THE Vale of Clwyd Mind (VOCM) has purchased a former Llandrillo College with the aim of expanding its local services to the community.

The VOCM Board of Trustees recently announced that it had taken over the buttermarket sight in Denbigh as of November 30.

The building will become a Cultural and Wellbeing Centre which will maintain a central base close to the centre of town, giving easy access to our members and the community.

A spokesperson for VOCM, who represent the interests of users of mental health services, their families and carers throughout Denbighshire, said: "This initiative will allow our Outreach team to expand the services they provide in the local community and surrounding areas and offer more activities whilst having a better office base for staff. This could lead to providing out of hours services in the future.

"Also joining us in the new premises will be other third sector organisations who will equally benefit from more modern premises which support disabled friendly access.

"This will be a great opportunity to provide a collaborative service to the people of Denbigh and outer areas and is an exciting opportunity which will develop over the next few years.

"We are being supported by the community team at Grwp Cynefin which gives us confidence that this will be of benefit for the community and create greater links with other organisations.

"To assist with the venture we have received Funding from Welsh Government in relation to the Targeted Regeneration Investment Programme (TRIP) Important buildings thematic project, which is overseen by our local authority, Denbighshire County Council.

"We will keep locals informed as to how the building is progressing and will move in as soon as building work is complete."

VOCM's chief executive Philip Williams has thanked locals for their understanding and support during what has been a difficult year.

He added: "We have tried to adapt as well as we can under these strange times and follow strict guidelines from the government. This is to ensure we remain safe.

"We have been available by phone to offer support, advice and a listening ear to reassure people and have received many calls to our small team of staff.

"We have been busy sending out craft packs to those interested as this has proven very popular (over 130 sent out). I would like to thank those who have kindly donated funds to cover costs.

"Unfortunately, although trying to open up groups we have had to stop all face-to-face work again with our drop-ins across the county, walking groups and allotment projects. These will be reviewed as soon as we are able following review by Government decisions.

"In the New Year we will be looking at other new ways that we can engage with the public and make ourselves available to support those struggling with their mental health at this time. This may be by using digital technology. We would welcome any support or ideas to help us engage with our local community needs."