BETSi Cadwaladr University Health Board has launched a new service to make it easier for people to access early mental health support.

The service include 12 iCAN Community Hubs - including one in Pwllheli - that have opened their doors to the public after providing online support to over 2,500 people during the pandemic. The hubs, spread across North Wales, can be accessed on a drop in basis and provide support on a range of issues, including debt, relationship breakdowns, drug or alcohol problems, employment difficulties, bereavement, housing and loneliness.

In Penlan Street, Pwllheli, people can drop in any time between 10am and 4pm, Monday-Friday, for advice and support.

“There is always time for a cup of tea and a chat,” a hub spokesperson said.

The hubs also offers a range of activities including anxiety and lifestyle management, confidence and positive lifestyle building, Adult Learning Wales’ arts and crafts, careers advice, IT skills and gardening (weather dependant). A diary of activities can be found at bcuhb.nhs.wales/health-advice/mental-health-hub/i-can/ican-community-hubs/gwynedd/.

The health board is also recruiting occupational therapists to work in GP surgeries as part of its iCAN Primary service.

Jo Whitehead, chief executive of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, said: “Our range of iCAN services will make it easier for people to receive the right support, in the right place, at the right time.

“By intervening early, we can help get people back on track, prevent their symptoms from worsening, and reduce waiting times for the smaller number of people who require support from our specialist mental health services.

“The Covid-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on people’s mental health and I’m delighted that we are able to work with our partners to offer these much needed additional services.”