Chairing the latest meeting of the Tata Steel Port Talbot Transition Board today (27 March) Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens announced £3.27 million to fund mental health support services in Neath Port Talbot for those affected by Tata Steel’s transition to greener steelmaking.
The funding, which is flexible and may be increased depending on demand, is planned to cover services including hiring more counsellors to work directly with affected steelworkers, and providing extra resources and grants to support existing mental health provision.
It also covers expanding availability of community and peer support such as through Men’s Sheds, She Sheds and other community groups and funding mental health support in schools where children are affected by the Tata Steel transition.
The funding will also allow for the provision of specialist advice for steelworkers and their families navigating the welfare system or struggling with debt, along with training council and trade union support workers in suicide awareness and prevention.
Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said: “The past 18 months have been incredibly difficult for the steelworkers of Port Talbot, their families and for the wider community but we said we would back them in whatever ways were needed. We are helping people learn new skills but we also need to help protect people’s mental health, because well-being is crucial to getting back into work and staying in work.
“By boosting direct support services, we are investing in the people of the area and supporting growth in the local economy.”
Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning Rebecca Evans MS said: “Working alongside our Transition Board partners, we will continue to make sure that the right assistance and support is in place for those impacted by the Tata changes as well as providing opportunities for growth, investment and employment wherever they arise.”
Neath Port Talbot Council Leader, Cllr Steve Hunt said: “Neath Port Talbot Council welcomes the announcement of this funding and the commitment to support the wellbeing of our local communities through this difficult time. We know the impact of change at the steelworks is being felt deeply across the area, and particularly within Port Talbot itself, where every household will know many others directly or indirectly affected.
“This is a vital addition to the support the council is delivering alongside our Transition Board partners, as we adapt to the future of steelmaking in the town and prepare for the new opportunities offered by future investment and developments such as the Celtic Freeport.”
Martyn Wagstaff, Mental Health Advisor said: “It’s really important that anyone who is struggling with their mental health asks for help. There is support available and talking to someone is the best way to get better.
“This funding from the Transition Board means that people in Neath Port Talbot will be able to access more help when needed.”
