Government is continuing to invest in improved therapeutic environments and more specialised services for individuals experiencing mental health challenges.
On the occasion of World Mental Health Day, Minister for Energy, the Environment and the Regeneration of the Grand Harbour Miriam Dalli and Minister for European Funds, Social Dialogue and Consumer Protection Keith Azzopardi Tanti visited Villa Chelsea in Birkirkara, where they met representatives of Richmond Foundation and witnessed first-hand the work being carried out to support individuals facing mental health challenges.
During the visit, both Ministers emphasised the importance of ensuring that Government investments, both environmental initiatives and those supported by European funds, continue to deliver direct benefits to individuals requiring support, their families and professionals working in the sector.
Minister Miriam Dalli explained that works are underway through a €620,000 investment by Project Green to regenerate the historic garden at Villa Chelsea, transforming it into a more accessible space better suited to the needs of its residents. The project will improve the therapeutic environment and create more opportunities for outdoor activities as part of Richmond Foundation’s rehabilitation programmes.
“Our environmental projects are not simply about creating new spaces, but above all about the people who will benefit from them. Here, we are investing in the regeneration of a historic garden to create a space that will directly benefit the health and wellbeing of residents. We want our environmental investments to continue making a tangible difference in people’s lives, particularly those who require additional support,” said Minister Dalli.
In collaboration with the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage, works in the garden include the restoration of an existing fountain, pathways and water reservoirs. An additional 23 trees and 95 shrubs will also be planted, complementing the mature trees already present on site.
The project will also safeguard the historical heritage of Villa Chelsea, which is located adjacent to the Station Garden in Birkirkara. During the operation of the Malta Railway, the villa served as the residence of the train master. The garden will also be accessible to the public on designated days and during specified hours.
Minister Keith Azzopardi Tanti praised the valuable work carried out by Richmond Foundation over the years in supporting people experiencing mental health difficulties, as well as their families. He emphasised the importance of ensuring that organisations such as Richmond Foundation continue to have access to the necessary tools and resources to strengthen their services and reach more people in need of support.
“European funds are helping us continue investing in initiatives and projects that strengthen the work of organisations such as Richmond Foundation, through increased awareness and training, as well as more specialised services tailored to individual needs. This is how we want to see European funds translated into practice: through tangible support that makes a real difference in people’s lives,” concluded Minister Azzopardi Tanti.
Villa Chelsea is a rehabilitation centre operated by Richmond Foundation, where approximately 20 residents are currently receiving professional support in a therapeutic environment. Through various programmes and initiatives, residents are supported in developing essential everyday life skills, building their self-confidence and progressing towards greater independence within the community.
During the visit, both Ministers also discussed the ongoing work of Richmond Foundation and the importance of continued collaboration between the Government and organisations working directly with individuals who require mental health support.
