The reality of mental health in Lancashire

Complete Online Solutions CEO Tom Smith will climbing Kilimanjaro in October to raise vital funds for Lancashire Mind. 

Tom was named a Lancashire Mind Ambassador last year, thanks to his passion for promoting positive well-being in Lancashire and years of fundraising for the charity, including Complete Online Solutions' 15 year charity ball and the team completing Tough Mudder.

In his role, he has continued to encourage people to speak out through community events, fundraising, and advocacy for the charity’s events. 

Tom has seen first hand the effects that mental health can have, as he very sadly lost a close friend to suicide. This experience has significantly affected Tom and driven his passion for ensuring that no one has to suffer in silence with their mental health.

Mental health is something we all have, and it shapes how we think, feel and cope with everyday life. Like our physical health, it can fluctuate over time. There are times when we feel resilient and well, and times when we may struggle. For some people, these struggles can develop into mental health conditions that require support and understanding.

Unfortunately, the stigma around mental health still exists. We all have a responsibility to challenge negative opinions around mental health and encourage people to speak out, in the hope of reducing stigma and raising vital awareness. 

According to Lancashire Mind, currently, up to 400,000 people in Lancashire are living with a mental health condition and Lancashire ranks among the ten wors performing areas for NHS mental health services, while suicide rates in Lancashire are higher than the UK average.

Tom’s Kilimanjaro challenge will take several days, trekking through multiple climate zones and battling extreme altitude, cold temperatures and long summit days to reach the top - Uhuru Peak, known as the Roof of Africa.

As part of this challenge, he has organised a premium brunch event, Mind Over Mountain, where all net proceeds will be donated to Lancashire Mind through his fundraising page. 

Join him for an afternoon of great food, live entertainment, inspiring stories and meaningful connections, all in support of Lancashire Mind on Friday 11 September 2026, from 12.30 pm until 4.30 pm.

Secure your tickets now.