As someone who is very passionate about mental health, this charity is a perfect choice for me.

I have battled with my own mental health, and been medicated for most of my adult life, due to past trauma and abuse. I don't share this for sympathy, as I think I have worked through a lot of this and developed some much better coping strategies through therapy and educating myself about how our brains work, but to demonstrate why this means so much to me.

I personally have used the services of the Samaritans in the past, and found them to be invaluable, so would very much like to give something back to them. As a qualified mental health first aider (and someone who shares their birthday with World Mental Health day every year), I want to raise funds and awareness of the vital support services Samaritans provide. And, if by being open and honest about my own battles, this helps someone else feel a little less alone about theirs, then even better!

Many people find it hard to speak openly or ask for help, but talking can be life-saving – whether it's with a colleague, family member, friend or helpline like Samaritans. Every 10 seconds, Samaritans volunteers respond to a call for help. Samaritans are available, for free, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to listen and support people with whatever they are facing, with no judgement. It’s only your kind donations and 23,000 listening volunteers that ensure Samaritans can always be there for anyone struggling to cope. Thank you for your help.