Beekeeping is being used to help Welsh ex-servicemen cope with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Carmarthenshire former soldier, Richard Jones, has teamed up with the Cywain Bee project as a means of helping his fellow ex-servicemen deal with the effects of PTSD.
Himself a PTSD sufferer and beekeeper, Richard from Llanelli, believes there are qualities associated with beekeeping that can help veterans affected by the debilitating and distressing disorder that is triggered by traumatic events.
Richard, who served in Bosnia, Kosovo, Afghanistan and Iraq, was diagnosed with PTSD a few years ago and his experiences put him in a unique position to help ex-servicemen, with tuition tailored to meet the veterans’ needs.
Beekeeping is an activity that can be carried out at an individual’s pace, and is therefore suitable for those who are affected by disorders such as PTSD.
Farmers and landowners visiting the Royal Welsh Winter Fair (December 1 & 2) will have the opportunity to discuss the benefits of a new scheme to increase the number of beehives in Wales.