Free event aims to Motiv8 people with mental health problems

People with mental health problems in the Conwy and Denbighshire area are being invited to attend a free event which will provide an opportunity to try a range of fun activities in the community.

The annual Motiv8 event will once again be held  Eirias Park Leisure Centre in Colwyn Bay on Thursday 20^th September (1-6pm) and is available free of charge to current and former users of mental health services, their carers, and anyone who is concerned about their own mental health or that of a friend or loved one.

The all-day event, billed as a ‘festival of fun activities’, will provide those attending with taster sessions in a number of activities including Mindfulness, tai chi, African drumming, Football darts, arts and crafts, activities provided by the Welsh Rugby Union and more.

It is hoped that those attending will decide to take up one or more of these activities as a regular hobby in order to help them effectively manage and improve their mental health.

Staff from local support agencies including CVSC, Disability Sports Wales, the National Exercise Referral Scheme, Conwy Wellbeing Team, Denbighshire Navigators, Denbighshire MIND and Denbighshire Arts society, Stop smoking Wales and more will also be on hand to provide advice and information on activities running through their organisations.

Motiv8 is a community group supported by the North Wales NHS Charity, Awyr Las, and includes staff from Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board’s Adult Mental Health and Occupational Therapy services, as well as staff from Conwy Social Services, Community and Voluntary Support Conwy, and service users.

North Wales Citizen Panel Coordinator and Motiv8 group member, Emma Pugh, said:

“Attending this event is a great way to find out what’s in your local area, have a go or talk to someone about their group.  As Mental Health challenges are faced by over 250 million people worldwide,activity is a great way of helping our mental health by increasing endorphins, giving us a purpose and the opportunity to socialise with like-minded people.

Lesley Singleton, BCUHB’s Head of Strategy & Partnerships for Mental Health, added:

“The Motiv8 programme is a wonderful example of how we are working proactively with our partners and community organisations to give people the skills and opportunities to take positive action to improve their mental wellbeing.

“By focusing on promoting mental wellbeing and preventing mental ill health we can help people to lead fulfilling lives in their communities, reducing the need for them to come into contact with our acute hospital services.”

To book your place please contact Mark Morris on 01492 532164 or email motiv8nww@gmail.com