A SERIES of mindfulness workshops are being held across North Wales to promote the physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing of young members within the LGBTQ+ community.

Young and Mindful CIC (YAM), a third-sector organisation and social enterprise that aims to make a difference in young people's approach to health and wellbeing, will be leading a course of free workshops from multiple locations across Denbighshire, Flintshire and Wrexham.

Titled “Me and My Identity”, the 14-week sessions are aimed at LGBT+ individuals aged 16-25 who are looking to explore mindfulness and meditation and connect with like-minded people.

The courses are currently held at HWB Dinbych in Denbigh and Brighter Futures Rhyl, with plans to host sessions in Flintshire in the coming weeks.

To register or find out more, contact info@youngandmindfulcic.org.uk or visit its website.

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Since its establishment in 2023, YAM has delivered a series of courses to young people aged seven to 25 within schools, youth clubs and community hubs, as well as to teachers, parents and guardians.

Through self-education and meditation, the organisation has helped participants examine their habits, beliefs, and opinions to help discover new ways to meaningfully contribute to their own wellbeing, the community, and planet.

Thanks to funding from the People’s Postcode Lottery and the Postcode Community Trust, it is now able to expand its services and deliver a tailored programme for the LGBT+ community.

Shilpa Viyas, founder of YAM, said: “Here at Young and Mindful, we have witnessed first-hand the value of delivering self-education projects in the community that incorporate identity, location, and co-production. 

“We’re truly grateful to all of our wonderful volunteers and staff, as well as the People’s Postcode Lottery, for enabling us to continue working with young LGBT+ members of society.

“We feel there has been an increased demand in North Wales for more support and resources geared towards the younger generation, particularly revolving around self-esteem, mental wellbeing, and identity.

“It’s our goal to offer this programme to as many people as possible, which is why the workshops are delivered from a variety of locations, have varying ages and time slots, and are delivered in both Welsh and English.

“Not only do we wish to create a local safe space for individuals to share their positive and negative experiences of being LGBT+, but we’re also keen to dismantle misconceptions about this demographic and explore how we as a society can enhance understanding and compassion about this group. 

“We also wish to advocate the proven benefits of mindfulness and meditation, as well as delving into the components of individual identity, and the inherited values and ideals that impact our sense of belonging.”