The Cause

This challenge is motivated by a recent and tragic loss of somebody close. My friend and his family experienced the heartbreaking passing of their 23-year-old Jonathon in April 2024. Those close to the Bailey family know that Jonathan had an extremely tough battle with his mental health for much of his young life.

This devastating news has driven me to take action to raise awareness and funds for a charity that supports those going through mental health and addiction struggles.

The Challenge

The 23km open ocean swim will take place in June/July 2025 starting from Hartland Point and ending at Croyde Bay in North Devon. The exact date is dependant on the weather. The event aims to raise awareness and funds for the Forward Trust, which provides life-changing services for individuals facing mental health challenges and addiction. The swim will see myself challenged in the long-distance 23km non stop open ocean course. Strong tidal currents and swell add to the challenge with the goal to raise £2000 to support the charity’s programs.

The Forwards Trust

The Forward Trust are the charity that supports people to break the often interlinked cycles of mental health, crime and addiction to move forward with their lives. For more than 25 years we have been working with people to build positive and productive lives, whatever their past. We believe that anyone is capable of lasting change. Our services have supported thousands of people to make positive changes and build productive lives with a job, family, friends and a sense of community.