March 28, 2025 – In a significant move to support the mental health and wellbeing of Tata Steel workers and their families, the UK Government, in partnership with Neath Port Talbot Council, has announced a £3.27 million funding package. The initiative is designed to address the psychological impacts of the transition to greener steelmaking and to help workers navigate challenges as they adjust to new circumstances.
Comprehensive Mental Health Support Services
The funding, which may increase depending on demand, will go towards a range of services aimed at improving mental health in the community, particularly those affected by Tata Steel’s transition. Key components of the support package include:
- Hiring more counselors to directly assist affected steelworkers.
- Increasing resources and grants to bolster existing mental health services in the area.
- Expanding community and peer support networks, including Men’s Sheds, She Sheds, and other community-based groups.
- Providing mental health services in schools for children impacted by the Tata Steel changes.
- Specialist advice for steelworkers and families navigating the welfare system or struggling with debt.
- Training for council and trade union workers in suicide awareness and prevention.
Supporting Employment and Local Economic Growth
The announcement is the first of many expected initiatives as part of the UK Government’s £80 million Tata Steel/Port Talbot Transition Board fund. The fund was created last year to assist with the transition and help protect jobs, improve local businesses, and boost the local economy. Since its inception, more than £50 million has been allocated for jobs and business development within Tata Steel’s supply chain.
Jo Stevens, the Welsh Secretary, emphasized that mental health is crucial for securing and maintaining good employment. She said, “The past 18 months have been incredibly difficult for the steelworkers of Port Talbot, their families, and the wider community, but we said we would back them in whatever ways were needed. Well-being is crucial to getting back into work and staying in work. By boosting direct support services, we are investing in the people of the area and supporting growth in the local economy.”
Ongoing Support and Future Investment
This funding comes as part of a larger effort to foster economic growth and resilience in Neath Port Talbot. In the coming months, additional funding will be directed towards growth and regeneration projects, including initiatives that ensure well-paid, secure employment opportunities are available to local residents.
Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans MS, highlighted the importance of continued collaboration between Transition Board partners to ensure that the people most affected by the changes at Tata Steel are supported through the process. “We will continue to make sure that the right assistance and support is in place for those impacted by the Tata changes as well as providing opportunities for growth, investment, and employment wherever they arise,” she said.
A Vital Step for Local Communities
Neath Port Talbot Council Leader, Cllr Steve Hunt, expressed the council’s support for the funding, noting the significant emotional and economic impact that changes at the steelworks have had on the community. “This is a vital addition to the support the council is delivering alongside our Transition Board partners,” Hunt said. “We know the impact of change at the steelworks is being felt deeply across the area, and particularly within Port Talbot itself.”
Mental Health Support Remains a Priority
Martyn Wagstaff, Mental Health Advisor, reinforced the importance of mental health support, urging those struggling to seek help. “It’s really important that anyone who is struggling with their mental health asks for help. There is support available, and talking to someone is the best way to get better,” he said.
This funding marks a critical step in ensuring that the residents of Neath Port Talbot have access to the mental health services they need, particularly as they face the challenges of transitioning to a greener future for steel production.
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