News

Together for mental health – one year on

Published

11 years ago

January 6, 2014

REAL progress has been made to improve mental health services in Wales over the past year, a Welsh Government report published last month month shows.

The first annual report highlights progress made in the 12 months since the launch of the Welsh Government’s strategy for improving the mental health and wellbeing of the whole population.

Together for Mental Health is the first strategy of its kind in Wales. As well as aiming to improve mental health services, it seeks to pick up on mental health issues earlier, intervene more quickly when necessary, and reduce the stigma often associated with mental ill health.

Among the achievements highlighted in the report is an improvement in dementia care across all health boards. One of the aims of the strategy is that NHS staff recognise and respond sooner to signs and symptoms of dementia. As a result, most health boards have rolled out schemes for improved identification of dementia and for care planning tailored carefully to the individual.

People of all ages across Wales are now receiving the care they have a right to under the Welsh Government’s ground-breaking Mental Health Measure legislation. More than 29,000 people accessed treatment within the first 11 months of new primary care schemes funded by £3.5million from the Welsh Government. In addition, over 85% of people in specialist services now have care and treatment plans in place.

Health Minister Mark Drakeford launched the Together for Mental Health Annual Report at Ysbryd y Coed in Swansea, a 60-bed unit for older people with dementia. The £18.5million unit opened in November 2012.

Mark Drakeford said: “With one in four of us experiencing mental ill health during our lives, it is vital we do everything possible to improve general well-being in Wales and to provide the best care possible for those needing treatment.

“We have done much to improve mental health services in Wales in recent years, not least by ring-fencing investment in services such as those provided here at Ysbryd y Coed.

“The Annual Report on our mental health strategy is full of excellent examples from across Wales of work being done to keep people in good mental health and to support those with mental ill health.

“In the next 12 months, we will build on this work, with a particular focus on improving access to psychological therapies.”

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

23 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

2 days ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

2 days ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!