October 10 is World Mental Health Day, but it’s a topic that’s relevant every day – it affects so many of us, at home and in the workplace.

Monmouthshire County Council has today strengthened its commitment to mental health and wellbeing amongst its workforce by signing the new Melo MHWB Workforce Charter 2026, a Gwent-wide pledge to promote wellbeing, encourage open conversations and help prevent suicide.

The new Charter, launched by the Gwent Public Health Team at Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, is designed to help organisations across Gwent strengthen their approach to mental health, wellbeing and suicide prevention.

By signing the charter, the council has committed to raising awareness of the ABUHB Melo website and wellbeing resources, promoting free mental health and suicide awareness training, and sharing practical information and support through its communications channels.

The Charter was signed by Cllr Ben Callard, Monmouthshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Resources, who said: “We are delighted to sign the Melo Mental Health and Wellbeing Charter. Supporting the wellbeing of our employees and communities is at the heart of our values. Committing to the Charter is building upon the work we are already doing and strengthens our approach to mental health, wellbeing and suicide prevention.

“Sometimes having a conversation, getting easy access to information or knowing where to turn can make a real difference. We want to remind our colleagues and residents that talking about mental health is normal, that support is accessible, and nobody feels they have to face challenges alone.”

Professor Tracy Daszkiewicz, Executive Director of Public Health, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, said: “We are delighted that Monmouthshire County Council has signed the Melo Charter. The Council has played an important role in helping us develop this new initiative, and this is a great step to demonstrate their commitment to the wellbeing of their staff and communities.

“The Charter gives organisations a practical way to support mental health and wellbeing of people across Gwent, encouraging conversations about mental health, and promote resources such as the Gwent Public Health Team’s Melo website and free training courses.”

The charter recognises that everyone can play a part in supporting positive mental wellbeing and encouraging early help. Through this commitment, the council will continue to promote resources and opportunities that help colleagues and residents look after their mental health and support others to do the same.

For more information about the support available through Melo, visit www.melo.cymru/