Last year, over 200,000 people aged 17 or under were referred to NHS mental health support for anxiety.

That's one young person every three minutes! 👀

These referrals are also double the levels of what they were pre-COVID. 😲

That's why I'm walking 25km, on Saturday 14th September, to raise money for Young Minds, who do so much to support the mental well-being of young people who desperately need it but can't access it on the NHS because the funding and resources just aren't there.

As the morning sun kisses the Putney Bridge, we will zig-zag across the 16 historic bridges along the 25km route. Each of us has our reasons for doing so, with many of us walking with a promise to uplift, heal, and ignite change.

Throughout my life, I’ve experienced the brilliant power of young minds, not only from my children, but also during the pleasure I have of coaching football to U8s up to U18s, and coaching career-starter apprenticeships.

The youth of today are the architects of our future and the custodians of hope. Too often though, life isn't always kind and can throw storms of anxiety, depression, and uncertainty their way.

The thought that these young people will struggle to access the support they need breaks my heart.

That is where Young Minds steps in. 🌟

Young Minds champions the well-being and mental health of children and young people across the UK. They are the lighthouses guiding lost ships through these tempests.

They create change so that every young heart can weather life's adversities, find solace when needed, and ultimately, thrive.

Please sponsor my walk and help Young Minds ensure children and young people get the best possible mental health support, and have the resilience to overcome life’s difficulties.