I RECENTLY hosted an event to mark World Mental Health Day.

Research by the charity Mind found that mental health now accounts for 40 per cent of all GP appointments in Wales.

There’s no doubt mental health must be a national priority.

I was glad to welcome young people from Newport’s Changing Minds project when they presented a petition to the Assembly’s Petition’s Committee outside the Senedd.

The group impressively collected more than 3,000 signatures asking for young people to be involved in the commissioning of mental health services.

There are some great campaigns to raise awareness of mental health across Wales and in Newport.

For example, Newport County AFC run an excellent project for people living with mental health conditions.

Playing football and being part of the team has transformed the lives of those taking part.

For more information on County in the Community’s excellent work email community@newport-county.co.uk

- The group ‘Our Chartist Heritage’ have organised a full programme of events over the next month as part of their mission to keep the south Wales Chartists’ legacy alive.

An important part of that is to teach young people about the Chartists’ role in the history of our democracy.

I’m looking forward to hosting schoolchildren from across Newport for a special event in the Senedd next month.

It was a huge success last year and I know the organisers have another packed programme planned.

On Sunday, November 4, the annual special service is being held in St. Woolos Cathedral to commemorate the 1839 shooting of 22 Chartists outside the Westgate Hotel.

For information about upcoming events and the Newport Rising Festival visit newportrising.co.uk

- Everyone agrees something needs to be done about the traffic congestion problems in Newport.

There is no doubt the city is often choked by congestion especially if there is an accident on the M4.

A solution to the motorway at Brynglas and regular, reliable public transport is fundamental to easing congestion and improving air quality.

The problem needs addressing and it is not something we should pass on to the next generation.

I have raised this repeatedly in the Assembly and will continue to do so.

- I hold regular advice surgeries across Newport West.

To find out details of my next surgery, or if you have any comments or issues that you would like to raise, please do not hesitate to get in touch on 01633 376627 or Jayne.Bryant@assembly.wales