Talking Saves Lives: Rob’s Story

Recently we met up with Rob who is a member of the Breconshire “Band of Brothers” friends of Prostate Cymru and who encourages the simple act of Talking as an essential tool.

Rob’s connection to prostate cancer is personal. He sadly lost his father to the disease after it had spread to his liver and bones. His father had suffered in silence for a long time before seeking medical help, and despite treatment, the cancer was diagnosed too late.

Knowing that having a close relative with prostate cancer increases your own risk, Rob decided to be proactive about his health. Following a visit to his GP, a PSA blood test and examination led to a diagnosis, and within two months he underwent surgery to remove his prostate. The operation was successful and, after some post-operative challenges, Rob is now well on the road to recovery.

Today, he supports others by sharing his experience and listening to those facing similar fears and uncertainties.

Through the Band of Brothers, members come together to raise awareness, offer practical advice and support one another through the challenges of prostate cancer.

You can follow their Facebook page here https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570271613342

Rob also highlighted the impact that a diagnosis, or even waiting for test results, can have on your emotional and mental health. As an HGV driver, he spends long hours alone and understands how easy it is to overthink. He credits the Band of Brothers with providing a supportive network of people who understand what he is going through.

Working alongside Prostate Cymru, the group organises fundraising and awareness events, including the successful annual Big Breakfast and the popular “Shearing is Caring” fundraisers.

Rob encourages anyone with symptoms, concerns or a higher risk of prostate cancer to speak to their GP. Early detection can save lives. The Band of Brothers welcomes anyone seeking information, support or simply someone to talk to—because sometimes, talking can make all the difference.

You can read more on Prostate Cancer UK risk check tool here; Check your Risk

The work carried out by Rob and the Band of Brothers is invaluable. Not only do they raise vital funds, but they also help raise awareness and provide support to those affected by prostate cancer. The group is welcoming and inclusive, and anyone with concerns, questions or a desire to get involved is encouraged to reach out.

Throughout this conversation, one simple but powerful message kept resurfacing: talking can make all the difference.

Prostate Cymru is running subsidised PSA blood tests across Wales in 2026 to help detect early signs of prostate issues. 

On 31st July & 1st August they will be located at Radnor Hills Heartsease, Knighton, LD7 1LU 

You can find out details on the event including how to book here - PSA testing

                              Small steps: Walks for wellbeing

Spending time outdoors, getting moving and sharing a simple conversation can have a powerful impact on wellbeing.

 Across Powys, local community walks are helping people boost their mood, reduce anxiety and feel less alone by combining gentle exercise, fresh air and social connection.

 

These welcoming, inclusive walks offer a safe space to talk - or simply walk alongside others - showing how small steps can make a big difference to mental health.

If you are looking to get out for walks in your local area and don't know where to start, then search up a group to join in with for inclusive, accessible ideas. 

You may find the following pages helpful: 

https://www.powysgreenguide.cymru/site/Walking-in-Powys

https://mnpmind.org.uk/walk-talk-groups/

https://letsgopowys.co.uk/

https://www.moveagainstcancer.org/5k-your-way/

 

Here’s three examples currently happening in the north of the county.

 

Sophie Castree’s Walk for Wellness starts at Hafan yr Afon in Newtown every Monday at 7pm. 

 

Sophie experienced health anxiety in December 2024 which culminated in debilitating panic attacks.

 

“It got so bad that at one point I couldn’t get out of bed,” Sophie says.

 

“I was prescribed medication and slowly began to feel more like myself, but what helped was mum and dad encouraging me to get out of the house.

 

“Going for a walk became my everyday ritual. It saved me.

 

“I know what a difference it made me for me, so if I could help just one other person in the same way, it would be amazing. I’m happy to meet people on their own first if that would make them feel more comfortable.”

In Caersws, St John’s Hut is the starting point for the weekly ‘walk & talk’ – on Mondays at 7pm - run by local man Karl Wigley. He also hosts a walk in Llanidloes on Wednesdays at the same time.

 

“They’re genuinely uplifting,” says Karl. “We keep it positive and everyone is supporting each other.

 

“I realise the idea of turning up for a walk with a load of strangers can be daunting, so I will come out and meet people one-on-one beforehand.

 

Karl was inspired to start the walks after experiencing his own mental health struggles. He was supported by the Newtown-based wellbeing charity, Ponthafren, and has since become an ambassador for the organisation. 

 

“I’ve gone from needing their service to working alongside them,” Karl says.

 

“It’s a testament to what they do because without Ponthafren, I don’t know where I’d be. Their help has quite literally been life-changing.”

Meanwhile in Newtown, Walking Men of Mid Wales founder Andrew Coppin hosts a weekly walk starting at 7pm at Back Lane car park.

 

“Expect a warm embrace from myself and the other guys who attend,” says Andrew. “We’re just gents of various ages, from all walks of life. We’ll chat over the course of a simple stroll.

 

“It gives people hope and positivity, and makes them realise there’s a whole network of support out there.”

 

 Buried in a Book: Llandrindod Book Club Welcomes New Members 

@Breathe Studio: an Arlais Health & Wellbeing CIC project

A new community book club is inviting readers of all kinds to come together, share ideas, and celebrate the joy of reading. Buried in a Book: Llandrindod Book Club meets fortnightly on Wednesdays at 7:30 pm, offering a relaxed and welcoming space for anyone who enjoys books—or simply wants to rediscover the habit of reading.

Open to both seasoned readers and those just beginning their reading journey, the club aims to bring people together through conversation, creativity, and a shared love of the written word. Whether you read hundreds of books a year or haven’t picked one up in a while, everyone is welcome. They want to create a place where people can connect, slow down from the busyness of everyday life, and share their love of books with others in the community.

Each month, members nominate titles for Book of the Month, with the final selection chosen from a members’ nomination pot. This approach encourages readers to explore new authors, genres and stories. The chosen book is then discussed in an informal and friendly setting on the first fortnight of the month.

The second meeting each month is a Book Social, a book-themed event designed purely for fun and connection. Activities may include book quizzes, author talks, book launches, or other literary-themed socials.

Importantly, participation is flexible; members are welcome to attend as often or as little as they like. There is no obligation to attend every meeting or read the monthly book selection.

The cost to attend is £2 per person, helping support the running of the group.

Contact Alice by email buriedinabookclub@gmail.com or join the Facebook Group link

Social Prescribing - What does that look like ?

Social Prescribing is defined on the Welsh Government Web pages as

"....an umbrella term that describes a person-centred approach to connecting people to local community assets. Community assets include community groups, interventions and services which could be delivered online or in person, as well as buildings, land or even a person within a community."

But what does that really mean ? 

Here at PAVO we have a Social Prescribing service currently offering support for people in Powys aged between 50 to 75, and I spoke to Helen, who works as one of 3 social prescribers within the team, to understand what her job involves day to day.

Here she surmises the role beautifully

"My approach is holistic and centred around the individual — taking time to understand what their concerns are, what supports their wellbeing, and how we can connect them with what’s available locally in their community.

A typical day might involve meeting a client who has a chronic health condition at a local art group or walking group. Many of the people I support live alone and would like to make new friends, but quite naturally feel anxious about attending something new by themselves. I often attend with them in the beginning, offering reassurance until they feel settled and confident, or until we find a group that suits them better.

I also meet with new or prospective clients, either in their home or in a community setting, to explain how the service works and how I might support them. If they would like to go ahead, we have a “What Matters” conversation to explore their goals and agree expectations on both sides. Clients complete a wellbeing survey at the start and at the end of their time with the service, which helps us reflect on the progress they’ve made.

A significant part of my role involves researching local groups and services that could benefit the people I support — whether that’s looking into bus routes to the leisure centre, finding community groups or volunteering opportunities, or identifying local community meals. I also make referrals and signpost to other organisations for additional support, such as Powys Befrienders or money advice services, as many clients have complex or overlapping needs.

I keep in weekly contact with the people I support, checking how they are getting on, talking through any concerns, and acknowledging the steps they’re taking. They also know they can get in touch if they would like a chat.

At its core, my role is about listening, encouraging and working alongside people as they build confidence, overcome challenges and feel more connected within their community."

You can find out more, including a link to refer here:

https://www.pavo.org.uk/help-for-people/socialprescribing/

Diolch yn Fawr Helen and the Social Prescribing Team

for your amazing work

Warm Spaces - Well Being Places

 

I recently visited Play Radnor in Llandrindod and The Hanging Gardens in Llanidloes as part of their "Warm Space Powys" initiatives.

I did indeed experience a warm welcome, and a delicious sociable lunch was had at Play Radnor on Monday 19th Jan 2026.

This is an opportunity not just to be in a warm environment for a couple of hours, but to feel connected with the opportunity to socialise, eat or drink something for Free, and/or often take part in a game or discussion. 

There are lots of places you can go to access this across the county. You can also just relax on a sofa or pick up a book at a local library. You could take your own "to do" list which may include some sewing or craft project, or just sit and rest with the chance to feel warm and cosy.

 A Warm Space is a community run place where people can go to get warm, socialise, work, relax or take part in activities, especially during the older months when heating costs are high. Many warm spaces in Powys also offer refreshments. 

Warm spaces are typically hosted in existing community buildings, including: 

• Public libraries
• Community centers and village halls
• Churches and places of worship
• Museums, sports clubs, and even some local businesses

For more info see the Powys County Council Directory here

https://en.powys.gov.uk/powyswarmspaces

Or search in your local facebook page

If you're a community group or organisation, you can also apply for funding or get listed on the directory via the Powys Council website to help others. 

What It’s Actually Like to Give Blood in Wales (From Someone who Just did it)

On the 11th March, I donated blood again for the second time. A small act that takes less than an hour but has the potential to change someone's life. 

When you arrive, they ask for your name, date of birth, address and donor number. Don't worry if you've left your card at home - I did - and they found me on the system no problem. You're handed a tablet to fill out a short questionnaire, an information booklet to read, and a pint of water to drink. I had my trusty Stanley flask with me, so I was one step ahead. 

After filling out the form, you wait to be called over for a quick finger prick test to check your iron levels. They also ask a few extra questions about your health and any recent travel, just to be sure everything's good to go. 

Then it's over to the waiting area until a nurse calls you over for the donation itself. The nurses are great! Friendly, calm and quick to get things going. They use a blood pressure cuff to help find your vein, pass you a makeshift stress ball (usually a bandage) and keep things light throughout. 

Here's a quick snap mid donation, it's not glamorous, but its real. This was in a local leisure centre, everyone quietly doing something that could save a life. 

The actual donation took ten minutes. After that, you're advised to rest, avoid anything strenuous, and then it's time to head over to the refreshments table. 

While I was having my tea and biscuit (or three), one of the team told myself and fellow donors that he wouldn't be alive today if it weren't for people donating blood. And I realised I'm in a similar position. My mum who donated blood for as long as I can remember, needed a transfusion herself. Without it, she wouldn't be here today either. 

A few days ago, I received this message: 

My donation had been sent to Wrexham Maelor Hospital to help someone in need. 

If you are able to give blood, do it. 

It's a small part of your day that could change the rest of someone else's. You never know who might need it - a stranger, a loved one, or even you one day. Book the appointment, take the time, and be part of something that genuinely saves lives. 

You can check your eligibility and find your nearest clinic by visiting the Welsh Blood Service's website here. 

A Day in Life of Sarah at Care & Repair

Sarah Burton, a dedicated caseworker with Care & Repair in Powys, spends her days ensuring older adults can live comfortably and safely in their homes. Through the Older Not Colder project, Sarah helps clients over the age of 60 stay warm, reduce energy bills, and access vital adaptations to improve their quality of life. Here’s a glimpse into one of Sarah’s busy days.

9:00 AM: Preparing for the Day Ahead

Sarah begins her day by checking emails, phone messages, and referrals to plan her week. Before visiting her first client, she reaches out to confirm that they have the necessary paperwork, such as benefits documentation, ready for their meeting. This will help determine eligibility for grants like the Disabled Facilities Grant.

She also ensures her resources are fully stocked for the day, including energy-saving items like carbon monoxide detectors, energy efficient bulbs, Winter Warm packs, and small adaptations such as draft proofing strips and radiator foils. Everything is carefully prepared to make the days visits as productive as possible.

10:30 AM: First Visit of the Day

Sarah’s first stop is to a ground floor flat in a converted older building. Her client, a woman in her 60s with mobility challenges, is relying on portable heaters and blankets instead of the old storage heaters in her home. Sarah discusses available grants for heating system upgrades, but the client prefers to wait for now. To provide immediate relief, Sarah gives her a Winter Warm pack.

The client also struggles with her bathroom, where a level access shower has been recommended. While waiting for that work to be completed, Sarah arranges for the installation of grab rails as an interim safety measure. A referral is made to the in-house adaptations team, and because the client qualifies for full grant funding, the larger shower project can move forward without financial concerns.

12:00 PM: Supporting a Recently Discharged Client

The next client Sarah visits lives in a small village and has just returned home after a hospital stay. Grab rails have already been installed, but further recommendations from an Occupational Therapist include a straight stairlift and a level access shower. Sarah ensures the necessary paperwork is in order to expedite the grant process so the client can receive these vital adaptations as soon as possible.

1:30 PM: Addressing Repairs and Financial Needs

In the early afternoon, Sarah meets another client to collect financial information for a benevolent funding application. This client’s roof and electrical system require urgent repairs, and Sarah is working to secure funding to cover the costs.

Recently, the client had a new heating system installed through the ECO Flex scheme, which has greatly improved her quality of life by providing reliable hot water. During the visit, Sarah conducts a benefits check to ensure the client is receiving all the support she qualifies for. The assessment confirms her eligibility for means tested benefits, offering additional peace of mind.

3:00 PM: Wrapping Up the Day

After completing her visits, Sarah returns to her office to document the day’s work and send follow up emails. She contacts the Housing Adaptations team to coordinate grant applications and confirms benefit eligibility for one of her clients, scheduling a follow-up visit to assist with the application process.

Later, Sarah makes a call to a new client who has been dealing with subpar repairs from untrustworthy builders. The client is relieved to hear that Sarah and the Care & Repair team can provide professional support to address her housing concerns.

Every day, Sarah Burton works tirelessly to make a tangible difference in the lives of older adults in Powys. Her role through the Older Not Colder project ensures clients can remain warm, safe, and supported in their homes. For anyone over 60 living in Powys who owns or privately rents their home, Sarah and the Care & Repair team are ready to help. To get in touch, call 01686 620760, or email enquiries@crpowys.co.uk