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 6:13 pm on 3 November 2021.

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Photo of Mabon ap Gwynfor Mabon ap Gwynfor Plaid Cymru 6:13, 3 November 2021

(Translated)

Thank you very much, acting Presiding Officer, and thank you very much to Rhun for bringing this very important topic to the Chamber today. The words of Gareth are echoed by the young people of Dwyfor Meirionnydd, I can tell you that. It’s been a privilege for me to visit centres and to speak to people across Dwyfor Meirionnydd since my election. But, in speaking to homelessness charities, for example, job-finding organisations and other public bodies, there are two specific themes that have emerged time and time again, and those are interlinked, namely, the mental health of young people and access to transport and services.

According to the feedback of young people to consultations in Gwynedd, they state clearly that it’s the lack of availability of services in rural communities and the lack of access to the services that are available because of transport problems that are the main challenges facing them. This problem therefore means that many young people see their mental health deteriorating. I would therefore, in your response, Minister, like to hear how you will work with other Ministers in Government in order to ensure that these services are available locally, nearby in people’s communities, and there is better connectivity between communities in order to ensure that people can travel to those services that we already have. Thank you very much.