Poverty ‘trapping people in cycle of poor mental health’ in Wales, report warns
Mind Cymru is calling on the Welsh Government to prioritise its commitment to support people living in poverty
Last updated 13th Aug 2025
Tackling poverty could be the key to creating a mentally healthy nation, a report from Mind Cymru has found.
The charity’s latest study shows more people are experiencing worsening levels of wellbeing as a result of deprivation that then makes it harder for them to escape poverty,
Mind Cymru continues how finances, housing and employment are key focus areas for improving their mental health.
"If I am not worrying about my next meal, I can prioritise better"
In order to quantify their study, Mind Cymru heard from people across Wales.
The charity reports that when asked what would help people manage their mental health better, they said ‘if I am not worrying about my next meal, I can prioritise better’.
Now the charity is calling on the Welsh Government to prioritise its commitment to support people living in poverty following the launch of a new Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy for Wales, with these kinds of experiences in mind.
"Too many people in Wales are feeling trapped in an inescapable cycle of poverty and poor mental health"
Simon Jones, Head of Policy and Campaigns at Mind Cymru says:
“When we spoke to people with experience of poor mental health about the new Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy for Wales, the majority said they wanted to see it reflect and address the experiences of those living in poverty.
“But further research tells us that these kinds of experiences are leaving too many people in Wales feeling trapped in an inescapable cycle of poverty and poor mental health - something which urgently needs addressing.”
“People in Wales want secure finances, housing and employment, and we’ve reached a point where addressing these issues, not only in support of the nation’s mental health but as a protective factor against it getting worse, is imperative,” Simon added.
“People in Wales want secure finances, housing and employment"
In 2024, Mind’s Big Mental Health Report found that 60% of people in a 2023 UK study said the cost of living crisis was affecting their mental wellbeing, and 23% felt their concerns over rising living costs impacted their sleep.
Minds report recommendations include:
- A recognised need from Welsh Government, Local Health Boards and other organisations to invest in the role community organisations play in supporting people with money and mental health, particularly those from racialised communities.
- Better understanding from Welsh Government of the lived experience of people living in poverty in Wales when accessing mental health support and using this to drive improvements in access and experiences.
- The development of clearer actions and pathways supporting mental health and financial security from public service providers.
"We cannot fail to act on priorities outlined by successive Welsh Governments"
Simon continues: “We have a unique opportunity as we head into a new 10-year cycle for mental health support in Wales to acknowledge the link between poverty and poor mental health, and to develop innovative ways to tackle these issues together.
“But in order to be truly effective, the new strategy must be one that works for everyone and is equitable for all, recognising any particular barriers people nationwide may be facing.”
“What this report also shows us is we cannot fail to act on priorities outlined by successive Welsh Governments around tackling poverty in order to improve the nation’s mental health - and not least with the current climate in mind.”
ll we can to prevent people from going into poverty and helping those who need support the most.
The Welsh Government says:
“Our 10-year Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy focuses on early intervention, prevention and ensuring people get the most appropriate support, at the right time without delay.
“We have invested over £7bn between 2022 and 2026 to support households across Wales through programmes to alleviate financial pressures, help maximise income and to help keep more money in their pockets."