My name is Barry Calder, and this July I’m taking on a challenge that means more to me than words can say.

Over five days, I will walk the distance of five marathons, visiting every operational police station across Merseyside Police, all to raise funds for two incredible charities: Hope’s Help and Police Care UK.

Each step I take is for those who’ve suffered — physically, emotionally, and silently — after facing unthinkable trauma.

Why I’m Walking

After serving more than 30 years with the Metropolitan Police, much of it as a Specialist Firearms Command MO19 Armed Response Operational Firearms Commander and Medic and latterly as a Venue Protection Officer for the Royal Family, I witnessed the best and worst of humanity.

I was there during IRA bombings, the Westminster Bridge attack, and so many countless high risk incidents. Those moments never really leave you.

I retired and then later joined Merseyside Police as a PCSO, I wanted to continue serving my community.

While still in training in July 2024, I was one of the first responders to the Southport attack.

Using my medic training from my previous role and a medics trauma kit I still always carry, I helped save the life of a child that day.

Along with the Families who lost Children, the surviving Children, their Families, the very many amazing members of the public who helped and the other emergency services that attended, that day will haunt me forever. Words can never describe what we saw and faced and for may of us, it’s too painful to explain.

That experience reminded me just how heavy the invisible weight of trauma can be. For many of us, the hardest wounds to heal are the ones people don't see.

Who I’m Supporting

Hope’s Help – an inspirational charity founded by a remarkable young girl and her family in 2020. Despite personal heartbreak being directly affected by the Southport attack, they continue to dedicate themselves to helping others in the community and supporting Alder Hey Children’s Hospital.

Police Care UK – a vital charity supporting officers and staff affected by physical or psychological trauma sustained in the line of duty. Their support has helped me with my PTSD, and many like me, find strength and recovery after the hardest days of service.

A Message That Matters

This walk isn’t just about fundraising — it’s about raising awareness of trauma and mental health.

Across the emergency services, too many of us carry pain silently. It’s time we changed that.

I walk to say:

“Reaching out for support is not a sign of weakness — it’s an act of strength.”

How You Can Help

• Donate whatever you can — it will go to these two charities. Money raised will be split 75% to Hopes Help and 25% to Police Care UK.

• Please share this page and help spread the message that no one should struggle alone.

• Join me for part of the walk if you’re able, and walk beside those who dedicate their lives to helping others.

Together, we can turn pain into purpose — and make hope stronger than trauma.

Thank you for reading, for caring, and for standing with me.

Every step I take will carry the strength of your support.

– Barry Calder

Walk Dates: 6 – 10 July 2024

Route: All Merseyside Police stations to Rose Hill HQ

Beneficiaries: Hope’s Help & Police Care UK