Abergavenny pupils took part in a expert-driven event to help foster better mental health in young people, last week.

Joining them at King Henry VIII School last week, health professionals and academics from Cardiff University, including Dr Rhiannon Evans and Dr Jill Grey from the Decipher project, shared research being piloted in Monmouthshire aiming to improve educational outcomes for young people.

Hosted by Monmouthshire County Council, the event provided a platform for professionals to hear from experts and academics from St Cadoc’s, Cardiff University and Welsh Government.

 

Dr Rhiannon Cobner, Clinical Psychologist at St Cadoc’s Hospital, talked of her work with children, young people and their families in Gwent. Dr Cobner highlighted the benefits of working in partnership with community organisations including Bron Avon Housing Association to engage and support families who need mental health support in their communities.

A range of other organisations including Face 2 Face counselling and Monmouthshire sports development team shared the programmes and projects that are taking place to increase positive emotional and physical wellbeing.

Penny Jones, cabinet member for safeguarding said, “Children and young people are at the centre of everything we do in Monmouthshire. We aim to protect and support every child by finding innovative ways to enhance their emotional and physical wellbeing.

“The event really showcased the fantastic work that is taking place and highlighted that by working in partnership with the colleagues in health, Welsh Government and the community we can really make a difference to the lives of children and young people.”