A poem offering hope to those experiencing suicidal thoughts is now on display at Cwmbran Library.
Titled The Coat, the poem was created by 15 Torfaen residents as part of a suicide prevention project marking World Suicide Prevention Day, which was observed on Thursday, September 10.
Developed through a writing group at TLC Church in Cwmbran, the project was led by the Jacob Abraham Foundation in collaboration with poet Patrick Jones.
Julie Cross, who helped establish the group in May 2025, said: "It was a privilege to work with the Jacob Abraham Foundation.
"The workshops encouraged us to reflect on our own experiences and helped shape the poem.
"I hope it offers comfort to anyone going through a difficult time, encouraging them to seek support and reminding them that they are stronger than they may realise."
The project was funded by a £12,550 grant from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, administered by Torfaen Council.
The funding also supported suicide prevention training in the community.
Steph Mapstone, training lead at the Jacob Abraham Foundation, said: "With the poem we decided to work with an established writing group to convey the important message of community connection, resilience and, above all, hope."
The foundation also delivered Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) to 33 members of the public.
Councillor Fiona Cross, Torfaen County Borough Council’s executive member for communities, said: "This project is a great example of the Torfaen Deal in action, bringing together residents, charities and professionals to strengthen community connections."
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