Community

Work of mental illness charities highlighted

Published

10 years ago

December 17, 2014

Tom Sinclair

Local philanthropist: Mental health issues given a financial boost

A LOCAL Milford campaigner, and Philanthropist, is donating his own money to raise awareness of mental health issues, and the support that is available for those out there who may need it. Hywel Davies has been placing adverts in the local press not funded by the local health charities. The Herald spoke exclusively with Mr Davies, who explained for whom the adverts are intended: “They are for the community to raise awareness of mental health charities and groups that are available for those that have, or have had, mental problems and/ or mental disabilities in the county. I am a volunteer and a year ago I was approached by the late Susan Evans, of Hakin and Mind, to put an advert in the Pembrokeshire Herald so people are aware of what’s available in the County.

I was labelled myself by psychiatrists as having a ‘schizoeffective’ disorder in 1983, and I am chair of ‘Hearing Voices Network Cymru’. Traditionally there is stigma and discrimination surrounding mental health. Help is available and you don’t have to feel alone. There are people available to provide fellowship, companionship, hope and inspiration, so that you can fulfil your potential.

Pembrokeshire Mind is very busy, and at least 25 people come to the Haverfordwest branch daily which is a good response. I also want to target the advertisements in those months when the evenings are dark and the weather is cold, at times when people are more likely to feel depressed and run down, in November, December and January.” He went on to discuss the issue of mental health and people’s awareness of the illness, and what support is available in Pembrokeshire.

“I don’t think enough money is spent on mental health in Pembrokeshire – mental health is regarded as a ‘Cinderella surface’, that is to say it isn’t invested in as fully as it might be so the voluntary sector has to take the lead in raising awareness to combat the stigma and discrimination and what is available in Pembrokeshire.

The charities have websites and also offer fellowship and sometimes employment, and lead the service as a sensitive and humane service. There is also Frame, which is an excellent social award winning enterprise that employs more than 40 people who have had or have mental health problems. There are also paid staff connected to Mind Pembrokeshire. I think that people who hear a voice or voices, that are inaudible to others, are saints, prophets, geniuses etc. or at least have the potential to be, and people who have had or have mental health problems have this potential too, and have something to contribute.

Traditionally, these people are misunderstood or feared. For example, I am a retired teacher and lecturer of Spanish, and between 1987 and 1996 I taught Spanish in Pembrokeshire and contributed positively to the community.” The Herald asked if there should be more education made available for people to understand about mental health, perhaps at school level, to which he responded: “I think that would be a positive way forward to improve people’s emotional intelligence.”

Charity

Kurtz goes Jurassic as Pantosaurus visits Senedd NSPCC Campaign

Published

7 hours ago

November 14, 2024

Richard Lewis

THIS WEEK, the NSPCC’s annual campaign to safeguard children from sexual abuse reached the steps of the Senedd.

Pantosaurus, the friendly mascot of the NSPCC’s PANTS campaign, appeared to raise awareness among Members of the Senedd and the wider public about the vital importance of child safety. The campaign encourages parents and carers to talk openly with young children about risks and protective measures.

The PANTS campaign is built around five key child protection messages:

Privates are private.
Always remember your body belongs to you.
No means no.
Talk about secrets that upset you.
Speak up; someone can help.

After meeting Pantosaurus, Samuel Kurtz MS, Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, expressed his support for the campaign

He said: “I wholeheartedly support this important NSPCC initiative. Since its launch in 2013, it has empowered over six million families to discuss this sensitive subject.

“This issue affects communities across Wales, so promoting the five principles of PANTS is essential for everyone in Pembrokeshire and beyond.”

Community

Crowdfunding drive launched for documentary on forgotten 1967 football match

Published

16 hours ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A CROWDFUNDING campaign has launched to support a new documentary capturing a nearly forgotten piece of football history—a 1967 charity match in Liverpool featuring Hungarian football icon Ferenc Puskás, alongside British legends Billy Liddell and John Charles.

Daniel Metcalf, director of the film and grandson of Chester FC striker Mike Metcalf, who played in the match, describes the film as “a love letter to the beautiful game,” aiming to highlight community spirit and the unity of sport. “Through personal stories, historic footage, and expert insights, we’ll revisit this unique game and explore 1960s football’s influence over the decades,” he said.

The project has attracted substantial backing, including collaboration with Chester FC, endorsements from notable players like Neville Southall, and the involvement of a skilled production team with narration by broadcaster Kim Thomas.

Supporters can choose from various funding tiers, with contributions starting at £10 for acknowledgments and extending to £5,000 Producer credits. Rewards range from film credits to signed memorabilia and invitations to the UK premiere. The funding target of £3,300 aims to cover initial production costs, with stretch goals set to enhance production quality.

Filming will commence in Chester in May 2025, with the documentary slated for release in early 2026 for the festival circuit.

For more information or to support the project, visit Kickstarter.

Community

Carew Castle triumphs again as Visitor Attraction of the Year at Croeso Awards

Published

18 hours ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

CAREW Castle, one of Pembrokeshire’s most treasured landmarks, has once again been named Visitor Attraction of the Year at the prestigious Visit Pembrokeshire Croeso Awards, cementing its place as a top destination for visitors to the region.

The award, presented during a grand ceremony at Pembrokeshire College, recognises the Castle’s ongoing dedication to providing an exceptional visitor experience. This second consecutive win underscores Carew Castle’s commitment to excellence, from its welcoming guides to its expertly preserved grounds and engaging events, drawing visitors year-round.

Daisy Hughes, Manager of Carew Castle, expressed gratitude for the continued recognition: “Winning this award two years in a row is a testament to everyone involved in bringing Carew Castle to life – from the knowledgeable guides to the conservationists, dedicated team of volunteers, and our hardworking tearoom team. It’s truly a group effort, and we’re honoured to be recognised once more as one of Pembrokeshire’s premier attractions.”

The Castle has become a hub of excitement year-round, with special charm during the quieter winter months. Seasonal events like Glow, an enchanting Christmas light display, featuring rooms of the Castle dressed for the festivities and live musical performances, draw visitors of all ages. This festive season also includes Santa’s Grotto, a Christmas Needle Felting Workshop, and children’s Christmas Craft Workshops – ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy as the nights draw in.

Carew Castle is open daily from 11am to 3pm throughout the winter, with extended hours on Fridays through Sundays when Glow and Santa’s Grotto are in full swing.

For a full schedule of upcoming events and activities at Carew Castle, visit www.carewcastle.com.

Pictured: Carew Castle is celebrating its second consecutive win as Visitor Attraction of the Year at the Croeso Awards, recognised for its exceptional visitor experience and engaging year-round events.