After an incredibly tough year and as the nation begins to readjust to life without pandemic restrictions, this campaign aims to remind us all we already have the skills to start a conversation with someone who needs help, giving them the confidence to act. By trusting our instincts, if something doesn't feel right, a little small talk and a simple question or a sign you care can be all it takes to interrupt someone's suicidal thoughts and help set them on the journey to recovery.

Having volunteered for at Central London Samaritans for about 16 years I stopped about 8 years ago when career and life were leaving little space for my volunteering. I always intended to go back. Last year, thinking about the impact of the pandemic and so much anger & hate being expressed in our society it felt like the right time to resume volunteering as a Samaritan. 

The pandemic has also caused me to reflect on my health & fitness, and my responsibility to the environment. Uncharacteristically I have taken up cycling as my primary mode of transport. Since my motto has always been "minimum exertion - maximum exhilaration" this is quite a change. Signing up for this 55 mile cycle was a moment of madness when the furthest I had cycled was 5.5 miles - my usual distances are now 5-12 miles. Please donate to help drive me on. Make it impossible for me to do anything other than reach the finishing line.