One of the tasks I set myself for recess was to get up to speed with as many organisations and professional bodies relevant to my portfolio as possible.  Well I’ve made a start and it has been a big learning curve but incredibly interesting.

Regarding mental health issues I’ve met with Gofal and Mind who have raised the issue  of awareness and the need for an anti-stigma campaign here in Wales which I shall be pursuing.

I saw the British Heart Foundation at the Eisteddfod and heard about the pioneering work being done on childhood obesity in Torfaen as well as the other good work they are doing.  There was the Red Cross delivering services across our communities and Macmillan with their supportive role and practical help for people from when they are first diagnosed with cancer.

The National Deaf Children’ s Society told me about the work they do with parents and children from the moment they learn that their child has a hearing loss. They have a set of brilliant websites and you can actually ‘hear’ what it is like to have a cochlea implant and how a classroom with poor acoustics can have a real impact on the ability of deaf children to learn.  I really like the way the society involves the children from a very young age with expressing their needs and their concerns.

Meeting members of the MS Society in Newport was a real eye opener. What a great bunch of people who come together and talk about anything and everything – not usually Multiple sclerosis!  The work of their specialist nurses has been a godsend to many people living with this condition and it is good to see the third sector working hand in hand with the local NHS services.

I’ve had meetings with the RCN (Royal College of Nursing) and the BMA (British Medical Association), the ambulance trust and a really good visit to Nevill Hall hospital.  The Stroke Unit there was really impressive.

I’ve probably missed some and there are many more to see.  And that’s just the health portfolio!