On the 13th July 2022, Zachary (13) and Jacob (9) lost their daddy, Ian. He was just 42. As well as a father, he was an adored family member, friend and exceptional business intellect who had only recently graduated from London Business School with an EMBA.

Ian's mental health had deteriorated in his final months, and he took his own life.

The family are raising funds in Ian's name to help and support other men; dads, brothers, fathers, sons and grandfathers, seeking therapeutic help for mental health.

One in eight men in the UK will suffer from poor mental health at some point in their lives and talking, or seeking counselling, is not always simple or affordable. This remembrance campaign aims to help support more men in gaining access to counselling support.

This will be possible by working with the Tunbridge Wells Counselling Centre, a community based charity, established over 32 years ago, to offer highly professional, accredited and affordable counselling to those who may not otherwise be able to access it. They offer a counselling service which is rarely available via the NHS. Their highly trained volunteers support 200+ people per week, with a broad range of concerns, to improve mental health and wellbeing. The Centre was of significant importance to Ian as he played an active role in supporting its growth; from strategic advice to practical help around the centre.

Every pound raised in Ian's memory will form the Ian Hart Memorial Fund and be used by Tunbridge Wells Counselling Centre to fund and subsidise counselling sessions for men in need of mental health care*.

Six counselling sessions costs on average £240. We have set the 'target' of £5,000 but do not see this as having a limit; the more men we can help, the better.

Please give generously and pass this on. We welcome messages left with each donation.

*For more details about the support please email liz.pearce@thecounsellingcentre.org.uk.