'Wrexham was well represented at a recent award ceremony'

MS for Wrexham

Wrexham was well represented at a recent award ceremony that recognises the very best mental health services in Wales.

Based on Belmont Road in the city centre, Advance Brighter Futures won ‘Best Mental Health Support Service’ and local resident Keir Harding triumphed in the ‘Inspirational Leader’ category.

Both entries were nominated as part of the Mental Health & Wellbeing Awards, which highlights and celebrates the work, interventions and success of individuals and organisations throughout Wales.

The ceremony took place in Cardiff at the end of last year and I recently caught up with the local winners to offer my congratulations.

Advance Brighter Futures (ABF) is a mental health charity that has helped countless people over the years. As well as celebrating its 30th anniversary, in recent years the charity has secured significant Welsh Government funding which helped refurbish and expand their premises, enabling ABF to continue to provide a fantastic service to local people.

Wrexham’s second winner on the night was Keir Harding, a mental health professional with more than 20 years of experience. Keir founded Beam Consultancy and is passionate about improving services for people suffering from severe and complex mental health issues.

People like Keir and those who work at Advance Brighter Futures do not seek praise but it is right their outstanding efforts are celebrated. I am proud their pioneering work, that provides crucial support to people in and around Wrexham, has received national recognition.

For 30 years, Care Forum Wales has championed the social care sector, offering a voice to its members whose primary role is to look after some of the most vulnerable people in society.

The organisation represents more than 450 independent care homes, nursing homes and other social care providers throughout Wales. The united members share best practice and resources and work to influence policy makers.

Last week, I sponsored a special event at the Senedd celebrating Care Forum Wales’ achievements over the past three decades.

Mario Kreft MBE, the Chair of Care Forum Wales, presented outgoing First Minister, Mark Drakeford with a Special Recognition award, praising his contribution and long-term support for the sector. The recognition was fully deserved and the First Minister is leaving some big shoes to fill.

As always, if you’re a constituent in Wrexham and there is an issue I could help you with, please contact me via email: lesley.griffiths@senedd.wales or call 01978 355743.