Boosting Wellbeing in Rural Merthyr

Valleys Steps is delivering a wellbeing project, in partnership with Coed Lleol, with a focus on the rural wards of , , Plymouth, and Vaynor, and in Merthyr. In Bedlinog, it will work with Friends of Nant Llwynog Park and others. The project aims to enable community members to develop resilience and better manage their mental wellbeing, often in green spaces and parkland, by providing:

- Six-week Stress Management and Mindfulness courses. - Shorter wellbeing focused workshops. - Woodland and nature-based programs of activity, with the intention of improving wellbeing via connection with the natural environment. - Volunteering opportunities, providing a stepping-stone into education and work.

On behalf of Coed Lleol, Ceri Williams (South Co-ordinator) said ‘Coed Lleol are excited to work in partnership with Valleys Steps. This Rural Action Cwm Taf funded project will give both organisations a fantastic learning opportunity to incorporate new elements into the programs delivered, thus enriching the experience of all that engage with our services.’

Valleys Steps are keen to hear from individuals and groups interested in receiving support or getting involved. This may be an established organisation with a large number of beneficiaries, or simply something small and informal, such as a book club or walking group. If you would like to know more, please get in touch with Wellbeing Course Facilitator Judith Parry on [email protected]. Further information can also be found on the websites of Valleys Steps www.valleyssteps.org and Coed Lleol: www.coedlleol.org

Hazel knife whittled and butter made at recent Woodland Wellbeing sessions

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, much of the service will be delivered online initially, with Coed Lleol workshops taking place outdoors where possible. Restrictions are being reviewed regularly, with a view to wider community provision as soon is feasible.