96 for 96 Challenge

Three out of four suicides in the UK are still of males. 96 males die by suicide each and every week in the UK, a number which could well increase, with the cost of living crisis, increasing pressure on those already struggling. Stigma and preconditioned cultures are still taking the lives of our loved ones and with the healthy system unable to keep up with demand, third sector charities, CIC and social enterprises are a vital necessity, if we are to ever finally reduce the horrific statistics around male suicide.

Therefore I am raising money for charities who have literally saved the lives of guys, and the disabled, from all around the UK, providing a safe and non judgemental space, where they can gain the help and support so desperately needed and yet, so often not given. Seans Place, The Jordan Legacy  and Ripple Suicide Prevention , were founded following losing loved ones to Suicide and there are four very special people I know, who have lost sons and brothers to suicide, therefore, this challenge is dedicated to their memory and all those who felt they had no other option. Through our memories, you will forever live on.

What is the challenge?
The #96for96 challenge will take place during Mens Health and Loneliness Awareness weeks, specifically over the weekend of 18th/19th June, which will see me covering 96km of the Ridgeway National Trail in my wheelchair, in only two days! It is to raise awareness of suicide amongst males, how debilitating loneliness and isolation is and to continue the fight against stigma around mental ill health and disability, whilst promoting accessibility and inclusion.

Who are you?

I am a speaker and campaigner of men's mental health and disability, who served 14yrs in the Army and founded a men's mental health peer support group when Covid first started, so I could help and support the local guys. I have a spinal injury, resulting in my experiencing chronic pain 24/7 and I now rely on a powered wheelchair to get me around. I am a suicide survivor, who manages PTSD and Depression daily, but the loneliness and isolation brought about by Covid, in addition to the chronic pain, led me to experience suicidal ideation throughout 2021. I never "wanted" to die, I simply couldn't see any other option and I know how debilitating and tough Loneliness is.

Who is the money for?

The money raised will be split up amongst;

I will be sharing videos of my speaking to each of the above, so you can hear from them directly on what they do, how they help and what the money would mean to them and those they help, so keep an eye out on here and social media for it by following #96for96.

A HUGE thanks to those businesses sponsoring me, who without there generosity, belief and passion for mental health and disability, this challenge wouldn't be possible.