A Ystradgynlais-based mental health organisation says it is “stronger than ever” as it marks six months since breaking away from Mind.

The BloomSpace Foundation, which provides counselling and wellbeing support across Ystradgynlais and the Swansea Valley, has been reflecting on a period of rapid growth following its departure from the national network in October 2025.

The charity says the move has allowed it to expand its services while continuing to deliver the same core mental health support to the community.

As well as counselling and talking therapies, BloomSpace now offers a broader range of wellbeing initiatives, including creative workshops, nature-based activities and community projects designed to bring people together.

Chief executive Donna James said the decision to go independent had been transformative for the organisation.

“We’re so excited to celebrate six months of The BloomSpace Foundation and cement our position as the trusted mental health organisation in the Ystradgynlais and Swansea Valley area,” she said.

“Leaving MIND was the best thing we ever did. Not only has it enabled us to offer the same provision of services as we did before, but we're also now able to expand on what we can do and how we can help those most in need in our area.”

BloomSpace has also continued to raise its profile through a series of campaigns and events.

These include “Ollie’s Moving Mountains”, a walking project inspired by adventurer Ollie Treviso, and a question-and-answer event with singer-songwriter Laura Evans, who spoke about how her mental health influences her music.

The organisation has also been supported by former 90 Day Fiancé star Jon J Walters, who has publicly credited BloomSpace with helping him through a difficult period in his life.

“They brought me back to the living,” he said. “When I felt completely lost and unseen, they were the first people who actually understood me.”

Looking ahead, the charity has hinted at further developments, including a forthcoming partnership with the Freemasons and continued collaboration with ambassadors and campaigners.

Ms James added: “From an exciting deal with the Freemasons to working with our BloomSpace ambassadors, we’ve got some incredible things planned for 2026 and beyond.

“At BloomSpace, every person matters and everything we do is rooted in prevention, creativity and community. We provide creative workshops and community-based projects that help bring people together, as well as clinically led counselling and talking therapy services.”

Service users have also spoken about the impact the organisation has had on their lives.

One explained: "Counselling at BloomSpace helped me better understand my reactions and behaviour while navigating anxiety, grief, and anger. I felt safe, supported, and truly listened to throughout. Having someone impartial to talk to made a real difference, and I would definitely recommend the service to others."

Another described how sessions allowed them to process deep emotions and rebuild confidence, saying they now feel “heard, supported, and more confident”.

“The BloomSpace Foundation is already thriving and stronger than ever,” said Ms James.

“We can’t wait to see what the next six months brings!”