LLES Brynamman Wellbeing has recently launched an online mental health support platform for local people, working closely with Togetherall – the Care Quality Commission’s only accredited online mental health support service – with funding made possible with a grant from the Mynydd Du Community Fund.

Lles Brynaman Wellbeing was set up in 2019 by Nicola Thomas after the death of her sister Pauline, nephew Kurtis and cousin – all of whom took their own lives. Since its inception it has provided support groups, courses and walking groups aimed at increasing wellbeing and reducing loneliness, anxiety and other mental health issues.

The Coronavirus pandemic has meant that the groups activities had to come to a stop, and while participants were able to keep in touch with each other through text or WhatsApp, the group’s board were adamant that more needed to be done, at a time when more people that ever were isolated and at risk of feeling isolated and alone.

The group prepared a bid to the Mynydd Du Community Fund, and in early November were announced as one of four organisations to receive £2,500 after a public vote, with a further £2,500 being split between another three organisations.

Togetherall provides a safe place for people to find relief from mental health pressures with professionally trained and registered moderators available around the clock, and their mixture of courses, articles, techniques and online community will provide extra guidance and support to aid in positive mental well-being.

Commenting on the launch, Nicola Thomas said; “We’re so thrilled that we’ve been able to launch this service for our local community.

"We know that mental health isn’t 9-5, and being able to offer this 24/7 support network is a big step forward, especially during these uncertain times when people can feel more alone than ever.

"This will help ensure that there is always someone to talk to, and I’d like to say a huge thank you to the Mynydd Du Community Fund for their generous grant, and to all the people who supported the project by voting for us.”

The service was launched at the end of November, and access is available by contacting Lles Brynaman Wellbeing through their social media channels.