A FORMER Colwyn Bay Mayor has launched a new business and clothing range to support people with mental health issues.

Stephen Williams, from Colwyn Bay, hopes the enterprise, Connect Build Transform (CBT), will shine a light on problems faced by businesses and individuals across the UK, notably those impacted by the Coronavirus pandemic.

Having qualified this year as a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, the 47 year-old has also unveiled the Mind Free Clothing UK range of hoodies and leisurewear, emblazoned with hashtags and messages encouraging positivity.

Having suffered with his own mental health following the death of his beloved mum Maureen, Stephen said: “I started the company earlier this year but due to the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns I’ve had to do everything online, including completion of the qualification.

“Until it is safe to do so I’ll continue holding sessions via video conferencing but have also been able to make strides in developing the clothing brand and CBT in the background.”

He added: “I’ve always been passionate about supporting people with mental health issues, through my role as a councillor and Mayor of the Bay of Colwyn, and in other voluntary roles over the years. I’m excited at what lies ahead and am sure we can help people.

“I’ve been through the tough times myself when my mum died; I felt a change in attitude and experienced some dark times. It’s only when I started to talk that I made the journey out of it, but many of us – especially men - are often too proud to speak about how we feel.”

Through CBT, Stephen also plans to hold webinars and podcasts, and appear on local radio station, Bayside. For more information see www.cbtnw.co.uk or follow