A Flintshire-based health and wellbeing organisation is delighted to have been nominated for a national mental health award, only ten months after it first began.

The Community Wellness Company (CWC) was shortlisted in the Inspirational Charitable Organisation category, in The Mental Health and Wellbeing Wales Awards, which took place on World Mental Health Day (October 10). 

CWC made it from the initial shortlist of 200, down to the final ten, but just missed out on the award.

The awards celebrate the successes of some of the most inspiring people working in the field of mental health in Wales.

The Leader: Rock art and image by Jake Ward.Rock art and image by Jake Ward. (Image: Public)

CWC is a social enterprise based in Flintshire, run by a team that puts creativity at the heart of everything it does.

Since December 2021, they have been working in community settings in the Deeside area, focusing on those who have reached crisis point, including people experiencing homelessness and with complex social, emotional and psychological needs.

The team works to engage, support and care for the most vulnerable and those with complex needs, offering a community-led approach.

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Founder Karen Sankey said: “We were absolutely delighted to be shortlisted for this award. While we didn't quite win, we were so proud to be even recognised for the award after only being up and running for less than a year.

"The Community Wellness Company believes that each of us has the right to a healthy and meaningful life, and we support people to achieve that aim, especially those with the greatest need. 

"Everyone is valued and equal, in a culture of compassion, acceptance and connection. A wonderful aspect of that is that those we first supported are now becoming members of our ever-growing team.”

Karen added: “Thank you to all the partners who have supported our pilot projects this year. Our particular thanks go to our strategic partners, Flintshire County Council and Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board for funding the pilots and to The Wallich; Cae Rhug Holistic Farm, near Mold; and Care and Repair, and Rivertown Church in Shotton."

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CWC also works closely with another Flintshire-based Community Interest Company, Art and Soul Tribe. Chief Executive, Jane Bellis, added: “The single biggest tool we have when it comes to supporting people through poor mental health and trauma is to listen and allow people the space to be heard and validated.

"I’m excited to be part of that journey and delighted that Community Wellness had been shortlisted for this award.”

CWC run drop-in community sessions in Rivertown Church, Shotton on Tuesdays between 10am and 2pm; and Wednesdays at A Place for You on Rowley’s Drive, Shotton, from 9.30am to 4pm.

For more information please contact us at hello@community-wellness.co.uk