Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations is currently funded by Powys Teaching Health Board and Powys County Council to provide:

  • Better information for everyone about mental health services in Powys.
  • Support for citizen representatives as they join in with strategic board decisions.
  • Networking and sharing of best practice amongst mental health and wellbeing organisations.

These three areas of work are called Information, Participation and Engagement

Information

Jackie Newey heads up the Mental Health Information Service. This service means that people and professionals can ring the Mental Health Information helpline on 01597 822 191 option 4 to find services. They can also email mentalhealth@pavo.org.uk for an email reply.

Participation

The Participation Officer recruits and supports citizens with experience of mental health services to attend the Mental Health Board and make decisions about future services in Powys. The Participation Officer also runs the Patients’ Council, where in-patients on Felindre ward at Bronllys hospital can speak to independent citizens about their experiences on the ward.

Engagement

Clair Swales leads the Health and Wellbeing team at PAVO. She and Sue Newham facilitate a number of networks for third sector organisations, which keep people informed and enable good practice to be shared. Networks create a talking space for voluntary organisations to meet with health services and the council so that they work together more effectively.

Meet the team

Staff working in the Powys Mental Health Information & Participation Team are employed and supported by Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations (PAVO).
PAVO is a Mindful Employer.