A MILFORD HAVEN resident, Chelsea Smith, is set to launch a new addiction recovery support group in Hakin this October. The group, which is part of the UK SMART Recovery programme, aims to help individuals struggling with addictive behaviours and those in recovery, by providing a supportive and non-judgemental environment.

Chelsea, who has been in a succesful recovery from opioid dependency for over ten months, expressed her desire to give back to the community and support others who are going through similar challenges. “I’ve been helped so much by similar sessions, and I feel it’s time to share my experience and help others,” she said. “Recovery is a long journey, and I’m still on it myself, but I want people to know that they’re not alone.”

The meetings, which will take place at The Church of the Holy Spirit, Court Rise, Hakin, Milford Haven, every Thursday at 6:30 pm, are open to anyone struggling with addiction, whether they are currently using, newly out of rehab, or have been in recovery for some time. Chelsea emphasises that the group welcomes all forms of addictive behaviours and encourages people to attend, even if they are unsure whether they have a problem.

“Walking into a support group for the first time can be daunting,” she acknowledged, “but this group is a safe space where everyone is accepted, no matter their background or where they are in their recovery journey.”

Chelsea’s post on social media has already gained attention, with many expressing their admiration for her openness and willingness to help others. In her heartfelt message, she said, “One share could genuinely help save a life. It just takes someone who is suffering to see this and decide to walk in.”

The group officially launches on 3rd October 2024, and Chelsea is encouraging the local community to spread the word to ensure that those who need help know where to find it.

For more information on the SMART Recovery programme, visit smartrecovery.org.uk, or contact the helpline on 0330 053 6022.

About SMART Recovery UK:
SMART (Self-Management and Recovery Training) Recovery is a science-based addiction support programme that focuses on building motivation, coping with urges, managing thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, and living a balanced life.

Meeting Details:

• Location: The Church of the Holy Spirit, Court Rise, Hakin, Milford Haven, SA73 3PG
• Time: Every Thursday, starting 3rd October 2024 at 6:30 pm
• Facilitator: Chelsea Smith (DBS checked)
• Contact: For more information, call 0330 053 6022 or visit the website above.

VICTORIA ROAD in Milford Haven was closed by police on Tuesday evening (Sept 24) following an emergency incident described as a “concern for welfare.”

Officers from Dyfed-Powys Police closed Victoria Road for over an hour after being called to a property in the area. The road closure began shortly after 9:15 pm when police responded to reports regarding the welfare of an individual.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police stated: “We received a call expressing concern for the welfare of an individual at around 9:15 pm on Tuesday, 24 September, on Victoria Road, Milford Haven.”

The incident was resolved by 10:25 pm, and the road was subsequently reopened. According to police, the individual involved was left in the care of family members.

No further details have been released regarding the nature of the welfare concern.

MILFORD HAVEN SCHOOL has made history by becoming the first secondary school in Pembrokeshire, and only the seventh in Wales, to receive the prestigious UNICEF Gold Rights Respecting School Award.

This accolade, the highest given by UNICEF in the UK, recognises the school’s exceptional commitment to embedding children’s rights into every aspect of school life, including its ethos, policies, and practices. The Gold Award is reserved for schools that have demonstrated a robust environment where children feel safe, respected, and have a strong sense of belonging.

Milford Haven School has stood out for its dedication to fostering a culture of mutual respect, inclusion, and active pupil participation. Headteacher Ms Morris expressed her pride at the school’s achievement, calling it a “momentous occasion” for both the school and the wider community.

“This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff, pupils, and the community,” said Ms Morris. “It reflects our commitment to creating a learning environment where every pupil feels valued, heard, and empowered. We believe in fostering a culture of respect and responsibility, and this recognition validates our efforts to ensure that children’s rights are central to everything we do.”

The Rights Respecting Schools Award recognises schools that have fully integrated the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) into their day-to-day operations. The assessment process evaluates how well schools promote respect for rights, equality, and the active participation of pupils in shaping their educational experience.

Representatives from UNICEF commended Milford Haven School for its efforts, highlighting pupil-led initiatives, collaborative projects, and a sustained commitment to promoting global citizenship and human rights education. The school’s dedication to this cause earned it the coveted Gold status.

Miss Reynolds, Assistant Headteacher and the lead on the Rights Respecting Schools work, praised both pupils and staff for their hard work and dedication.

“This award reflects the whole school community’s commitment to promoting children’s rights and creating a respectful, inclusive environment,” she said. “The recognition underlines our ongoing focus on pupil wellbeing and development as part of the school’s core ethos. We look forward to continuing this fantastic work in the coming months.”

The role of Milford Haven School’s pupils has been crucial in driving the Rights Respecting agenda forward. Pupil voice groups have worked tirelessly to ensure that every student understands their rights and the importance of respect and equality. These groups have led campaigns, organised events, and contributed to decision-making processes within the school, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility.

One pupil, speaking on the importance of being part of a Rights Respecting School, said: “Being a part of a Rights Respecting School means that we have the opportunity to speak our minds, and we know that our voices will be heard and our ideas listened to. That gives us the confidence to bring about change and make a difference.”

Milford Haven School’s achievement in becoming a UNICEF Gold Rights Respecting School not only highlights the school’s dedication to its pupils but also sets a benchmark for other schools in Pembrokeshire and Wales to aspire to.