A new drop-in service is helping to ensure that the carers of people with serious mental health problems receive the emotional and practical support they need.

The regular drop-in sessions at Glan Clwyd Hospital’s Ablett Psychiatric Unit provide the carers of current inpatients with a space to offload over a cup of tea as well as practical guidance and signposting to community support services.

It is delivered every Monday and Wednesday afternoon by mental health charity Hafal in partnership with Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board and Denbighshire County Council.

Gaynor Kehoe, Head of Operations for Mental Health Services in Conwy and Denbighshire, said: “Carers provide invaluable support to family, friends and loved ones who have mental health problems, but it can be a particularly difficult time for them when the person they care for is admitted to hospital.

“We know that looking after somebody with a mental health problem can have a significant impact on a carers’ own mental health, so it’s vital that we provide them with as much support as possible.

“We’re pleased to be working with Hafal and our local authority partners to facilitate these regular drop in sessions.”

Jaime Ashton, a Recovery Practitioner from Hafal, said: “Through the drop-in service we want to try and reach carers who would normally be unidentified or hidden.

“We want to reach carers right at the point of their first admission and provide a safe space for carers to come and have a cup of tea and to offload. We’re here for emotional and practical support, as well as signposting and referrals to organisations that can help them.

“We also work in the community so the support for carers can continue.”