Christmas & food - a Powys point of view

Christmas is almost upon us! And what is Christmas if not a festival of food (amongst the gifts, the seasonal games and festivities, the celebrations with family and friends - or not - depending on your preference or situation). The news is full of updates about what foods may or may not be available for people this year. Yet whilst most of us will not go hungry, even given a restricted choice at the supermarket or our chosen local food outlet, there will be others who will struggle to put food of any kind on the table, be it Christmas or any time of year.

For this blog post we want to explore a few of the ways we interact with food, and consider food get-togethers, at Christmas and also other times of the year. We will also touch on the support for people with eating disorders at Christmas.

Food for Life get-togethers - new Powys Food Network

In November the first Powys Food Network meeting took place, organised jointly by Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations and Cultivate. Cultivate is a cooperative based in Newtown in North Powys, run by volunteers and employees who are dedicated to supporting a resilient local food economy.

The Grow, Cook and Share in Powys Network, which is funded by the Soil Association’s Food for Life get-togethers programme, has been set up to support groups across Powys to get involved in growing, cooking and sharing activities. There are many benefits to a Food Get Together, not just the opportunity to enjoy tasty, wholesome food prepared from locally grown ingredients. The groups who attended the first network meeting in November this year reported that people enjoyed coming together - not just to eat and learn about food - but to socialise. This is a really important aspect of coming together to eat, as isolation and loneliness, which can impact hugely on mental health, are at much higher levels in our local communities since the pandemic.

At Christmas it’s important to look out for family, friends and neighbours who don’t have the opportunity to get together with others for the traditional festive meal, whilst at the same time being sensitive to the wishes of those who choose to enjoy the holiday time quietly by themselves. 

My colleague Jen, PAVO's Health & Wellbeing Information Officer, has pulled together some useful information about Powys community groups and venues offering Christmas meals and other activities over the 2021 festive period. 

You can find further details on the main PAVO website.

Meanwhile, the next meeting of the new Powys Food network will hopefully take place at Cultivate’s community gardens in Newtown in early 2022. If you’d like to find out more about the network, or even sign up, then email sue.newham@pavo.org.uk

How Christmas diet choices can affect our mental health

There is a huge amount of research now about the potential impact of our dietary choices on our mental wellbeing. According to the UK charity The Mental Health Foundation: “Eating well – which means having a balanced diet full of vegetables and nutrients – can improve your sense of wellbeing and your mood.”

The article explains the link between different foods and the impact they can have on your mental health and highlights particular foods that can lead to low mood such as those with high levels of fats, sugars and caffeine.

Festive food, of course, is full of these dietary nasties! Perhaps the best approach is one of balance at Christmas - just a few sugary treats but plenty of healthy fresh food for the most part. It’s actually amazing how wonderful fresh fruit and veg can taste when you cut down on your sugar intake. Fresh cabbage and carrots, especially those grown locally and organically, are so naturally sweet to the taste buds!

Eating disorders at Christmas

For anyone living with an eating disorder, the festive season can introduce even more challenges to daily life. Suddenly we’re not just expected to eat three square meals a day, but to snack endlessly on all the so-called Christmas edible goodies that appear in the shops and maybe even as presents from well-meaning family and friends.

Then there is the added hurdle of extra visitors who join the dinner table at festive meal times - family and friends we may not have seen for many months, and who may not understand how anxious such a setting can be for someone living with an eating disorder.

The eating disorder charity Beat has a useful web page of tips for anyone in this situation to help make it as stress free as possible:

Five questions you might have about Christmas with an eating disorder

Young Minds, the charity supporting young people with their mental wellbeing, suggests distraction techniques, adjusting expectations and being kind to yourself if thoughts of Christmas make you feel upset, angry or anxious:

Tips for coping with an eating disorder at Christmas

Beat's helpline services will be open 4pm – Midnight from 24th December to 3rd January. During this time people can call 0808 801 0433, email waleshelp@beateatingdisorders.org.uk or speak to an advisor using one-to-one webchat.

If you need urgent help outside Beat’s opening hours, then contact the Samaritans on 116 123, they are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Favourite festive local produce of our team

Locally produced food has less food miles, supports the local economy, and boosts climate change resilience. Perhaps it also has that extra feel good factor which can help us feel better about ourselves and the planet!

So, what Powys food and drink can we enjoy this Christmas? The Health & Wellbeing team at PAVO tell us about the locally grown / produced food and drink that they most like to enjoy!

Clair Swales - Head of Health & Wellbeing

WJ George Butchers, Talgarth - Turkeys

Originally established as a butcher’s over 135 years ago, W.J. (Billy) George took over ownership of W.J. George Butchers from his uncle in 1935 and it still remains in the family to this very day. It’s our Swales family tradition to buy our Christmas Turkey from here. Their meats are sourced from local farms and there is a real passion for the produce they sell.

Gareth Ratcliffe - Health Promotion Facilitator, Mid Powys

LUCKY 7 Beer

Lucky 7 is an independent brewery in Hay-on-Wye making fresh, modern, creative beers. They produce beers that highlight the quality of the ingredients. Beers that will stimulate and excite the palate. Beers that will complement a moment. They are a must for Christmas day as well as the summer BBQ.

Jackie Newey - Mental Health Information Officer

Kale Nero di Toscana - Italian kale

Straight from our organic veg garden! Perfect greens for Christmas dinner - they can survive all kinds of awful winter weather and still taste so good.

Jen Hawkins - Health & Wellbeing Information Officer

Dairy Dreams local milk

Dairy Dreams is a family run dairy farm on the Powys/Shropshire border producing fresh, pasteurised milk from their herd of free range cows. I love the 1 litre bottles that the milk comes in, reducing the amount of plastic and knowing that my milk has only travelled a few miles from farm to cereal bowl! Also love the great range of delicious ice cream they produce, current favourite is a seasonal gingerbread ice cream for Christmas.

Lucy Taylor - Startwell Development Officer

Wendy's Eco Chic pickles, chutney and oils - Builth Wells

They make such a nice present in a basket or with a festive bow.

Owen Griffkin - Mental Health Participation Officer

Hwgga Ales - microbrewery in Llandrindod Wells

Nice selection of interesting ales named after local landmarks like Lover's Leap and Shaky Bridge and a great present for family and friends from elsewhere.

Sue Newham - Engagement Officer

Richard Edwards’ squashes - Newtown

Richard is a smallholder who grows squashes that you can buy in Cultivate in Newtown. They look like small, knobbly pumpkins, but they taste glorious. I make squash soup or roast them in slices.

A peaceful Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our readers near and far

International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day 2021

International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day

This year Saturday 20 November is International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day across the globe. The annual awareness day is organised by the American charity the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, and the day is described as: “an event in which survivors of suicide loss come together to find connection, understanding, and hope through their shared experience”.

The awareness day was originally created in 1999 in the United States Senate. Senator Harry Reid had lost his father to suicide, and introduced the resolution which led to an annual Survivor Day. It always falls on the Saturday before American Thanksgiving (the 4th Thursday in November) as it was felt that holiday times are often particularly difficult for suicide loss survivors.

Self heal - Prunella vulgaris

Bereaved by suicide in Powys

The issue of suicide is as relevant in Powys as it is anywhere else in the world. In June this year the newly appointed Powys Suicide & Self-Harm Prevention Co-ordinator, Jan Roberts, wrote about the three key areas of her work here on our blog. The second key area is: Improving the support available to those bereaved by suicide in Powys with the creation of a new Powys Suicide Bereavement Service.

“The idea is in its early stages, but the intention is that the family or person would be offered practical and emotional support with regular check ins, where they have consented; it’s about checking in and asking what support they need at that particular time. Peer led support is another option being considered in conjunction with the voluntary sector. Health board staff and partners in the voluntary sector are receiving suicide bereavement training to better equip everyone to work together to progress this in Powys.”

For more information on this crucial work, please contact Jan Roberts, Powys Suicide and Self-Harm Prevention Co-ordinator, by emailing Jan.Roberts3@wales.nhs.uk

Meanwhile, as Jan progresses work on the new Powys Suicide Bereavement Service it seems appropriate, not just for International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day but for any time of year, to flag up some of the resources and services that are currently available to people bereaved by suicide in Powys.

Resources

Public Health Wales has produced a booklet called Help is at Hand for anyone bereaved through suicide or other unexplained death.

Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide is a self-help organisation which exists to meet the needs and break the isolation experienced by those bereaved by suicide. The charity has produced a Support after Suicide booklet, also available in Welsh. There are also many other resources for survivors on the charity’s website.

The Support after Suicide Partnership brings together suicide bereavement organisations and people with lived experience, to achieve a vision that everyone bereaved or affected by suicide is offered timely and appropriate support. The Partnership has a website with many other downloadable resources.

Papyrus – the charity dedicated to the prevention of young suicide – has information on Suicide Bereavement.

Cruse Bereavement Support has a webpage on What you might feel when someone dies by suicide. You can contact Powys Cruse Bereavement by tel: 01686 610220 or email: cruse.powys@btinternet.com

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention has a website page with Stories of Real Hope.

If you are feeling suicidal, or in mental health crisis, there is support:

Samaritans provide a helpline 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Tel: 116 123.

C.A.L.L. Helpline offers a confidential listening and support service in Wales. Anyone concerned about their own mental health, or that of a relative or friend, can access the service. 

Telephone helpline: 0800 132 737 or text Help to 81066.

Papyrus Hopeline UK - prevention of young suicide: 0800 068 4141.

If you have further suggestions for help and support for people who have experienced loss by suicide, 

then please add in the comments box below.

Boots on the Ground – new support for veterans in Powys

Melvin Watts recently took on a new role as a Veterans' Mental Health Advocate (South Wales - including Powys) with Alabare - a charity supporting vulnerable, homeless and marginalised people – to roll out a project called Boots on the Ground across Wales. The new project will work to support veterans and their families.

We met Melvin to find out more about Boots on the Ground and why it is needed in Powys.

Tell us more about your new role and what drew you to the work

Boots on the Ground is a social enterprise supporting vulnerable veterans through outdoor activities. I work with veterans to identify activities / training and development that will help them become better equipped to find their place in the community. It also helps them build self-esteem and rediscover their limits.

As a veteran myself, I have had the privilege and honour to work alongside service personnel from all walks of life and backgrounds. I have seen the hardships they endure without complaint and seen the good humour they show through adversity. I wish to help those that may have fallen on difficult times, so that they may lead a more fulfilling life after the hardships they have endured for the country, and ensure they know that they are not forgotten by society.

What are the aims of the Boots on the Ground project

The project supports veterans on their journey towards improved mental health, wellbeing and community connection by creating new pathways driven through active engagement.

Many veterans have faced extreme challenges since leaving service. The scheme aims towards building self-esteem, resilience and skills by providing increased purpose in a friendly supportive atmosphere.

By working with organisations and groups in the local community we focus on a range of activity-based and personal development workshops, that can be tailored towards small veteran groups, across North & South Wales. Some of the activities that take place include wellbeing walks, social forestry, bushcraft, conservation, horticulture, litter picking hubs and Veterans’ Breakfast Clubs.

How do you define the term “veteran”?

A veteran is anyone who has served one day’s service with the Armed Forces, whether it be as a reservist or full time member.

Attending the "Big Sleep” at the Tower of London

 to raise money for homeless veterans

Tell us more about why veterans in Powys might need the kind of support you offer?

Veterans everywhere may at some stage suffer from mental health issues, alcohol / drug addiction, homelessness or feel lonely. They may be out of work and looking to retrain or having retired they may wish to feel less isolated and just enjoy activities with like-minded people. Intervention helps reduce the risk of harm to individuals and their families.

How can Powys veterans access the service?

They can refer themselves by emailing M.Watts@alabare.co.uk

What barriers might prevent veterans seeking support and how do you work to overcome those?

We take each case on its merits and will look at them on an individual basis.

Are there particular issues which arise in rural areas for veterans struggling with their mental health?

The biggest thing is isolation, and this can be overcome by a network of volunteers and staff who will where possible either transport individuals or visit in their own home.

What kind of activities does Boots on the Ground offer to support veterans in Powys?

Bushcraft, wood turning, canoeing, fishing, walking, cycling, swimming, horse riding…. The list is endless.

Veterans on a fishing trip

Which other organisations do you work closely with, either locally in Powys, or in the rest of the UK, to provide support to people?

So many! But to list some of them - Armed Forces Covenant, Woodys Lodge, Equus Ferrus, Royal British Legion, Military Preparation College for Training, In the Squad, Dyfed Powys Police, National Probation Service, HMP Parc Many Teras, Action Petz, and Transport For Wales.

What is the most challenging aspect of the job?

There are no challenges, just solutions that I haven’t found yet. (Funding can be difficult but there are so many fantastic agencies or private companies that are supportive and go out of their way to help).

What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?

Meeting veterans, hearing their stories and finding a path together.

When you are not working for Alabare, how do you enjoy spending your time?

Cycling, fishing, walking and spending time with my wife while we visit friends and family all over the UK. I am studying some language skills and read all types of books including classics and military history.

Melvin's dog after their walk up Pen y Fan

Many thanks to Melvin for telling us about the Boots on the Ground project. If you would like to find out more or request a referral form you can contact Melvin by emailing: M.Watts@alabare.co.uk

Further support for veterans is available in Powys (and across Wales). Find out more on the Veterans NHS website.

Talking Benches – young farmers & mental health

First published on the Powys Teaching Health Board website.

Thank you for giving us permission to repost.

As she steps down from her term as Chair of Montgomeryshire YFC (Young Farmers' Club), Bryony Wilson is urging young people to seek support if they are struggling with their mental health.

Bryony was on hand recently to reveal a Talking Bench which has been created by Berriew YFC’s Alfie Taylor. Thanks to funding from Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations, Young Farmers’ Clubs across Powys have been invited to design and create Talking Benches which it is hoped will become a community focal point:

“The benches are our way to tackle community isolation,” says Bryony. “In Berriew, for example, we have lots of people who live on their own. The benches will be placed at the heart of village life and they will have details of Helplines if people need some support.”

And, as part of the Welsh Government’s Help Us Help You campaign which is encouraging people to help protect their own mental health by accessing free support (see more below), she opened up about her own experiences:

“I struggled a couple of years ago. It all stemmed from going for a smear test and being told I had an abnormal result,” says Bryony. “Everything turned out to be just fine but it resulted in me feeling very anxious before I knew the result. I couldn’t sleep and I was having panic attacks day and night. It not only had a big impact on me but my family too as they didn’t know how to help me.

“The NHS was fantastic. The doctor reassured me that it was anxiety and he put me on medication. I can now recognise the symptoms which helps but I still take the medication. It’s important I’m open about it because people probably wouldn’t think I’d be someone who struggles as I come across as bubbly and confident.”

It was her own experiences of sleepless nights and panic attacks that led her to adopt MIND Cymru as the official charity for Montgomeryshire YFC. In addition, members have undertaken mental health training with The DPJ Foundation which is a Welsh mental health charity that supports those in agriculture and rural communities.

PAVO has also awarded a grant to Young Farmers’ Clubs which was invested in mental health peer support sessions by Mind Cymru as well as opportunities to try Tai Chi for relaxation.

“People close to me have struggled with depression,” adds Bryony. “My Uncle took his own life in 2020 so it’s really important that we encourage people to talk and come forward if they are struggling. I wouldn’t want another family going through what we have.

“Farmers, particularly, spend so much time on their own so the chances of opening up to anyone are even slimmer. I think it’s true that most men aren’t very good at talking about their feelings and I’m sure farmers are worse. They’re brought up to be strong, practical and tough. But actually, the strong and practical thing to do when you’re struggling is to get help,” adds Bryony.

The Welsh Government’s Help Us Help You campaign is encouraging people to make small changes to help them lead healthier lifestyles such as protecting your mental health.

Joy Garfitt is the Assistant Director for Mental Health and Learning Disabilities from the Powys Teaching Health Board. She said: “There are small things we can do to help protect our mental health at a time when levels of anxiety are higher. We know that poor mental health can be a problem within agriculture and in areas of rural isolation but there is free support available and we’d encourage anyone struggling to come forward.”

If you are struggling with your mental health, there is free support available to you. The NHS Wales SilverCloud online programme can help with anxiety, depression and stress. You can self-refer HERE. 

You can also self-refer to Ponthafren Association in North Powys for counselling on the organisation's website. In Mid Powys you can contact Mid & North Powys Mind, and in the south of the county Brecon & District Mind or Ystradgynlais Mind.

Let us know what you think of the Talking Benches initiative in the comments below. 

We love to hear from you!

Diwrnod Iechyd Meddwl y Byd 2021 | World Mental Health Day 2021

Iechyd Meddwl mewn Byd Anghyfartal 

Eleni byddwn yn dathlu Diwrnod Iechyd Meddwl y Byd ar ddydd Sul, 10fed Hydref. Y sefydliad tu ôl i’r diwrnod ymwybyddiaeth pwysig hwn yw’r Ffederasiwn Byd-eang Iechyd Meddwl.

“Nod Diwrnod Iechyd Meddwl y Byd yw codi ymwybyddiaeth ar draws y byd am agendâu hollbwysig ym maes iechyd meddwl - gan uno lleisiau trwy gydweithio gyda phartneriaid amrywiol - i weithredu ac i greu newid parhaol trwy’r negeseuon a hyrwyddir.”

Y thema eleni yw “Iechyd Meddwl mewn Byd Anghyfartal.”

Anghyfartaledd yw’r gwahaniaeth mewn statws cymdeithasol, cyfoeth neu gyfleoedd rhwng pobl neu grwpiau.

Mental Health in an Unequal World

This year we celebrate World Mental Health Day on Sunday 10 October. The World Federation for Mental Health is the driver behind this important awareness day.

“World Mental Health Day aims to raise awareness in the global community about the critical mental health agendas – with a unifying voice through collaboration with various partners – to take action and to create lasting change through the messages we promote.”

The theme this year is “Mental Health in an Unequal World.”

Inequality is the difference in social status, wealth or opportunity between people or groups.

Diwrnod Iechyd Meddwl y Byd 2021

"Mae’r byd yn fwyfwy polareiddiedig gydag unigolion cyfoethog iawn yn dod yn fwy cyfoethog, a nifer y bobl sy’n byw mewn tlodi yn llawer rhy uchel o hyd. Daeth anghydraddoldebau oherwydd hil ac ethnigrwydd, tueddfryd rhywiol a hunaniaeth rhyw yn llawer mwy amlwg yn 2020, a’r diffyg parch tuag at hawliau dynol mewn nifer o wledydd, gan gynnwys i bobl sy’n byw gyda chyflyrau iechyd meddwl. Mae’r anghydraddoldebau hyn yn cael effaith ar iechyd meddwl pobl.

Rydym yn awyddus i gefnogi cymdeithas sifil i chwarae rhan weithgar wrth fynd i’r afael ag anghyfartaledd mewn ardaloedd lleol. Rydym eisiau annog ymchwilwyr i rannu’r wybodaeth sydd ganddynt am anghyfartaledd iechyd meddwl, gan gynnwys syniadau ymarferol o ran sut i fynd i’r afael â hyn."
Ffederasiwn Byd-eang Iechyd Meddwl

World Mental Health Day 2021

"The world is increasingly polarized, with the very wealthy becoming wealthier, and the number of people living in poverty still far too high. 2020 highlighted inequalities due to race and ethnicity, sexual orientation and gender identity, and the lack of respect for human rights in many countries, including for people living with mental health conditions. Such inequalities have an impact on people’s mental health.

We want to support civil societies to play an active role in tackling inequality in their local areas. We want to encourage researchers to share what they know about mental health inequality including practical ideas about how to tackle this."
World Federation for Mental Health

Cydraddoldeb ym Mhowys

Ym Mhowys - yn debyg i rannau eraill o Gymru - mae gwasanaethau cymorth o bob math ar gael i gefnogi pobl sy’n ceisio ymdopi yn ystod cyfnod o galedi ariannol megis banciau bwyd a chynlluniau tlodi tanwydd. Mae’r gwasanaethau’n cael eu defnyddio’n rheolaidd sy’n awgrymu bod pobl yn cael trafferthion go iawn, eu bod yn parhau a’i fod yn anodd eu goresgyn.

Hwyrach y bydd pobl sydd â nodweddion gwarchodedig (oedran, anabledd, ailbennu rhywedd, beichiogrwydd a mamolaeth, hil, crefydd neu gredoau, rhyw, tueddfryd rhywiol, priodas a phartneriaeth sifil - mewn perthynas â chael eu trin yn wahanol yn eu gwaith) yn profi gwarthnod, bwlio a hyd yn oed dioddef o drosedd casineb unrhyw adeg yn eu bywyd oherwydd pwy ydynt yn syml iawn.

Gall yr holl ffactorau hyn olygu bod pobl dan anfantais, yn ymarferol ac yn gorfforol, a hefyd ar lefel seicolegol, ac mae’n bur debyg eu bod yn fwy tebygol o gael trafferth ymdopi ag iechyd meddwl na phobl nad yw’r heriau hyn yn effeithio arnynt yn ddyddiol.

Gofynnodd astudiaeth a gynhaliwyd gan Fwrdd Iechyd Addysgu Powys yn 2018 i helpu eu hysbysu mewn perthynas â’r strategaeth cydraddoldeb newydd, i ymatebwyr nodi pa grwpiau o bobl oedd ar y cyfan yn cael y profiadau iechyd gwaethaf. Y tri uchaf oedd: pobl anabl, pobl hŷn a phobl drawsrywiol.

Wrth ofyn pa bobl oedd yn cael y profiad gwaethaf o ran dylanwadu ar benderfyniadau, y tri uchaf oedd: pobl anabl, pobl dduon ac o leiafrifoedd ethnig, a phlant a phobl ifanc.

Cynllun Cydraddoldeb Strategol Bwrdd Iechyd Addysgu Powys 2020 – 2024 “Tegwch a Chydraddoldeb i Bawb”

Equalities in Powys

In Powys – as in all parts of Wales - there are all kinds of support services for people struggling through financial hardship such as foodbanks and fuel poverty schemes. The services are well used, which suggests that the struggles are real, continuing and hard to overcome.

People with protected characteristics (age, disability, gender reassignment, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, marriage and civil partnership - in relation to being treated differently at work) may experience stigma, bullying and even be the victims of hate crime at any stage of their life just because of who they are.

All of these factors can mean that people are disadvantaged, both practically and physically, and also psychologically, and probably much more likely to struggle with their mental health than people who don’t face such challenges on a daily basis.

A study carried out by Powys Teaching Health Board in 2018 to help inform their new equality strategy asked respondents which groups of people generally had the worst experiences of health. The top three were disabled people, older people and transgender people.

When asked which people had the worst experience of influencing decisions, the top three were disabled people, black and minority ethnic people and children & young people.

Powys Teaching Health Board Strategic Equality Plan 2020 – 2024 “Fairness & Equality for All”

Mae poblogaeth Powys yn fwy amrywiol nag y byddem yn meddwl ar yr olwg gyntaf. Mae cynllun cydraddoldeb y bwrdd iechyd yn disgrifio rhai ystadegau am breswylwyr, sydd:

“Yn caniatáu ichi werthfawrogi amrywiaeth ein poblogaeth a’r angen i drin ein gilydd mewn ffordd urddasol a pharchus. Mae’n bwysig ein bod yn sicrhau y caiff grwpiau ymylol neu grwpiau pobl nas clywir eu barn yn aml eu cynnwys a bod ganddynt fynediad at wasanaethau.”

Gweler isod ychydig o enghreifftiau o’r ystadegau a ddyfynnwyd:

• Ar gyfer pob 100 o bobl sy’n byw ym Mhowys, bydd 5-7 o bobl yn lesbiaidd, hoyw neu ddeurywiol.
• Dywedodd 19% o ddinasyddion eu bod yn gallu siarad Cymraeg yn 2011.
• Daw 130,827 (98%) o bobl o gefndir gwyn, ac mae 2,149 (2%) yn dod o gefndir nad yw’n wyn.
• Mae 41.6% o 59,215 o gartrefi’n ennill llai na £20,000 y flwyddyn.
• Yn ôl 8% o boblogaeth Powys maent yn derbyn triniaeth ar gyfer iselder neu bryder, a hwn yw un o’r tri phrif achos o anabledd.

Yn gynharach eleni, ysgrifennodd Diverse Cymru, yr elusen cydraddoldeb yng Nghymru, am y cydraddoldeb y mae pobl BAME (Duon ac o Leiafrifoedd Ethnig) yn eu hwynebu yng Nghymru mewn perthynas ag iechyd meddwl gan gynnwys “diffyg difrifol o ran therapïau siarad, h.y.: cwnsela ar gyfer pobl BAME nad yw Saesneg yn iaith gyntaf iddynt.”

A hyd yn oed ychydig o flynyddoedd yn ôl yn ôl Mind, yr elusen iechyd meddwl bu’n rhaid i bobl yng Nghymru aros yn hirach ar gyfer gwasanaeth cwnsela trwy gyfrwng y Gymraeg o’i gymharu â’r Saesneg.

The population of Powys is more diverse than we might think at first glance. The health board’s equality plan describes some stats about residents, which:

“Allows one to appreciate the diversity of our population and the need to treat one another with dignity and respect. It is important that we ensure that marginalised or seldom heard groups of people are involved and have access to services.”

Here are just a few examples from the stats they list:

• For every 100 people living within Powys, 5-7 people would be lesbian, gay or bisexual.
• 19% of citizens said they could speak Welsh in 2011.
• 130,827 (98%) people are from a white background and 2,149 (2%) from a non-white background.
• 41.6% of 59,215 households earn less than £20,000 per year.
• 8% of the Powys population report being treated for depression or anxiety and it is one of the top three leading causes of disability.

Earlier this year Diverse Cymru, the equalities charity in Wales, wrote about the inequalities faced by BAME (Black & Minority Ethnic) people in Wales in relation to mental health, including the “severe lack of talking therapies, ie: counselling for BAME people whose first language is not English.”

And even just a few years ago the mental health charity Mind reported that people in Wales had to wait longer for counselling in Welsh than in English.

Mynd i’r afael â chydraddoldeb i wella Iechyd Meddwl

"Mae anghydraddoldeb cymdeithasol ym mhob man: tlodi a straen ariannol, hiliaeth, rhagfarn ar sail rhyw, bwlio a seilir ar dueddfryd rhywiol, digartrefedd ac allgáu cymdeithasol oherwydd anabledd neu oedran, i enwi dim ond rhai. Ond yn aml iawn, bydd trafodaethau ynghylch achosion problemau iechyd meddwl yn canolbwyntio ar ffactorau unigol. Anaml iawn y bydd trafodaeth gyhoeddus yn cydnabod fod amgylchiadau ein genedigaeth, ein magwraeth a lle rydym yn byw yn cael effaith sylweddol ar ein cyfleoedd i gael iechyd meddwl da."

Adroddiad y Sefydliad Iechyd Meddwl 2020 – Mynd i’r afael ag anghydraddoldeb cymdeithasol er mwyn lleihau problemau iechyd meddwl (Sut gall pawb ffynnu ar lefel gyfartal).

Mae adroddiad y Sefydliad Iechyd Meddwl yn fanwl iawn, ac mae’n werth ei ddarllen er mwyn dysgu mwy am:

• Natur a maint anghydraddoldeb iechyd meddwl.
• Mapio anghydraddoldeb sy’n cael dylanwad ar iechyd meddwl, e.e.: economaidd, addysg, statws diwylliannol / grŵp cymdeithasol, profiadau niweidiol mewn plentyndod, iechyd / anabledd a heneiddio, a dylanwad ecolegol megis digartrefedd.
• Mynd i’r afael ag anghydraddoldeb economaidd-gymdeithasol er mwyn gwella iechyd meddwl.

Un o obeithion penodol y Sefydliad yw “dangos atebion effeithiol, meintiol sy’n lleihau effaith anfantais ac sy’n magu gwydnwch ymhlith pobl sydd wedi profi anghydraddoldeb”. Yn ein cymunedau lleol ni, gall rhai o’r rhain gynnwys tai fforddiadwy, gwasanaethau cyhoeddus sy’n deall trawma, a mwy o gyfranogiad cymunedol. Ac ar lefel genedlaethol mae’r sefydliad yn galw am gymorth incwm nad yw’n seiliedig ar brawf modd, dylunio mewn ‘mannau gwyrdd-glas’ (e.e.: parciau, coed ar strydoedd a phyllau) a rheoleiddio marchnata ar gyfer diwydiannau niweidiol, er enghraifft.

Tackling inequalities to improve mental health

"Social inequalities are all around us: poverty and financial strain, racism, sexism, bullying based on sexual orientation, homelessness, and social exclusion due to disability or age, to name just a handful. Yet discussion on the causes of mental health problems often focusses on individual factors. Rarely does public discourse acknowledge that the circumstances in which we are born, raised and live profoundly affect our chances of having good mental health."

Mental Health Foundation 2020 report – Tackling social inequalities to reduce mental health problems (How everyone can flourish equally).

The Mental Health Foundation report is extremely detailed and well worth the longer read to find out more about:

• The nature & extent of mental health inequalities.
• Mapping inequalities that influence mental health, eg: economic, education, cultural / social group status, adverse childhood experiences, health / disability & ageing, and ecological influences such as homelessness.
• Tackling socioeconomic inequalities to improve mental health.

The Foundation particularly hopes “to demonstrate effective, scalable solutions that minimise the effects of disadvantage and foster resilience in people with experience of inequality”. Within our local communities some of these could include affordable housing, trauma informed public services, and increased community participation. Whilst at a national level the Foundation calls for non means-tested income supports, designing in ‘green-blue space’ (eg: parks, street trees and ponds) and regulation on marketing for harmful industries, for example.

Mae’n bwysig i bob un ohonom ym Mhowys fyw a gweithio mewn ffordd sy’n parchu pawb. Ond nid yn unig hyn, ond mewn ffordd sy’n caniatáu adnabod a herio anghydraddoldeb. Mae angen inni gychwyn mwy o sgyrsiau ynghylch anghydraddoldeb ym mhob agwedd ar fywyd, ond mewn perthynas ag iechyd meddwl, mae angen inni ganolbwyntio ar y problemau sy’n parhau i arwain at fynediad anghyfartal at wasanaethau a chymorth i bobl.

Gall mwy o gydweithio fod yn fuddiol o ran y cymorth yma - yn enwedig rhwng y sefydliadau gwahanol sy’n cynnig gofal ym maes iechyd a gofal cysylltiedig. Hefyd mae’n bwysig clywed yn amlach lleisiau’r sawl sy’n profi anghydraddoldeb - ac estyn gwahoddiad i’r sawl sy’n fodlon rhannu eu profiadau i gyfrannu wrth ddylunio gwasanaethau iechyd gwell ar gyfer y dyfodol er mwyn bodloni eu hanghenion. Byddai’n braf clywed gan unrhyw un sydd am gyfrannu at lywio gwasanaethau’r dyfodol. Gellir dysgu mwy trwy’r tudalennau Cyfrannu ar ein gwefan a/neu drwy gysylltu â’r Swyddog Cyfranogiad Iechyd Meddwl - Owen Griffkin trwy e-bostio: owen.griffkin@pavo.org.uk

Mae thema Diwrnod Iechyd Meddwl y Byd eleni - “Iechyd Meddwl mewn Byd Anghyfartal” - yn enfawr. Mae’n haeddu cant o bostiadau blog! Gofynnir ichi ddarllen y dogfennau hirach trwy’r dolenni uchod er mwyn deall yn well yr hyn y gall llywodraethau, cymunedau ac unigolion ei wireddu, trwy gydweithio, sy’n fodlon hybu mwy o newid er mwyn datrys yr anghydraddoldebau cyfredol, sydd, er gwaethaf bwriadau gorau llawer o bobl, yn parhau heddiw ym Mhowys a’r byd ehangach.

It is important that each and every one of us in Powys lives and works in a way which is respectful to all. But not only this, but in a way which allows inequality to be identified and challenged. We need to start more conversations about inequality in all areas of life, but in relation to mental health we need to focus on the issues which still result in people having unequal access to services and support.

This support might benefit from more joined up working – particularly between the many different organisations providing health and related care. It is also important to hear more often the voice of those experiencing inequality – and inviting those individuals who are willing to share their experiences to participate in designing future health services better equipped to serve their needs. We welcome contact from anyone who wishes to contribute to shaping future services. You can find out more on our Getting Involved website pages and / or contact our Mental Health Participation Officer Owen Griffkin by emailing: owen.griffkin@pavo.org.uk

The theme of this year’s World Mental Health Day – “Mental Health in an Unequal World” – is massive. Worthy of a hundred blog posts! Please read the longer documents we have linked to for a greater understanding of what could be achieved by governments, communities and individuals all working together, all willing to push for bigger change to resolve the current inequalities which, despite the best intentions of many, still persist in Powys and the wider world.

NEWYDD DDOD I LAW: Un o flaenoriaethau cyllido’r Dream Fund eleni yw: Anghydraddoldeb Cymdeithasol. Gall elusennau wneud cais am hyd at £1,250,000 ar gyfer prosiect arloesol, effeithiol a chydweithiol. Gellir dysgu mwy a sut i wneud cais am grant yma.

STOP PRESS: One of The Dream Fund’s funding priorities this year is: Social Inequality. Charities can apply for up to £1,250,000 for an innovative, impactful and collaborative project. Find out more and how to apply for a grant here.

#ItTakesBallsToTalk - Michael Sheen & Ystradgynlais Mind

 

#ItTakesBallsToTalk is a mental health campaign by Ystradgynlais Mind in affiliation with their local Rugby community featuring the voice of Michael Sheen. 

Ystradgynlais Mind told us more about the campaign:

This campaign is aimed at creating a much needed conversation surrounding the mental health of men within the Welsh Rugby community. 

In this land of our fathers, we are calling out to all ‘the boys’, our brothers, our uncles, our cousins, our sons. We are asking you to tackle this stigma head on by joining our movement… 

When we lose one of ‘our boys’, we always, always ask why? Nobody ever sees it coming… so get on board, we can beat this… give this a try… Join our movement by following our pages and sharing this message as loudly and proudly as you possibly can. If it saves just one life, then it’s a job well done. 

#SilenceKills

Following a disproportionate rate of suicide within the community a collaborative initiative between Ystradgynlais Mind and local Rugby clubs has been born. 

Evidence has shown that you (men) are less likely to reach out to ‘professionals’ when faced with feelings of depression and are instead far more likely to talk to your mates in more social settings, in the changing room, or even over a pint, in the club. 

#SpeakYourMind

So, in light of this Ystradgynlais Mind has piloted the training of ‘mates’ in Mental Health First Aid to equip them with the knowledge and skills to facilitate conversations in supporting those seeking help. Some coaches, referees, players and affiliated members of rugby clubs have already received training, but we welcome more to join this initiative. If you are a club within the local area who would like to receive this training, please refer to our website.

Find out more about the campaign on our social media accounts too:

Ystradgynlais Mind Facebook

Ystradgynlais Mind Instagram

Ystradgynlais Mind Twitter

Should you require immediate support please see below useful contacts: 

Samaritans - 116 123 

Mind - 0300 1233 393 

CALL 24/7 - 0800 132 737 

NHS Direct - 111 

Hafal - 01792 816600 

Bipolar UK - 0333 3233 880 

Platfform - 01656 647722 

PAPYRUS Prevention of Young Suicide - 0800 068 4141 

The CALMzone - 0800 585858 

This campaign was brought to you by Ystradgynlais Mind (Charity reg: 1075400) in affiliation with our local Rugby community:

Yogits Vets Touch Rugby, Ystradgynlais RFC, Ystalyfera RFC, Abercrave RFC, Glais RFC, 

Cwmtwrch RFC, and Cwmllynfell RFC. 

Special thanks to Michael Sheen.

Supporting families in Powys – Home-Start Cymru

   

Earlier this year Vicky Critchley started work as Home-Start Cymru’s new Family Support Co-ordinator for South Powys. Her colleague Michelle Lawrence-Panter has covered North Powys for the past 18 months.

Home-Start Cymru is a voluntary organisation committed to supporting families with at least one child age 12 years of age or under where parents could be struggling with poor mental health, disability, loneliness & isolation, financial worries, and / or low self esteem.

I chatted to Vicky and Michelle this week to find out more about their roles in Powys.

Tell us about your roles at Home-Start Cymru

We are family coordinators who support a wide range of incredible volunteers here within Powys.

Our role starts when we receive a referral. Referrals come from all sorts of agencies – including health visitors, GPs and parents who can self-refer. We then take plenty of time to get to know the family and find out their strengths and particular needs at this time.

Taking into account location and age of children we carefully match a family with a volunteer and then support them as they get to know each other. Our trained volunteers give compassionate and confidential support, tailored to each family. With the support of our family coordinators they can help families through some of their toughest times. Being a parent has never been easy. It can be lonely, frustrating, heart breaking and overwhelming. Our volunteers pride themselves in being able to contact a family on a weekly basis and be there to offer ideas, a listening ear and to support the family with individual, one-to-one home-visiting.

We can also signpost the family to other support services, including networks in their areas such as playgroups or toddler sessions. We hold regular review sessions with the family to ensure they are receiving support that is just right for them.

In addition, we help recruit and train new volunteers as well as let others across our county know about our services so that we continue to reach out to as many families as possible. We are really fortunate to have links to local charities and grant providers – and are frequently able to make deliveries of resources ranging from Christmas gifts, to well-being goodies, clothes and baby equipment.

What brought you to these roles?

Vicky was a primary school teacher for twenty years. She loved her job immensely but after two decades in the classroom, wanted a change and to be able to support families in an area that she had moved to and been so warmly welcomed to. Whilst sofa surfing the internet one December evening, she saw an advert for Home-Start Cymru, rang the Regional Manager and seemed to be hooked overnight by the ethos and values of the charity.

Michelle previously had her own dance school and then trained in social care. She spent many years working with teenagers and helping them achieve in school, which she really enjoyed. This led her onto working in a children’s centre. After moving to Wales and working for a corporate company Michelle wanted to return to the vocation she loved. Fortunately, Home-Start were offering an opportunity for a Family Coordinator and this is exactly what she wanted to do. 21 months later Michelle loves working in the community and meeting amazing people every day.

Why was Home-Start Cymru set up? 

Home-Start Cymru is affiliated to Home-Start UK which started in 1973. We were founded by Margaret Harrison who believed that supporting a family was best done in their home where it can be shaped to their needs. She realised that if parents get support and friendship from another parent, they will be better equipped to learn to cope with the many difficulties life can bring and will be able to give their children the best possible start to their own lives.

While this idea remains at the heart of our work, we have created new ways of helping parents and their children to meet the changing needs of families.

This idea that started in Leicester, spread across the UK and is now a movement around the world. There are now 22 countries on five continents that have Home-Starts providing support for families.

What geographical area do you cover and where are you based?

Home-Start Cymru covers many regions across Wales. Here in Powys we cover the whole county from as far north as beyond Welshpool to right down south in Ystradgynlais. Michelle and I are home based at this time (due to Covid restrictions) but can be easily reached via our admin email address and our mobiles.

Why do some families require extra support around parenting?

Being a parent has never been easy. It can be lonely, frustrating, heart breaking and overwhelming. Life-changing events can happen to anyone and all parents struggle at one time or another. That is why Home-Start Cymru is ready to support families through their toughest of times.

Our mission statement includes the simple but so important statement…"Because childhood can’t wait.” The earliest years of a child’s life make the biggest impact. Home-Start Cymru understand that in these difficult times, families require a little extra support from time to time. So, we try to give that – in a non-judgemental way - so that we can make sure those earliest years of a child’s life really count so that no child’s future is limited.

How can a parent’s poor mental health impact on the family as a whole?

We mustn’t underestimate the impact that a parent’s poor mental health can have on the whole family. It can come in so many forms - your family may be trying to cope with the impact of mental ill-health or post-natal depression. You may be struggling to care for your young children while you are trying to get better.

A Home-Start volunteer who understands may be able to help along with specialist support groups such as Mind. If you are a father struggling to cope while your wife, or partner, goes through the dark days of postnatal illness, you may be able to find one of our dads' support groups.

We supported Kelly as she struggled with postnatal depression. "I couldn't walk out of the door. I was so low I thought my children would be taken away. I was worried I wasn't good enough. My Home-Start volunteer was the first person to take me out. Before, I didn't want to look at tomorrow, now I can't wait."

Who is eligible for support? And can families self-refer and if so how?

Any family is eligible for support, so long as they have at least one child age 12 years or under. We are not able to support a family which has a social worker assigned to them (due to our funders’ referral criteria). Other than this, we can support any family. Self-referral is really easy and we regularly accept these. Email our central office adminpowys@homestartcymru.org.uk and Michelle or Vicky will be in touch.

If families did not receive the support you offer what might happen to them?

When we face moments of hardship or crisis, it can be easy to become overwhelmed, scared, disheartened, lonely and really not know which way to turn for the best. We pride ourselves in being there before the hardship and crisis become too much for the family and prevent tough times becoming even tougher. Working alongside a family hopefully prevents them from suffering any further and instead allows them to grow, learn new skills, gain confidence and know that there is someone out there who can offer genuine, compassionate and non-judgmental care.

Tell us more about the volunteers’ role

Volunteers are the lifeline of our support. By sharing their knowledge and experience they can transform the lives of young children and their parents in their community. They meet the family weekly, offering support that’s geared towards them and their current challenges. This helps families build on their strengths and increase their confidence.

In return for their time, we provide all the training, guidance and support the volunteers need to be effective and make a real difference. Volunteers, meanwhile, have the opportunity to meet new friends, enhance their wellbeing and develop transferrable skills to take into the workplace.

How has Covid-19 impacted on your work / projects?

We are really proud that throughout Covid-19 we have managed to keep in touch with our families and continue supporting them whilst also growing our incredible team of volunteers. Face-to-face, home visits had to stop in March 2020. Instead we, like most of the world, turned to virtual support – offering befriending, emotional support over the telephone, and via the world of virtual meetings. It isn’t the same, but in these strange times, it’s a good alternative. Who knew you can still do story times over zoom?!

Our coordinators and volunteers are now returning gradually to face-to-face support. At the time of talking to you, we are able to meet families outdoors – for a walk to a playground, or a play in a garden. We are really hopeful that as time progresses, we will be able to return to indoor support – but we know that in the meantime, we can continue to offer remote support as well. Keeping everyone Covid safe is our priority at all times.

Which other Powys organisations do you work closely with to support families with young children?

We work closely with all the health, education and third sector organisations across Powys. We attend network meetings – sharing best practice, letting other groups know of our service and gathering contacts and details of other services that we can signpost our families towards. We are always looking for different organisations to work with and support – for example supporting local fun days, presenting at particular organisation team meetings and contributing towards joint information sharing initiatives.

What is the most challenging part of your roles?

A particular challenge is that we can’t get to see everyone in person in these Covid times. We love to be with families in person and are probably big children at heart – never happier than to be playing alongside children and their parents. Another challenge is that our county is so large. Travelling from one family to another can take quite a bit of time – thank goodness for sat nav and the fact that it doesn’t snow too often to block the country lanes that we travel along from family to family.

Tell us about some of the most rewarding work you have done in your roles so far

By far it is when you hear about how families are growing – when we hear about moments where they are finding strength and being able to move forward themselves. It might be that moment when a young Mum is able to interact and play with her young son with more confidence, or the time when a young Dad has a lovely bedtime story and snuggles with their child. Seeing children and families grow in confidence, with less struggles, feeling better connected and smiling again is so rewarding. We are honestly so lucky and privileged to be able to share a little part of a family’s life – and this is such a great reward for us both.

When you’re not working how do you enjoy spending your time?

We both love to be outside – walking, cycling and spending times with our own families.

Vicky has teenage children, so lots of her time is spent with them, running them around as well as her beloved baking and cooking.

Michelle is busy renovating her new house – and loves gathering with her family, enjoying each other’s company as well as walking for miles with her dogs.

We are both like most families – enjoying time together and balancing busy family lives as well as work.

Many thanks to Vicky & Michelle for telling us all about their roles. To find out more about their work contact adminpowys@homestartcymru.org.uk and/or info@homestartcymru.org.uk or ring 07871 601 772, and/or 07712 270 559.

Radiate Arts - boosting mental health in North Powys

L - R: Jenny Botha & Pam Gordon of Radiate Arts
Claire Powell & Jackie Newey of Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations

Claire Powell (Community Connector for Newtown & Llanidloes) and I recently paid a visit to Radiate Arts CIC  (a community interest company) at its current base in North Powys. Radiate Arts is a not-for-profit organisation which delivers creative workshops in the community. Each workshop is tailored to the group, but the goal remains the same – to use art for mental and physical wellbeing.

We caught up with Pam and Jenny of Radiate Arts at their beautiful lakeside location high in the hills to find out more about the organisation’s current activities. We also learnt more about how art can have such a positive impact on people’s mental health.

Why is art so important for wellbeing?

Art can provide a space for relaxation and focus. Participants on our courses often comment about how creative activities help them forget their worries and it gives them headspace to focus on something new. The social element of our workshops is also a big benefit, as it encourages others to get out and meet people too (socially distanced of course).

It's important to remember that using creativity as a way to relax has real benefits. People who do art, or write regularly, tend to have lower levels of anxiety and stress. It's even been known to lower blood pressure, improve sleep and reduce chronic pain. These, among other benefits, can improve your overall quality of life and help you to feel more content.

Where is Radiate Arts based?

Our Creative Hub is located under 5 miles from Llanidloes town centre. This is our main location for our art workshops, and we work across Chester and the west of England too.

We overlook the Clywedog Reservoir, so there are some stunning views across the valley. We’re lucky to be placed in such a beautiful location. In fact, we use the beauty of nature to inspire us in our work and for green prescribing.

Tell us a bit more about the workshops

We run a wide range of workshops, from stone carving, painting, sketching, macrame, creative writing and printing - there's something for everyone!

We lead workshops for those who may not have had many opportunities to interact and participate in creative spaces before, or had access to these facilities. We provide a safe space to develop positive feelings of self-worth, mindfulness and mental awareness through a creative process.

Have you ever tried to use art or poetry to relax? Sometimes it's hard to know where to start...many of our participants have found success in unlocking their creative intuition through our inclusive workshops.

Creativity is for everyone, regardless of skillset.

Are workshops open to the public?

Yes, we run workshops which are open to the public, but you will need to book in advance. All of our live public workshops can be found on our Eventbrite page here.

Do you run creative workshops for community groups, as part of social prescribing?

Yes, we do! Social prescribing workshops from referred groups, form most of our workshops at our Creative Hub. Examples include stone carving with ex-service personnel, to printing with care homes.

Radiate Arts recently ran an outdoor photography workshop for ex-army veterans in partnership with The Armed Forces Covenant Fund's 'Positive Pathways Programme'.

The course, called 'Creative Freedom,' saw participants roam the beautiful landscape of Mid Wales, taking photographs along the way. The aim was to increase physical and mental wellbeing, and was spread out over three days on the hillsides nearby the Clywedog Reservoir. You can read more on our blog here.

Who leads the workshops?

We have a team of expert artists who deliver the workshop in their field. They are experienced with hosting groups, and enjoy sharing their artform with others. We host an Artist Q and A on our blog, which you can read here.

How can I find out more or get in touch?

To find out more, please visit our website www.radiatearts.co.uk , or email office@radiatearts.co.uk. You can also follow us on social media:

Facebook – RadiateArts

Twitter – ArtsRadiate 

Instagram – RadiateArts