PEOPLE in the Amman and Gwendraeth valleys have been incredibly anxious about the future of mental health support according to a local MS.

During the last few months, Shadows Depression Support Group – which helps around 1,600 people – had been facing closure after its service which provided free mental health support to anyone in need had funding withdrawn by the Amman and Gwendraeth GP cluster.

A number of people including Carmarthen East and Dinefwr MS Adam Price have been working to save the service.

Mr Price said of the community’s reaction: “I have had several emails, phone calls and even people calling by the office to communicate their concerns about the proposed service closure. Their stories all differ in many ways but there is a common theme – that this service provides a support line for them that they are incredibly anxious about losing.

“There doesn’t seem to be a replacement service lined up, and the real worry that is coming through from local people is the timeline. We’re talking about funding coming to an end in the coming weeks, where the winter pressures on people’s mental health, alongside the financial pressures they are facing, will only result in a vastly increased demand for a service that will simply no longer be there.”

He is hoping that the cluster will reconsider the decision. He said: “In the event that this is simply not possible, I think there should be consideration of an interim six-month funding to buy Shadows time to find a way to bridge the gap and keep the service running.”

A campaign is currently underway to restore funding, but Shadows has now found a way to stay open by charging a small fee for use of the service and are currently working month to month.

Mr Price is also helping with finding alternative funding and has raised the issue on the Senedd floor, as well as writing to the minister.

“I have been to the public meetings to show solidarity with Shadows and community, and the strength of feeling at the meetings was crystal clear.

“Additionally, I have sought an urgent meeting with the health board to better understand what consultation was undertaken regarding this change, what was the decision-making process and whether they will reconsider the decision altogether or consider an interim funding arrangement.”

On the work of Shadows, he said: “I think the tireless work of those running the support group has provided a valuable lifeline for a lot of people. The past few years have seen unprecedented societal challenges, often disproportionately affecting those on lower incomes who are struggling to make ends meet. For people feeling the pressure to have been able to access the support that Shadows provide would be invaluable.

“I think the removal of funding for Shadows presents some very real concerns for communities in the Amman and the Gwendraeth. Without this service, there is a large group of people who will lose access to vital support – the financial and health impact of this in the community will almost definitely outstrip any immediate financial efficiencies that closing the service provides. Where will these people turn to without access to such a vital service?”

There is a demonstration to be held outside the S4C studios in Carmarthen on September 14 as Hywel Dda University Health Board hold a meeting to discuss the location of the new hospital.