My name is Jacob Richmond and I’m 9 years old. I currently play football for Glentoran and Rangers Soccer Academy NI. During these strange times that we are living in, I have decided to raise awareness for Children’s Mental Health, by rowing a mile a day for 30 days.  On Monday 15th February I will row a mile every day in order to reach my target of 30 miles in 30 days  

In these times we are living in, children’s mental health is being affected more than people could ever imagine. We aren’t seeing our friends in school, we are missing our teachers.  We aren’t exercising and enjoying our sports, that’s not only good for our fitness but also our Mental Health.  At Christmas I got a rowing machine and I use it daily to keep my fitness levels up, so I have decided to put my training to good use and raise money for a worthwhile charity.   I have chosen to raise money for AWARE NI, as these help young people with depression and mental illness. As well as promote mental health awareness in NI. for people of all ages.

 AWARE is the depression charity for Northern Ireland working for people with depression and bipolar disorder. AWARE has an established network of 24 support groups in rural and urban areas across the country, which are run by trained volunteers. Support groups welcome people with depression & bipolar disorder as well as carers for people with the illness. AWARE deliver mental health & well being programmes into communities, schools, colleges, universities & workplaces across Northern Ireland. For more information visit www.aware-ni.org