The Welsh Government Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy, launched today, is a significant step towards the model of mental health care we have long advocated for – a focus on community resources, open-access support, and an understanding of the wider social and systemic factors that affect our mental health.  

The draft strategy’s consultation period was launched in The Hangout last year, a no-waiting list, no-threshold mental health support drop in for young people that we run in partnership with Cardiff and Vale University Health Board. We’re glad to see the principles of this type of support running through the strategy. 

There has been no shortage of ambition in Wales for a better future for mental health, but this has not always turned into tangible change. We call on Welsh Government and ministers to step up and provide the leadership that will make sure it happens. We have greatly valued working alongside Welsh Government and other charities to shape the strategy, and so we look forward to continuing to work together to make it a reality. 

Because when we do, we will be a good deal closer to a Wales where mental health is understood as something impacted by our circumstances, experiences, and opportunities – and where the conditions exist for all of us to be healthy, happy, and connected to the communities around us. 

Read more about the Welsh Government Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy here.