Local Man To Walk Across Scotland To Raise Money For Suicide Charity

A Curdridge man is gearing up for an incredible challenge that he hopes will help prevent suicide in young people.

Last year, Ian Ford’s own son went through a mental health crisis, and Ian found it incredibly difficult to get him the support he needed. Now, Ian is taking on the TGO challenge, a self-supported hike across Scotland, to raise funds for Papyrus UK, a charity aiming to stop suicide in the under 35s.

Ian’s hike will take him from the west to east coast of Scotland, covering approximately 200 miles. The TGO challenge is no small feat – it’s a gruelling hike that requires participants to carry everything they need for the duration of the journey.

But Ian is determined to make a difference. He’s set up a JustGiving page and is hoping to raise as much money as possible to help support Papyrus UK’s important work.

Suicide is the leading cause of death among young people, with 200 school-age children taking their own lives each year. “To lose a child to suicide is devastating to any parent,” Ian said.

“I consider myself very lucky that my son came to me at the 11th hour to ask for help. My aim is to make help and support easier to find by fundraising for Papyrus UK, and hopefully we can help other young adults who are struggling with their mental health and suicidal thoughts.”

Ian’s TGO challenge will take place from May 11th to May 25th. He’s hoping to raise as much money as possible to support Papyrus UK’s important work. If you’d like to support Ian’s efforts, you can visit his JustGiving page at  www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ian-ford187