(Translated) Will the Minister make a statement on mental health care provision in South Wales Central?

We recognise the importance of easy access to mental health support, particularly during the pandemic. Health boards provide clear information on their websites to help people access appropriate mental health support. The ‘stepiau’ service in Cardiff and Vale University Health Board is a good example of accessible mental health support.

(Translated) What is the Welsh Government doing to support mental health services in the Rhondda?

We invested an additional £9.9 million this year to support mental health services across Wales, and committed within the draft Welsh Government budget to further increase mental health budgets by £42 million from 2021-22. The overall mental health ring-fence budget will rise to over £783 million. Services within Rhondda will continue to benefit from this additional resource. 

(Translated) What discussions has the Minister had with the Children's Commissioner for Wales about the impact of the latest lockdown on the mental health of children and young people in Wales?

I met with the children’s commissioner in December 2020. We are due to meet again in early March to discuss the impact of COVID on the mental health of children and young people in Wales. I am looking forward to discussing the findings of the commissioner’s second 'Coronavirus and Me' survey during this meeting.

(Translated) What steps is the Minister taking to promote the Welsh language in Islwyn through online language technology?

Menter Iaith Caerffili provides services in Islwyn. Every Menter moved to online activities in 2020 including Ffilifest and fitness/cookery sessions in Islwyn. The National Centre for Learning Welsh provides opportunities for people to develop their Welsh language skills all over Wales and the free Cysgliad package has also supported many.