Health and Social Minister Lesley Griffiths AM has launched new guidance to increase access to “talking treatments” across Wales.

Some of Wales’ most vulnerable children and young people are unaware of their statutory right to an independent professional ‘voice’ because of a system that “lacks a clear set of checks and balances” according to Children’s Commissioner for Wales, Keith Towler.

Hafal Expert Trainer Dave Smith’s latest Western Mail column is now online.

Hafal’s Young People’s Information Officer John Gilheaney recently attended a meeting of Hafal’s Appropriate Adults (AA) in Cardiff.

The Hearing Voices Network Cymru (HVNC) website, which offers information, support and understanding to people who hear voices and those who support them, are inviting applications for a Free Hearing Voices Resource Pack.

The Welsh Government has produced a “youth friendly” guide to understanding and submitting feedback on the Social Services (Wales) Bill. The aim of the guide is to explain the purpose of the Bill and to encourage young people to submit their views on how they think social services in Wales can be improved.

Plans by the Welsh Government to give people who receive care “a stronger voice and real control over the social care services they use” are open to consultation from today.

“The arts and art psychotherapy can play an important role in a person’s wellbeing and the healing process.”

Health and Social Services Minister Lesley Griffiths AM has announced the publication of the first Annual Report on “Breaking the Barriers” – the Welsh Government’s national action plan for improving children’s mental health services.

Health and Social Services Minister Lesley Griffiths AM has officially opened Tŷ Llidiard, a new state of the art facility in Bridgend which provides round-the-clock care for children and young people with mental health problems.