CCTAL members transform Llanelli Mind’s new community hub

CCTAL is proud to share the progress being made at Llanelli Mind’s developing community space, where our members – particularly GS6 Developments and J Randall – have played a key role in helping the charity expand its support for local people. One of the most significant developments is the conversion of the empty shop next to their main building into a Young People’s Crisis Prevention Café. This new area will offer a calm and supportive environment where young people can seek help before reaching crisis point.

Mind is a well-recognised mental health charity across the UK, offering support, campaigning for change and making sure no one has to face mental health challenges alone. Llanelli Mind has been a proud part of this mission since 1986, supporting people in the local community with practical help, guidance and a safe place to turn when life becomes overwhelming.

When Mind reached out to the local community for support, we were pleased to respond and our members stepped forward straight away, offering practical help, expertise and vital resources to get the project started and keep the work moving.

Lynette Anthony, our Training Manager, said:

“Our members are always keen to give something back to the communities they serve. This project has allowed them to contribute to an important local cause while allowing their teams and apprentices to gain experience on a meaningful renovation. We’re proud to see them play a part in creating a space that will benefit young people across Llanelli for many years to come.”

The project began in February last year, where GS6 Developments Ltd took on the main contractor role, overseeing the renovation of the new café space and coordinating the various trades involved. Their team has ensured that work continues smoothly and safely.

Aaron Shingler, Director of GS6 Developments, said:

“It’s been a privilege to lead this project. Being able to support young people in the town where I grew up makes this work especially rewarding. It has also given our team and apprentices the chance to work on a type of project that is both different and hugely worthwhile.”

Once GS6 began work, the team uncovered a serious problem – a leaking roof that was damaging the building and risking the progress already made. This issue had not been identified earlier, and the project needed urgent support to prevent delays or further

damage. J Randall stepped in quickly, donating both materials and labour to repair the roof. Their contribution protected the renovation work and allowed the project to continue without interruption.

Jake Randall, Contracts Manager of J Randall, added:

“We were glad to help once we learned the extent of the roof problem. Mind’s work in the community is invaluable, and ensuring the building was sound felt like an important way to support what they are trying to achieve.”

Several companies have also supported the project by supplying materials needed for the renovation, including Thomas Glass, Crest Windows, Dyfed Alarms and TRJ Ltd.

These contributions have been essential in keeping the project on track and reducing costs for the charity.

The renovation has supported candidates on our ‘Pathway to Your Future’ work experience programme, giving participants the opportunity to work alongside skilled tradespeople while developing practical skills on a live project. Additionally, this renovation has offered CCTAL members a valuable opportunity to work on a community-focused project, gaining experience in a different type of build while contributing to an important cause.

Chris Ferrier, Community Engagement & Fundraising Co-ordinator at Llanelli Mind, said:

“It’s very easy to get caught up in vanity metrics – likes and shares on social media – when we try to measure our impact. But the reality is much more meaningful. This building will save young people at an incredibly dark and vulnerable time in their lives, young people who, without this space, might not still be here. Our work relies entirely on the support of local people and organisations, so seeing CCTAL members come together for this project has meant the world to us.

“The new space will give young people a calm, welcoming place to turn to before things reach crisis point, and that simply wouldn’t have been possible without the skills, time and generosity that CCTAL and their members have given. They’ve been brilliant throughout the entire process, going above and beyond, and we are genuinely grateful for everything they’ve contributed to bring this much needed facility to life.”

The expanded centre will offer dedicated areas for early intervention, counselling, group sessions and wellbeing support. The Young People’s Crisis Prevention Café will provide a safe and welcoming place for young people to talk, relax and receive guidance when they need it most. CCTAL is honoured to support this project, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact the centre will bring to our community, when it opens its doors in spring 2026.