Andy, along with far too many others, has lost friends taking their own lives, and the UK has ongoing appalling levels of suicide, among the highest in the world. Of equal alarm are the spiralling levels of mental illness, especially with young people.

Samaritans is the charity that prevents suicide through the power of human connection. Connecting people in crisis with trained volunteers who will always listen. People who've been there before with those struggling now. If you need someone to talk to, Samaritans listen. They won't judge or tell you what to do. Whatever you’re going through, you can call Samaritans free, any time day or night, on 116 123.

As with many charities in these economically tough times, the Samaritans need funding for this vital work. Please donate to the Weymouth One World Group Sponsored Cycle at www.justgiving.org.uk, or directly at www.samaritans.org

Having taught at Wey Valley and Budmouth Schools in Weymouth over 35 years, Andy is acutely aware of the ever-deepening problems faced by young people. Due to poverty, disaffection and mental illness – often linked to the lure of addictive behaviours and self-abuse, lack of opportunity and future aspiration, government cuts to youth services and so little to do in the community – often leading to anti-social behaviour and crime, Weymouth is not a great place to grow up for so many of our youngsters.

Hope House is a Youth, Children’s and Community Centre in Weymouth. A range of youth and children’s groups meet there every week and there are events throughout the year. Hope House is next door to St John’s Church, Greenhill and owned and run by a team of local churches. The aim is to provide a range of transformative services for children, young people and families. The values of Hope House are: Renewing Hope, Sharing Faith and Showing Love. Our aim is to provide a range of transformative services for children, families and young people. To find out more, volunteer, or to donate, visit https://hopehouseweymouth.org or email youth@ramr.church

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