PATIENTS at a Carmarthen mental health unit will benefit from a fully refurbished gym thanks to funding from Hywel Dda Health Charities.

The official charity of Hywel Dda University Health Board has awarded £8,902 from its Making a Difference fund to improve facilities at Cwm Seren’s Low Secure Unit and Psychiatric Intensive Care Unit.

The money has been used to replace outdated gym equipment, improve the gym environment, and provide gym instructor training for four members of staff.

The refurbished facility now includes a treadmill, air bike, kettlebells, dumbbells, an Olympic bar and plates, an adjustable bench, squat rack, and protective floor mats. The room has also been repainted, fitted with protective splashback boards, and updated with a new whiteboard to support activity planning.

Health board officials said physical activity plays an important role in supporting patients with mental illness, particularly those who may experience poorer physical health, increased risk of obesity, and limited access to community exercise during inpatient stays.

Caryl Griffiths, Ward Manager at Cwm Seren Low Secure Unit, said: “We are incredibly grateful that kind donations from the local community have funded the refurbishment of the gym, which will make a significant difference to both our patients and staff.

“Daily access to modern gym facilities provides structure, reduces boredom and frustration, and has a positive impact on mood, anxiety, and overall physical health.

“Training additional staff means we can offer the gym seven days a week, ensuring more patients benefit more consistently. We know how much of a difference this makes to people during long periods of inpatient care.”

Nicola Llewelyn, Head of Hywel Dda Health Charities, said: “Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we are able to fund projects like this that go above and beyond what the NHS can provide.

“The refurbished gym at Cwm Seren will enhance patient experience and support healthier lifestyles. A huge thank you to all our supporters for making this possible.”

Hywel Dda Health Charities funds items and initiatives across Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire to improve patient care and support the wellbeing of NHS staff.

Pictured:

Cwm Seren staff with the new gym equipment.

Milford Haven and Pembroke Dock could benefit as UK reforms aim to speed up floating wind projects in the Celtic Sea

PEMBROKESHIRE could be among the biggest winners from new UK Government reforms aimed at accelerating offshore wind development, with Milford Haven and Pembroke Dock expected to play a key role in the emerging clean energy economy.

New environmental legislation affecting offshore wind farms came into force on Thursday (May 21), with industry leaders claiming the changes could help deliver both more renewable energy and better outcomes for nature.

The reforms, introduced by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), change how environmental compensation for offshore wind projects can be approached, allowing developers to take what ministers describe as a broader and more strategic approach to protecting marine habitats.

Supporters say the changes could help remove delays that have slowed offshore wind developments while maintaining environmental protections.

The move is particularly significant for Pembrokeshire, where hopes are high that the fast-growing floating offshore wind sector in the Celtic Sea will bring major investment, jobs and regeneration to the Milford Haven Waterway.

For several years, Pembrokeshire has been positioning itself as a key player in the UK’s clean energy transition, with the Port of Milford Haven promoting ambitious plans around floating offshore wind, hydrogen production and marine renewables.

Pembroke Dock Marine, supported by millions of pounds of investment, has already been developed as a specialist base for marine energy projects, while the wider Celtic Freeport vision has focused heavily on green industries linked to the Haven.

Industry figures believe the new rules could help speed up planning and consent processes for major offshore wind developments, potentially unlocking investment opportunities for west Wales.

Commenting on the reforms, Offshore Wind Industry Council environment lead Benj Sykes, who is also UK Country Manager for renewable energy company Ørsted, insisted the changes were not about weakening environmental standards.

He said: “By enabling a broader and more strategic range of options, the UK is taking a more outcomes-focused approach to marine compensation.

“Crucially, this is not about lowering environmental standards. It is about implementing a more effective, strategic approach that will deliver better outcomes for nature as we deliver the UK’s Clean Power 2030 ambitions.”

However, the reforms are likely to attract scrutiny in Pembrokeshire, where environmental protections are often a sensitive issue.

The county is home to internationally important marine habitats and wildlife, including seabird populations around Skomer Island, marine conservation zones, and the protected waters of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

Fishing groups and environmental campaigners have previously raised concerns about the impact of large offshore energy developments on marine ecosystems and local industries.

At the same time, supporters argue offshore wind represents one of the biggest economic opportunities Pembrokeshire has seen in decades.

With Milford Haven already handling around a fifth of the UK’s energy needs through its existing energy infrastructure, many local leaders believe the county is well placed to become a centre for the next generation of low-carbon energy production.

Police-led workshops offer riders practical advice, observed rides and personalised feedback

DYFED-POWYS POLICE is encouraging motorcyclists to improve their skills and reduce their risk on the roads by signing up to the nationally recognised BikeSafe programme.

BikeSafe is a police-led initiative delivered by advanced police motorcyclists. It is open to riders of all abilities and combines classroom-based input with an observed ride, giving motorcyclists practical, personalised feedback in real road conditions.

The programme focuses on key areas including hazard perception, road positioning, cornering and decision-making.

Motorcyclists remain among the most vulnerable road users, and police say initiatives such as BikeSafe play an important role in helping riders improve their awareness and confidence.

Dyfed-Powys Police has also recently held dedicated in-house BikeSafe sessions in Llandrindod Wells and Carmarthen for officers and staff who are keen motorcyclists.

The force said the sessions gave staff the same guidance and coaching available to the public, reinforcing the importance of continual learning and safe riding both on and off duty.

Sergeant James Helyer said: “BikeSafe is about giving riders the tools and confidence to enjoy their journeys while staying safe.

“Whether you’re newly qualified or have years of experience, there’s always something to learn. It was fantastic to see our own staff engaging with the in-house sessions, and we’d encourage all motorcyclists across Wales to consider signing up.”

Chief Inspector Dominic Jones, who took part in the Carmarthen session, said: “I’ve been riding for a little over two years and have already been on the Enhanced Rider Scheme.

“I was overwhelmed by the brilliant organisation of the Dyfed-Powys BikeSafe event and the support and knowledge provided by the instructors was incredible.

“After attending, I feel more confident and I am a safer rider. I urge everyone with a motorbike to do as much additional training and learning as possible and I can personally vouch for the benefits of this course.”

BikeSafe workshops are held at various locations across the UK and are open to riders with a full motorcycle licence and their own roadworthy bike.

More information and booking details are available at bikesafe.co.uk.