Issue 61 Summer 2013
Health and Mental Health The newsle er for voluntary organisa ons and community groups in Rhondda Cynon Taf
Interlink Staff News Interlink News
Welcome ..... to the Summer edi on of Interlink’s Newsle er. If you would like to contribute to the next issue please send your ar cles, informa on, job vacancies or adver sements by: 1 November 2013 to Cara Jordan-Evans at Interlink by e-mail: cjordan-evans@interlinkrct.org.uk
Out with the old and in with the new We seem to have a roller coaster with old faces leaving and new ones joining the team. Kelly Daniel, recently married and now Kelly Brightman,, who was See CHANGE Coordinator and then Making the Connec ons Officer, has abandoned us here at Interlink and joined Glyncoch Regenera on Partnership. p.. Kelly single handedly developed the See CHANGE project to be a massive success in suppor ng community ty development across RCT. Kelly’s hard work and ability to pull people together made our bid to the Community Voice programme a brilliant one. She brought so much to the team, her energy and enthusiasm were infec ous. Her heart is as big as they come. She really loves dogs. We will all miss her and wish her a bright future.
In this issue we have: Interlink Staff News Introduc on Mental Health (MHSUI) Mental Health World Mental Health Day Health & Wellbeing Community Voice See CHANGE Local News Interlink Training
2 3 4-5 6-7 8-9 10-11 12-13 14-15 16
Our address: 6 Melin Corrwg, Cardiff Road Upper Boat, Pontypridd CF37 5BE Telephone number: 01443 846200 Fax: 01443 844843 E-mail: info@interlinkrct.org.uk Website: www.interlinkrct.org.uk Office opening mes are: Monday - Thursday: 9.00am - 5.00pm Friday: 9.00am - 4.30pm
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Jenny O’Hara-Jakeway joins us from Communi es First, and many of you will know her from many years with Glyncoch Regenera on Partnership. As Making the Connec ons Officer, Jenny will be driving forward public engagement and coproduc on in RCT, working with the Local Service Board. Jenny has worked with Interlink over many years. She is a uniquely talented and inspira onal person, and we look forward to Jenny ge ng out and about and mee ng you all. Jenny’s contact details are 01443 846200.
Who said training was not sexy? Maria James (the recently married Maria Prosser), has demonstrated what an amazing tutor she is by winning a very special award. Maria won the Inspire! New Tutor Award 2013. Maria was rewarded for providing the community and voluntary sector with sexual d health training, substance misuse training and safeguarding training - working on behalf of Fframwaith with the Local Safeguarding Children Board and Cwm Taf Local Health Board. Maria was congratulated for being down to earth and suppor ng people to deal with very sensi ve subjects. We asked the staff who we should recommend as the best tutor – and there was a unanimous response – Maria! The feedback from learners is second to none. ‘A er comple ng this course I feel I can make a difference, the tutor was very friendly and allowed me to feel comfortable.’ Quote from course par cipant
Introduc on Welcome to the Health edi on of the Link Producing Things Together Demands on health and social care services are growing. Boys born in Rhondda Cynon Taf have the lowest life expectancies in Wales. Cwm Taf has the second highest rate of prescribing for mental health in the UK. Individuals, communi es and organisa ons will need to work much more closely together to improve health and wellbeing. We have made a start - we share informa on, we have good rela onships and a strong Compact Agreement between the third sector, Cwm Taf LHB and Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council. More importantly we share an understanding of the challenges we face. However, we all need to work together more produc vely together as service users, volunteers, communi es, community and voluntary organisa ons and social enterprises, private and public sectors.
How are we going to do it? We need to work together as equal partners to design and deliver be er services. Innova on happens when more people are involved to share ideas and skills. We need to meaningfully engage and involve those affected by our ac vi es, projects and services. Everyone has to be involved in improving the health and wellbeing of communi es if we are to make it happen. Community groups, older people, carers, families . . . we are all part of a dynamic community. If we want to make an impact on any community, we need to ask the community to help, to use their me and find out what they know. Communi es are grand-parents providing childcare, families caring for each other and neighbours looking out for one another. Without a community, we cannot have healthy communi es. We need to move away from looking at communi es as deprived, as older people as a burden and children as poten al offenders. Communi es are wonderful places, we have support groups of all shapes and sizes, volunteers providing a shoulder to lean on, walking and cooking groups, community centres and a huge range of ac vi es and services being provided through Communi es First and the Voluntary sector, from child care to job clubs. To make a real difference to health and wellbeing in RCT, all we need is to get people working be er together. We need to fast track a coproduc ve approach. We need to strengthen the involvement of individuals, communi es and the voluntary sector. The rocket is all fired up. All you need to do is to get on board. The journey promises to be as exis ng as the des na on. To purchase a cket and get involved, contact sjames@interlinkrct.org.uk or call 01443 846200.
Dates for your Diary An RCT ‘Coproduc on’ Network Event ‘Producing Services Together’ 12 September 2013 1.30pm - 4.45pm Rhydyfelin Methodist Church Contact Anne Morris or Maria James
South Wales Cancer Network Pa ent Conference ‘The Pa ent Voice in Shaping Cancer Services’ The Orangery Margam Park Port Talbot 25 September 2013 Contact Eleri Girt Eleri.Girt@wales.nhs.uk
Knowing your Rights! Regional mental health service user and carer conference 23 October 2013 10.30am - 3.30pm All Na ons Centre Cardiff Contact 01443 233308
Mental Health Forum 29 October 2013 10.00am - 12.00pm Contact Maria Abson
‘Date for your Diary’ Interlink AGM 27 November 2013
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Mental Health The Mental Health Service User Involvement Project (MHSUI) promotes and supports service user involvement in the planning, delivery and evalua on of local mental health services across Merthyr Tydfil and RCT to ensure that the voice of service users is heard. Rachel Wya , MHSUI Development Officer, has a development role and facilitates the mul -agency Stronger In Partnership Group. She develops specific projects, such as INFORM, linked to new service developments. Contact Rachel on 01443 846200 or e-mail: rwya @interlinkrct.org.uk
Helen Rees, MHSUI Development Officer, supports service users to take part; to a end partnership mee ngs to represent service user views and to use their experiences and their ‘stories’ to teach mental health professionals. Contact Helen on 01443 846200 or e-mail: hrees@interlinkrct.org.uk
New Strategy Gives Boost to Involving People who use Mental Health Services ‘Together for Mental Health’ is the Welsh Government’s new ten year strategy for improving the lives of people who use mental health services, their carers and their families. One of the strategy’s key themes is establishing a new partnership with the public that includes involving people more effec vely in: • Decisions around care and treatment. • The design, delivery and monitoring of local mental health services.
We will shortly be recrui ng for people to become service user and carer members of the Cwm Taf Mental Health Partnership Board. The four successful applicants will also have the opportunity to a end the Na onal Service User and Carer Forum that is a ended by members from the seven Health Boards across Wales.
How could you be involved? • •
So what’s happening locally? Care and Treatment Planning: The Mental Health Service User Involvement Project is keen to hear about people’s experiences of secondary services (e.g. Community Mental Health Team) and how involved people have felt in the development and review of their Care and Treatment Plan (CTP). We are also looking for people who may have experience of care and treatment planning and who would be interested in ge ng involved in this on-going piece of work. Cwm Taf Mental Health Partnership Board: Cwm Taf Health Board has a newly established Mental Health Partnership Board which is a strategic, mul -agency group responsible for monitoring how well the Together for Mental Health Strategy is being delivered locally. The Board will report progress at a local level to the Na onal Mental Health Partnership Board that reports directly to Welsh Government. Page 4
• • •
Discussing the services you received Making sure people who receive services have a role in managing their treatment Raising awareness of opportuni es to get involved Using social media to tackle s gma Become a service user champion
For more informa on please contact Rachel Wya or Helen Rees
Mental Health ‘INFORM’ – Using Pa
ent Stories to Raise Awareness about Mental Health
What is INFORM? INFORM is a training pack for staff working in the primary care sector. It brings together a collec on of Pa ent and Carer stories about seeking help from local GP prac ces for mental ill-health. The idea came from pa ents and carers, who felt that there was a clear need for all primary care staff to be more aware about issues related to mental health. Why are pa ents’ and carers’ stories so important? Stories allow the pa ent and carer voice to be heard and bring experiences to life. They recognise the pa ents’ own areas of exper se and are a powerful tool in raising awareness and promo ng debate and improvements in health services.
Quote from Par cipant: ‘Loved it. Really enjoyed mee ng other people and ge ng their perspec ve of how to change the doctors a tudes to mental health and pu ng wellbeing into the foresight of the medical profession. I hope that by chipping away at stereotypes we can make a difference and maybe in me change the world or how the world sees us!’
What are the key issues raised by Pa ents and Carers? INFORM contains both wri en and digital stories that highlight important messages for all staff working in primary care including: 1. The importance of listening, empathy, eye contact and trea ng the whole person. 2. GP’s experience of and knowledge about mental health and the support that is available for people in the local community. 3. Inconsistencies in pa ent care that can arise when pa ents are seen by locum GP’s And Finally…… We would like to thank everyone who has given their me, energy and commitment to telling their story and developing the INFORM training pack.
We hope that INFORM will be a valuable training resource for all staff working in primary care. Please contact Rachel Wya or Helen Rees if you would like further informa on about the training pack. Primary Care refers to healthcare services that are the first point of contact for a pa ent and are o en provided by a GP surgery.
A Li le Considera on A small adjustment can make a major difference to a pa ent who is severely depressed
During my first experience of depression I had a lot of difficulty in going out and being around people, I was very ill and had been self-harming. I had also tried to take my own life. A friend, who was suppor ng me, rang my GP who made arrangements for me to come directly to see her, without having to wait in the wai ng room. During my appointment she was very suppor ve and we discussed my op ons. She recommended that to begin with I should take medica on to stabilise my mood and then she referred me on to mental health services. Had it not been for her support I really don’t think that I would have sought treatment and the consequences could have been very serious. (Story taken from INFORM) Page 5
Mental Health Maria Abson, Mental Health Development Officer, supports local mental health organisa ons in Cwm Taf and co-ordinates links between communi es, voluntary organisa ons and the statutory sector through the Cwm Taf Mental Health Forum. The Mental Health Forum welcomes any community or voluntary group with an interest in mental health within Cwm Taf. Contact Maria on 01443 846200 or e-mail: mabson@interlinkrct.org.uk
Would you like to volunteer for Headway Cardiff at our Social Group in Pontypridd? Would you be interested in suppor ng people with a brain injury with cogni ve, emo onal and behavioural difficul es? Do you have 4 – 5 hours to spare per month? Following an acquired brain injury many survivors and their families struggle to adjust to the changes and their usual social outlets e.g. work, the pub, sports clubs seem to be no longer an op on. Groups can help reduce the isola on frequently felt by carers and survivors and are a good way to begin to reintegrate back into the wider community. They provide a safe, s mula ng environment for people to share experiences, to prac ce strategies and to relax and have fun. For further informa on and to arrange an informal visit please contact Nia Morgan on 029 2057 7707 or e-mail: nia.morgan@headwaycardiff.org
Mental Health Support Service Directory The Mental Health Support website is a partnership project between New Horizons Mental Health and Emo onal Well-being Resource Centre, Local Health Board and Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council. The website aims to provide accessible advice and informa on about mental health issues and services to people with mental health problems, their carers, health professionals and anyone else with an interest in mental illness. The site has many features, visit www.mentalhealthsupport.co.uk to find out more! Page 6
Mental Health
‘Making Minds’ Interlink is currently suppor ng a group of people, who are developing projects and a social enterprise that promotes the role of art and crea vity in mental health in South Wales. Making Minds is looking to develop four areas of work: •
To develop arts-based services in the community, in partnership with statutory and voluntary sector organisa ons that will help to support people with their mental health and wellbeing.
•
To develop a network of organisa ons and individuals that are involved or interested in arts and crea vity as it relates to mental health, for the purpose of sharing best prac ce, sharing resources, fostering joint working prac ces including applica ons for funding and public sector contracts, influencing policy and prac ce.
•
Organising events and ‘experiences’ that will see art and crea vity act as a pla orm for dialogue, that will help tackle the s gma and discrimina on that surrounds mental illness, as well as increasing awareness and understanding of various mental health issues.
•
Developing a ‘one stop shop’ that will support ar sts of all types, and ‘crea ve entrepreneurs’, who are affected by mental ill health. This could offer individuals with a menu of op ons that could include mental health support, business support and support to network within their field of interest. The group that has been formed to take Making Minds forward consists of mental health prac oners, ar sts, crea ve business people, a researcher and community arts prac oners.
Mark Smith started to research ideas for Making Minds a year ago: ‘I’ve lived with depression, anxiety and associated issues for many years. I wanted to know whether medica on and talking therapies was all that was available to help people in similar situa ons. As I started to research what was available in other areas, I discovered several organisa ons in England that supported people through crea ve ac vi es. I was fortunate enough to visit one of those organisa ons recently, Core Arts in London, and was amazed by what I saw. Through the Time to Change Wales campaign, there is also an appe te for tackling mental health s gma and discrimina on in Wales right now. I hope the work of Making Minds can complement that campaign, develop new approaches, enable more people to act and think differently around mental health and promote the arts and ar sts in a way that hasn’t been done in Wales before.’
Mark’s hopes for Making Minds are based around an ethos of partnership working and inclusivity: ‘We are looking to become a member-led co-opera ve. This means people and organisa ons, across all sectors and walks of life, working together on issues that affects many people and doing so in a way that will be fun, exci ng, cost-effec ve and in some cases, life changing. We know there is a need for this work in our communi es and cultural lives, we just need to go out there and prove it.’ We will be consul ng with people at the World Mental Health Day event in Merthyr (see page 9), come along and get involved. Making Minds are looking for people with experience of running crea ve workshops and events to get in touch. There is also the poten al for a pilot project that will see Making Minds working in GP prac ces, to develop a new service. And there are lots of ways to get involved with Making Minds as a volunteer. For more informa on visit makingmindsblog.wordpress.com facebook.com/makingmindssouthwales you can also e-mail: makingmindssouthwales@gmail.com or call 07795 199062.
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Mental Health
World Mental Health Day 2013 New Horizons Cynon Valley ‘Open Day’ 8 October 2013 1.00pm - 4.00pm 16 Dean Street, Aberdare Contact Janet Whiteman on 01685 881113
‘Quiz Night‘ Ton Pentre Football Club Ton Pentre 9 October 2013 7.30pm – 10.30pm Last year’s quiz was another resounding success and as such we will be repea ng it again this year for all general knowledge quiz enthusiasts. Boyd Clack, Patron of New Horizons has agreed to compere again this year. Please come along with your friends and colleagues to show your support, lots of prizes to be won and to have some fun. For more informa on contact Claire Hughes on 01443 424530 or Janet Whiteman on 01685 881113
New Horizons Rhondda Valley ‘Open Day’ 10 October 2013 1.00pm - 4.00pm Apple Tree, Dinas Contact Janet Whiteman on 01685 881113
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A Global Mental Health Awareness Campaign
Mental Health and Older Adults A er the World Federa on for Mental Health (WFMH) founded World Mental Health Day (WMHD) on 10 October 1992 many countries adopted it as a means of promo ng mental health issues. Every Year a theme is chosen and educa on materials are produced by WFMH for distribu on. This year, the theme is ‘Mental Health and Older Adults.’ To request the educa on material, please e-mail: wmhday@wfmh.com with your contact details! World Mental Health Day makes mental health a global priority where millions of people from across the globe organise and launch educa onal events and many interes ng and fun ac vi es in their local communi es, raising awareness and funds for mental health causes. Each year, on and around the 10 October, mental health organisa ons, health professionals, academic ins tu ons, service users and carers become unified in their efforts to promote greater public awareness and understanding of mental health and emo onal wellbeing. This brings mental health issues to the forefront of public a en on tackling misinforma on and common misconcep ons achieving greater public awareness, empathy and understanding. Promo ng mental health and well-being at a local level has important advantages and benefits for everyone in communi es and goes a long way in reducing s gma and isola on crea ng a non-s gma sing, well informed and suppor ve community. This directs new energy and effort at improving the lives of those living with mental health problems by challenging discrimina on locally.
This year some wonderfully exci ng events and ac vi es are being planned throughout RCT and Merthyr Tydfil. Interlink would like to extend a very genuine thank you to everyone involved in the planning of local WMHD events. Without con nued par cipa on and support these events would not get off the ground. We thank everyone for his or her individual and collec ve support. For more informa on contact Maria Abson, Mental Health Development Officer at Interlink on 01443 846200 or e-mail: mabson@interlinkrct.org.uk
Mental Health
World Mental Health Day 2013 ‘RCT World Mental Health Day Event’ 4 October 2013 10.30am – 3.00pm Ystrad Sports Centre Gelligaled Park, Ystrad This event will offer a wide range of informa on relevant to mental health, general health and well being as well as other related issues. There will be a variety of different organisa ons present providing opportuni es for individuals to ask ques ons and be given guidance on issues and topics of interest to them. The event will also provide an arena for organisa ons to celebrate good prac ce and achievements whilst showcasing their services. Holis c therapies will also be available for you to try. Please come along and benefit from the informa on that will be provided. Refreshments will be provided throughout the day. For more informa on contact Claire Hughes on 01443 424350
Art Exhibi on in support of World Mental Health Day A number of local mental health organisa ons have artwork on display in the foyer of Ysbyty Cwm Cynon Mountain Ash on 10 October 2013 at 10.00am - 2.00pm pop in and see what’s on display.
‘ Merthyr Tydfil Main Event ’ World Mental Health Day 2013 9 October 2013 10.30am - 2.30pm Merthyr Tydfil Leisure Centre The World Mental Health Day Event is a way of working collabora vely towards addressing the needs of our local communi es. This day will provide opportunity for service users to engage with providers of services, and will also be a chance for local organisa ons and partners to showcase their services. There will be a range of ac vi es, cra s and complementary therapies available on the day. Contact Maria Abson on 01443 846200 or Shian Neale on 01685 727067
Walk for Health and Wellbeing 11 October 2013 Ynysangharad Park, Pontypridd (Main Entrance) 10.30am – 12.30pm Following the success of previous years ‘Walking’ events helping to raise awareness of World Mental Health Day in Rhondda Cynon Taf, there is a further walk planned for this year. The walk in Ynysangharad Park will set off from the Day Centre at the main entrance taking a leisurely stroll around the park. The route is mainly flat so is suitable for all. So please come along and show your support and enjoy walking with a group of friendly, like-minded people. Refreshments will be provided at the end of the walk. For more informa on contact Nane e King on 01443 486856 Page 9
Health and Wellbeing Anne Morris, Health, Social Care and Wellbeing Facilitator, provides informa on, advice and support to community and voluntary groups involved in improving health and social care in RCT. This o en involves ge ng people to network and work together. Anne also facilitates the RCT Health Social Care and Wellbeing Forum and a weekly bulle n on all things healthy. Contact Anne on 01443 846200 or e-mail: amorris@interlinkrct.org.uk
Small Workplace Health Award Interlink have been successful in gaining the Gold Level Small Workplace Health Award, which is the na onal mark of quality for health and wellbeing for organisa ons employing fewer than fi y people developed by the Welsh Government. The Award is a developmental process with three levels, based on good prac ce and improvement and is used to support the crea on of ac vi es that promote the health and wellbeing of employees. The Award has been developed to target key preventable ill-health issues in the workplace, which also helps to increase organisa onal performance and produc vity. Interlink were successful in gaining the Gold Award reflec ng a range of ac ons taken to promote the health and wellbeing of staff. As an organisa on we focussed on five lifestyle topics of physical ac vity, nutri on, alcohol, drugs and smoking. A variety of ac vi es were undertaken including the forma on of a company walking group for lunch me and a er work walks, par cipa on in the ‘Work out project’ and awareness raising workshops on drugs.
To find out how your organisa on could become involved contact the Regional Workplace Health Advisor www.healthyworkingwales.com Assessors comment: ‘This is an organisa on which maximises the benefits of being small and rises above the disadvantages. It has a healthy culture – people are engaged and interested and feel supported and cared about by their employer. A large range of health and wellbeing ac vi es are undertaken, from regular walks to the informal book sharing scheme, with the books though ully placed near the photocopier. One fairly new staff member told me that it is the healthiest place she has ever worked. On my short visit, I could see why this would be true. I came away feeling that this was a place where people wanted to work.’
Big Welsh Bite 2013 This year’s Big Welsh Bite a racted a record number of visitors during its first two days, with around 15,000 people flocking to Ynysangharad War Memorial Park in Pontypridd. It was the highest number of visitors during the 10 year history of the event. The Welsh Food and Agricultural Show is part of the Big Welsh Bite and included a fine array of food and cra stalls, a packed i nerary of arena shows, farm animals, blacksmith demonstra ons, children’s rides, games, health and wellbeing ps. Another major was the Health and Wellbeing Zone where Interlink hosted a stand shared by local third sector organisa ons showcasing their various services including; Follow Your Dreams, CVS, Merthyr and the Valleys MIND, toogooodtowaste and YMCA Pontypridd. Page 10
Health and Wellbeing Crystal Trophy for Outstanding Community Projects Community projects promo ng healthy living in Rhondda Cynon Taf and Merthyr Tydfil celebrated the annual Crystal Trophy Awards Ceremony in May of this year.
The associa on has close links with local schools and pupils visit the allotments as part of their lessons where they are given prac cal advice on plan ng and growing their own vegetables.
The Crystal Trophy Awards recognise the achievements of local groups and organisa ons who are working to improve health and wellbeing in the Cwm Taf Health Board area.
Third prize of £750 went to Merthyr Aloud, which is a community singing group. The weekly mee ngs on Friday morning begin with a gentle physical warm-up and breathing exercises to help reduce stress and promote wellbeing.
‘The Crystal Trophy Awards are about grassroots projects that make a real contribu on to our communi es’ health and wellbeing.’ Scooping first prize was The Stories from the 3G’s Media Project which picked up the coveted Crystal Trophy and a prize fund of £1,500. Stories from the 3G’s is a trilogy of films; Sun beds and Steroids, The Hut and The Boxer that address issues such as body image, substance misuse, healthy lifestyles, discipline and territorialism. Seventy-two-year-old Horace Rogers won second prize of £1,000 for Heol Kier Hardie Allotment Society. Based on Penywaun Estate in Penywaun, Aberdare, the allotment associa on grows vegetables for the local community, aiming to encourage local residents to eat five-a-day. The group also encourages young people in the area to take an interest in gardening and healthy ea ng.
Make a Difference, a support group in Maerdy, which runs weekly drop-in sessions to support people with substance misuse or alcohol dependency issues, collected the fourth prize and £500. Nicola John, Director of public health at Cwm Taf Health Board, who presented the awards, said: ‘We learn such a lot from awards such as these when we hear of all the things that are going on in our community – it’s really humbling. It demonstrates that communi es can really work together to make a difference.’ The Crystal Trophy Awards are open to any community project that contributes to the promo on of healthy lifestyles and preven on of ill health. The Awards are open to new or established projects that support individuals, groups or families living in the Cwm Taf area.
Horace Rogers won second prize for Heol Kier Hardie Allotment Society
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Community Voice Lucy ‘2 jobs’ Foster is a busy girl holding down roles as Community Voice Par cipa on and Evalua on Officer and also See CHANGE Co-ordinator. Lucy’s Community Voice role involves suppor ng 8 very different projects to involve a range of people, including young, older people and people with disabili es, in having a voice in improving community services. The See CHANGE ‘empowering ac ve communi es in RCT’ provides support, advice and training to help people get involved in local decision making and improving their communi es. Contact Lucy on 01443 84200 or e-mail: lfoster@interlinkrct.org.uk
Community Voice Update With just one or two posts to be filled, the majority of the Community Voice projects are now in full swing with nearly all partners employing people on the ground engaging with people in communi es in RCT. It has been really exci ng, with the project officially launched on the coproduc on themed network event on the 12 September. The project is ac vely targe ng young and old people, mental health, blind and visual impaired people throughout RCT as well as communi es in and around Treherbert, Tonypandy, Maerdy, Glyncoch and Ynysybwl.
knowledge and skills to tackle local issues. It means people in large organisa ons really help these groups and networks to grow and develop. Want to take part? There are a wide range of ac vi es for you to be involved – so if you are interested, give Lucy a call.
We have incredible people and communi es in Rhondda Cynon Taf. If we can get local people working together to solve community issues we can make a real difference. This means communi es set up local groups and networks and share their
Our Projects Interlink RCT will support the following organisa ons to deliver their Community Voice projects:
Our Outcomes We will produce services together so that people and communi es will benefit from: • More effec ve engagement with key public sector organisa ons. • Influencing decisions about services they receive. • Being more able to develop local services. • Local services that be er meet their needs.
1. Coproducing the Future - Glyncoch Regenera on Partnership 2. Create a Voice - Eye to Eye 3. The Breakthrough Project - Age Concern Morgannwg 4. Our Voice, Our Future - Tonypandy Community College 5. Neighbours - Spectacle Theatre 6. Wan ng to be Heard - Cardiff Vale and the Valleys 7. Ynysybwl Futures - Ynysybwl and Glyncoch Regenera on Partnership 8. Welcome to our Woods! - Learn & Grow
This project is funded by the Big Lo ery under the Community Voice Programme
For more informa on contact Lucy Foster at Interlink on 01443 846200 or e-mail:lfoster@interlinkrct.org.uk Page 12
See CHANGE See CHANGE project supports Glyncoch Health Advocates About the Community Health Advocates
Support
The Community Health Advocates are an amazing bunch of people who want local people to enjoy be er health for longer because the local health sta s cs are not great and people deserve so much be er!
The See CHANGE project has had the privilege of suppor ng the volunteers at Glyncoch, also known as the Health Advocates since August 2012. Lucy Foster delivered Induc on Training to all volunteers that included communica on and behaviour skills and a code of conduct. Following this the project funded a variety of training sessions that would benefit all volunteers within their task as health representa ves in their community such as safeguarding and mentoring skills. Digital story training was a fantas c way of promo ng the project and also hear stories of the volunteers, finding out what inspired them to become a Health Advocate.
An amazing lady called Dr Katherine Taylor, the local GP, inspired a group of 15 people in Glyncoch to train up as advocates a year ago, she even took annual leave to help with the training! Interlink, Glyncoch Community Regenera on, Valleys Kids, the Council, the LHB and a load of others love what they are doing and have also been offering to support their amazing cause.
The health advocates have different elements: •
• • •
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Healthy Ea ng - currently Weight Busters in Glyncoch Church on Wednesday and occasional cooking lessons with young people and adults Physical Ac vity - exercise classes for different age groups and range of abili es Risky Behaviour - support for be er sexual health and informa on about drugs / alcohol etc Parent and Toddler Support - fab Tiny Tiddlers group on Monday Mornings in Glyncoch Community Centre Mental Health / Depression Support. This support group held in Glyncoch Community Centre is called ‘New Beginnings’ and thanks to the inspira on and founder of the group, Petrina Oliver, we are se ng up a ‘befriending scheme’ to support those who are very isolated with support from Age Concern and the Mental Health Team in the council. Jackie and Pauline are members of the group, see Jackie’s story below.
New local people are needed to join You can get involved as li le or as much as you want to. You will get support, training and meet great people and have a ton of fun! People of any age can be health advocates – there is so much to do there is a role for everyone!!
To find out more call Carol the Health Lead Officer for Pontypridd on 01443 491848 or Lucy the See Change Co-ordinator at Interlink on 01443 846200
Community Members Pull Together To Overcome Depression - Jackie’s Story I lost my confidence to go out of the house and now I am always out and about and helping others in the community! I first got involved through Weight Busters. I stopped for a while, then Petrina said, ‘why don’t you come along again,’ so I went and met Angela, then Pauline who encouraged me to go on many courses such as Routes to Recovery. Through going to Weight Busters and going to New Beginnings (depression support), I have come out of myself and have made a new close friend in Pauline, had counselling with Communi es First. That, along with the courses that I have done, I have found really upli ing. I would say to anyone out there that coming along to one of our groups for the first me is the most nerve wracking bit, but when you come you will be made to feel really welcome and it just gets so much easier a er that. Page 13
Local News
Pontyclun Bosom Pals - Breast Cancer Support When we all heard those words - ‘You have cancer’ our world changed forever. In my own case I should have guessed what was coming when I was recalled to Breast Test Wales, Cardiff and ushered into a wai ng room where 2 people were seated and the box on the table was not chocolates, but ssues.
We were asked by Macmillan nurses if we would help pa ents with different types of cancer so our group has grown. Our premise is to support pa ents, their families and carers. Several of us are already carers and have access to lots of informa on or can signpost anyone to other services.
I think I can say that every cancer pa ent is in total shock especially if there are no signs, lumps, loss of weight, etc. the miracle of science was that small machine used for mammograms in a mobile caravan that had picked up my ny spot! A month later one of my sisters also developed Breast Cancer.
Having previously owned a company that helped people who had food intolerances/allergies, I am s ll deeply involved with food and diet especially linked to Cancer. Through Velindre and a University in London I was involved in a five year study of Diet and Lifestyle. I am awai ng their results and recommenda ons and could go on all day about this but personally I feel that diet, exercise and assistance in dealing with the unseen stress, anxiety and depression can only be beneficial to us all.
So I say to everyone ‘BE AWARE - BE SMART - BE TESTED’ A er treatment I was aware that there was no support group in my own area which is from Pontypridd down to Pencoed. With support from all the cancer agencies Breast Cancer Care, Macmillan, Cancer Research UK and Cancer Research Wales, local hospitals and other groups I formed Pontyclun Bosom Pals.
As a group we also work with Interlink, RCT Carers, Older People, NISCR, Involving People Research programmes, RCT Audiology and students (Tenovus funded) doing research in our local universi es, give talks and a empt to highlight who we are and what we can offer. Come and meet us for a confiden al get together and me for yourself over a cup of tea.
PALS standing for Posi ve - Ac on - Ladies - Support not forge ng that about 300 men a year develop Breast Cancer. For further details ring Barbara Powell, Pontyclun Bosom Pals on 01443 237997 www.pontyclunbosompals.org.uk or e-mail: contact@pontyclunbosompals.org.uk
Follow Your Dreams Follow Your Dreams is a Na onal Charity based in Church Village, Near Pontypridd. The charity is focused upon children and young people who have learning disabili es and aims to inspire them to realise their ambi ons and poten al via interac ve and crea ve workshops which are delivered in Special Schools and Schools that have Special Needs Departments.
We have ambi ons of our own which include assis ng poten al sports stars of tomorrow gain recogni on via the Special Olympics. We have already funded assessments for two aspiring athletes plus we have provided essen al equipment for training. We also have a project called ‘My CV in Ac on’. This is a unique video project that produces short films of young people with learning disabili es who are seeking work.
We also gather ‘dreams’ which assist our young people to aspire to achieve their ambi ons via ac vi es such as the facilita on of swimming lessons, horse riding lessons, football and rugby We are totally dedicated to raising awareness and the coaching and jewellery making... in fact, whatever aspira ons of children and young people who have our young people aspire to do and are unable to Learning Disabili es and ac vely welcome volunteers access through tradi onal routes is where Follow who can assist with our goals. Your Dreams comes in. For more informa on call 01443 218443 or e-mail: admin@followyourdreams.org.uk or visit www.followyourdreams.org.uk Page 14
Local News toogoodtowaste and Tenovus Unite Leading chari es toogoodtowaste and cancer charity Tenovus teamed up to assist pupils at Hawthorn High School to produce a video on avoiding the effects of cancer using recycled products. There were over 20 groups of pupils who produced a video as part of their Welsh baccalaureate. The pupils visited toogoodtowaste and their newly extended charity shop in Ynyshir on a fact-finding mission. Pupils came along to the Shop to collect informa on on the variety of recycled products available, and le with items that were donated to them to produce their videos.
Dr Ian Lewis, Associate Director of Research at Tenovus said; ‘It was great to be involved in this project and to see such fantas c work from the pupils of Hawthorn High School. The crea vity they have demonstrated while dealing with such a difficult subject is very inspiring.’
Once produced, the videos were judged by Tenovus. The winning video featured an anima on of recycled products that explained how 48 people are diagnosed with cancer in Wales every day, how cancer can be prevented and how beneficial volunteering with toogoodtowaste or Tenovus can be.
Shaun England, General Manager at toogoodtowaste said: ‘I feel very privileged to be amongst such talented people, their enthusiasm and understanding of such an emo onal subject of cancer is outstanding. This project has not only helped the pupils understanding of the preven on of cancer, but if the winning video only assists one person from contrac ng cancer or assists someone into volunteering then this project has been life changing.’
Wales and Bri sh Lions Interna onal Rugby Union player Gethin Jenkins came along to Hawthorn High School to present the winning team with their award and Prizes. The project was successful and all videos were of a great quality, the winning video is available to view on toogoodtowaste website www.toogoodtowaste.co.uk and Tenovus website www.tenovus.org.uk and also their social media sites.
Recrui ng for Volunteers now! The extension of toogoodtowaste Ynyshir branch has recently been completed thanks to funding from the Big Lo ery Fund and Welsh Government, and they are now looking for addi onal volunteers. There are currently opportuni es available in retailing, warehousing, marke ng, contact centre, electrical, administra on and more. People with specialist knowledge that can help train others are par cularly welcome. toogoodtowaste rely on the commitment and support they receive from their volunteers to offer their services to the community of RCT. A Learning Development Officer will shortly be joining the team and it will be their role to arrange a variety of in-house training opportuni es for volunteers. If you or someone you know are interested in joining the toogoodtowaste team or you require more informa on, contact Jennifer Evans on 01443 680090 or e-mail: JEvans@toogoodtowaste.co.uk.
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Broaden your horizons ..... with Interlink training Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults
Alcohol Brief Interven on Training
23 October 2013 9.30am - 1.00pm
14 November 2013 10.00am - 12.00pm
Safeguarding Children and Young People
Stress Management
23 October 2013 2.00pm - 5.00pm
4 December 2013 2.00pm - 4.30pm
All courses held at Interlink unless otherwise stated. For more informa on call 01443 846200 or visit www.interlinkrct.org.uk to download a booking form, training programme and our new outreach programme.
ICT Support We are able to assist with skill sharing or provide bespoke training on the following Microso packages: Word Excel Publisher Access Powerpoint Internet and e.mail
Our HelpDesk team are able to assist organisa ons with the following services: • Website – we can post informa on about your organisa on/event on our website • Mailshot – send us your informa on for our newsle er and mail outs • Desktop publishing – which includes design of leaflets, posters, ckets, business cards, etc. • Photocopying – our colour photocopier has the capacity to print in full colour with a professional finish • Lamina ng/Binding • Signpos ng – if we can’t help, we will find someone who can! Contact the HelpDesk on 01443 846200 or e-mail: info@interlinkrct.org.uk
Office accommoda on available at Interlink’s office base in Upper Boat For more informa on contact June Williams-Sykes on 01443 846200 or e-mail: jwilliams-sykes@interlinkrct.org.uk
Charity No 1141143 Company No 07549533
Next Issue: December 2013