A few years ago, I lost a second friend to suicide. For some time, I was planning my own trip to process that loss. My friend was a keen skater, and we bought our boards together on the North Coast. So, I planned to skateboard the Wild Atlantic Way when I was ready. I want to open up about what I’m doing, to try and spread awareness for suicide & suicide loss, and highlight how severely underfunded the UK and Ireland are in supporting those struggling with mental illness. The Samaritans answer a potentially life saving call every ten seconds- and just ten pounds can help make this happen.

I can’t change the past, and the loved ones I’ve lost, but I’d like to try and help make a positive impact on the future, helping to break the taboo around suicide and mental illness, and helping to bring us together as a community to provide better support to those struggling.

In 2023, there was an average of 19 suicides per day, and 1 in 5 people are said to have suicidal thoughts- which means you probably have friends, or are related to someone, who has felt that way.

Samaritans are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to listen and support people with whatever they are facing, with no judgement. It’s your kind donations and 23,000 volunteers that mean Samaritans are always there for anyone struggling to cope.

So, if you’re willing, please push out this message and donate what you can. Every penny makes a difference. Thanks so much for being here & a part of this.