Over the weekend I had the pleasure and privilege of attending the Mayor of Flint’s Civic Service, alongside many other representatives of communities across the county. There was a great turnout from the town to support the Mayor’s parade and to wish Melly all the best in her term of office. I’m looking forward to continuing to work and campaign with Melly to support the people of Flint and champion investment and improvements in the town.

The weekend also marked the start of both Baby Loss Awareness Week and Hate Crime Awareness Week, as well as World Mental Health Day on Sunday. These awareness days not only give opportunity for us to raise awareness and share information of causes important to our communities and country, but also to highlight local work.

In particular I want to highlight the work of Sam’s Baby Loss, a local charity set up by Phillippa Davies, after her daughter Sam was stillborn. Phillippa set up the charity, which is going from strength to strength, to support others who go through the same experiences as she did. Our very own jewel in the crown of North Wales, Theatr Clwyd, is also playing their part in support Baby Loss Awareness Week.

Last year they hosted a production of ‘Dancing in the Wings’ a play written by Phillippa, which was extremely moving, and this year they provided space for Our Sam’s choir to meet in person, as well as lighting up the building in pink and blue.

I will be spending this week sharing information about different types of hate crimes to raise awareness and encourage our communities to come together to tackle the prejudices that some still face. In 2021 no one should be targeted because of their religion, gender, sexuality, race or disability – we all have a role to play in tackling hate crime.

Hate crimes can be reported to North Wales Police in a number of different ways including calling 101 or 999 in an emergency, or through their online reporting form. They can also be reported anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visiting their website.

Over recent weeks I have been slowly returning to face to face meetings with constituents in community settings, by appointment only, as I recognise how important it is that I meet with constituents to hear their concerns and ideas, but in a safe way. Whether that is over the phone, online or in a safe community setting, if there is anything you or a loved one would like to raise with me, then please get in touch on 01352 762 102 or at Hannah.Blythyn@senedd.wales.