Community groups in Cwm Taf have been celebrated for their work promoting healthy lifestyles and preventing ill-health.
The Crystal Trophy Awards, organised by Cwm Taf University Health Board, were awarded this summer ‘to grass roots projects that are making a huge contribution to health and well-being’.
Safer Merthyr Tydfil received the trophy and 1st prize for their work supporting victims and survivors of domestic abuse. Play Therapist Sarah Wilson who runs the ‘Comets and Rockets’ programme said:
‘Getting this award has helped to raise awareness of domestic abuse and the impact on physical and mental health. The award also acknowledges the importance of our projects – recognising the support Safer Merthyr Tydfil provides in delivering domestic abuse services for children, young people and adults. Domestic abuse affects 1 in 4 women and Merthyr has one of the highest rates of reported high risk incidences of domestic abuse in Wales. So these services are invaluable. We know that if we provide interventions at a young age we have a chance of breaking the cycle of domestic abuse and allow young people to form healthy relationships.’
Our young person’s group had aspirations to start a choir to raise awareness of domestic abuse and we are thrilled that the prize has allowed us to start the Voices Against Violence Choir.
