The “Taking the Wheel” campaign reached Bargoed Community Centre today. Service users and carers from Hafal’s Caerphilly project have discussed the campaign’s theme of empowerment during today’s event.
Bryn Davies, 24, began attending Hafal and engaging in activities six months ago. He said: “The activities Hafal have to offer have really helped with my anxiety and depression. I play guitar and have really enjoyed becoming involved in Hafal’s music group, we’ve performed to the local arts group and it’s helped me build my confidence up. I used to be in a band but when I became unwell I lost interest in it; however the social aspect the music group has got has built up my esteem. I’m back into what I love doing.
“I have had a lot of help from my support worker and staff from Hafal. I have begun to move forward in my life. I’ve spoken about my illness to students at the local university, in the future I would like to help others, particularly young people, to engage in the activities that Hafal has got to offer.”
Hafal has a Big Lottery-funded Young People’s Information Hub which caters for the information needs of young people aged 11-25. The Hub’s website is based on the experiences of Members of Hafal – people who have direct experience of serious mental illness.
This website gives you tips on how to move forward on the road to recovery when you have a mental illness. To view Hafal’s Young People’s website please visit: http://www.hafal.org/hafal/yp_index.php
The campaign camper also visited the Jasmine Centre in Cardiff yesterday for a Cardiff Council-run event. Stalls at the event included ones from the fire and police services.