Stronger Together: How Our Wellbeing Hubs Are Making a Real Difference

And helping build a healthier, happier Wales for the future.

At Mental Health Matters Wales, we know that feeling well isn’t just about getting through the day—it’s about feeling connected, supported and having something to look forward to.

This past quarter, people joined us across our Wellbeing Hubs and Groups, clocking up 773 visits—that’s around 61 attendances a week.

But this is about so much more than numbers. Every visit is a conversation, a cuppa, a laugh, or just a moment to breathe. And together, all of this plays a part in something much bigger—building a better future for everyone in Wales.

🎸 Guitars for Veterans: More Than Just Music

This group might have been created for military veterans, but it’s now open to anyone over 18—and most of the people coming along aren’t veterans at all. They meet weekly to learn guitar, swap tips, share stories and have a jam. It’s relaxed, friendly, and full of support.

Why it matters:

It’s not just about learning an instrument—it’s about building confidence, feeling connected, and lifting your mood. That’s a big tick for the Well-being of Future Generations Act, which says we need to create a healthier, more equal Wales with stronger communities.

🎭 Creativity with Heart: Breathing Space & Art Matters

We run two creative groups where people can get stuck into painting, poetry, music and more. Breathing Space, in partnership with Tanio, is all about using creativity to connect and heal. And Art Matters, led by an art therapy student, gives people a safe space to explore different styles—from clay modelling to self-portraits.

Why it matters:

These sessions help reduce loneliness, boost confidence, and give people a way to express what they’re feeling. That fits perfectly with the goals of the Act—better mental health, stronger social bonds, and a vibrant culture.

🎶 Melody Makers: Singing for the Soul

Singing can be a game changer for your wellbeing. Our Melody Makers group meets twice a month, and whether you’re belting out your favourites or just humming along, it’s about feeling good, not hitting the high notes.

🌿 Nature, Walking and Wildlife

Our Wellbeing Walks and Conservation Group get people outdoors and active—exploring coastal paths, parks and woodlands, while also learning about conservation and nature.

Plus, the Reconnecting Nature project with Merthyr Mawr Estate gave people a chance to help protect local wildlife and green spaces, while feeling part of something bigger.

Why it matters:

Spending time in nature is great for your mind and body. These projects also help us look after the planet—just what the Act means by building a resilient Wales and thinking long term.

🧠 Learning That Makes a Difference

Thanks to our ongoing work with Adult Learning Wales, we ran another Emotional Intelligence course earlier this year—and it was packed out! People learned how to manage emotions, improve relationships, and feel more in control.

Why it matters:

Learning builds confidence and opens up new opportunities, which supports a more prosperous, equal Wales—another goal of the Act.

🎨 Support for Carers: Connecting Carers with Tanio

This group gave people with caring responsibilities a much-needed break. It was a chance to be creative, connect with others, and enjoy some proper ‘me time’. We even held an exhibition at the end to celebrate the amazing artwork created.

📍 Our Wellbeing Hubs: Small Halls, Big Impact

Our Hubs in Ogmore Vale, Blaengarw, Porthcawl and Bridgend are places where people come for company, games, quizzes, advice, crafts—or just to chat. For many who come, they’re a lifeline.

We also work closely with PCSOs, social care teams, community navigators, Foodbank, Tanio and more to make sure people get the help they need.

Why it matters:

These are real community spaces that help people feel less isolated and more supported. That’s a big part of what the Act is all about—stronger, more connected communities.

📊 Real Results: How We Know It’s Working

We use something called the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale (WEMWBS) to check in with how people are feeling. This quarter, we saw big improvements:

• Feeling cheerful: up 18.2%

• Energy to spare: up 21.8%

• Confidence: up 17.2%

  
  

These numbers show what people tell us every day—that these groups make a real difference.

💬 P’s Story

P has been part of our Hubs since 2010. She’s lived through trauma, hospital stays and long spells of loneliness. But being part of our community has helped her manage her mental health, build relationships, and even support others who are just starting out.

“I really enjoy the social side of the groups. It’s like a family and we’ve all had issues of some sort.”

She now helps on interview panels and is a friendly face for new members. That’s the kind of involvement and lived experience the Act encourages—making sure people’s voices are part of the solutions.

So, What Does This All Mean?

Our services don’t just tick boxes—they change lives.

They:

• Help people feel better

• Bring communities together

• Support the environment

• Offer learning and creativity

• Reduce pressure on other services

  
  

And all of that lines up with the Well-being of Future Generations Act—making sure we’re doing things today that help people and the planet thrive tomorrow.

Looking Ahead

We’re excited about what’s next—more creative sessions, more outdoor adventures, more conversations, and more chances for people to feel like they belong.

Because when we build each other up, we build a better