Vale of Glamorgan Council organises activities to help residents’ wellbeing
The Vale of Glamorgan Council is organising a range of events to help residents’ wellbeing during lockdown.
Looking after mental health is particularly important at the moment as restrictions put in place to control coronavirus take their toll.
Being kept apart from family and friends places a strain on all of us, as does the increased time spent indoors.
To combat the problem, the Council has arranged a number of activities to help people cope with current conditions.
The Healthy Living team is organising a Get Fit in February campaign.
Participating alone or with others, a tracker has been created to chart progress in a number of different activities, with a medal and certificate awarded at the end of the challenge.
Those interested can register at bit.ly/3p6hawq and email for more information.
Residents of Ty Dewi Sant care home are planning to raise their spirits by writing down things they are looking forward to doing when restrictions lift, with pictures of people holding up these messages to be shared on social media.
Thursday is time to talk day, an occasion for people to discuss their mental health by checking in with friends and family.
Innovative ways to do this include holding a coffee morning via video call, joining others online for craft activities or arranging a virtual bake off.
Cllr Kathryn McCaffer, Vale of Glamorgan Council Cabinet member for Leisure, Arts and Culture, said: “The pandemic has had a profound effect on our everyday lives, we are all now spending more time at home, unable to meet with family and friends.
“This can have a huge impact on mental health so it’s important we do all we can to look after our wellbeing while we wait for life to get back to normal.
“As we enter Children’s Mental Health Week, the issues encountered by young people in particular, cut off from school and friends, are especially in focus.
“The Council has come up with a number of ways to help people deal with this situation, from suggestions about socialising online to taking part in exercise activities.
“Those who find themselves in urgent need of support can also contact the Council’s Rainbow Heroes team by calling 01446 729592.”