"We Felt So Isolated"

Mandy's husband Stuart has bipolar disorder. His condition is so serious that at times he has gone missing and self-harmed. Stuart wanted his wife to share his story with you because he feels it's important that people understand what it is like for those with the condition and their families.

Mandy told us: " We have felt isolated during the pandemic and really struggled to access mental health support. But we are fortunate to have access to Raven's Retreat in Canalside, Aberdulais.

"It has been a lifeline over the past few years. Joolz Stewart offers a cottage for free to cancer patients and those with poor mental health so they can get away from their problems. She also provides support and counselling during your stay at her healing hut."

Mandy fears the facility is at risk of closing because it is on a flood hotspot. Yesterday we revealed how residents in Canalside are waiting to see what plans Neath Port Talbot Council has for the area. It suffered severe flooding during Storms Callum and Dennis.

She says: " I honestly do not know what people will do if it goes. It has changed Stuart's life. He didn't use to open up and talk. He tells Joolz things he would never share with us. It really is amazing to see the transformation."

You can LISTEN to full interview by clicking our reporter Emma Grant's TWITTER link below: