The value of play to children's emotional wellbeing

by Rachel Maflin, Manager, Play Radnor

“Children need the freedom and the time to play;

play is not a luxury, play is a necessity.”

Kay Redfield Jamison

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.

Play is vital for a child’s emotional development in so many ways….

• Emotional resilience.
• Self-esteem.
• Self-confidence.
• Reduced anxiety.
• Self-worth.
• Understanding winning and losing.
• Exploring feelings.
• Self-expression.
• Empathy.
• Understanding the world they live in.
• Dealing with fear in a safe environment.
• Problem solving.

The benefits of play can be found in a wide range of play opportunities, such as:

• Playing outside e.g. swinging, climbing trees, running, jumping.
• Pretend play e.g. dressing up or den building.
• Adventurous play e.g. climbing, balancing, rope swinging.
• Group activities - playing with other people helps children express and control their emotions with others e.g. creating their own play ideas.

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 ….

• Cardboard boxes, paper, shredded paper.
• Materials – old sheets, duvet covers, shower curtain, wool, ribbons, old clothes for dressing up, bandages for role play.
• Buckets, tubs, tubes, pipes, containers of all shapes and sizes, funnels, plastic bottles, guttering.
• Kitchen equipment – mashers, whisks, pots, pans, sieves – mud kitchens.
• Sand, water, mud.
• Old phones, computer keyboards for role play.
• Crates, tarps, rope / string.
• Great outdoors for sticks, leaves, seeds, moss, shells, stones, pine cones, conkers, flowers, herbs e.g. potion making.
• Chalk, pens, pencils, etc.

‘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.’    (Daly and Beloglovsky, 2015)

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.

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.

Play Radnor/Chwarae Maesyfed 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:

Play Rangers project: Delivering open access outreach play sessions on green spaces within local communities during school holidays.

Thumbs UP! Club: 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+.

Mud and Sticks: 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.

Toy Library: 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.

Wildcraft: 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.

Cooking Club: Sessions delivered in our community kitchen for a range of ages. Learning important life skills, cooking healthy and tasty food.

Stay and Play / Fun Fridays: 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.

Messy Play – Occasional sessions for parents and children aged 0-5 during school holidays and term time.

Warm Spaces for Wellbeing

The Hanging Gardens, Llanidloes

Is getting cold getting you down this Winter?

Powys County Council has created a directory of Warm Spaces. It is made up of libraries, community centres, churches and other places, including mental health charities, that are opening their doors to anyone who needs them. This network of Warm Spaces offers support to anyone struggling with the cost of living this winter. Each Warm Space has its own opening hours and facilities. The one thing each has in common - a warm big welcome to all!

We asked some of the people generously sharing their Warm Space with their community to tell us more about how it’s working in their area, and a few PAVO colleagues gave feedback from their visits also.

CARAD - Community Arts Rhayader & District

At CARAD in Rhayader, we decided to run a weekly warm spaces activity day to support those who needed to cut down on their energy costs and risked being in a cold house over winter. We employ a facilitator, funded by Comic Relief, and have a volunteer present so that we can welcome people, have a chat, make a them a cuppa and biscuits or toast and guide activities. We have general activities in the morning and a more organised free workshop in the afternoon. This latter preferably needs booking as we need to make sure we
have enough materials to cover those who come. We chose a day when the library was closed and have also produced a flyer about other warm spaces in Rhayader.

Simply coming down to somewhere with nothing to do isn’t an option as, if you can’t put the heating on, you may not be feeling too good about life. Sitting in a warm room but feeling in the way, lonely or depressed won’t improve that.

Being welcomed to an organised activity makes all the difference. Because any visitor is welcome, you are not signalled out as different for attending. For that reason, we stress the activities rather than the warmth!

We really didn’t know what to expect but find that many of those who come through the doors are facing challenges. These might be around caring, health or other circumstances. There have been many positive benefits. Simply having some company has made a big difference to some, enjoying new activities has very obviously impacted others with a lot of laughter coming from the space and repeat visits. The benefits of those activities - lowering stress, having time out, and feeling accepted and safe (and warm) are also really positive for staff to see.

Catherine Allan, Chair of Trustees, CARAD

Ceri Williams, PAVO Health Promotion Facilitator 

& (inset) Melanie Taylor of Llanidloes Library

Llanidloes Library

Ceri Williams, our new Health Promotion Facilitator (North Powys) at PAVO visited the Warm Space at Llanidloes Library on 11 January. She spoke to Melanie Taylor who has worked there for about 7 years. The library staff welcome anyone who wants to use the Warm Space.

The library is located in the former town museum at the side of the Town Hall. There is a children's area and computers are available to use free of charge. Melanie said "this space is nothing new, we have been offering a warm environment for many years. We welcome new users to the library."

Hanging Gardens, Llanidloes

The following week Ceri visited the Hanging Gardens in Llanidloes (photo at top of post):

I walked in to laughter and went to talk to three adults playing board games. They told me: "It’s a fantastic environment - such a welcoming space. All the crafts and plants growing. It's what we had before everyone owned everything. Kevin and Fran (of The Wilderness Trust) had a vision and worked 12 hours a day to make it happen."

Local childminder Sammy shares an allotment plot with other childminders which enables them to feed their charges fresh veg (funded by the Co-op). She attends the Thursday singing sessions with her young charges.

Louise Evans, who works there, mentioned the Art therapy group and the Celf Able group which is a mobile art group that comes once a month.

All the activities are on the Hanging Gardens website.

Knighton & District Community Centre

At The KDCC Hub we have two sessions per week which are dedicated to offering ‘Warm Spaces & more’. The sessions are available on Tuesday 10 - 1pm & Thursday 10 - 2pm, both have access to the Cafe, our Advice from the Hub service, volunteer support, television, radio and reading material.

On a Tuesday the Cafe offers a hot drink and a piece of homemade cake at £1; on Thursday we offer hot drinks from 10 - 12pm free of charge, and from 12pm we have soup, sandwiches and homemade cake which are all free.

At the Tuesday Warm Space Cafe we also have with us staff from other organisations, such as POBL, Powys Housing and an Energy Efficient Advisor funded through Citizens Advice. The third Tuesday of the month RNID Hear to Help hold their hearing aid repair clinic at the centre 10 - 12pm (no appointment needed) and on the 4th Tuesday Credu's Leanne has a carers' support coffee morning in the Cafe.

Thursdays we welcome Hayley Lloyd, our PAVO Community Connector, to the building. Hayley has a drop-in from 10 - 12.30pm, we also have District Nurses in the Reynolds Room offering a Leg Clinic 9.30 – 12pm.

Alongside all the Community Centre Hub has to offer customers also have access to the Library and our new Digital Hub project. The Library is open on Tuesdays from 10.30 - 1pm and 2 - 5pm; Thursdays 10.30 – 1pm; 2 - 6pm. Booking is essential for the Digital Hub which is open on Tuesdays 9 - 5pm & Thursdays 1 - 6pm.

A recent customer survey highlighted that our customers very much enjoy coming to both of our Warm Space activities, and for many different reasons. Some of our older single attendees, who have limited contact with others, come so as to have the opportunity to socialise either with each other or our happy and friendly volunteers and find the human contact they engage with both uplifting and refreshing. Our younger customers come so as to have a change of scenery, and meet up with people of their age and circumstances (i.e. being mums), most come as they are finding it challenging “to make ends meet” so not having to worry about warming their home a couple of times a week takes immense pressure off them, and the welcome addition of either reduced Cafe prices or free lunch is more than an incentive in these hard times.

All customers are very positive about all of the other services/activities we offer, and really appreciate the fact that help, support and advice is available from services like The Advice from the Hub or PAVO Community Connectors. One very frequent comment is that people really value the Warm Space sessions, and are very keen for them to continue as all users find the services invaluable and of vital importance to their wellbeing.

Annie England, KDCC Hub Coordinator

Mid Wales Arts

Mid Wales Arts centre has a large Artshed that has been completely rebuilt for exhibitions and events. It is well insulated and has underfloor ground source heating, which means it's lovely and warm and not harming the environment.

We have set up an area of the shed as a 'Warm Space' with a table, chairs, books, newspapers, drawing materials and of course tea, coffee and a kettle.

It's an inspiring and uplifting place to be, you can enjoy the art on the walls and the wonderful views, garden, farm, peacocks and you never know who you might meet.

It's a good place for groups who wish to take part in an activity ...knitting, book clubs, philosophy, writing etc.

The shed has wifi and charging points. There is a cafe on site.

The space is open from 10 - 4 Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday and you are most welcome. Just come along and check in at the barn cafe. Any queries: office@midwalesarts.org.uk or tel: 01686 688369.

The space is much appreciated. 'It's a space where you can enjoy the art and the warmth, it's lovely and friendly.'

Today we have had quite a few visitors and they have been inspired to start a 'Tai Chi' Weekly club starting on Wednesday 1 February, 12 - 1pm followed by a new discussion group 'Artspeak' 2 - 4pm where members can focus on selected artworks from the current exhibition.

Cathy Knapp, Creative Director

Councillors Carol Robinson and Julie Arnold with Rotarian, Tony Harvey, waiting to 'warmly' welcome members of
Welshpool Community to join them at the Welshpool Winter Warm Hub

Welshpool Town Hall Assembly Rooms

Pauline Chapman-Young, the PAVO Community Connector covering Welshpool and Llanfair Caereinion, called in to this Warm Space in Welshpool recently, and provided the following feedback:

The Warm Space has much more footfall now as its offers of free 'light lunches' have increased the interest from attendees. It is hard to judge the numbers as the hall is huge and people seem to drop in rather than stay all day.

Local Town Councillors are very supportive and are actually cooking some of the food and collecting donated food themselves. The councillors, including Nick Howells, are also working hard to bring in funding to enable them to keep the Warm Space going and have a 'healthy float' for additional supplies.

Printed material (leaflets) is available to offer help and support from many organisations including Community Connectors’ support. Volunteers from the community are visible and engaging with visitors. Overall there is a good vibe.

We hope you are keeping warm this winter. Let us know what you think about the Warm Spaces scheme in Powys in the comments below - we love to hear from you!

Christmas - singing for mental health and wellbeing

Christmas carols with the PAVO mental health team

Whatever you think of Christmas it seems singing Christmas carols / songs could be good for your mental health and wellbeing.

Indeed, research has shown that group singing in particular is good for health generally. So, as choirs and singing groups throughout Powys gear up for the Christmas season, we decided to find out more about what exactly the benefits of group singing can be. And to do that, we hand over to those that know - some of the singers and choristers from a few Powys choirs and singing groups!

Castle Belles ladies’ singing group - Ceri Williams

I’ve been in the Castle Belles singing group of Castle Caereinion for 10 years now. We sing in English, Welsh and sometimes even Italian! We are not a traditional choir - we perform musical theatre mainly and carols at this time of year. We meet once a week on Tuesdays and are looking for new mezzos if anyone is interested! Over the years we have raised £25,000 + for different charities.

I believe that everyone can sing - if you think you can’t you just haven’t found your place yet. Besides which you’d be drowned out in our group!

Singing in a group produces feel-good neurotransmitters. It’s a primal thing. But you can definitely feel it. I get goosebumps singing in harmony. It’s fantastic for me. Plus, to sing in a group is very supportive. We have members who have lost partners and family members. We make friends and have shared interests. Every year we take the train for a social and meal in Shrewsbury and enjoy a big singalong on the train for the return trip!

Find out more on the Castle Belles Facebook page.

Photo credit: Sian Gwyn

Bracken Trust Singers - Chris Clarke, Leader

Our members are a very varied group of ages from mid-fifties to 92 years of age! We have singles and couples, men and women, people with cancer, people who recovered from cancer, people who have lost beloved family members to cancer and Covid. But, above all, we are a happy and sociable group who love to share our time singing and making friends.

We have performed recently for Dementia Matters in Powys. People who live with dementia respond really well to music from their era. We have since welcomed four visitors from their group who are hoping to join us each week to sing along.

Performing for Dementia Matters in Powys

“This is why we sing”, a song we included in one of our CDs, contains apt lyrics for anyone who enjoys singing: Music can tear down walls which we may have built around ourselves when feeling vulnerable and alone.

Singing enhances our breathing and lung capacity. It strengthens our core. It lightens our hearts. It brings us comfort when we most need it. It strengthens our memory.

Singing in a group encourages us to make friendships, to share stories and sometimes confidences which we feel we cannot always share with our dearest family when we are battling with illness.

Singing releases pent-up feelings. We often listen to songs which have profound meaning for us and we love to learn to sing them because expressing the words and sentiments help to improve our mental well-being.

Singing can give pleasure to others which then gives us pleasure, too. Singing in a group helps build our confidence. I know that in our group, The Bracken Trust Singers, we need our weekly dose of singing together and meeting everyone. It takes us out of the house, out of our daily lives with its cares and problems. That weekly dose is our medicine.

Find out more on The Bracken Trust's Facebook page.

Cantorion Llandrindod Wells - Hilary Cox, Musical Director

'Singing is a very special enterprise. We sing before we can speak, it costs nothing and requires no equipment. It helps us breathe in the best way and is a total physical and mental workout. It is one of those rare activities which engages both hemispheres of the brain, forging new connections and engaging our learning most powerfully. Singing with others has a powerful effect on mood and wellbeing. When those others are friendly and welcoming, the benefits multiply.’

No wonder that singing is increasingly recognised as a way to support and improve mental health for us all. A study by the Sidney De Haan Research Centre in Folkestone found that after 3 months of weekly singing, the singing groups showed statistically significant improvements both in generalised mental health and a reduction in depression.

Choir members of Cantorion in Llandrindod will vouch for the benefits of singing together. Members new to the area have found a welcome and all of us enjoy making something special happen each week at our rehearsals.

Find out more on the Cantorion Llandrindod website.

Hafren Community Choir - Charlotte Woodford

Group singing is highly beneficial for mental and emotional well-being. Choir members often report back how important it is for reducing anxiety, commonly sharing that for those two hours they think of nothing at all but enjoying themselves. The singing gets oxytocin, endorphins and serotonin moving through the body – our natural painkillers and healers, these also have a great hand in lifting our spirits.

The shared experience of singing is powerful, and facilitates other lovely times together - the tea break at Choir is an essential part of the whole evening, as is going on trips – locally or further afield. We are off to Limerick this summer to visit a host choir and have them back to Newtown in September. Singing opens everybody up, relaxes us, makes us laugh and take joy in what we are creating together, which has a knock-on effect on the forming of long-lasting friendships and a deeply supportive network within our community.

Contact Charlotte 07828 413 484 / charlotte@lifebulb.org for more info about the Hafren and Llanidloes Community Choirs, Singing for Lung Health & Baby Music.

Rhayader Voices in Unity - Lynda Birch

I sing with the Rhayader choir Voices in Unity. I love to hear the sound of our voices coming together to produce a sound that is a combination of our individual voices. I feel uplifted and part of something that gives pleasure to the many people who come to our concerts. I particularly like hearing the harmonies develop from our early practice sessions to the finished performance. It literally takes my breath away.

Find out more on the Voices in Unity Facebook page.

Cathy's Angels

Ponthafren Singing for Wellbeing - Cathy Beech

I am a singer/songwriter and vocal coach and for over 22 years I've been working towards demonstrating how singing frees your spirit and your mind to become who you want to be. It is a fallacy to believe it is for the few. I read somewhere recently that a study had been conducted and 96% of people can sing, that includes you, it is very unlikely that you can't sing, there has to be something really wrong for you to not be able to sing. The simple truth is, you have been trained to believe you can't sing and that is inhibiting. 

For the last 6 years I have been working on a program of Singing for Wellbeing in Newtown and Welshpool and it has become very successful. I use my program to help people at Ponthafren get their mental health back on track - it is an amazing facility for this. I also use my techniques with my own choirs and workshops and the difference it makes in people's lives is just inspiring for our community of singers, it truly opens mental doors.

The Teen Believers

As a vocal coach, I have witnessed the strength that people find deep within themselves once they have found their voice to do the one thing they always wanted. The power of singing together in front of people and sharing your voice is without doubt more important than we could even imagine right now. It's a life changer, a beautiful vibration that lifts and brings people together. But when we use it to discover ourselves then fear melts into a pool where the sun shines and a rainbow is born. You need to feel the vibration of sound. Go and join that choir, that vocal workshop. Sing that open mic church event. Be a part of your community, both performer and spectator. Free your voice. You will never look back. 

My classes are run from the Armoury in Welshpool throughout school term time on a Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. You can find out more details on my website. 

Choirs for Good - Tiffany Evans

Choirs For Good was set up by a group of like-minded choir leaders who wanted to use the power of choirs and group singing to connect and empower people and communities. Singing is a universal and instinctive part of what makes us human, yet it does not always feel accessible; we want to change that. Singing in a choir is about transforming one's life for the better, meeting people, forming bonds and new friendships and finding support through music, as well as creating wonderful opportunities and memories to cherish forever.

Singing together is about much more than singing itself. Choirs are communities of people from all backgrounds, with all the richness and life-experience that combining large groups of people together can bring. Communities are a powerful force for change, and we believe that by placing choirs at the heart of local communities it has the potential to do good for society. Our choirs are open to all who wish to join, we are welcoming members throughout the year and always happy to meet new people and attend new events, bringing music to those who need it. Our tag line is Do Good, Feel Good, For Good.

Llanidloes choir meet weekly on a Monday evening, what better way to start the week than by being enveloped in live music and laughter? Find out more on the Choirs for Good website. 

Alive & Kickin' Community Choir - Tanya Walker

As a classically trained singer, songwriter and composer I have been leading several choirs for 10 years now. I founded and lead the Alive & Kickin’ Community Choir Brecon and the Lunchtime Uplift Choir at Theatr Brycheiniog in Brecon. My choirs sing songs from all over the world including popular, contemporary and original material.

I have witnessed first hand over the years the transformational power that singing in a choir has had on the lives of participants - whether that be observing the power of singing as a catalyst to heal the wounded heart of someone recently widowed, or providing a valuable focal point and lifeline to someone recovering from extreme depression. My experience tells me that singing enhances the health and wellbeing of participants whilst also encouraging a more positive perspective on life.

My choirs also serve as vital friendship networks for the lonely and have provided a precious trip down memory lane for participants with dementia who can remember words from a song from their teenage years but can’t recognise the faces of their own family.

In some ways it is hard to put into words how music and singing together heals - except to say in every session I lead I see people coming into choir feeling one way - and witness everyone (with no exceptions) leaving feeling ‘uplifted’ from the day to day struggles of every day life.

Find out more on the Alive & Kickin' Facebook page or ring Tanya on 07723 016 837.

If you sing in a choir or singing group and feel it benefits your mental health we would love to hear from you in the comments box below.

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

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

Reading your way to recovery

 

By guest author Janet Mulready
Health & Well-being Librarian, Powys

My work as a Branch Librarian in the early 1980s confirmed my philosophy that libraries can and should be central in offering support to the more vulnerable members of our communities. Libraries offer a safe and welcoming environment, and to paraphrase the author Matt Haig – whose books often reflect his own experiences of dealing with mental health issues – where else can you spend time where you are welcomed as an individual, with no mention of the contents of your wallet?

Janet Mulready, Health & Well-being Librarian in Powys

After more than two decades as a primary teacher, I was delighted to return to my library roots and I was very excited to be seconded recently as Health and Well-being Librarian for Powys. The role is funded thanks to the Welsh Government's Integrated Care Fund, through the Age Well Partnership in Powys; it is part of the project which is focused on scoping and development of community hubs, for these will be a source of early interventions to improve access to health-related information and advice. ​Being appointed to such a stimulating job in my 60s certainly shows that you can age well in Powys!

My job is excitingly diverse and has already involved building strong working relationships with other organisations seeking to improve well-being within the community. The provision of services to people living with dementia and their carers is important to Powys Libraries, and the development and dissemination of resources to support this is a significant part of my role. I am currently working closely with museum staff and library colleagues to devise a system of lending memory boxes and reminiscence hampers to care homes. We also supply resources from the dementia charity Playlist for Life via the collection service at branches to those who request them.

Another important role is to promote the Reading Well scheme (Darllen yn Well). The Reading Agency and Welsh Government have provided Reading Well resources in both Welsh and English, to support living with dementia, adult mental health and children’s mental health. All titles are recommended by health professionals and people with experience of the conditions covered.

I work with a colleague in disseminating this important service, which is linked to public libraries’ ever-expanding work around community health and well-being. The books can be referred via a Book Prescription, and are also available for self-referral via the Powys library catalogue, for collection from the local branch; some are also available as e-books or audio books. The system supports a self-management model, to encourage patients to take an active role in the decisions made around their health and well-being.

The Reading Well for mental health collection provides general information on mental health and well-being, and offers condition-specific titles, support for those difficult experiences which affect us all, such as bereavement and loss, and personal stories. To ensure the collection is accessible to a wide range of audiences, it includes a range of different formats and reading levels. Topics include therapies and approaches, common feelings and experiences, self-help books to support mental health and personal stories. The scheme supports living well and self-care and self-management models. As a community intervention, it also allows for public services to work together to support the health and well-being of their communities.

As well as signposting to sources of professional help and support, it recommends other well-being activities such as reading groups and volunteering opportunities. And of course, libraries are a vital source for the comfort of fiction. To quote Matt Haig again, “There is something about absorbing yourself in a story that can make you feel comforted. One thing about depression is that it is plotless, there is no shape. Stories have shape – and books became my antidepressants.”

A further remit I have is to help library staff to become confident with services that are available in Powys to support residents, so I prepare and disseminate regular ”How to Help with …” resources. The pandemic has meant that part of my work focus is working with colleagues to develop digital access to supportive services. We have initiated an “Ask a Librarian” enquiry service via the website and the loan of blood pressure monitors; many people are concerned about the physical health effects of lockdown and a more sedentary lifestyle due to home working, yet are understandably reluctant to “bother” a health professional, so they can borrow a blood monitor for free and have it delivered to their local branch for them to collect. As lockdown eases, we are looking to provide rooms in selected branches for individuals to have privacy for online medical consultations.

The importance of digital services and new means of communicating has become important for all of us, so my role also involves supporting colleagues in providing health and well-being information and services digitally. A large number of people are experiencing anxiety due to the restrictions on social interaction, and so we are working on producing well-being videos and resources such as adult literature hours, to play a part in reducing isolation.

A typical working day for me at the moment can involve giving a zoom talk on the Reading Well Scheme, applying for funding for well-being projects, making a video, and writing a Help sheet. Every day brings something new and involves me collaborating with some inspiring, committed people. I have a wonderful job and I am very grateful to have the opportunity, in a small way, to make a positive difference to people!

Many thanks to Janet for telling us about her new role as Health & Well-being Librarian for Powys. 

Find out more about the Powys library services on the English & Welsh websites below:

Powys Libraries' Services

Llyfrygelloedd Powys

If you have any queries then please drop them in the comments section below. Alternatively you can contact Janet directly by emailing: janet.mulready@powys.gov.uk or ringing: 01639 845353.

Small Steps adapting to Covid-19

by guest author Diane Williams
Project Manager, Rekindle

Rekindle's Small Steps Project enjoys a challenge, and this was put to the test with the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdown commencing in March. At the start of the lockdown period we recognised some of our current clients were living alone or estranged from family members. We were able to prepare clients for the possible lockdown and were kept busy ensuring they had enough food and medication to reduce any panic. We continued to remain open ensuring we could do so safely following government guidelines to keep everyone safe.

We have worked tirelessly to support every person who has needed it throughout the lockdown, with no two days being the same. Every person who has contacted Small Steps, be it by telephone or visiting our office, has received the support they required. We have turned no one away. 

Despite our criteria being 16 - 25 years old we have allowed some flexibility, with the eldest person to receive our support being 84 years old and shielding. Our support has included a listening ear, support through a crisis, shopping and collecting and delivering medication. We even helped to fix a dog pen to prevent her dog getting free.

It has been a challenging time for everyone with a number of clients experiencing feelings of loneliness, depression and anxiety. Without a safe office environment to visit their mental health may have deteriorated further. We recognised not everyone feels comfortable speaking on the phone, or doing a video call, so it has enabled anyone struggling to cope with a mental health concern or a practical problem, no matter what age, to call in and receive the support they need. 

We are looking forward to returning to some normality, for now though we will keep smiling and look forward to each new day whatever it may bring.

Quotes from Small Steps' clients

“During Covid-19 and lockdown Small Steps helped prevent me from being homeless and doing something unpredictable. I was able to avoid being a victim of domestic violence and was able to give my wife the space she needed. 

Before I received support from Small Steps I would not have managed in such a calm manner. I would have acted irresponsiblly, ensuring I get arrested, as this was all I knew to ensure a place to stay and prevent me sleeping on the streets. 

I have gained a different way to cope, remembering to follow and use different coping techniques, and if that does not help I am able to contact Diane or Kemal or a peer support who I can talk to without being judged, and I always feel understood and listened to."

Anon - (24)

“Small Steps have worked tirelessly throughout this pandemic no matter how big or small the situation. I myself am incrediblly thankful that they remained open during these difficult times for everyone. 

Diane and Kemal came to see me out of hours on a Sunday after experiencing a domestic violence incident. Without having them to speak to, and keep me positive and my hopes up, finding me a place to stay along with a food parcel, I genuinely don’t know what sort of situation or head space I would be in at present. 

I am forever grateful that this charity exists, I don’t have any family support since being estranged from them so in some way I consider Small Steps to be my second family.”

P.B (19)

Rekindle's Small Steps Project works with younger people aged 16 to 25 in North Powys to offer early intervention for those at risk of mental health problems or those already suffering mental distress such as depression, anxiety or who are self-harming.

Find out more on the charity's website or Facebook pages. You can also ring: 01686 722222 or email: hello@smallsteps.wales

Staying well during lockdown - what are we doing?

by Owen Griffkin, Participation Officer

Artwork by Sarah Dale, Mental Health Individual Representative, for the Isolation Art Challenge

As we near the end of April the COVID-19 lockdown has been extended until mid-May at the earliest. We have all had to adapt and change our routines to keep ourselves safe, and this has meant new ways of coping with the stresses of isolation. One of the enduring themes to emerge from this crisis is the ability of people to make the best of what they have in their homes and surrounding areas to stay mentally and physically fit. It’s not easy though and sometimes it is good to look elsewhere for inspiration, so that our daily routine doesn’t start feeling like ‘Groundhog Day’. 

We thought we would catch-up with friends and colleagues of the Powys Association of Voluntary Organisation’s (PAVO) mental health team and find out what they have been doing to cope with the lockdown, and maybe give you some more ideas to change up your routine.

Clair Swales - Health and Wellbeing Team Manager, PAVO

Since COVID-19 I have re-started with my weightlifting efforts. I was getting into a rut. Returning home from work I needed to switch off and get into home mode and weightlifting has really helped! As soon as I get in, I say a quick hello to the family and then get changed. If I hang around for too long I end up sitting on the sofa and then I find it difficult to get going again.

Weight lifting helps me to channel my stress levels and reduce any anxiety. I put the music on loud (I find rock music helps and that's not my normal ‘turn-to’ in music taste!); focusing on form and challenging myself to improve each week gives me closure on the day's work. I find that even after a short training session I can shut off my work brain until the next day.

You won't see me competing in weight lifting that's for sure but for me personally I see the benefits of reduced stress, improved sleep and increased energy levels. Don't be afraid to try it even with light weights, or improvise with cans of beans!

Here's an article on weight lifting and wellbeing.

Joy Garfitt - Assistant Director Mental Health Services, Powys Teaching Health Board

Rhodri & Nerys - two of Joy's lockdown companions

I am one of the residents of Powys who has received a letter from Welsh Government encouraging me to ‘self-isolate’ so that I may be ‘shielded’ from catching COVID-19 (hopefully) – however this doesn’t mean that I needed to become a hermit and enter the world of daytime TV!

Fortunately, my job in the NHS lends itself to being able to work from home during this time, although I miss my normal contact and conversations with patients and colleagues. Thankfully, enter the world of Skype, Zoom, Facetime etc. which has enabled me to keep in contact with colleagues, friends and family – we have even set up a weekly Mental Health ‘virtual coffee morning’ where we can have an informal catch up, and compare our collective need for access to a hairdresser and get a break from self-isolating, homeworking and the endless amount of video conferences.

I have been making the most of my daily exercise allowance and have been regularly heading out on my bike and taking in the beautiful sights of rural Radnorshire. Thankfully, our rural lanes are perfect for not seeing anyone and the excellent weather has provided the motivation I needed, along with my two companions, Rhodri and Nerys.

Lucy Harbour - Mental Health Participation Manager, PTHB

Two weeks into homeworking I found myself getting a bad back and feeling generally uncomfortable. After a spontaneous visit to a famous online retailer I bought myself a hula hoop to try and get me moving a bit more and inject a bit of fun back into my days – and I’m so glad I did!

Now, after a long day sitting at the desk I can get out in the garden and hula hoop to my heart’s content (and neighbour’s horror!)

Millie Griffiths - Occupational Therapist on Felindre Ward, Bronllys Hospital, PTHB

During the lockdown I have been trying to continue to engage in hobbies to fill my time and to provide me with a focus. Usually I would play football but can’t so have taken up gardening. I had little knowledge of gardening before but I seem to be doing something right as the plants are growing!

Russell Pearce - Kaleidoscope Peer Support

My name is Russell, I am an addict and sufferer of mental health problems. I am also an ex-professional boxer. I have built a gym in my garage to help me relieve stress. Exercise takes me out of my head and I feel at peace. Stay active, stay safe.

Sarah Dale - Individual Representative on the Powys Mental Health Partnership

During this lockdown it is not surprising that my mental health, like many others, has got worse. Routine has gone out of the window, and my ability to do my go-to distraction technique, knitting, has gone with it too. So I started off by spending my time playing Resident Evil games on my laptop, scrolling Facebook, sleeping and binge-watching Netflix. 

On one of my many Facebook scrolling sessions I found a Facebook group called the Isolation Art Challenge. There was a list of 30 days with 30 different teams (the list has now been expanded to 60 days). You can take as long as you want completing each piece and you CAN do them in any order if you fancy, and post your finished pieces in the group. I thought I would use this as an opportunity to practice using my Promarkers (alcohol-based graphic makers). It has given me a goal to complete, distraction, a community to share with and something to pass the time. People seem to love my work, and have messaged me to let me know they look forward to my art popping up on their Facebook timeline. I have also had requests from people to draw portraits. I decided to start an Instagram account just for my art. Who needs exercise when you have most of the day to perfect a masterpiece! (joking! do get some fresh air).

Freda Lacey - Mental Health Partnership Manager, PTHB

My usual practice, meditation, mindful wood walking, gardening/planting veg, feeding the birds/listening to the amazing bird song, quilting/getting on with projects left in my cupboard unfinished, writing letters and cards to family and friends, learning to paint (with Bob Ross!).

Jess Tanner - Green Minds Facilitator, Brecon Mind

As the weeks in lockdown go by and as the days start to blend into one another I have been seeking ways in which to bring more attention into my daily life. Spring is such a dynamic and exciting time in nature and I have been leaning more and more into my practice as a gardener and a walker, trying to find some stillness within to notice and learn more about this changing world around us. 

At the beginning of April I started a “Phenology Wheel” as a way to document the events taking place in the natural world, within my garden and along the walks I have been taking. Creating the wheel has helped me to stay connected to the realities within myself and my local area, as well as making me feel hugely grateful for the landscape that surrounds me, filling each day with something new.

A Phenology wheel is a circular, daily calendar that encourages a regular routine of nature observation. It requires very few resources, just a paper and pen.

Have a look at the Green Minds project.

Em Charles - Green Minds, Brecon Mind

I find journaling useful when overwhelmed by unhelpful thoughts. Writing things down can help shift our worries from inside our heads to the outside, giving them space to be reflected upon. It can also be used creatively to express your feelings, through art, poetry, photography and collaging, so can become a nice record of our experiences day to day.

Here’s is a great how-to video on getting started with journaling. 

There are some great suggestions and links above, but we really want to hear what you have been up to. Please reply on our social media (Facebook or Twitter) or below this blog and let us know the activities you have been doing to keep physically and mentally well during the lockdown. If you have photos even better!

Or you can email us at mentalhealth@pavo.org.uk or call 01686 628300.

#StayHomeStaySafe