Adferiad had a busy summer bringing our physical health campaign ‘Let’s Get Physical’ to every part of Wales, hosting events for our service users and the public in every health board area, which encouraged people to have better awareness of their physical health and how to improve and maintain it. In line with data suggesting that inequalities in health and social care are leading to poorer health outcomes and lower life expectancy in those living with mental illness, the campaign focused on three key elements: physical health, physical fitness, and nutrition. Launched in Carmarthen by First Minister Eluned Morgan, the campaign was a huge success, providing 350 health checks, a wealth of health and nutrition advice, and a whole range of fun and informative activities that got everyone’s blood pumping. As a result, we published a report of our findings with 7 recommendations for the Welsh Government on how to support vulnerable people with their physical health, which were welcomed by the Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing, Sarah Murphy, at our closing event at the Senedd for World Mental Health Day. Adferiad were also delighted to host the Welsh leg of GAMIAN’s ‘The Vibrant Mind’ exhibition at the Swansea Grand Theatre in August 2024. We were particularly thrilled to have artwork from our very own staff member, Winston Gomez, featured as one of the 30 pieces on display. The exhibition was well-attended and incredibly well-received, with brilliant feedback on the artwork’s depictions of lived experiences of mental ill-health. One of our highlights from the last year was also the opening of our Children and Young People’s Sanctuary for Swansea and Neath Port Talbot in partnership with Swansea Bay University Health Board’s Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services. We are passionate about ensuring that children and young people who are at risk of a mental health crisis have safe spaces to go, so we’re incredibly proud to be able to offer this new 24/7 service to help reduce admissions to hospital and risk of harm to individuals in their homes.

For more information, visit their website: Adferiad Mental Health and Addiction Support Services