The risk of suicide in men aged 24 years or younger, who have left the military, is 2–3 times greater than that in the same age group in both the general male population and in men still serving in the Armed Forces. Some of these suicides may be as a result of the struggle against the symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

The Institute for Countryside and Angling Research Projects (ICARP) is being formulated after six years of research into the beneficial effects of angling on military veterans with PTSD. The premise behind the idea is that by bringing together groups of veterans who have shared experiences, and who may also be struggling with the effects of the traumas they have faced, they can begin to bond, discuss their experiences and help support each other on their way to recovery. This has been found to be easier away from the more formal styles of therapy. We therefore built in another important element of the work which is the time spent outside in nature, away from the stressors of modern day life. We created an experience whereby military veterans can be taken fishing for 48 hours alongside their colleagues.

The research itself has been based at the University of Essex, set in the super garrison town of Colchester. The University will continue to support the work through a minimum of another further three years of research. Lead researchers Mark Wheeler (NHS) and Dr Nick Cooper are currently setting up a Community Interest Company (CIC) to continue running the events whereby the survivors of trauma can begin to recover through the group experience of two day one night fishing trips. To date the research has been funded by a small university grant, generous donations and also by the researchers themselves. We are now asking for help to continue this effective and extremely important work. We have opportunities to continue these trips on a regular basis but we need funding to help us cover the costs. We are looking at running an extended week long trip to France later this year and, if we can raise the funds, we will be making a documentary on the trip for TV release to increase awareness. Please help us to help those that have given so much.