Over the last two years the pandemic has hit badly so many communities, none more so than children and young adults. They have had to deal with incredible disruption to their education and many have missed out on the chance of exploring the world and communities around them to develop their confidence and resilience. The Sea Cadets  is a fantastic UK national youth charity that gives children and teenagers the chance to feel more confident, become part of a team, build skills and develop positive motivational habits through outdoor adventure, training and qualifications.

In late April I, along with my two fantastic team mates, Sam Slota-Newson and Tom Fothergill, will be taking part in the 2022 Patrouille des Glaciers. And I plan to take part to raise money for the Shirley Sea Cadet Unit , one of the best Sea Cadet Units in the Midlands. 

The Patrouille des Glaciers is one of the most demanding team races in the world. Organised every two years by the Swiss Army, the event is a ski mountaineering race for teams of three between Zermatt and Verbier. We will cover over 35 miles and ascend over 4000m in less than 24 hours – all while skiing at times roped together in the dark. 

Shirley Sea Cadets  gives children and teenagers from south Birmingham the chance to develop their confidence and motivation, become valued members of their communities and overcome challenges. Like many charities, the Sea Cadets has been negatively impacted by the pandemic and their ability to support and develop young people has been affected. One in five teenagers are now shockingly experiencing mental health problems like anxiety and depression. And the widening gap between rich and poor is seeing huge numbers of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds being shut out of opportunities because they cost too much. Shirley Sea Cadets allows children and teenagers from all walks of life the chance to grow strength and resilience and develop new skills all in a safe adventurous environment.

 

Please do donate what you can, to help children and teenagers develop their confidence, build new skills and contribute positively to their community.