A CHARITY that focuses on mental health in Newtown have been boosted ahead of Christmas after Llanfyllin Young Farmers Club (YFC) raised £2,000 for one of its projects.

Rekindle's Small Steps project was presented with a cheque for £2,000 on Monday, November 29 from the Llanfyllin YFC following a fundraising event they held in September this year.

Robin Brierley, chairman of Rekindle, admitted the donation from the YFC was both welcome and needed after the impact of Covid-19 on charities and their ability to fundraise.

He said: "The Young Farmers raised a staggering £7,000 from the event and we are extremely honoured to have been chosen to receive this very generous donation.

"It will come as no surprise to many that the last 18 months have been extremely difficult for Rekindle's Small Steps and for charities in general.

"Restrictions during the Covid pandemic have meant that it has been all but impossible to host fundraising events and the impact upon our resources has been considerable.

"The donation from the Llanfyllin Young Farmers therefore is not only extremely generous but very timely.

"The Rekindle's Small Steps project began in 2014; our aim then as it is now is to offer early intervention to support and provide therapy to young people aged 16 to 25 who are experiencing mental health problems.

"It cannot be denied the pandemic has contributed to a significant rise in the mental health issues experienced by the young people of our communities.

"Fear, loneliness and isolation have all taken their toll leading to a huge increase in the numbers of young people in need of the support offered by Rekindle's Small Steps project."

Robin added that his organisation was one of the few to stay open during the pandemic, accepting referrals from a variety of sources.

He added: "Any donation we receive makes a big difference and helps us to continue to provide the support so badly needed by our young people particularly at this time."

Anyone wishing to contact the charity, whether for help or to support, they are on Facebook, Twitter, Tik Tok and Instagram, or by telephone on 01686 722222 or email hello@smallsteps.wales