THE summer recess (or summer "recession" as one of my constituents once amusingly referred to it!), may be viewed by many members of the public as an extended holiday for politicians but it's actually a valuable opportunity for myself and my colleagues to spend more time in our constituencies, visiting agricultural shows, meeting with local businesses and charities and keeping in touch with the issues that are really concerning local people.

While first minister's questions and debates in the Senedd chamber are mainly what gets reported by the press, it's the visits and meetings that I hold in the constituency that I personally value, and feel can make a difference to peoples lives.

One such place I recently visited was the Monmouthshire head- quarters of the mental health charity Mind.

It's a sobering thought that one in four of us will suffer from a mental health issue at some point in our lives.

Mind offer a valuable advice and advocacy service to clients with a variety of mental health problems.

Whether it's help to complete official forms, making representations to government bodies or providing support for people to get through the challenges that life presents them, then Mind are there to help.

Their main office is Abergavenny and the are soon to have a base in Chepstow covering the south of the county.

The visit enabled me to learn more about their work and some of the specific services that they offer.

Their Hiway scheme helps clients to achieve goals and deal with the problems they face In promoting the importance of being content personally, occupational and socially.

The Welfare Rights service offers help to clients immediately if they have any issues surrounding their Benefits and the Signs scheme focuses on housing tenancy issues.

I was humbled by the service and dedication that is provided by Mind and the passion their staff have for helping people who are most in need.

I've pledged to work closely with the team in Abergavenny wherever I can be of assistance.

This is the sort of charity we should all be supporting , helping those who are in a position to help themselves get what they are entitled to and live a full life.

If you are interested in finding more about Mind or feel they may be able to help you then please visit their website mindmonmouthshire.org.uk or contact their office on 01873 858275.