The sky’s the limit as charity aims high to support mental health in Lancashire

Mental health charity Lancashire Mind is offering an opportunity to feel ‘on top of the world’ with an exhilarating skydive experience. 

Lancashire Mind is offering just 50 places at Black Knights Skydive Centre in Lancaster on the 13 or 20 May as part of their programme of fundraising events to mark Mental Health Awareness Week.  

Mental Health Awareness Week runs from 15-21 May and is the UK’s national week to raise awareness of mental health and mental health challenges and inspire action to promote the message of good mental health for all.   

Lancashire Mind relies on the fundraising of businesses and individuals to continue to provide their services across the county and is encouraging businesses to register teams as a great way of team building, whilst also supporting an important cause.  

Mental ill health costs UK employers approximately £56 billion each year with the total annual cost of mental ill health to employers increasing by 25% since 2019.* 

Fundraising lead Emma Bateson said: “Lancashire businesses have always stepped up and supported us in our fundraising efforts, nominating Lancashire Mind as their charity of the year or getting involved in events like this one, and we’d really like them to step up again. 

“We’ve seen a reduction in our fundraising income of 30 per cent based on the same time last year, while seeing a huge increase in requests for our services, including the workplace training we provide.  

“This event offers the perfect, inclusive way to invigorate your group’s dynamic, open a vital channel for dialogue about mental health and wellbeing, and fulfil your corporate social responsibility objectives.” 

David Dunwell, Lancashire Mind’s new CEO, said: “I have close links with the business community in Lancashire and I know how giving and supportive they are, and I’d ask they show that support once again for Lancashire Mind.  

“Skydiving is one of those activities where you have to put your trust in someone 100% -  to feel the fear and do it anyway.  

“I’d encourage anyone who’s ever thought about doing it to make that leap of faith, to step outside of your comfort zone and help raise vital funds for Lancashire Mind. I know there will be a brilliant atmosphere on the day and I’m sure once your feet are back on the ground the feeling of achievement will be immense.” 

You can find out more information by going to Lancashire Minds website and registering your interest https://bit.ly/skydiveforLM

* https://www2.deloitte.com/content/dam/Deloitte/uk/Documents/consultancy/deloitte-uk-mental-health-report-2022.pdf