You can help change a young person's life

On 15th September 2024 a team of riders will be cycling 55 miles from London to Brighton to help raise money to change young people's lives.

According to the national figures, there are now 1,600 young people aged 13-18 with a probable mental health disorder, living in Gravesham. 75% will not be able to access the support they need. With 200 young people a year entering this age bracket, we must now unite as a community to meet the ever-increasing demand, year on year - the NHS simply cannot possibly cope with these numbers.

The Elliott Holmes Memorial Fund has partnered with local BACP counsellors to provide funding and fast, direct access to mental health counselling for young people living in Gravesham. Since April 2022 we approved funding and referred over 140 young people, nearly all booked in within 48 hours. We already have the vehicle and counsellors in place to take this figure up to 150 in 2024 - all we need is the additional funding to maximise the number of young people we can help.

The London to Brighton team is helping to raise £3,000 to fund counselling for at least 6 of these young people. Helping to change a young person's life is probably the best investment you'll ever make. We are a 100% voluntary organisation, supported by two small grants to cover running costs. All money raised by the community goes directly to fund counselling.

The Elliott Holmes Memorial Fund was set up by his parents after Elliott Holmes from Gravesend took his own life at just 19. He struggled with his mental health for 8 years and never received even one counselling session.

We thank you for your support.