3ngJNu-jGsnpvEKOUmA7sUvaulq7GOTEskflE9_HaUcc-SP_WgumLoD2n8W1J8JetZDRR2cp7R__Ce8DzG3yQIVEFG5oREnBFrD2Xi-TteZl8vkAk3EN1TanRLnwZ0nyfA_f11AmKhwhA0WfkdZ-GxEXtsjCw6xk0ZRFAFWaq-HrT7bEqHwl0/w537-h337/Andrew%20tug%20of%20war%20edit.jpg" width="537" /></a></div><br /></b></div><span style="font-family: arial;">For the past two years members of our local young farmers' club have competed in the tug of war competition in the county Rally. The team is in its early years so far. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">I have taken the role of assistant coach which has been a privilege and has also helped with my mental health. It means that I get to spend time in a more masculine company, as working in a more feminine work environment and living with two daughters I do not spend much time in the company of other men. It is something that I did not realise I missed until having that time.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Ceri Williams - formerly a Health & Promotion Facilitator, now a Community Connector</b></div></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #e69138; font-family: arial;"><b>Pilates</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIA1lm98TIcXrDPCw-Cjmr7nQauRp9k1a_3zoHY4_DSqtdp7_5pnipvxhQl6CXyIytcTwUyVznkuIBXjQeDJmEVFkDhbCn1mfovtCecpwx1RKNqyiBiav6Jw5gWhYAWSahCRFFsK6dEbugv2LT6t_h_2NzyaXR2YaTxSYSdIvu2bSSD3hjm-vFojjAUg/s1600/Ceri%20Pilates%20edit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1005" data-original-width="1600" height="335" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIA1lm98TIcXrDPCw-Cjmr7nQauRp9k1a_3zoHY4_DSqtdp7_5pnipvxhQl6CXyIytcTwUyVznkuIBXjQeDJmEVFkDhbCn1mfovtCecpwx1RKNqyiBiav6Jw5gWhYAWSahCRFFsK6dEbugv2LT6t_h_2NzyaXR2YaTxSYSdIvu2bSSD3hjm-vFojjAUg/w533-h335/Ceri%20Pilates%20edit.jpg" width="533" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: 700;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;">Pilates for me is grounding. Now that I am able to do a live class from my home I feel I can relax in to it more and can hold on to the peacefulness through the evening and there is no self consciousness if I suddenly realise I can’t hold the pose for long.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Jackie Newey - Mental Health Information Officer</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: arial;"><b>Drystone walling</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkIwrDiSBe7K1TnM4LvpE0KkHnhaVlHJK2-RPNqnFIGiMMaWpOAlqpJ7tBTWV9QVHdd4pLa_rFj6ViLaSmha8CqUZZ64lit_kWG31eErPUmlz9Et4R7cX0MWmqAI_keKVG9eJ6H8Y6rR63g3Y6jqckFQV30qv_3cXBkB1zaPdtMciX_IKHpv5ZisKM4g/s2070/Jac%20in%20garden%20April%202022.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2068" data-original-width="2070" height="361" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkIwrDiSBe7K1TnM4LvpE0KkHnhaVlHJK2-RPNqnFIGiMMaWpOAlqpJ7tBTWV9QVHdd4pLa_rFj6ViLaSmha8CqUZZ64lit_kWG31eErPUmlz9Et4R7cX0MWmqAI_keKVG9eJ6H8Y6rR63g3Y6jqckFQV30qv_3cXBkB1zaPdtMciX_IKHpv5ZisKM4g/w361-h361/Jac%20in%20garden%20April%202022.jpg" width="361" /></a></div><b><br /></b></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;">I don’t go to a gym but for me drystone walling is the “green” equivalent of “pumping iron” in our garden. It involves gathering, and then arranging, many extremely heavy rocks! And before that the wall foundations have to be dug.<br /><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">I have to concentrate so hard on finding the best shaped rocks for the wall that it takes my mind to a completely different place, away from any day-to-day worries and wholly immersed in the activity. <br /><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">The sheer physical effort of lifting the rocks into place surely releases some feel good factor exercise hormones! The walls can take some time to build. Time well spent in regard to my mental wellbeing.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Jen Hawkins - Communications Officer / Health & Wellbeing Information Officer</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #e69138; font-family: arial;"><b>Spin class</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #e69138; font-family: arial;"><b><br /></b></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmPFDTuurnU-RKUJmLsfwakNGUeXwuLnE1XmRSFq14N_Zv3CBt2-8bFBcjhvVhC8_dhX471p6nFfUyL3w74OIJiv-zYCWWoVVW7W6Sx5Z5IC_kMbPHcvE9E4kntQqhIpH-cpTwe2TgGmpj45qYiw2wVLUAEO7TWautfkEeuzLLBgIiwkYxpa0PwS1qXyU-/s877/Jen%20on%20smoothie%20bike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="877" data-original-width="600" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmPFDTuurnU-RKUJmLsfwakNGUeXwuLnE1XmRSFq14N_Zv3CBt2-8bFBcjhvVhC8_dhX471p6nFfUyL3w74OIJiv-zYCWWoVVW7W6Sx5Z5IC_kMbPHcvE9E4kntQqhIpH-cpTwe2TgGmpj45qYiw2wVLUAEO7TWautfkEeuzLLBgIiwkYxpa0PwS1qXyU-/w283-h414/Jen%20on%20smoothie%20bike.jpg" width="283" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jen on a smoothie bike at a recent staff day!</td></tr></tbody></table><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;">I was missing my endorphin high from running due a knee injury and needed something to replace it. I love walking and swimming but I don’t get quite the same benefits to my mental or physical health. I’d avoided Spinning for years as the thought of taking part in a spin class terrified me. As a last resort I pushed myself to join a class last year. I was completely out of my comfort zone, I didn’t know anyone and was really nervous. It was hard work and I knew I’d had a work out at the end of the session.</span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">To my surprise I loved it. The pace of the class, the music and the sense of achievement, whilst feeling part of a group and getting to know new people, gave me a real mental boost when I was feeling incredibly low and not myself at all. I’ve now got more of a spring in my step and I’ll continue to spin even when I start running again.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: arial;">Lucy Taylor - Startwell Officer</b></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Horseriding</span></b></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmwpGvEdbt8TagG552wSwJFoco3i2SkFsleD8iVhPqRHFhEqI3oQPfSIAc6lzdQCpy84xB3zQ9VUz5OwQrb45Fc7WKegWijoAk8wangElsrVwqqWW-Jc6yW3H6kLiEphrVnjExQTmMjGIBcGtSkeiAsHtGZ44r_neg6NuzeIgW4nUyOR3j3QESGG3rdg/s600/horse%20riding.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="465" data-original-width="600" height="321" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmwpGvEdbt8TagG552wSwJFoco3i2SkFsleD8iVhPqRHFhEqI3oQPfSIAc6lzdQCpy84xB3zQ9VUz5OwQrb45Fc7WKegWijoAk8wangElsrVwqqWW-Jc6yW3H6kLiEphrVnjExQTmMjGIBcGtSkeiAsHtGZ44r_neg6NuzeIgW4nUyOR3j3QESGG3rdg/w414-h321/horse%20riding.jpg" width="414" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div>I love horse riding and would like to do more. When you ride it is a partnership with the horse, you cannot ride without their cooperation. I think it helps your mental health as horses ask nothing from you, nothing more than you can give that day. They are very good listeners and do not ask questions. The daily tasks of mucking out and grooming give you a repetitive task that is relaxing.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Owen Griffkin - Participation Officer, Mental Health</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #e69138; font-family: arial;"><b>Tennis</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #e69138; font-family: arial;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #e69138; font-family: arial;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVo_Dv0zAPtFpupD8A5P3f856P2d1_fDg4EReUrAXAvAzJKNIr-FpS_QclfR4jcLBZsKPnu4rFllPkuxqtnoQjfxoIDw2jw8-YBYDp0y6tGon4IMDGuObHDdmqzpG13MH6Etq7mfe8XsrD-N6rpJWJzDiADwf58XR4NbnCn0QrfJ06GSWDjkjhxF-iaPz8/s1153/Owen%20tennis%20Oct%202022%20edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="798" data-original-width="1153" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVo_Dv0zAPtFpupD8A5P3f856P2d1_fDg4EReUrAXAvAzJKNIr-FpS_QclfR4jcLBZsKPnu4rFllPkuxqtnoQjfxoIDw2jw8-YBYDp0y6tGon4IMDGuObHDdmqzpG13MH6Etq7mfe8XsrD-N6rpJWJzDiADwf58XR4NbnCn0QrfJ06GSWDjkjhxF-iaPz8/w497-h344/Owen%20tennis%20Oct%202022%20edit.jpg" width="497" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: 700;"><br /></span></div></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;">Now the sun is trying its best to return from its winter break, I have started playing more tennis at Llandrindod Tennis Club. I’ve even joined the league team, playing in the Montgomeryshire League. I’ve really enjoyed it so far and found it very beneficial for my physical and mental wellbeing.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Sharon Healey - Head of Health, Wellbeing & Partnerships</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: arial;"><b>Walking & cycling</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: arial;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: arial;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Z-IJoB2MG8Nh-xYroiB1vg4lt2hcDfIq1MtIaop9TliVC67ifqlpy0M4EjpOJ-mTyytYswcZBWNRw3kURgxb6dbL3Dar9OHp6r8UXQfEsO8eGVroZTeWyzZmIBqvMcrWgdhD2DE8fKAdJx7xewbYnAH_KTubTo8PXgzQZb26zSzBSimAYp1k-VCZt83I/s1535/Sharon%20early%20morning%20walk%20edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1535" data-original-width="1200" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Z-IJoB2MG8Nh-xYroiB1vg4lt2hcDfIq1MtIaop9TliVC67ifqlpy0M4EjpOJ-mTyytYswcZBWNRw3kURgxb6dbL3Dar9OHp6r8UXQfEsO8eGVroZTeWyzZmIBqvMcrWgdhD2DE8fKAdJx7xewbYnAH_KTubTo8PXgzQZb26zSzBSimAYp1k-VCZt83I/w314-h402/Sharon%20early%20morning%20walk%20edit.jpg" width="314" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: 700;"><br /></span></div></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">I start most days with a 1.5 mile walk around my village. It gives me a positive start to the day and helps my mental well being and physical health. Living in the countryside, close to a large river, often gives me the opportunity to see wildlife playing early in the morning whilst walking.</span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />At weekends my husband and I like to cycle to a point of interest or a cafe. We enjoy taking part in an activity together which is environmentally friendly and often has a reward of cake at the end!</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: arial;"></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Sue Newham - Engagement Officer Health & Wellbeing and Lead Officer Mental Health</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #e69138; font-family: arial;"><b>Jive class</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQjszM7WwY9iN7YaASU8_8zCW7dPi60-1klv_mcfoneBgI6SZzQWJ6HEFWvD8dYomkWxQOAEuz3WlFkR9x5SM6ATVO-_ijazn2QIPnvGBkmNCkuPwdcNhzXAe9vrX6_AnrgZcu57tq7mqWQbNLFZv_jH7B0-9w_1Xs6pWRe-TUf0X9YpUymOPZzbJ3aA/s2192/Sue's%20dance%20shoes.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2192" data-original-width="1871" height="367" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQjszM7WwY9iN7YaASU8_8zCW7dPi60-1klv_mcfoneBgI6SZzQWJ6HEFWvD8dYomkWxQOAEuz3WlFkR9x5SM6ATVO-_ijazn2QIPnvGBkmNCkuPwdcNhzXAe9vrX6_AnrgZcu57tq7mqWQbNLFZv_jH7B0-9w_1Xs6pWRe-TUf0X9YpUymOPZzbJ3aA/w313-h367/Sue's%20dance%20shoes.jpg" width="313" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Over five years ago, my husband and I went along to a local jive class, where we spent a bumbling but cheerful year in the beginners’ class. Circumstances meant we couldn’t go any more, but recently I started to see FaceBook adverts for another jive class, sadly when my husband is working. <br /><br />Recently, I took the plunge and went along. I was as uncoordinated at jive as I knew I would be, but the people were friendly and accepting. The two hours passed really quickly. It was fun! I went home and ordered some proper dance shoes to protect my knees against twisting. I’ve been twice now and am so glad I took the plunge. No way are you getting a photo of me dancing, but you can see my dance shoes! :-)</span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Thanks to everyone in the team for telling us about their favourite sport and exercise. Let us know in the comments box below about how you are "getting active" for positive mental wellbeing.</i></span></div></div></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><i><br /></i></span></div>Jackie Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05293038655478909058noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8753418862245773183.post-3490370719540661862023-06-01T10:54:00.000+01:002023-06-01T10:54:18.199+01:00Wellbeing Wednesdays at Powis Castle and Garden<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGGwjINwCe53gMwqHKOfKaPrIlHuxGM-BO8uhw2ixUzGkNpSPxinjE4yne6oqjqhiXJoODKWuioYDPhhax0N04Hc_cvDGbCwYN1Gr-EN8FcJWCsGg1XLitXlW_OAxmBaeG4cvtXSwX386ULIj043z2ZAxUqVJ3NaIUVAQWk8TPGLrLPoYNPaNF7KL1qQ/s640/sforw6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="443" data-original-width="640" height="347" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGGwjINwCe53gMwqHKOfKaPrIlHuxGM-BO8uhw2ixUzGkNpSPxinjE4yne6oqjqhiXJoODKWuioYDPhhax0N04Hc_cvDGbCwYN1Gr-EN8FcJWCsGg1XLitXlW_OAxmBaeG4cvtXSwX386ULIj043z2ZAxUqVJ3NaIUVAQWk8TPGLrLPoYNPaNF7KL1qQ/w500-h347/sforw6.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><i style="font-family: arial;">Cared for by National Trust Cymru, <a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/wales/powis-castle-and-garden" target="_blank">Powis Castle and Garden</a> is a much-loved property in the north of Powys on the outskirts of Welshpool.</i></div></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><i><br />From the world-class garden, with its 17th century Italianate terraces and gigantic clipped yews, there are stunning views for miles over the picturesque countryside surrounding this Medieval castle. A visit can in itself be a boost to emotional wellbeing as we respond to the beauty of the gardens and engage with Nature. <br /><br />Recently we were excited to hear about <a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/wales/powis-castle-and-garden/events/885d0149-3c2c-4c2b-827b-651914ee7df4" target="_blank">Wellbeing Wednesdays</a> at Powis Castle, which are open to anyone and focus on improving mental health and wellbeing whilst being surrounded by the beauty of nature. We got in touch with Alison Dunne, Senior Volunteering and Community Officer there, to tell us more. </i><br /><br /><b>What is your role at Powis Castle? </b><br /><br />From being a history student to bringing my own children to visit, I have always enjoyed visiting Powis and other National Trust places. The different outdoor spaces and heritage sites gave us endless days out wherever we happened to be. <br /><br />My role at Powis is to open up opportunities to different people through volunteering and to encourage local people to enjoy Powis and everything we have to offer at this special place. <br /><br />Most of our visitors live outside our local area. Part of my role has been to connect with local community groups to find out what they feel is a barrier to them coming to visit us at Powis and trying to overcome those barriers so they can fully enjoy this fantastic place right on their doorstep. <br /><br />Powis’ community ambition is to support the wellbeing of the local community and inspire people to become advocates of the National Trust.</span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj06dnN3ISL1C7I_qgmF8yDpBQh-4UvfmHB6GkpsF6fatuwwd90ICgcBZp4tlWMCgHbBe6RyKD_mIUrzQbnsZ4gv2Jow58rege1oz3Wra2hV5VMDYpx9nBxzUq4it8jw5AxxSNDruRI6isllvy70cYP_yUrMn3cXW85Ari1Lh1OCjd961U1Sxn1ygrcRg/s640/S%20for%20W1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="441" data-original-width="640" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj06dnN3ISL1C7I_qgmF8yDpBQh-4UvfmHB6GkpsF6fatuwwd90ICgcBZp4tlWMCgHbBe6RyKD_mIUrzQbnsZ4gv2Jow58rege1oz3Wra2hV5VMDYpx9nBxzUq4it8jw5AxxSNDruRI6isllvy70cYP_yUrMn3cXW85Ari1Lh1OCjd961U1Sxn1ygrcRg/w481-h332/S%20for%20W1.jpg" width="481" /></a></div><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>What happens on the weekly Wellbeing Wednesday? </b><br /><br />Wellbeing Wednesdays take place every Wednesday morning at 10am and are open to anyone who would like to come along and join in. Whilst for the most part the sessions will be a chance to soak up the beauty on a walk around our stunning gardens, we also have several special sessions planned. <br /><br />To mark <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/mentalhealthawarenessweek?__eep__=6&__cft__%5b0%5d=AZU2ItnPgcW_9fToT-WK75h4yp5kIDxtBOMZJ0cLt1c_3cKBxF7m7aKBjS_d9feq5ppJAjobzfsqQo9pVu2jpwZL4GyGUGmCx37-yE3ptwyZasCvFl3jld_bOFcJ9DJdvtsAAM4jWZ5RW3KYFObeuNzuRYwwQqNWdjkQJfLTHI81pLpLgz-NKFqkOFzzLik3_5E&__tn__=*NK-R">#MentalHealthAwarenessWeek</a>, on Wednesday 17 May we held a Singing for Wellbeing session led by Cathy Beech of Angel Voices Singing. On June 14 we’re looking forward to a Mindfulness Walk with Catherine Waterfall from Good4Mind, and on 12 July we are running a gentle yoga session on the lawn in our tranquil Edwardian Formal Garden. <br /><br /><b>Where did the idea come from for Wellbeing Wednesday? </b><br /><br />Following the pandemic, we recognised that there was a need for people to connect with nature to enhance wellbeing. This is the belief on which the National Trust was founded. <br /><b><br /></b><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><b><i>'The need of quiet, the need of air, and I believe the sight of sky and of things growing, </i></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><b><i>seem human needs.’ </i>Octavia Hill, National Trust Founder</b></span></div><br />After promoting the Wales Wellbeing Pass to local groups, we felt it would be good to have a designated time for members of those groups to come together, socialise, and share access to all that Powis has to offer. It’s important that those who are socially isolated or who may feel nervous about coming alone can enjoy an understanding and welcoming space. <br /><br /><b>Who can take part, is there a cost, and is booking required? </b><br /><br />Everyone is welcome to come along and take part in our free Wellbeing Wednesday sessions, normal admission charges apply to non-members. No booking is required, just join us at 10am in the Visitor Welcome Cabin on the day. <br /><br /><b>What is the Wales Wellbeing Pass? </b><br /><br />The Wales Wellbeing Access Pass is available to any group who lead activities that support the health and wellbeing of their members. At a cost of £45 per year, the pass allows groups of up to 50 people at a time to visit any National Trust Cymru site in Wales. <br /><br /><b>What are the benefits of joining in at the Wellbeing Wednesday sessions at Powis Castle? </b><br /><br />The National Trust was established for everyone, for ever, and we’re delighted to be supporting the wellbeing of our local community, and working to ensure everyone feels welcome and can benefit from this special place. It’s fantastic to see the garden being enjoyed by so many local people. <br /><br />It is widely recognised that access to beautiful spaces, nature and the outdoors has a positive effect on mood by offering sessions such as mindfulness, yoga and singing we hope we can encourage people to use different strategies to improve their mental and physical health.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjdGXCMlJTUl2cmAQwf75bhAxjltAsMA9tkXKEESjdIiazCEVc8F-i-KiNNK-hvnWCPm3cKtgfswXe0MyI766jOND8vOFwLzX6Sm42wkQez8jXrgVQjd3W3nvHFQUfb-2mvwI1pm5XEQMWsyDvwQfkjJfA4hY01zn9siP8D_e8lXWaR04ndTA2Pzbnhg/s640/sforw4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjdGXCMlJTUl2cmAQwf75bhAxjltAsMA9tkXKEESjdIiazCEVc8F-i-KiNNK-hvnWCPm3cKtgfswXe0MyI766jOND8vOFwLzX6Sm42wkQez8jXrgVQjd3W3nvHFQUfb-2mvwI1pm5XEQMWsyDvwQfkjJfA4hY01zn9siP8D_e8lXWaR04ndTA2Pzbnhg/w456-h342/sforw4.jpg" width="456" /></a></div><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Tell us more about working with Ponthafren and Credu</b><br /><br />Our first community project was setting up the community garden here at Powis, which is located in an underused area of the garden, off the visitor route. Surrounded by ancient trees and next to a scenic pond, it is a haven for wildlife and a peaceful space to escape to. <br /><br />Originally started in 2021 to combat isolation after the Covid-19 Pandemic, the community garden is run in partnership with Ponthafren as a place to gather, grow vegetables, fruit, and flowers, learn new skills, and spend time in nature. The garden group is now flourishing and it’s fantastic to see friendships building and confidence growing. People interested in getting involved can contact <a href="mailto:admin@ponthafren.org.uk">admin@ponthafren.org.uk</a> for more details. <br /><br />Credu carers expressed a need to access beautiful spaces both for respite from their role, but also as a place to bring those they care for so they too can enjoy open space and a warm welcome. We’re working with them to overcome access barriers, and to design tailored visits to meet their particular needs for example, by offering an autism friendly “quiet visit” for families outside of normal opening hours. <br /><br />I’m now working in partnership with Oldford Integrated Family Centre to trial a new individual access pass. Based on the concept of social prescribing the pass will give access to individuals whose mental or physical health would benefit from access to nature and heritage. <br /><br /><b>Tell us about the specialist sessions you are arranging, including singing, walking and mindfulness</b><br /><br />As part of our Wellbeing Wednesdays, and to mark <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/mentalhealthawarenessweek?__eep__=6&__cft__%5b0%5d=AZU2ItnPgcW_9fToT-WK75h4yp5kIDxtBOMZJ0cLt1c_3cKBxF7m7aKBjS_d9feq5ppJAjobzfsqQo9pVu2jpwZL4GyGUGmCx37-yE3ptwyZasCvFl3jld_bOFcJ9DJdvtsAAM4jWZ5RW3KYFObeuNzuRYwwQqNWdjkQJfLTHI81pLpLgz-NKFqkOFzzLik3_5E&__tn__=*NK-R">#MentalHealthAwarenessWeek</a>, on 17 May we held a Singing for Wellbeing session led by Cathy Beech of Angel Voices Singing. <br /><br />Cathy said <i>“I cannot wait to be surrounded by the beautiful venue of Powis Castle. I will be bringing my songs, guitar, backing tracks and vocal exercises to help you find your vocal joy. You don’t need to think you can sing, you just need to want to have some fun… it is about being in the moment and enjoying the ability to be present through singing. Please come and join me, you will have a fabulous, uplifting, life affirming time!” </i><br /><br />As a special edition to our Wellbeing Wednesdays, on <b>Wednesday 14 June </b>we’re delighted to welcome Catherine Waterfall from <a href="https://www.good4mind.com/">good4mind.com</a> to lead a Mindfulness Walk through the beautiful gardens here at Powis. Catherine’s guided walk will be an introduction to mindfulness which she says has proven stress-relieving benefits, particularly when practiced outdoors in nature. Catherine says, <i>“As well as walking slowly and mindfully, I will be leading meditations at various points to savour the beauty of the gardens.”</i> Come and meet us at 10.15am at the garden gate for a relaxing start to your day. It is free to join the guided walk, but normal admission prices apply. <br /><br />Then on <b>Wednesday 12 July</b> we are running a gentle yoga session on the lawn in our beautiful formal garden. <br /><b><br />What are the main challenges of your role? </b><br /><br />The foundation the National Trust is to make “everyone welcome”, but this is not always as easy as it sounds and when I speak to some local groups I often find there are barriers that prevent some members of our local community from visiting. <br /><br />My challenge is to identify what might be stopping them and then find a solution so that they do feel welcome, for example they may need access to a quiet space for a sensitive child, or level access to the garden to avoid our steep terraces. Of course, in the current financial climate, price is also a barrier, but we are hoping the Wellbeing Pass will overcome some of that pressure for community groups.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMbd6s9a7UKkjyqN8n4VFuC1PIvm6p94gZ8n7A9UAxo6XLlb9U4KMQObzxQyMXsQINnmfjNgwrZB9zhMMknuUk6Pj_49HgI3TCbTpeQNz5SO4J9XjRvbQ94tr0Te4YZencKvPdH0KbyDiVaWEV46sV1l4-DiNaPPmUWC9KBJQHL3WTsY9vXSOhXTxvMw/s640/sforw3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="546" data-original-width="640" height="351" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMbd6s9a7UKkjyqN8n4VFuC1PIvm6p94gZ8n7A9UAxo6XLlb9U4KMQObzxQyMXsQINnmfjNgwrZB9zhMMknuUk6Pj_49HgI3TCbTpeQNz5SO4J9XjRvbQ94tr0Te4YZencKvPdH0KbyDiVaWEV46sV1l4-DiNaPPmUWC9KBJQHL3WTsY9vXSOhXTxvMw/w411-h351/sforw3.jpg" width="411" /></a></div></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b>Tell us about some of the most rewarding work you have done at Powis Castle </b><br /><br />The most rewarding work is often the most simple – giving people access! Powis itself does the rest. It’s been great to see the effect a visit to the stunning garden or the splendour of the castle can have on someone who has never experienced them before. <br /><br />I’m particularly proud of the community garden. I have seen a really positive change and growth in its users over the years. Our Garden Leader, Cheri, was very unsure and lacking in confidence when she first came to the garden. Now she runs the group for Ponthafren and recently won recently won the Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations (PAVO) Volunteer of the Year for the “Excellence in Health & Wellbeing” category for her work. <br /><br /><b>Does Wellbeing Wednesday take place at other National Trust properties – for example, if people are on day trips or holidays? </b><br /><br />Wellbeing Pass groups are welcome to visit other properties throughout Wales using their pass. We just ask them to book through us if they have a large group. <br /><br /><b>What are the National Trust views on boosting positive mental health generally as this relates to visitors, volunteers and staff? </b><br /><br />From the National Trust website… <a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/discover/nature/how-walking-in-nature-can-help-wellbeing">Walking in nature for wellbeing | National Trust</a> <br /><br /><i>“Spending time in nature can actually reduce anxiety and depression, according to the ‘Nature and Mental Health Report’ produced by mental health charity Mind. It also states that being outside in natural light can lift a person's mood, especially during the winter.” </i><br /><br />Some good thoughts on here too… <a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/our-cause/nature-climate/nature-conservation/everyone-needs-nature">Everyone needs nature | National Trust</a><br /><br /><b>When you’re not working how do you enjoy spending your time? </b><br /><br />I love being outdoors and enjoy walking, especially in beautiful scenery like the Lake District or direct from my door here in Mid Wales. I find I can lose myself in gardening and taking notice of what is happening in the garden throughout the year is a positive, uplifting experience. A garden is full of promise of better things to come. </span><div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeHgLcf0ustp3EZzJ-osGBMtABjogqku50QTTjgvdWMmzEDYdmWFHUn9hOIz5pPdXlirh9HFtjQZKgHotzGaduqrqcz1DLUf8oodJsUgna1382lgKgGZrMKtwxY7Lf1Zw7Yq5zcSevzfBx4ahNvUnb7CqPEELvbekZbre4aZgheSq86dc0FbhZN8TPCQ/s1071/NTV_C_G_7481_S_C.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1071" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeHgLcf0ustp3EZzJ-osGBMtABjogqku50QTTjgvdWMmzEDYdmWFHUn9hOIz5pPdXlirh9HFtjQZKgHotzGaduqrqcz1DLUf8oodJsUgna1382lgKgGZrMKtwxY7Lf1Zw7Yq5zcSevzfBx4ahNvUnb7CqPEELvbekZbre4aZgheSq86dc0FbhZN8TPCQ/w197-h196/NTV_C_G_7481_S_C.png" width="197" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Many thanks to Alison for telling us about the Wellbeing Wednesdays at Powis Castle Garden in North Powys. If you would like to find out more you can email Alison - <a href="mailto:volunteeringpowis@nationaltrust.org.uk">volunteeringpowis@nationaltrust.org.uk</a></i></span></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div>Jackie Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05293038655478909058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8753418862245773183.post-10347872131789166372023-05-15T09:31:00.000+01:002023-05-15T09:31:29.365+01:00Mental Health Awareness Week 2023 - Anxiety<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2fwpyZlMQLC1JA0AlHsfQT0_YC7TjCBp6Dh90Y2usg4YGvl7FxJ9_nwYs8bjTik8FuSC862qIMxhUtiM9px9McjQWnhx2JRotGmS3FhELagR99pWJhQXaVYBhlGkTixsYbtKaBFXru5euRZeB2ZdceurG3R2-cIBvzUckPrCEpiL4a7bUk43i4PzQ3w/s1024/MHAW23%20(3).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="347" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2fwpyZlMQLC1JA0AlHsfQT0_YC7TjCBp6Dh90Y2usg4YGvl7FxJ9_nwYs8bjTik8FuSC862qIMxhUtiM9px9McjQWnhx2JRotGmS3FhELagR99pWJhQXaVYBhlGkTixsYbtKaBFXru5euRZeB2ZdceurG3R2-cIBvzUckPrCEpiL4a7bUk43i4PzQ3w/w521-h347/MHAW23%20(3).jpg" width="521" /></a></div></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: medium;">The theme of this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week </span></b></div></span></b></span><div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #8e7cc3; font-size: medium;">15 - 21 May 2023 is Anxiety.</span></b></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/campaigns/mental-health-awareness-week" style="font-style: italic;">The Mental Health Foundation,</a><i> the charity which has hosted the annual <a href="https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/our-work/public-engagement/mental-health-awareness-week" target="_blank">Mental Health Awareness Week</a> since 2000, explains why Anxiety is the chosen theme:</i></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="color: #8e7cc3;">“Anxiety is a normal emotion in us all, but sometimes it can get out of control and become a mental health problem. Lots of things can lead to feelings of anxiety, including exam pressures, relationships, starting a new job (or losing one) or other big life events. </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="color: #8e7cc3;"><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="color: #8e7cc3;">We can also get anxious when it comes to things to do with money and not being able to meet our basic needs, like heating our home or buying food. </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="color: #8e7cc3;"><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="color: #8e7cc3;">Focusing on anxiety for this year's Mental Health Awareness Week will increase people's awareness and understanding of anxiety by providing information on the things that can help prevent it from becoming a problem.”</b></div></span><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst"></p><div style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: arial;">Andy, from North Powys, tells us what anxiety feels like to him, and shares tips </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-family: arial;">which help him cope with anxiety in his day to day life.</i></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><i><br /></i></span><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgenXHpgrM7c6WZP9z1I4tHJ3FftNbkeEn4SfcWmE6hIbeGehAmGi8HCou0xUNozZxm1CYQWvdpcC58udfsArz9cP8BenepvO2vK1FoYx0KI1VzaTMUqNUz4vis-XUiip25Qnnfi8tgEL0rNkZIiglRh9_tx5VHkCEkeEcDec_1RWhYRtDEHWMRvmlmUw/s1200/MHAW-website-teaser%20(1).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="1200" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgenXHpgrM7c6WZP9z1I4tHJ3FftNbkeEn4SfcWmE6hIbeGehAmGi8HCou0xUNozZxm1CYQWvdpcC58udfsArz9cP8BenepvO2vK1FoYx0KI1VzaTMUqNUz4vis-XUiip25Qnnfi8tgEL0rNkZIiglRh9_tx5VHkCEkeEcDec_1RWhYRtDEHWMRvmlmUw/w504-h295/MHAW-website-teaser%20(1).png" width="504" /></a></div><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst"><b style="font-family: arial;">To start off, could you give us a brief introduction to yourself and your situation?</b></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst"><span style="font-family: arial;">I’m male - aged 63. I work part-time at a supermarket in Newtown. I have worked in a more intense, demanding IT job in the past, working in London, so my present job does not stretch the “grey matter”. Therefore, I have too much time on my hands to think and ponder over life, health and current news. </span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst"><span style="font-family: arial;">I have struggled with depression over the last 13 years in Wales, being stuck in the house for many hours with not much going on. The "black dog" analogy and Silvercloud have both been useful to me, as is sharing with others that I trust and doing some volunteering and being part of a local church.</span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Tell us more about what anxiety feels like to you? </b><br /><br />Anxiety is a feeling where my world is closing in on me. I don’t feel motivated to do anything or start anything new. It feels like I’m watching others having more fun but I cannot get enthusiastic about anything I am doing currently. I don’t look forward to doing anything and stop making any future plans. <br /><br /><b>What can bring on a feeling of anxiety in your experience? </b><br /><br />My feelings of anxiety can be triggered by bad news on the TV, the weather, someone’s negative story or words to me, or it just appears out of the blue like random thoughts from nowhere. Sometimes they are nagging and recurring negative thoughts about my health or the future. <br /><br /><b>What helps you with your anxiety if you are at home alone? </b><br /><br />I find it is helpful to me to limit the amount of TV news I watch to a short time, once per day. During Covid, I was watching TV news daily, and taking in every “blow by blow” announcement. This had a negative effect on my mental health. </span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst"><span style="font-family: arial;">On big news subjects like the economy and wars and disasters, there is a constant commentary by journalists, who like to sensationalise every subject, dwelling on the negative side. I need to remind myself that what I’m listening to, is not fact, but comment or opinion. If I try and “wait and see”, and ignore it, it probably won’t happen (e.g. gas supplies exhausting and lights going off in winter in the UK). </span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst"><span style="font-family: arial;">Having a faith, I do pray regularly, and God does take my cares and worries away. I find relaxing music (e.g. Christian songs by Hillsong) and reading the Bible (e.g. Psalms) soothes my soul and relaxes me when I am stressed or feel pain.</span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMVPpZALAo2y-yL8DE1Z_-GfrJpFsUwY8EHLHrmAg5SIQL7Uc4bupvcHgJluK1SV-lcUSiXxp9lQvSvB9ynMpBYcxxIn0ZK9MZowE2LGD45deo8-mcuslv2LUeV3z6MVuGIwVIA362RPD1LlQkkdPlX1EB0LzBJRuIIo3pzoGRjuAMDEnSWR3RaqeKZQ/s991/MHAW23%20(4).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="641" data-original-width="991" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMVPpZALAo2y-yL8DE1Z_-GfrJpFsUwY8EHLHrmAg5SIQL7Uc4bupvcHgJluK1SV-lcUSiXxp9lQvSvB9ynMpBYcxxIn0ZK9MZowE2LGD45deo8-mcuslv2LUeV3z6MVuGIwVIA362RPD1LlQkkdPlX1EB0LzBJRuIIo3pzoGRjuAMDEnSWR3RaqeKZQ/w510-h330/MHAW23%20(4).jpg" width="510" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cycling on the dunes at Newborough Forest on Anglesey</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="font-family: arial;">Tell us more about activities outside the home that can help with your anxiety</b></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />I like going out every day for a short walk with my camera, to maybe capture a new view or something natural like a bird or a flower in my favourite places like a park with trees, or along a river. </span><span style="font-family: arial;">Nature calms me and provides re-assurance in uncertainty. </span><p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst"><span style="font-family: arial;">I also like to go out to a pub or a warm space, meeting people and socialising, to drink a coffee or read my book. It’s nice to see people and be out of the house. I like to go out for a motorcycle ride on a sunny day, as it is just me and machine in my space away from the hub-bub of life.</span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>What was your experience of SilverCloud online Cognitive Therapy like? </b><br /><br />I have found the "black dog" cartoon useful to me. It’s a very clear picture to me of what might be going on in my mind where the dark voice, or Black Dog, is speaking loudly to me. I sometimes find myself listening to it. The “black dog” is sometimes silent and sometimes barking away loudly and hard to ignore. </span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst"><span style="font-family: arial;">I have completed the online Silvercloud course as my employer allowed me to have access to it for a limited time two years ago and I found it helpful and useful to me. <a href="https://www.powysmentalhealth.org.uk/news/silvercloud-online-mental-health-support-for-powys-residents/" target="_blank">Silvercloud (online mental health support) </a>allowed me to study a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) course online at my own pace and there was a personal guide allocated to me. <br /><br /><b>If the current Cost of Living Crisis has had an impact on your mental health, tell us how and why</b><br /><br />Having time at home does mean that I feel the cold virtually every day. No one likes to return to a cold house. So, turning down the heating makes me feel “down” and putting it on and then looking at the smart meter also makes me feel “down” about the potential monthly cost of heating my house in terms of the gas and electricity bill. I have to stop myself constantly looking at the smart energy meter. Some people hide it away.<br /><br /></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst"></p><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8mFCzzjLFc0I2Vbp8PAFcU8gyswqhSAVN9lPSeT1gZn63dutKNBxK_EHtWO5ESwpe2KNRV2dP2w718DI2QZetUjW9kZ8SxGRxyyA3mpQvtfeHbkycOKYF01PQ0um9tl1Ft1ozrCiNBvssjmjXQ1iLuVDCyf6DnQrOhFtVgtJeiJJw_5-9axEgh3TRFA/s995/MHAW23%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="687" data-original-width="995" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8mFCzzjLFc0I2Vbp8PAFcU8gyswqhSAVN9lPSeT1gZn63dutKNBxK_EHtWO5ESwpe2KNRV2dP2w718DI2QZetUjW9kZ8SxGRxyyA3mpQvtfeHbkycOKYF01PQ0um9tl1Ft1ozrCiNBvssjmjXQ1iLuVDCyf6DnQrOhFtVgtJeiJJw_5-9axEgh3TRFA/w475-h328/MHAW23%20(1).jpg" width="475" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the Menai Bridge, Anglesey on holiday</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Which non-medical approaches work best for you when dealing with anxiety? </b><br /><br />I find getting out of the house regularly helps me. I find activities like volunteering (e.g. driver for community cafe in the Covid lockdown period, and doing litter-picking as a Keep Wales Tidy Litter champion) and being part of a local church, attending large and smaller group meetings, helps me. </span><p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst"><span style="font-family: arial;">I also find being outside in the natural environment, having a good book to read at doctor’s waiting rooms or in the pharmacy, or cooking a new recipe helps me. It is important to try something new from time to time. <br /><br /><b>Do you attend a support group, and if so what do you find beneficial? </b><br /><br />I regularly work at a large supermarket, which provides laughs and lots of "ups and downs", but it has sustained me as a key worker allowing me to regularly get out the house three times a week, even during the lockdown Covid period. My workplace provides continuity, an income and a social life. </span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst"><span style="font-family: arial;">I also find attending a weekly church meeting on Tuesdays is helpful to me, as everyone is a similar age at a similar life stage, sharing with each other how they are feeling about their health concerns and family worries too. <br /><br /><b>What is the one key thing which really helps you if you’re feeling anxious? </b><br /><br />Try to tell yourself – “What if it doesn’t happen?" Or, “I’m better off than some others,” or “it might not be as bad as I have imagined, so wait and see”. Avoid over-thinking or worrying, as it achieves nothing and is damaging to your health. I am a “Work in Progress”. This is an ongoing battle as I am an anxious person. I am not “out of the woods” on this and there is always room for improvement and the need to seek help and share more with others.</span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-align: center;"></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCogKdnO9vMKfpbOdom9dnx_IYlG-n9IlUuLm86Ygx4-ICvkHHBnW7wHoXcXbLEyRmaY-ocymb8BrZsMmd2sNNeY2HrxG19CaUKjchgoPdzHIp9exgEheHt-z63bY3hcfMLvScZN1wfK7yStyyso2uXvBn7azih4Ssd5IfK6BxnmIVwaPJnG6FSTKJXA/s656/MHAW23%20(2).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="656" data-original-width="451" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCogKdnO9vMKfpbOdom9dnx_IYlG-n9IlUuLm86Ygx4-ICvkHHBnW7wHoXcXbLEyRmaY-ocymb8BrZsMmd2sNNeY2HrxG19CaUKjchgoPdzHIp9exgEheHt-z63bY3hcfMLvScZN1wfK7yStyyso2uXvBn7azih4Ssd5IfK6BxnmIVwaPJnG6FSTKJXA/s320/MHAW23%20(2).jpg" width="220" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Views from the motorbike above Newtown</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Many thanks to Andy for telling us how anxiety affects him.</i></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>You can find support for anxiety in many different ways as Andy pointed out. </i></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Here are some links to sources of support in Powys:</i></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://pthb.nhs.wales/services/adult-and-older-peoples-mental-health-services/silvercloud-online-cbt/" target="_blank">Silvercloud CBT</a></span></p><span style="font-family: arial;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.anxietyuk.org.uk/" target="_blank">Anxiety UK</a></div></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/our-work/public-engagement/mental-health-awareness-week/what-can-we-do-cope-feelings-anxiety" style="font-family: arial;" target="_blank">Mental Health Foundation - tips for coping with anxiety</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/anxiety-and-panic-attacks/about-anxiety/" target="_blank">Mind - videos on anxiety & tips to help</a></span></div><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p></div></div>Jackie Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05293038655478909058noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8753418862245773183.post-43031735159870681332023-05-03T10:18:00.004+01:002023-05-03T11:14:25.838+01:00“Outstanding Contribution Award” for Powys mental health reps<div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdoVRKk8IbjYj44oLaDXJ4IsAUbeM30FjSgArhu_DX-AmXKQfMSk08sqtnyYP_iO5rqkJvXwbKRl8qMBJNBUkW80QLrAtCogoTRHvJ_BNxtQSZ8xByWWsak8pCPaEW0ZEfnazXyJnvDZ9p42gUL2P9W9tzrRL-KV_E1iqozQnRDeX-fLUdNIvjDvbQ7A/s800/PVOY%202023%20ind%20reps%20(2).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="800" height="409" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdoVRKk8IbjYj44oLaDXJ4IsAUbeM30FjSgArhu_DX-AmXKQfMSk08sqtnyYP_iO5rqkJvXwbKRl8qMBJNBUkW80QLrAtCogoTRHvJ_BNxtQSZ8xByWWsak8pCPaEW0ZEfnazXyJnvDZ9p42gUL2P9W9tzrRL-KV_E1iqozQnRDeX-fLUdNIvjDvbQ7A/w467-h409/PVOY%202023%20ind%20reps%20(2).jpg" width="467" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jamie Burt (chair of PAVO trustees), Clair Swales (PAVO Chief Executive Officer),<br />Sarah Dale (Mental Health rep) & Tom Jones OBE (High Sheriff of Powys)</td></tr></tbody></table></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #800180; font-size: medium;">Owen Griffkin (Participation Officer) and Sarah Dale (Mental Health Representative) share their experiences of the recent </span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #800180; font-size: medium;">Powys Volunteer of the Year Awards night.</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #800180;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #800180;">The annual event is organised by Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations.</span></b></div><br /><b>Owen Griffkin</b><br /><br />The <a href="https://www.pavo.org.uk/help-for-organisations/volunteers/powys-volunteer-of-the-year-awards.html">Powys Volunteer of The Year Awards</a> is a wonderful way to celebrate all the volunteers in Powys who help to improve their communities and I was, therefore, really pleased to hear that the mental health service user and carer representatives had been nominated for this year's awards.<br /><br />I attended the awards ceremony with Sarah Dale and our newest rep, Sally Houghton-Wilson, at the Elephant and Castle in Newtown.</span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq9wZQsXBzzSSXWWK_6hzx7Ru28N5RvVP6MV7fpo7GKnf0netP_5-kRpo23mGYrOCbIzbE3chRDyifbBSYEA4G4a5sAsdMmH6BZAFO9p-P4eOoO-s6d32WDXy8PP__Z_Slr1y15zzxXbPusiiXL4KeMAlP8mexf6IqCKbTbNfxK3faxPAa-dZLwf9yag/s800/PVOY%202023%20programmes.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="599" data-original-width="800" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq9wZQsXBzzSSXWWK_6hzx7Ru28N5RvVP6MV7fpo7GKnf0netP_5-kRpo23mGYrOCbIzbE3chRDyifbBSYEA4G4a5sAsdMmH6BZAFO9p-P4eOoO-s6d32WDXy8PP__Z_Slr1y15zzxXbPusiiXL4KeMAlP8mexf6IqCKbTbNfxK3faxPAa-dZLwf9yag/w419-h315/PVOY%202023%20programmes.jpg" width="419" /></a></div></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />My role is to support the reps to make sure they have everything they need for meetings, for example - agendas, travel etc. Because of this I see first-hand the work they do, and am constantly amazed by the dedication, bravery and hard work displayed by the reps. This was highlighted by the fact that one of the reps, John Lilley, couldn’t attend the awards ceremony as he was in Carmarthen at a national meeting!</span><div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />It was a pleasure to see other groups and individuals who contribute so much to improving wellbeing in Powys receive awards. For example, Mums Matter Peer Support service, Cherilee from Ponthafren and Richard from Brecon & District Mind. There were also some really inspiring young people like the Junior Startwell Board who received well-deserved awards.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFvALQ99t4DjV41xtxFqVKX5NFmt7q1MEwPRn3UGNwkVlj6_MzL3M6vqFGugpyD5mpVSXssBZEmyVjrhLgrma2orsoaZVuj-ubw8LHqPXCmCOYlJZvlGW0owyyc8Sv9buuG4mNeZHWVJXDgdS5XJfI7Ac2wgVVISE1aSOxIPcOr7eNmS0IgZgyeezDAg/s800/PVOY%202023%20Mums%20Matter%20edit.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="690" data-original-width="800" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFvALQ99t4DjV41xtxFqVKX5NFmt7q1MEwPRn3UGNwkVlj6_MzL3M6vqFGugpyD5mpVSXssBZEmyVjrhLgrma2orsoaZVuj-ubw8LHqPXCmCOYlJZvlGW0owyyc8Sv9buuG4mNeZHWVJXDgdS5XJfI7Ac2wgVVISE1aSOxIPcOr7eNmS0IgZgyeezDAg/w433-h374/PVOY%202023%20Mums%20Matter%20edit.jpg" width="433" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mums Matter Peer Support Service receive the<br />Excellence in Health & Wellbeing group award<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></div>Then, after a delicious meal and a superb performance from two local performers who had entertained audiences in starring roles in West End productions, it was time for the Outstanding Contribution award. Sarah was really nervous in anticipation of the announcement but there was no need to be as the name on the envelope was read out - The Mental Health Service User and Carer Reps. <br /><br />Sarah went up to collect the award, posed for some photos and then sat back down, grinning from ear-to-ear. Seeing how important the recognition was to Sarah made my night and I hurriedly sent texts to the other reps with photos and congratulations.<br /><br />So once again to all the people who have been there to give service users and carers a voice - we all salute you and thank you! <br /><br />You can read below what winning the award meant to Sarah and more about their roles.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqYAjbzigryho3XKlYbRZkyfsVEjjhg6Dh0KRNLi2ROzi77Qaui2LDUP-zRBRZqCWdIYCt-7EPPvLTmhBokqbyI_wNhBBI3Y4E-E-mBbjyWHM1qlH3R3unTnLvb7uaPj6IqRUcBMLHYRY6CX9M95fJ2CQDfTkeSANsM1nm4mMLegIEAARvEU0WmKZRsg/s1800/PVOY%202023%20MH%20ind%20reps%20award%20edit.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1378" data-original-width="1800" height="363" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqYAjbzigryho3XKlYbRZkyfsVEjjhg6Dh0KRNLi2ROzi77Qaui2LDUP-zRBRZqCWdIYCt-7EPPvLTmhBokqbyI_wNhBBI3Y4E-E-mBbjyWHM1qlH3R3unTnLvb7uaPj6IqRUcBMLHYRY6CX9M95fJ2CQDfTkeSANsM1nm4mMLegIEAARvEU0WmKZRsg/w474-h363/PVOY%202023%20MH%20ind%20reps%20award%20edit.jpg" width="474" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption"><div style="text-align: center;">Sally Houghton-Wilson (Carer rep), Owen Griffkin (PAVO Participation Officer)</div><div style="text-align: center;">and Sarah Dale (Mental Health rep)</div></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><b>Sarah Dale</b><br /><br />Winning the Outstanding Contribution award means so much. <a href="https://www.powysmentalhealth.org.uk/meet-your-reps/">As mental health service user and carer reps</a> we are only required to attend the planning and development partnership board four times a year. But all of us do much more than this basic requirement. Myself and the other reps - John, Sally, Rhydian (and others like Hayley and Jane who have been involved recently) also attend the National Mental Health and Wellbeing Forum, Engage to Change, <a href="https://www.gov.wales/sites/default/files/publications/2019-06/talk-to-me-2-suicide-and-self-harm-prevention-action-plan-for-wales-2015-2020.pdf">Talk to me 2 Group</a>, and Powys Crisis Care Forum. We also <a href="https://www.powysmentalhealth.org.uk/powys-patients-council/">meet patients at the Felindre ward at Bronllys Hospital every month to collect feedback,</a> and report to the health board, to improve patience experience.<br /><br />As reps we are asked to join working groups to help develop services to make sure they are fit for purpose, looking at specific areas such as the NHS111 Press 2 (due to launch in Powys soon) and complex trauma services.<br /><br />We also go out to organisations and community groups to talk to people at ‘Meet the Rep’ events to gather experiences on services and directly discuss these issues with the service managers for mental health.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgND9TDseqnT3NUOQktpne70LuCvYCC_yiI11dW2etgTth5BWYIN73liENIWovSq2OBjt0OvX3un886zlz8GG4zHMUHvubvy9IDNTPEmON6_0zBfqoj9rWnTgcurNb2eOreQwGTYrGxlW89u_mzh1e_PwEyvQcEtR51BdXXIlmNiLKYjxmq82j9mmVbdQ/s800/PVOY%202023%20ind%20reps%20(5).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="679" data-original-width="800" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgND9TDseqnT3NUOQktpne70LuCvYCC_yiI11dW2etgTth5BWYIN73liENIWovSq2OBjt0OvX3un886zlz8GG4zHMUHvubvy9IDNTPEmON6_0zBfqoj9rWnTgcurNb2eOreQwGTYrGxlW89u_mzh1e_PwEyvQcEtR51BdXXIlmNiLKYjxmq82j9mmVbdQ/w450-h382/PVOY%202023%20ind%20reps%20(5).jpg" width="450" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sarah receives the Outstanding Contribution award on behalf of the reps<br />from Clair Swales, CEO PAVO</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;">Recently myself and John Lilley have been voted in as the chair and vice chair of the Engage to Change sub-group which is a really productive meeting held with staff from all organisations who play a part in services. It is more responsibility and work but we also get to shape the discussion and give people a voice.<br /><br />I have also led self-injury awareness sessions which have been attended by people from all over Powys and I have to reflect on and share some very triggering memories for me, but I do this because I want to help others who may be going through the same experiences. If I can tell people what could have made my experience better then they can make sure that others are treated with more empathy and compassion in the future. This is what drives us all as reps.<br /><br />We do our utmost to champion the voices of those we represent, to ensure services are fit for purpose and the service user voice is heard loud and clear (I do have a loud voice!). People often forget that what we do is voluntary and that some of us are still receiving treatment for our mental health or caring for someone with a mental health condition. Because change takes time this can be exhausting and frustrating. So being recognised for everything we do with this award means so much that I can’t put it into words.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzp1AH-vz6R2Cv1gtoGLX-0j58pSTeTMkvbsYp4dntzz7QBeKka6TGbrGGh9R-VdpVvBJyWntd4hE2-Rhyq3EzHWvTp5dpQUm3IB_iLqQl8rv55P-yFPj0bWZyW61NEd4yhRYSVmc1f9_AHGV_AeQrRl4L6DNbQ-fYHwl1GaylkrMg3p5xz6cmrU5yNw/s800/PVOY%202023%20ind%20reps%20(3).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzp1AH-vz6R2Cv1gtoGLX-0j58pSTeTMkvbsYp4dntzz7QBeKka6TGbrGGh9R-VdpVvBJyWntd4hE2-Rhyq3EzHWvTp5dpQUm3IB_iLqQl8rv55P-yFPj0bWZyW61NEd4yhRYSVmc1f9_AHGV_AeQrRl4L6DNbQ-fYHwl1GaylkrMg3p5xz6cmrU5yNw/s320/PVOY%202023%20ind%20reps%20(3).jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /></div><span style="color: #800180; font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b><div style="text-align: center;">"The award has pride of place on my mantelpiece for now, until I pass it </div><div style="text-align: center;">on to one of the other reps for them to keep." </div></b></span></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://www.powysmentalhealth.org.uk/become-a-rep/"><b>Find out more about becoming a Mental Health Rep in Powys.</b></a></span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The Powys Volunteer of the Year Awards is held annually by PAVO as part of the work </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">of Powys Volunteer Centre. The awards recognise the commitment and value of volunteers across the County. </span><span style="font-family: arial;">If you feel inspired to volunteer, please get in touch with us:</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><a href="mailto:volunteering@pavo.org.uk">volunteering@pavo.org.uk</a> or 01597 822191</b> </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Watch this space for our next annual awards and the opportunity to nominate a volunteer or group of volunteers who have made a difference to you!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div>Jackie Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05293038655478909058noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8753418862245773183.post-39463881685911659172023-04-17T14:28:00.004+01:002023-04-20T11:49:48.466+01:00‘A place to just be’ - Forest Bathing for everyone<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG3R7EE7hh81VoB1nMZ-nXH8zaLJnT8zebnP2ej_CMdnqdxvgGVX1Ryr7jgHx241nYkVosGOVGEEw-3flfpBkb3RRV5C4EL16s4Toa-3uOnkhhJjNjnpgYJ3MbFFDcjF_-xKqTkOcUo0Lqh8mFdbVpK-JF5nCu7SbGpLxts83mFlKx8tOlc7rf3zFh9A/s1067/forest20_orig%20edit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1067" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG3R7EE7hh81VoB1nMZ-nXH8zaLJnT8zebnP2ej_CMdnqdxvgGVX1Ryr7jgHx241nYkVosGOVGEEw-3flfpBkb3RRV5C4EL16s4Toa-3uOnkhhJjNjnpgYJ3MbFFDcjF_-xKqTkOcUo0Lqh8mFdbVpK-JF5nCu7SbGpLxts83mFlKx8tOlc7rf3zFh9A/w472-h354/forest20_orig%20edit.jpg" width="472" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><i><a href="https://www.forestbathingandmindfulness.com/" target="_blank">Lucy McQuillan is a Forest Bathing Guide (Mindfulness in Nature)</a> based in West Wales and has been guiding a wide range of groups since 2021. She has a background of 25 years working for National Parks and Wellbeing Projects in community engagement, health and wellbeing in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland, the Lake District National Park, and Exmoor National Park. </i></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Lucy’s final move has been to the beautiful Cardigan Bay, at Aberystwyth, her partner Dave’s childhood home. She started as an Activity Leader with <a href="https://tircoed.org.uk/" target="_blank">Tir Coed (</a></i></span><i><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://tircoed.org.uk/" target="_blank">a charity that connects people with land and woods </a>(tir, coed) by delivering outdoor training, learning and wellbeing programmes across Mid Wales)</span></i><i style="font-family: arial;"> last year and was asked to run a forest bathing session at Y Plas Garden at Machynlleth this March. We heard about the event and decided to find out more about forest bathing from Lucy.</i></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFEUip5iiNPLCX9wlHW1QQzY031QF5smI782doCFduveIiENyHRtU2WLRnJGcTVehOWOvE2ftOBQP6Pf4y2s3s64Cey9ejeaU1OnmlXmY-03IADoAc5JlOOT-gERFeV342N8LZ_GU8nO2cVMHsDqXUvsPGWTfCWU5-WDNPualybISdf0gs8ByC0xDWDA/s1067/forest22_orig.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1067" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFEUip5iiNPLCX9wlHW1QQzY031QF5smI782doCFduveIiENyHRtU2WLRnJGcTVehOWOvE2ftOBQP6Pf4y2s3s64Cey9ejeaU1OnmlXmY-03IADoAc5JlOOT-gERFeV342N8LZ_GU8nO2cVMHsDqXUvsPGWTfCWU5-WDNPualybISdf0gs8ByC0xDWDA/w475-h356/forest22_orig.jpg" width="475" /></a></div></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b>What being out in nature means to me</b><br /><br />Being out in nature is my favourite place. It grounds me, reminds me of what is important in life and generally maintains my sense of wellbeing, for both my mind and physical body. Recognising the massive benefits of Forest Bathing, and loving being in nature, I decided to train as a guide with <a href="https://natureandtherapy.co.uk/">Nature and Therapy UK</a> in 2020, gaining my diploma in 2021.<br /><br /><b>What is Forest Bathing?</b><br /><br />Shinrin-Yoku, translated as Forest Bathing, is a practice that originated in Japan in the 1980s as part of a national health programme designed to reduce population stress levels. Shinrin-Yoku literally means ‘bathing’ all the senses whilst immersing yourself in the forest atmosphere.<br /><br /><b>What happens during a session?</b><br /><br />During a Forest Bathing session I take you through a number of invitations between 3 minutes to 20 minutes long (simple mindfulness activities). We follow a framework - a beginning, middle and ending - that makes forest bathing 'a practice' and not a general walk in the woods (which of course is lovely too!). </span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">As with any practice, repetition helps to build a deeper understanding and ability to 'drop in' to your inner self and connect with nature. I intuitively shape the session to reflect the needs of the individuals in the group and the nature setting we are in. No two sessions are the same. An introductory session can be up to 90 minutes long with longer sessions being 2 to 4 hours.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiza7Jr1YHg0ABI8tMGYm3TzFtC2AFQwk9E-yN0X5jIoCiYPvPOl-skJF1hXCa9pHFUWafsmQOlCVl4InGEnEWaWwkt_6HwyHI5KtTwR4sDCC1pAj2n6rC4o16TulfyLtZdX8abMww1pHzdZ9NY683jNg9ctzF5aXVqJsld4j0B7ta9hZebZDOASUMeAg/s1067/forest8_orig.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1067" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiza7Jr1YHg0ABI8tMGYm3TzFtC2AFQwk9E-yN0X5jIoCiYPvPOl-skJF1hXCa9pHFUWafsmQOlCVl4InGEnEWaWwkt_6HwyHI5KtTwR4sDCC1pAj2n6rC4o16TulfyLtZdX8abMww1pHzdZ9NY683jNg9ctzF5aXVqJsld4j0B7ta9hZebZDOASUMeAg/w386-h290/forest8_orig.jpg" width="386" /></a></div><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>What are the benefits of Forest Bathing - to you and to our natural environment?</b><br /><br />You will experience the health and wellbeing benefits from simply 'just being' in amongst the trees and nature. Benefits of this <a href="https://tfb.institute/scientific-research/">scientifically proven practice</a> include: reducing blood pressure; lowering stress; lowering blood-sugar levels; improving concentration and memory; lifting depression; increasing anti-cancer protein production; improving pain thresholds; improving energy levels; and boosting the immune system with an increase in the count of the body’s natural killer (NK) cells.<br /><br />…………And leave us with a deep sense of calm that follows us home…..<br /><br />By experiencing the ‘awe & wonder’ of being in nature this can lead us to an appreciation of the natural world, and our place within it. And this in turn leads us to have a desire to protect and nurture nature.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLEcZmQb1MpQMf8n5iLZMQfeejZLfuMSsThM5qQAIXkfWPONSW3CbbohfK8kQ-E47q2bnkjXEOcXVUUnDEPwsC6duJvEHlb1GLCjmqXBSHhFV25H-JRtRB-uFCDR5lMRKOIbFFOO6GbSw089fvst-t0oAzabG4i_StHgETPN5xM4xoYMZON2myZn8YEg/s1032/forest13_orig%20edit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1032" data-original-width="900" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLEcZmQb1MpQMf8n5iLZMQfeejZLfuMSsThM5qQAIXkfWPONSW3CbbohfK8kQ-E47q2bnkjXEOcXVUUnDEPwsC6duJvEHlb1GLCjmqXBSHhFV25H-JRtRB-uFCDR5lMRKOIbFFOO6GbSw089fvst-t0oAzabG4i_StHgETPN5xM4xoYMZON2myZn8YEg/w349-h400/forest13_orig%20edit.jpg" width="349" /></a></div><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Machynlleth Forest Bathing 23rd March at Y Plas</b><br /><br />5 people were booked onto this session at Y Plas Gardens, Machynlleth. Fresh April showers, interspersed with sunshine and blue sky, set the scene! My helper Carys and I wondered if the weather would put people off…. We waited at the main entrance. People can tell it’s you waiting for them and one person, two and another two soon turned up and introduced themselves. All were new to forest bathing and all were not bothered by the weather one bit and were intrigued to find out what we’d be doing.<br /><br />As a guide my role is to slow you down and help you stay in the moment and to open the door to your senses. We started by walking to a start point under some trees, dodging another shower.<br /><br />After a brief introduction of names, and what had brought people to the session, I started with an invitation to leave worries, tasks, ‘to do's’ at this threshold and to enter the woodland/nature space with no expectations, nothing to accomplish, to just lean into what was being offered and see what unfolds. After some simple breathing and sense awareness we went into the first invitation ‘Slow Walking’ taking time to look, touch and listen to what was around us.<br /><br />After gathering together again, to share what we experienced, (to share is entirely optional) we moved into the second invitation, by the garden, of Human Camera, working in pairs. One partner led the other, whose eyes were shut, to different photo points. By having your eyes closed, when you do open them, to take your photo, the frame before you is intensified and the sense of awe and being in the moment are nurtured.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS6BiBlfqymlrYLmtst7BQhIJzVymTnfhzjsksVwP3i9qp52vneA38WXrORrIM2SFA96MAYPv7uRxIwiUpFLvZUvDzwPPZxuOu5drAAgVWBNcmWtl5LttXoc0GOh7pOsErvgNCdFDANXlSN6587j56RWkDyAr7EqOSw1Ckk7VGd0qHuKc_osE9KUDAcg/s1067/forest9_orig.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1067" height="355" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS6BiBlfqymlrYLmtst7BQhIJzVymTnfhzjsksVwP3i9qp52vneA38WXrORrIM2SFA96MAYPv7uRxIwiUpFLvZUvDzwPPZxuOu5drAAgVWBNcmWtl5LttXoc0GOh7pOsErvgNCdFDANXlSN6587j56RWkDyAr7EqOSw1Ckk7VGd0qHuKc_osE9KUDAcg/w473-h355/forest9_orig.jpg" width="473" /></a></div><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;">We then walked over to a woodland area near the garden, which had a completely different, hushed and atmospheric feel, of which all the participants commented on. Here we finished with a 15 minute ‘Sit Spot’ gently focussing on a chosen focus point – a leaf, a piece of moss, bark on a tree – gently bringing our minds back to this simple activity, when they inevitably wandered. The more you look the more reveals itself to you….<br /><br />By experiencing the ‘awe & wonder’ of being in nature this can lead us to an appreciation of the natural world, and our place within it. And this in turn leads us to have a desire to protect and nurture nature.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqBGb7-b3wi3PPTRlUI46KXHyyeiKG6D-U-Q2QoL4xelXhBSoDbAKvcmCpmTbWMJZI8_3zq24PCf3P1lLEqwTrpQPZngx_Zx2Blm4mXWQAEtctWFbMtneTDPnB2rC2vCFEEHvrWFpM2EHByGqUcdhePvSMSEbC3zbP6kdvhg3hRQTPgNPb-aYu7tFB8w/s1067/20201023-130210_orig%20edit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1067" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqBGb7-b3wi3PPTRlUI46KXHyyeiKG6D-U-Q2QoL4xelXhBSoDbAKvcmCpmTbWMJZI8_3zq24PCf3P1lLEqwTrpQPZngx_Zx2Blm4mXWQAEtctWFbMtneTDPnB2rC2vCFEEHvrWFpM2EHByGqUcdhePvSMSEbC3zbP6kdvhg3hRQTPgNPb-aYu7tFB8w/w377-h283/20201023-130210_orig%20edit.jpg" width="377" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Some feedback from the participants included:</b><br /><br />“I enjoyed exploring the different ways to immerse yourself in nature and learnt some great new techniques to share with my children and for myself.”<br /><br />“A great experience to share with others.”<br /><br />“Lucy’s experience and calm nature and skill share were a real treat – thank you so much.”<br /> <br />The general feedback on the feedback forms was that everyone strongly agreed that they enjoyed spending time in nature and felt connected to nature, and left with a sense of wellbeing.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>Many thanks to Lucy for telling us more about Forest Bathing. You can find out more on her website - <a href="https://www.forestbathingandmindfulness.com/" target="_blank">Forest Bathing & Mindfulness</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ForestBathingwithLucy/" target="_blank">Facebook page</a>.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><i>If you have a positive experience of interacting with Nature in Mid Wales, please let us know in the comments section below. We love to hear from you!</i></span></div>Jackie Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05293038655478909058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8753418862245773183.post-34133696614740502512023-04-03T11:41:00.001+01:002023-04-03T11:46:27.623+01:00 Ewch allan i Fyd Natur! / Get Out and About and Active in Nature!<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMjPbCvmi-vpnOTzjlvYQeBCqe2q66kcWdD4wvv2rsElbeaOXN8osDLTePf91S6Mdm_8jNdl9RmwkEoQtiKctLUKf_-eowFxqCvW9apng4lYapozXUul7y3Zv9G8BF-KmFRVyn055eRKB_5yc6BM2SMOz2xivJfusdysX1wS7gWtiFfFHxDT88QnsAaA/s1024/BBNP%20young%20ambassador.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="1024" height="323" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMjPbCvmi-vpnOTzjlvYQeBCqe2q66kcWdD4wvv2rsElbeaOXN8osDLTePf91S6Mdm_8jNdl9RmwkEoQtiKctLUKf_-eowFxqCvW9apng4lYapozXUul7y3Zv9G8BF-KmFRVyn055eRKB_5yc6BM2SMOz2xivJfusdysX1wS7gWtiFfFHxDT88QnsAaA/w573-h323/BBNP%20young%20ambassador.png" width="573" /></a></div><span style="text-align: start;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;"><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><b>gan | by Hayley Sharp, Eleri Thomas, Anna Edwards & Lora Davies</b></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;">Yn ein gwaith fel Swyddogion Addysg i Awdurdod Parc Cenedlaethol Bannau Brycheiniog rydym wastad wedi credu bod dysgu yn yr awyr agored yn dda ar gyfer lles ac iechyd cyffredinol. Gall bod allan ym myd natur wella eich lles, eich hyder, eich iechyd corfforol a’ch ymlacio. Mae’n amlwg ni bod yr awyr agored yn cael dylanwad positif ar les pobl ifanc. Rydym wedi gweithio yn yr awyr agored gydag ysgolion a phobl ifanc ond yn ystod Covid a’r cyfnodau clo roedd rhaid i ni ddyfeisio mathau gwahanol o weithgareddau er mwyn ymgysylltu gyda phobl ifanc mewn ffyrdd gwahanol. Rydym wedi cynllunio gweithgareddau a chynhyrchu ffilmiau byr i annog paw bi fynd allan ac ymgysylltu gyda byd natur ble bynnag maent yn byw!<br /><br /><span style="color: #6aa84f;">In our roles as Education Officers for the Brecon Beacons National Park Authority we have always believed that learning outdoors is great for all-round health and well-being. Being outdoors in nature can improve your well-being, improve your confidence, physical health and can help you to feel more relaxed. It is obvious to us that the outdoor space and surroundings our young people are exposed to has a positive impact on them. We have always worked outdoors with schools and young people but during Covid and the lockdowns we had to devise different activities to engage with young people in different ways. We have designed activities and produced short films to encourage everyone to get outside and to engage with nature wherever they lived!</span></span><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;">Y Gwanwyn hwn, rydym yn eich annog chi i wneud yr un fath. Gwnewch amser a threulio amser gyda’ch teulu a ffrindiau yn yr awyr agored. Mae’n rhad ac am ddim, mae’n hwyl ac yn codi calon. Does dim rhaid iddo fod yn gymhleth, er weithiau mae’n teimlo fel ymdrech i fynd allan, unwaith rydych yn symud gall wneud wahaniaeth enfawr i sut rydych yn teimlo. Gall mynd am dro, roi cyfle i chi sylwi ar newidiadau ym myd natur. Anadlwch. Edrychwch ac edrychwch eto. Rhowch gyfle i sylwi ar y pethau bach. Rhowch gyfle i fwynhau. Gadewch i’r synhwyrau sylwi ac archwilio'r hyn sydd o’ch cwmpas.<br /><br /><span style="color: #6aa84f;">This spring, we are encouraging you to do the same. Take time out and spend time with your</span> <span style="color: #6aa84f;">family and friends outdoors. It’s free, fun and uplifting. It doesn’t have to be complicated and although it can sometimes feel like an effort to get out of the door, once you are moving it can make a huge difference to how you feel. Just a short walk outside can provide opportunities to notice the natural changes that are taking place. Take a moment to breathe. Look, and look again. Allow yourself time to notice the small things. Take time to enjoy. Allow your senses to notice and explore your surroundings.</span></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzsKk7c1etL_P92DBZ6LbXMpH2_rHl8O46UEVpF8OA7hH-Kn-y-Ec_LqKv6w3xiR8sMEf7-1r9P2HWqKigRyudk-ELCB8Tkl7Ap7ZOLH5xstqMzSDPPEO7NQgVuGnXb6nHDkSn0MNHgMjpGfijZr8WMBZrJ16jgir8rBa1q-vUT_wKZwQ1ye53mgMYLg/s1920/BBNP%20collage%20(2).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzsKk7c1etL_P92DBZ6LbXMpH2_rHl8O46UEVpF8OA7hH-Kn-y-Ec_LqKv6w3xiR8sMEf7-1r9P2HWqKigRyudk-ELCB8Tkl7Ap7ZOLH5xstqMzSDPPEO7NQgVuGnXb6nHDkSn0MNHgMjpGfijZr8WMBZrJ16jgir8rBa1q-vUT_wKZwQ1ye53mgMYLg/w539-h303/BBNP%20collage%20(2).jpg" width="539" /></a></div><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;">Gyda’r tymor yn newid, dyma syniadau i annog pawb i fynd allan a mwynhau:<br /><br />Wrth fynd am dro, beth am chwarae “Rwy’n gweld gyda’m llygaid bac hi rhywbeth glas / gwyrdd / coch…” neu os yw’r plant yn gwybod eu synau “ Rwy’n clywed rhywbeth yn cychwyn gyda….”. Gwnewch lwybr gyda saethau allan o frigau. Beth am greu casgliadau lliw gan ddefnyddio cerdyn a phlastig gludiog neu gasgliad cibab dail wrth fynd am dro.<br /><br /><span style="color: #6aa84f;">With the season changing, here are some ideas to encourage us all to enjoy being outside:<br /><br />Out on a walk look for colours and play “I spy something blue / green / red …” or if your children know their sounds, you can play “I hear something beginning with…”. Make a trail of arrows using fallen twigs. Create a colour palette of natural materials on sticky backed card to capture your journey in colour, texture and shape or a leaf kebab.</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht3acHtC9WrNotxtGcj9BUqAdBuVq22crZhCumpLMRPsojMnBqGhGy_hAiHASiBNJsE_afcIkopOqjsnR_YWrjEtHKDXE8jxKSSfIjsmfFOrzSgs_54Kk1n5r73X0RHs62y_LAfsU7ZCAt6xvQOmVliLwqJ2jiJ9DWagGp8FFK4srhXjJNbsH-ANYpHg/s687/colour%20palette%20natural%20materials%20edit.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="687" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht3acHtC9WrNotxtGcj9BUqAdBuVq22crZhCumpLMRPsojMnBqGhGy_hAiHASiBNJsE_afcIkopOqjsnR_YWrjEtHKDXE8jxKSSfIjsmfFOrzSgs_54Kk1n5r73X0RHs62y_LAfsU7ZCAt6xvQOmVliLwqJ2jiJ9DWagGp8FFK4srhXjJNbsH-ANYpHg/w552-h228/colour%20palette%20natural%20materials%20edit.jpg" width="552" /></a></div><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;">Beth am greu cyfleoedd i ddweud straeon go iawn neu rai dychmygus- pwy neu beth allai fod yn byw yn y twll yn y wal, yn y berth, mewn coeden sydd wedi cwympo neu gae? Pa siapiau allwch chi eu gweld yn y cymylau? Ewch a thegan allan ar antur neu ddefnyddio deunyddiau naturiol i ddweud stori neu chwarae gem a dychmygu sut byddent yn siarad a beth fyddent yn ei ddweud. Mwynhewch! Os nad ydych yn gwybod sut i ddechrau, cychwynnwch gyda stori gyfarwydd a defnyddiwch yr hyn sydd o’ch cwmpas i ddweud y stori. Dewch o hyd i rywbeth ym myd natur i fod yn gastell dychmygol, maes parcio, siop, a chwarae! Er enghraifft gallech ddefnyddio dail i gyfri a chwarae siop. Mae digon o gyfleoedd i greu celf naturiol a threulio mwy o amser tu allan.<br /><br /><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Create opportunities for real stories and imaginary ones – who or what could be living in those holes in the wall, hedgerow, fallen tree or field? What shapes can you see in the clouds? Take a toy outside for an adventure or use natural materials to tell a story or play a game and imagine what they might say and how they might speak. Have fun! If you’re not sure how to start then begin with a well-known story and use what you have around you to recreate the story. Find something in nature that can be an imaginary miniature place for the castle, car park, shop, house and play! For example, you could use leaves for counting and play shops. There is often an opportunity to create natural art and continue the time outside.</span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_5jyoSgY3QPIKiDuOloVUI32prMLP3CJoZXbytWc9WkhlklEJA4PvSHbZbKDaNs0PWxDzEpV_IKYj9nDElFqtm-I01Etv6HhDPZkmmc_56cG4eooeCC_nhvc_DDsvkwuBE92-NmCqcGjzmZIYmD22RP1uHwflIhxEAf2SNo3aqwC6K0vZ_N6rmkCmiw/s1920/BBNP%20collage%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_5jyoSgY3QPIKiDuOloVUI32prMLP3CJoZXbytWc9WkhlklEJA4PvSHbZbKDaNs0PWxDzEpV_IKYj9nDElFqtm-I01Etv6HhDPZkmmc_56cG4eooeCC_nhvc_DDsvkwuBE92-NmCqcGjzmZIYmD22RP1uHwflIhxEAf2SNo3aqwC6K0vZ_N6rmkCmiw/w533-h300/BBNP%20collage%20(1).jpg" width="533" /></a></div><br />Yn llawn hwyl a sbri, lliw gydag adnoddau rhad neu am ddim, dyma syniadau a ffilmiau byr a thaflenni gweithgareddau sydd wedi eu datblygu er mwyn eich ysbrydoli. O ddod o hyd i arwyddion y gwanwyn, anifeiliaid y nos, cartrefi i drychfilod neu ‘swynion ‘hud, offerynnau cerdd a hyd yn oed rygbi, dilynwch y ddolen <a href="https://www.bannaubrycheiniog.org/dysgu/gwobr-llysgennad-ifanc-y-parc-cenedlaethol-bannau-brycheiniog/adnodd-llysgennad-ifanc/" target="_blank">yma. </a><br /><br /><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Full of fun, colour and with natural, inexpensive or re-used resources, here are some ideas accompanied by some short films and activity sheets developed to inspire you. From spring spotters, nocturnal animals and insect hotels to magic ‘potions’, musical instruments and even rugby, follow the link <a href="https://www.beacons-npa.gov.uk/learning/brecon-beacons-national-park-young-ambassador-award/young-ambassador-resources/" target="_blank">here</a>.</span></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />Gobeithio y gwnewch chi ddod o hyd i syniadau yn y llyfryn gweithgareddau hwn a fydd yn eich helpu i ddeall pam bod Parc Cenedlaethol Bannau Brycheiniog yn ardal warchod. Bydd hyn yn eich gwneud yn llysgennad da a fydd yn gallu helpu eraill i ddeall pam y dylem edrych ar ôl yr ardal at y dyfodol. Bydd y gweithgareddau yn eich helpu i ddarganfod mwy am blanhigion arbennig ac anifeiliaid a lleoliadau Parc Cenedlaethol Bannau Brycheiniog a bydd hefyd yn helpu chi feddwl am sut gallwch chi fwynhau ac edrych ar ôl yr ardal rydych chi’n byw ynddi.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.bannaubrycheiniog.org/dysgu/gwobr-llysgennad-ifanc-y-parc-cenedlaethol-bannau-brycheiniog/" target="_blank">Yn y ddolen</a> hon gallwch argraffu llyfryn gyda gweithgareddau i’w cwblhau a thystysgrif Llysgennad Ifanc y Parc Cenedlaethol.<br /><br /><span style="color: #6aa84f;">We hope you find some ideas in this activity booklet which will help you understand more about why the Brecon Beacons National Park is a protected area. This will make you a great ambassador who can help others understand why we should look after this area for the future. The activities will help you to discover more about the special plants, animals and places in the Brecon Beacons National Park and will also help you to think about how you can enjoy and look after the area where you live.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.beacons-npa.gov.uk/learning/brecon-beacons-national-park-young-ambassador-award/" target="_blank">In this link</a> you can print out a booklet with activities to complete and a National Park Young Ambassador certificate.</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzLZxLdzeNhAd1WCS0G_2B4avInMD9PWnPPYom3Jizg6CYIM_7FI_sl3tKUvKt-F9bWVm4MpQjmiUql3SAeF37M1swy3rJx9GH-X49GfkWCv5_UGptrsPY3eQ4RNqhg4hGitfSRdVRVgqVYyb1uSsVkd0q8ll5JoFy95-afeDuYjVyL19Tlx-k3DeVGg/s416/Young%20Ambassador%20logo.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="382" data-original-width="416" height="331" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzLZxLdzeNhAd1WCS0G_2B4avInMD9PWnPPYom3Jizg6CYIM_7FI_sl3tKUvKt-F9bWVm4MpQjmiUql3SAeF37M1swy3rJx9GH-X49GfkWCv5_UGptrsPY3eQ4RNqhg4hGitfSRdVRVgqVYyb1uSsVkd0q8ll5JoFy95-afeDuYjVyL19Tlx-k3DeVGg/w361-h331/Young%20Ambassador%20logo.png" width="361" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />Os am fwy o ysbrydoliaeth at y Gwanwyn, beth am wneud adduned i wneud newid positif at y dyfodol? Mae ein Llysgennad Ifanc o 2022 Dylan E. Matthews wedi meddwl am newidiadau y gallwn eu cymryd a fydd yn cael effaith positif ar Weithredu ar yr Hinsawdd:<br /><br />A- Arbed ynni, diffoddwch e!<br />Dd- Ddaw dim lles o wastraffu<br /> E- Eich cinio.<br /> W- Wrth ymarfer corff<br /> I- I deithio o le i le.<br /> D- datblygwn erddi<br /> I-I fyd natur.<br />O-Osgoi pwysau ar ein cyflenwad dŵr<br />N-Nawr safwn yn falch a rhannwn <br /><br />Mae cerdd Dylan yn dweud cyfrolau, ond os hoffech chi fwy o syniadau, edrychwch <a href="https://www.bannaubrycheiniog.org/dysgu/gweithredu-ar-yr-hinsawdd-2022/" target="_blank">ar y ddolen yma.</a><br /><br /><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Needing some more inspiration to jump into Spring and pledge to make a positive change for our future? Our Youth Ambassador for 2022 Dylan E. Matthews captures some changes we can all make for positive Climate Action:<br /><br />P- Power down, save energy<br />L- Lunches free of waste<br />E- Exercise, place to place<br />D- Develop homes for nature<br />G- Grow a garden<br />E- Ease pressure on the water<br />S- Stand proud and share<br /><br />We think Dylan’s poem speaks volumes, but if you would like some more ideas have a look <a href="https://www.beacons-npa.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/Climate-Action-Pledge-BBNP-2022.pdf" target="_blank">at our link here.</a></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzkdwoyjMEccyFR0hqGLkX4w9xi4DFRcByAg56m224VbJ5E7hBOkmYElq_aF5976ask3ORuIrBk51mFzUo4U4blr4b-nhs0TLR1Tm4rvOrmKyTrkFJ8fFnGWgF5C2XXwzUQhqrE67ZzOl2M9Vh5bwPzIky_Mw0pY2u8MybrQLBvSXBxskK--kRYi64kQ/s427/star%20gazing.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="320" height="361" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzkdwoyjMEccyFR0hqGLkX4w9xi4DFRcByAg56m224VbJ5E7hBOkmYElq_aF5976ask3ORuIrBk51mFzUo4U4blr4b-nhs0TLR1Tm4rvOrmKyTrkFJ8fFnGWgF5C2XXwzUQhqrE67ZzOl2M9Vh5bwPzIky_Mw0pY2u8MybrQLBvSXBxskK--kRYi64kQ/w271-h361/star%20gazing.png" width="271" /></a></div><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Gyda’r nos – diffoddwch y golau ac edrych fyny! /<span style="color: #6aa84f;"> In the evenings - power down, look up!</span></b><br /><br />Mae llygredd golau isel yn dda nid yn unig i syllu ar y sêr ond i fywyd gwyllt y nos ac i’n lles ni ein hun.<br /><br />Mae lleihau llygredd golau yn cadw ein rhythm circadian (ein cloc corfforol) i weithredu’n naturiol. Pan aflonyddir ar y rhythm yma, gall achosi newidiadau meddyliol, corfforol ac ymddygiadol.<br /><br />Mae bywyd gwyllt hefyd angen tywyllwch i gynnal cylched circadian, fel rydym ni. Mae niferoedd llawer o rywogaethau’r nos fel gwyfynod a draenogod yn gostwng. Mae ystlumod yn amrywio eu llwybrau er mwyn osgoi golau artiffisial, a gall hyn gael effaith ar eu gallu i hela neu osgoi ysglyfaeth. Trwy leihau ein llygredd aer gallwn helpu i ddiogelu bywyd gwyllt y nos. <a href="https://www.breconbeacons.org/cy/pethau-iw-gwneud/gweithgareddau/anturiaethau-syllu-ar-y-ser/degawd-o-dywyllwch">Mae Parc Cenedlaethol Bannau Brycheiniog yn dathlu deng mlynedd o fod yn Warchodfa Awyr Dywyll.</a><br /><br />Beth am gael eich ysbrydoli gan anifeiliaid y nos a gwneud eich celf eich hun? Mae hefyd llawer o syniadau i ysgogi pobl ifanc am awyr y nos <a href="https://www.bannaubrycheiniog.org/dysgu/adnoddau-gwyl-awyr-dywyll/ " target="_blank">yma.</a><br /><br /><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Low light pollution is not only good for stargazing, but also vital to nocturnal wildlife and to human wellbeing. <br /><br />Reducing light pollution keeps our circadian rhythm (our body clock) functioning normally. When this rhythm is disrupted, it can cause behavioural, physical and mental changes.<br /> <br />Wildlife also needs darkness to maintain circadian cycles, just as humans do. Many nocturnal species, from hedgehogs to moths, are in decline. Bats will alter their routes to avoid artificial light, and this can have impacts on their ability to hunt or to avoid predators. By reducing our light pollution we can help protect our nocturnal wildlife. <a href="https://www.breconbeacons.org/things-to-do/activities/stargazing/decade-of-darkness" target="_blank">The Brecon Beacons National Park is celebrating ten years of being a Dark Sky Reserve.</a></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br />Why not be inspired by nocturnal animals and make your own art? There are also lots of ideas to engage your youngsters with the night sky <a href="https://www.beacons-npa.gov.uk/learning/dark-sky-festival-resources/" target="_blank">here.</a></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJyEcCjEjdgfEW8VYKF0MS9F9YMO_rn2NDjTIQf95elPJzNQioMCd_J3d3btnz1hcdtMt7Wn0kNST7Gu19QPIvdrlG6YOSIs0z9r9sR6-bPRbhj7Ttn7pQfA_tAsH9Mqj7bacTlO8bxW37EE8l2TBtYlXKHURAuSZMK0IkEZS4Ivy6S2Z1WyH3BzTFwA/s423/play%20equipment.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="423" data-original-width="309" height="379" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJyEcCjEjdgfEW8VYKF0MS9F9YMO_rn2NDjTIQf95elPJzNQioMCd_J3d3btnz1hcdtMt7Wn0kNST7Gu19QPIvdrlG6YOSIs0z9r9sR6-bPRbhj7Ttn7pQfA_tAsH9Mqj7bacTlO8bxW37EE8l2TBtYlXKHURAuSZMK0IkEZS4Ivy6S2Z1WyH3BzTFwA/w277-h379/play%20equipment.png" width="277" /></a></div></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />Os ydych yn gallu teithio, beth am ymweld â Chanolfan Ymwelwyr y Parc Cenedlaethol, ger Libanus (LD3 8ER) - edrychwch allan am yr arwyddion ffordd. Mae llawer o gyfleusterau newydd yno yn cynnwys parc chwarae, parcio i’r anabl newydd a pod newid newydd. Mae Café, siopa a Chanolfan wybodaeth yno hefyd. Ceir digon o le i chwarae, ymlacio ac archwilio. Os ydych awydd antur mwy o faint gallwch grwydro’r comin gyda golygfeydd godidog! <br /><br /><a href="https://www.breconbeacons.org/cy/darganfod/easier-access/atyniadau-mynediad-hwylus/canolfan-groesor-parc-cenedlaethol " target="_blank">Cyn bo hir bydd cadair olwyn ar gyfer pob tirwedd y gallwch ei fenthyg</a> o’r Ganolfan Ymwelwyr.<br /><br /><span style="color: #6aa84f;">If you can travel, why not visit the National Park Visitor Centre, near Libanus (LD3 8ER) - look out for signs to get you there. It has great new facilities. There is a new playpark, new disabled parking and a new changing pod as well as a lovely café, shop and information centre. Within the grounds there is plenty of room to play, explore and relax. If you want a bigger adventure there is also easy access to the common with even more incredible views!<br /><br /><a href="https://www.breconbeacons.org/discover/easier-access/attractions/national-park-visitor-centre" target="_blank">There will soon be an all-terrain wheelchair to borrow,</a> based at the Visitor Centre.</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYv8aoiEnNbrboo_spjsV1oGXppV8Qvrc5F6J_h1S3mN-KBPmavwfHSxT6f9FM7iA8AOyxxpJ8Qj98yTOl6KyYmtyST7z-Ibl5NkemXDC2Gs_74ceBQkqTaRUE2Mj6UuQB9gdf_Ut_Y2KLCSdzxsFGOkq85GP9-vtH9RijYahnxLQRKLgFBU6-tvNujA/s576/craig%20y%20nos%20country%20park.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="436" data-original-width="576" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYv8aoiEnNbrboo_spjsV1oGXppV8Qvrc5F6J_h1S3mN-KBPmavwfHSxT6f9FM7iA8AOyxxpJ8Qj98yTOl6KyYmtyST7z-Ibl5NkemXDC2Gs_74ceBQkqTaRUE2Mj6UuQB9gdf_Ut_Y2KLCSdzxsFGOkq85GP9-vtH9RijYahnxLQRKLgFBU6-tvNujA/w455-h344/craig%20y%20nos%20country%20park.jpg" width="455" /></a></div></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />Lleoliad arall gwerth ei ymweld yw <a href="https://www.breconbeacons.org/cy/poi/parc-gwledig-craig-y-nos" target="_blank">Parc Gwledig Craig-y-nos, </a> (SA9 1GL). Wedi ei leoli ym mhen uchaf Cwm Tawe mae’n le hyfryd i archwilio gyda choed, pyllau, afon a chaeau a llawer o lwybrau llydan, gwastad addas i gadeiriau olwyn a phramiau. Dewch i weld y Gerddi Cymunedol sy’n cael ei redeg gan wirfoddolwyr- efallai y cewch syniadau newydd. Mae toiledau, café a siop a gweithdy ar y safle ac mae digwyddiadau yn cael eu cynnal yn aml. Mae ar lwybr bws T6.<br /><br /><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Another great family friendly day out is to <a href="https://www.breconbeacons.org/poi/car-parks-craig-y-nos-country-park" target="_blank">Craig-y-nos Country Park,</a> (SA9 1GL). It is in the Upper Swansea Valley and is a wonderful place to explore. It has woods, meadows, ponds and rivers as well as lots of wide, level paths suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. Come and have a look at the volunteer run Community Garden – you might pick up some new ideas. There are toilets, a café, shop and workshops on site and there are often events taking place. It is also on the T6 bus route.</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnFcdSWe5kYjfk-yjCNAwCBzt7MJt0mOiYOuHsOE0GWXr4G1BumNy8xBrl7YqWvlKh03yfK6ekEVYJm6whRp47KLE6aVs3lp_6xVTky9qMUZsgM9FVkqQiDRXFTxWDtjhhxRzHqF7Y1dVSj3xRsBLHlBUdhXlPqBHYrEjhRuPbbvDjER54Ryo7yOqcuw/s534/BBNP%20staff.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="534" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnFcdSWe5kYjfk-yjCNAwCBzt7MJt0mOiYOuHsOE0GWXr4G1BumNy8xBrl7YqWvlKh03yfK6ekEVYJm6whRp47KLE6aVs3lp_6xVTky9qMUZsgM9FVkqQiDRXFTxWDtjhhxRzHqF7Y1dVSj3xRsBLHlBUdhXlPqBHYrEjhRuPbbvDjER54Ryo7yOqcuw/w390-h220/BBNP%20staff.jpg" width="390" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial; text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Swyddogion Addysg i Awdurdod Parc Cenedlaethol Bannau Brycheiniog </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Education Officers Brecon Beacons National Park Authority</span></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b>Rydym yn cynnig ystod wych o weithgareddau i grwpiau Ysgol, gallwch dderbyn mwy o wybodaeth <a href="https://www.bannaubrycheiniog.org/dysgu/course-brochure-201314/" target="_blank">yma.</a></b><br /><br />Ar ol tywyllwch ac oerni’r gaeaf, mae arwyddion bywyd newydd y gwanwyn yn dechrau ymddangos. Gyda’r dyddiau’n ymestyn a’r tywydd yn cynhesu beth am fynd allan ac archwilio, gan ddefnyddio’ch synhwyrau i fwynhau’r hyn sydd i’w weld, glywed a’i arogli o’ch cwmpas. <br /><br /><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><b>We offer a great range of activities for school groups, more information can be found <a href="https://www.beacons-npa.gov.uk/learning/course-brochure-201314/">here.</a></b> <br /><br />After the cold and dark of winter, signs of new life begin to emerge in spring. With the days getting longer and warmer why not get out and explore, using all your senses to enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of your surroundings. </span><br /><br />Am fwy o wybodaeth am ein Gwasanaeth Addysg, cysylltwch gyda ni ar | <span style="color: #6aa84f;">For more information on our Education Service contact us on </span><a href="mailto:educationemail@beacons-npa.gov.uk">educationemail@beacons-npa.gov.uk</a></span><br /></div></div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDNgoBWFBfofXoxOkclghdTf8_Ae_L1zIFeiPHIGesljTxYZFtY_VlQubs3Eeba3J3RnoXNJA-cBYRcRPU_InrgbW1Awj1THCTKSCNmttQ-jBW9dymAhAgpH-IIWIQf5ojYxidUosWTziLxSzcKCjtHb3v3hoE-Z8QC0gFWWGDyAVw022JbJySyg0FMg/s366/BBNP%20logo.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="366" data-original-width="262" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDNgoBWFBfofXoxOkclghdTf8_Ae_L1zIFeiPHIGesljTxYZFtY_VlQubs3Eeba3J3RnoXNJA-cBYRcRPU_InrgbW1Awj1THCTKSCNmttQ-jBW9dymAhAgpH-IIWIQf5ojYxidUosWTziLxSzcKCjtHb3v3hoE-Z8QC0gFWWGDyAVw022JbJySyg0FMg/w164-h229/BBNP%20logo.jpg" width="164" /></a></div>Jackie Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05293038655478909058noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8753418862245773183.post-376863984628278152023-03-02T11:28:00.000+00:002023-03-02T11:28:46.299+00:00Shared Power - the training<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE5AEyYzonvbs6NovBvTFnt3ihqMdjQYV4RDBrvyyk_24258qgrmutt0OeyzN5LGROBygXw7sXthnirvuhFSPYghmOPaJC0GhMP5MNbCeMI0UOZ51kYTnuLD1biFSIxLQU5CsoVseQu7aUOlZaDI3EJ0ap2CxR82QLLMxZY3LMFTq5tu9qYK2H7TtHAA/s1080/SharedPower23%20collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="1080" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE5AEyYzonvbs6NovBvTFnt3ihqMdjQYV4RDBrvyyk_24258qgrmutt0OeyzN5LGROBygXw7sXthnirvuhFSPYghmOPaJC0GhMP5MNbCeMI0UOZ51kYTnuLD1biFSIxLQU5CsoVseQu7aUOlZaDI3EJ0ap2CxR82QLLMxZY3LMFTq5tu9qYK2H7TtHAA/w514-h386/SharedPower23%20collage.jpg" width="514" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: medium;">How to use your lived experience to help in the planning and delivery of </span></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: medium;">health and wellbeing services in Powys</span></b></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />Late last year the Health & Wellbeing team at PAVO launched <a href="https://powysmentalhealth.blogspot.com/2022/10/shared-power-introduction.html">Shared Power - An Introduction, an animated video,</a> as a training tool for individuals who want to use their experiences of health services to help shape future services. The film delves into the different types of power, and how they interact with each other, when service user and carer representatives attend partnership board meetings in Powys. <br /><br />The film is also aimed at those working in services so that they can avoid some of the barriers to co-production. Co-production means service users and carers work together with health professionals to design future services that work better for everyone. We received some excellent feedback about the film at the time.<br /><br />Then, just a few weeks ago, came the perfect opportunity to show the film again - at the latest Shared Power face to face training session at our Ddole Road offices in Llandrindod Wells. Delivered by Owen Griffkin (Mental Health Participation Officer) with support from Sue Newham (Health & Wellbeing Engagement Officer), the training aimed to build the confidence, knowledge and skills of participants. Some of those attending were already volunteering as <a href="https://www.powysmentalhealth.org.uk/meet-your-reps/" target="_blank">citizen or individual reps,</a> and the training aimed to help them participate effectively in the planning and reviewing of services with public bodies. <br /><br />Citizen reps volunteer their time, energy and passion to make a difference for others and to the services we receive, and are helping influence change at local, regional and national levels. Some of the participants are citizen reps on the <a href="https://www.powysmentalhealth.org.uk/mental-health-services-in-powys/nhs-mental-health-services-planning/">Powys Mental Health Planning & Development Board</a> and the Talk to Me 2 (Suicide & Self-Harm Prevention Forum), whilst others regularly sit on the <a href="https://www.powysrpb.org/">Powys Regional Partnership Board.</a></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgakFuRyY3KF2mimCmuj20sZLLEdJLpiD1eRmGcDqSwtl6EAp49318XiYh70wtuSp4Z9B3mudXPL0D_SgaS44jiPXV4lGry9u31PQuO3zvXc8gMdv3qtAiG8sTbjVFhKrcAAvRzX2q-meoyrhDKtEHUxAYOlt58B8HBQZIFFXQoqKhb3CzHX4Sr49dHWw/s1200/SharedPower23%20(29).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="843" data-original-width="1200" height="363" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgakFuRyY3KF2mimCmuj20sZLLEdJLpiD1eRmGcDqSwtl6EAp49318XiYh70wtuSp4Z9B3mudXPL0D_SgaS44jiPXV4lGry9u31PQuO3zvXc8gMdv3qtAiG8sTbjVFhKrcAAvRzX2q-meoyrhDKtEHUxAYOlt58B8HBQZIFFXQoqKhb3CzHX4Sr49dHWw/w517-h363/SharedPower23%20(29).jpg" width="517" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Learning opportunities on the day included:</b><br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: arial;">How to influence positive changes in health and wellbeing services in Powys.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Understanding the theories underpinning service user and carer involvement in planning services.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Gaining practical experience of how partnership boards work with service users and carers in meetings.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Recognising barriers to participation and how to overcome them.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Finding out about current opportunities and how to apply for them.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">The opportunity to learn from current service user and carer representatives who sit on Health and Wellbeing Boards about their experiences.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Learning assertiveness techniques and how to prepare for meetings.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">How to share personal experiences and avoid ‘trigger points’.<br /><br /></span></li></ul></span><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="color: #b45f06; font-family: arial; font-size: large;">Here are some highlights from the day’s training.</b></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqoC_-jPf2Y2fkdfjwcldS3STpK06dSeLZ8uEIaGo0JzZ1vP2bcK85V3Df7DSmMsOXPDJmEwAojAs6Pd6bbmvyS81r1F_ZDslHvSk0TJXgh3pyHEVMencN72Rc5s_qFU5bHlOKdAAQQxbXG6-oEuS3OOYp-CfcOY6o5q-5UCVd2gowzgn7AdSqoTwLXA/s1500/SharedPower23%20(27).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1016" data-original-width="1500" height="339" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqoC_-jPf2Y2fkdfjwcldS3STpK06dSeLZ8uEIaGo0JzZ1vP2bcK85V3Df7DSmMsOXPDJmEwAojAs6Pd6bbmvyS81r1F_ZDslHvSk0TJXgh3pyHEVMencN72Rc5s_qFU5bHlOKdAAQQxbXG6-oEuS3OOYp-CfcOY6o5q-5UCVd2gowzgn7AdSqoTwLXA/w501-h339/SharedPower23%20(27).jpg" width="501" /></a></div><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Co-production demystified </b><br /><br />As a citizen rep, you are an equal partner with other professionals in the room. You are an expert by experience. But how do you gain the experience of other people and take their stories to a partnership board?<br /><br />Owen updated the group about the work of the current mental health representatives, who regularly go out into the community at Meet the Rep events to listen to people’s voices about mental health services.<br /><br />One of our experienced reps, John, spoke about how important it is to find out what is happening in the rest of Wales and about being aware of current mental health legislation. “Preparation is key! Ask yourself what are some of the key messages you want people to hear.”<br /><br />John also described some of the resources available to people who want to engage in a co-productive way. <a href="https://copronet.wales/">The Co-production Network for Wales</a> is a good starting point for finding out more. <br /><br />And volunteering as a rep is a two-way street! We regularly hear that taking on the role “does improve confidence and help with personal recovery.”</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="344" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LTjpUIpHkP8" width="525" youtube-src-id="LTjpUIpHkP8"></iframe></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /><b>Meetings - with remarkable people</b><br /><br />Even introducing yourself at a meeting can be hard when in a room full of strangers, especially when most of them are there in a professional capacity. “A few years ago asking who I am would have been a really distressing question as I thought I was a nobody!”<br /><br />Participants were introduced to Imposter Syndrome - it might feel daunting to be at a partnership board meeting, but as a rep you probably deserve to be there more than anyone else. “You are the most valuable person here,” someone was told at one meeting.<br /><br />Everyone in the room is equal. Those working as heads of service for the NHS, or other statutory bodies, may be constrained in their work roles as to exactly what changes they can bring about and when - but they are people too. They may have a mother with dementia, a nephew who needs care, a friend struggling to access services…</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ6mlkv0gV3jDflU13fyTol7WO1UCQHtNBF2xA6LHUj3c4lii38KUAn8H2XE6Aom7cIhT8_vQQu5x_bPQ3JMnJtznf9G_ut4gRWHDf5kWBT-jw17NW-ADvJMPQsMMcnnewqWVIfaPDdRIN1wUY1MA2zGGmica_2Mae0r03-TiYIuua9tipzA5nC_77TQ/s1400/SharedPower23%20(46).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1061" data-original-width="1400" height="391" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ6mlkv0gV3jDflU13fyTol7WO1UCQHtNBF2xA6LHUj3c4lii38KUAn8H2XE6Aom7cIhT8_vQQu5x_bPQ3JMnJtznf9G_ut4gRWHDf5kWBT-jw17NW-ADvJMPQsMMcnnewqWVIfaPDdRIN1wUY1MA2zGGmica_2Mae0r03-TiYIuua9tipzA5nC_77TQ/w516-h391/SharedPower23%20(46).jpg" width="516" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;">As someone pointed out, “Town councils, health boards and councils are slow moving, which can be discouraging, but once they get going in the right direction they are hard to stop!”<br /><br />Assertiveness is key - and learning the difference between being passive, aggressive and assertive an important skill. As a rep you need to think about being:<br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Proactive about what you want to say.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Confident and engaged.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Self aware and aware of others.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: arial;">Sure your needs are met and that you are heard.<br /><br /></span></li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNBEZVpzmCELhIZnkdJOvIQb4s7TqPuInyChoAq8LWKzPhOD0SAyCxYDUF38LrWZ6VpD-npGmWyvNRGrhJowvzTXQJbYzo7Evv-k_PPPscAa7wxw-nniVD37vxqpylhjAUlAe4EPTuLKwagiiJodE1375KoF7XzRVxBbGWigQgSSWqW_lUCh8W2LtVkg/s1400/SharedPower23%20(43).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1400" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNBEZVpzmCELhIZnkdJOvIQb4s7TqPuInyChoAq8LWKzPhOD0SAyCxYDUF38LrWZ6VpD-npGmWyvNRGrhJowvzTXQJbYzo7Evv-k_PPPscAa7wxw-nniVD37vxqpylhjAUlAe4EPTuLKwagiiJodE1375KoF7XzRVxBbGWigQgSSWqW_lUCh8W2LtVkg/w527-h396/SharedPower23%20(43).jpg" width="527" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><b>Hotspots, triggers & flashpoints</b></div><br />Participants spoke about their own triggers. These included being talked over, being told that there was not enough money, “mansplaining" and not being listened to.<br /><br />One said, “I used to get in a tizz when people didn’t listen and I would storm out crying, but nothing good came from that!”<br /><br />“You need a strong assertive Chair so that the meeting does not go off track and any problems can be shut down.”<br /><br />“There will always be quiet people - it’s about managing a meeting to let all voices be heard.”</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifXrsffSCv2Ygb-AcTHL613G-XfehMrCFCkow_Fi3GXyxDT4uucDBP4f_wDJ5FT2iL-L-7MgCw9tynrDI8j6aP30uwv2Hr0rR1r8RTw6U-Acsab6wpk_JqSZ1F90fFvcNuzCf4jVLyzAcxi1V9vwRGB7q45rAabFnuH5HBm2IkBYwhsYs4aG4pvYZMfQ/s1400/SharedPower23%20(31).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="999" data-original-width="1400" height="383" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifXrsffSCv2Ygb-AcTHL613G-XfehMrCFCkow_Fi3GXyxDT4uucDBP4f_wDJ5FT2iL-L-7MgCw9tynrDI8j6aP30uwv2Hr0rR1r8RTw6U-Acsab6wpk_JqSZ1F90fFvcNuzCf4jVLyzAcxi1V9vwRGB7q45rAabFnuH5HBm2IkBYwhsYs4aG4pvYZMfQ/w537-h383/SharedPower23%20(31).jpg" width="537" /></a></div></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><br /><b>Dealing with difficult conversations</b><br /><br />There was some very interesting group debate amongst the participants about what to do around some specific tricky scenarios which Owen had set up.<br /><br />“Health staff are there for you. It’s about having the confidence and assertiveness to say, ‘I respect your views but I don’t agree with them.’”<br /><br />“Ground rules are important to set the tone for the meeting.”<br /><br />If there is a lack of respect someone suggested saying: “I have respect for your professionalism, so please have respect for my lived experience.”</span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3OojCCxkPY8aPO9YWaCuM097MMRjzy9QOpzBVo_wH17dSxfsKNM3XmiyfTJaGaoS3NkYx2AQaNS33oKWXEw9cQbjJAb6oN1wpGMKWj7AFJivTLL30AtPdIB6hZMQvAhmgTCri92UFL-ObY69dQUCeXWMTE_mgLXg328sjzdsb966LoJfaNGd7bAEeGQ/s1300/SharedPower23%20(56).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="936" data-original-width="1300" height="363" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3OojCCxkPY8aPO9YWaCuM097MMRjzy9QOpzBVo_wH17dSxfsKNM3XmiyfTJaGaoS3NkYx2AQaNS33oKWXEw9cQbjJAb6oN1wpGMKWj7AFJivTLL30AtPdIB6hZMQvAhmgTCri92UFL-ObY69dQUCeXWMTE_mgLXg328sjzdsb966LoJfaNGd7bAEeGQ/w506-h363/SharedPower23%20(56).jpg" width="506" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>The mock meeting</b><br /><br />To round off the training session, Sue chaired a mock meeting designed to put into practice all the learning from earlier in the day. It turned out to be an extremely interesting and valuable exercise.<br /><br />All those attending agreed that they had benefitted hugely from Shared Power training, both from the learning and also the opportunity to network with others with a similar role.<br /><br /><b>And finally…</b><br /><br />Would you be interested in joining these citizen reps to take grass-root views and opinions to local board meetings where service providers can find out what is working and what needs to change? For further information about becoming a citizen rep, in the field of mental health or health and social care, just get in touch with us by emailing <a href="mailto:owen.griffkin@pavo.org.uk">owen.griffkin@pavo.org.uk</a> or ringing 01597 822191.<br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: medium;">The next Shared Power training session will take place on 13 September 2023. </span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: medium;">Do get in touch with Owen if you would like to sign up.</span></b></div></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-6523d034-7fff-76e0-02fd-0c0ad115802c"><div><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 12pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div></span></div></div></div>Jackie Nhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05293038655478909058noreply@blogger.com0