This October, I am taking on a simple challenge: walking one mile every day throughout the month to raise funds for the South Wales Police Youth Trust (SWPYT).

But for me, this is about much more than walking.

During my year as High Sheriff of West Glamorgan, I had the privilege of attending many meetings and events where I saw first-hand the work of the South Wales Police Youth Trust and the support it provides to organisations working with our young people.

It strengthened something I have always believed: as a community, we achieve far more when we work together including working closely with our police and other authorities and when we, as adults, take responsibility for the example we set for the next generation.

Young people need more than protection from negative influences.

They need opportunities, encouragement, positive role models, creativity, belonging and people who believe in them.

That is why the work supported by SWPYT matters so much to me.

Through the Trust, volunteers and community organisations are able to create positive experiences for young people; places where they can discover their abilities, develop confidence, learn values, contribute to their communities and simply have the opportunity to be young in a safe and encouraging environment.

I believe that when we invest in our young people, we are investing in the future of our whole community.

We are helping young people grow not only in skills and confidence, but also in character, compassion, responsibility and hope; hope for themselves, hope for their future and hope for the communities they will one day help to lead.

So, throughout October, I will be putting one foot in front of the other, one mile a day and I would love you to support me.

Your donation, however large or small, will help SWPYT continue supporting the volunteers and organisations creating these opportunities for young people.

Every step represents an investment in a brighter future.

Thank you for walking this journey with me; whether literally, by joining me for a mile, or by supporting the campaign with a donation.

Together, let's make a difference for our young people. 💙