9. Short Debate: 'Listen to us. Support us.': The need to ensure access for young people to mental health support

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 6:11 pm on 3 November 2021.

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Photo of Rhun ap Iorwerth Rhun ap Iorwerth Plaid Cymru 6:11, 3 November 2021

(Translated)

I want to close with the words of the young man who prompted today’s debate and prompted the questionnaire that is being launched by me today. Here are Gareth's words: 'My experience of having support from my GP was excellent, but unfortunately this isn’t the same for everyone throughout Wales. There are cases where people have been turned away from having support and that's not acceptable when someone has fostered the confidence and admitted that they need support.'

'It’s vital to me', said Gareth, 'to see a Wales that's open, where support is available to anyone who needs it, by ensuring early access to experts and creating a safe space for somebody to be able to talk openly without fear.' In words, in video, through artwork or through song, or simply by filling in a questionnaire, people can respond to this in any way that they like, but I do hope that through this we can help the Government to be able to hear their voices.

The questionnaire is available on my Instagram, Facebook and Twitter—the usual platforms. I hope that many of my fellow Members will be willing to share it, as well as other organisations working in mental health and with young people. I’m confident that the Minister will listen. Helping the Government is the aim here. After all, helping our young people to find their voice and helping them to face mental health challenges is an initiative that we should all agree on.