I will be embarking on a very strenuous trek on the Inca trail in Peru in April this year to raise vital funds for the Olive Branch Counselling Service which provides long and short term affordable counselling in the Winchester and surrounding areas.

I will be joining a group organized by Discover Adventure to trek on Inca paved paths and steps (lots of them!). The route takes us through lush rain forest to the demanding Dead Woman's Pass up to 4200 meters continually climbing or dropping down. The way is steep at times and altitude adds to the challenge, finally ending at the iconic Sun Gate overlooking Machu Picchu.

I originally worked as a volunteer for Olive Branch as a counsellor, later as Assistant Head of Counselling and Trustee and I am proud to have been part of this organization providing mental health support to anyone in need. The aim is to expand the service so as to be able support more people in the local area and beyond. Approximately one in four people in UK will experience a mental health problem each year and sadly those numbers are on the rise. With extra financial  help Olive Branch can help more people to overcome the struggle of living with a mental health issue.

Here is a link to the Olive Branch webpage : https://www.theolivebranch.org.uk/about-us/

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