This year's fundraising is a little more personal.

Mental health has been a big part of most our lives, especially since the recent years of lock down. It may yourself who has been affected, a loved one, friend or even a work colleague, but at some point it would become part of your life.

For some, mental health has been a struggle for much longer than a couple of years.

My little brother Daniel, a loved brother, son, uncle, grandson, brother in law and friend, has had to deal with his mental health for around 15 years!!

Daniel had tried and tried to seek the help he needed on more than one occasion. He opened up when he could but the help and support he needed just was not readily available to him. Doctors only able to provide medication which does not provide a cure and a long waiting list before any counseling could begin (around 12 - 18 months I believe).

There were times he seem happy and you wouldn't think he was struggling with his mind. Unfortunately mental health, depression and anxiety do not clock off, the thoughts and feelings are always there. Sometimes your are able to put things at bay, focusing on other things and have a good time, but the problems never goes away.

On 18th/19th October 2022, Daniel lost his long fight with mental health and sadly passed away. 

He was 33 years old!!

This has been a difficult decision and we nearly decided not to go ahead with our Annual Halloween Charity Event this year. We don't think he would want that! So instead we will continue as we have done for the past 7 years and we do so in Daniel's Memory.

We love you Daniel, Always in our hearts x

Shout is the UK's only 24/7 text service for anyone struggling to cope with their mental health. We respond to 1,500-2,000 requests for support every day and have taken over 1.5 million conversations with people who are anxious, depressed or suicidal. Every £10 Shout receives can pay for a conversation with someone in crisis, and could save a life.£25 can help us reach disadvantaged communities that most need mental health support.£50 means that five children, young people and adults could receive potentially life-saving help.