Wales’ leading mental ill health and substance use charity has marked its 50th anniversary at two historic events celebrating half a century of supporting people across Wales.
The first event took place at the former Blind Veterans centre, now known as Parkland Place Llandudno, which Adferiad has developed into a groundbreaking 40-bed detox facility for people affected by drug and alcohol related harms. The building has a long history of providing care and support in the local community, and Adferiad will continue that legacy as part of its expanded services in North Wales.
The second event took place last Friday at Norton House hotel in Mumbles and both events were attended by trustees, members, staff and former staff, as well as local supporters and elected representatives.
Guests were greeted by opening speeches from Adferiad Chief Executive, Dr Alun Thomas, words from its Chair and Vice Chair, Rev Sue Northcott and Clive Wolfendale, respectively, and special messages from Life President, Elin Jones, and Former Chief Executive of WCADA, Karen Ozzati. Both events had contributions from exceptional speakers who had been supported by Adferiad and helped to make positive changes in the lives, with three of the four speakers now being Adferiad employees. The events were rounded off with an emotional slideshow of photos from the founding charities.
The milestone events mark the organisation’s 50-year history and consolidates its ongoing ambition as Wales’ leading charity for mental ill health and substance use.
A new chapter for Adferiad
Adferiad was formed through the merger of several legacy charities and now works across Wales delivering a range of services that help change the lives of people affected by mental ill health, addiction and other complex needs.
The organisation’s work is underpinned by the belief that life, and recovery, is not linear and so neither are they – providing support that focuses on the person and not their circumstances, putting the individual first.
Adferiad is a national voice rooted in local communities, led by the lived experience of its members and fighting for the rights of people who are navigating some of life’s most difficult challenges.
In addition to the 50th celebrations, Adferiad also took the opportunity to launch their rebrand and new website, marking the start of a new chapter in its history as it looks ahead towards the next fifty years. The new branding has been shaped by the voices of its staff, members, volunteers and the people they support, arriving at a visual identity which is bolder, more confident and easier to recognise.
Chief Executive of Adferiad, Dr Alun Thomas, said:
“As we mark 50 years of supporting people across Wales, our rebrand and the launch of Parkland Place Llandudno represent a significant moment for Adferiad.
“Both things demonstrate our commitment to ensuring people can access the right support, in the right place, at the right time.
“We know that life isn’t always straightforward; our role is to stand alongside people and ensure no one is left without support when they need it.”
