Events to mark RCT Mental Health Week

A week of events to raise awareness and understanding of mental health issues will be held in Rhondda Cynon Taf from October 9-15 2010.

Mental ill health can affect people of all ages and from all backgrounds. The Rhondda Cynon Taf Mental Health Partnership has organised events across the county borough during RCT Mental Health Week this year.

In an exciting initiative this year, they are working with the Council’s Library Service to offer a “living library”. Rhondda Cynon Taf residents can call into one of the library branches and talk to people about how they have coped with their own mental health issues.

There will also be a chance for people to learn about the organisations in Rhondda Cynon Taf that can offer support and advice.

The week gets underway on Saturday, October 9 with “Walk a Mile for Mental Health” through Pontypridd. There will be a samba band and the event will have a carnival feel. All are welcome to join the walk, which meets at the bowling club in Ynysangharad War Memorial Park at 11am.

Other events include:

· An audience with...: Monday, October 11 from 10.30am-3.30pm at the Muni Arts Centre, Pontypridd. This is an opportunity for people to put questions to mental health service managers.

· Living Library: Tuesday, October 12, Pontypridd Library from 10.30am- 12.30pm. Come and hear about people’s experiences of dealing with mental ill health.

· Craft Day: Tuesday, October 12, Ty Heddwch, Cwmbach, 10.00am-3.00pm. For people who have dementia, and their families.

· New Horizons Open Day: New Horizons, Aberdare. Thursday, October 14. Find out about the charity’s work in promoting good mental health.

· Activity Day – Dare Valley Country Park, Aberdare. Friday, October 15, 10am-3pm. Aimed at carers, but all are very welcome. Have a go at Nordic walking, orienteering and other less strenuous activities. Includes a guided “Walk a Mile for Mental Health” through the Country Park.

· Social Evening: Friday, October 15, Llantwit Fardre Sports Club from 6.30-10.00pm. For people who have dementia, their families and friends.

Rhondda Cynon Taf’s Cabinet Member for Health, Social Care and Well-being, Councillor Mike Forey, said: “This excellent week of events will help people find out more about how to look after their mental health. We hope many people will take the time to come along and enjoy what’s on offer and find out about the information, advice and support available locally.”

For more information about any of the events, please contact the Carers Support Project on 0808 100 1801

click here for more details or to contact Rhondda Cynon Taff County Borough Council