The Hike with Mike Foundation was officially set up by a Nottingham resident in November 2020 to help tackle mental health struggles.
The foundation aims to raise funds to help fight the ongoing battle against mental health challenges, loneliness and isolation, subjects that are particularly important following the difficult events of the past year.
The charity was set up my Mike Jennings from West Bridgford whom feels passionately about the subjects after sadly losing 2 loved ones to suicide following their mental health struggles. He hopes that locals will join the hikes for some fun outdoor social activities whilst supporting individuals in need through fundraising.
Every day in the UK, 18 people choose to take their own lives, that’s 18 people who feel that their only option is to no longer remain on this planet. Suicide is and remains the biggest cause of death for males aged under 45.
The Hike with Mike Foundation is here to break down these barriers, to remove the stigmas associated with mental illness, to show that there is light at the end of the tunnel, to be that shoulder to cry on, to be the ears that listen and the heart that will never judge you.
Charity trustee, Natalie Degg from Clifton said, “Our charity aims to bring people together on organised local walks and hikes to support those suffering from loneliness, mental illness or even post lockdown isolation. In doing these walks and hikes we will charge a small fee with funds going towards helping those that need access to mental health resources.
“It is a subject very close to both mine and the founder’s heart. We want to break down barriers and remove the stigmas surrounding this subject and help people get the support and funding they need.”
The Hike with Mike Foundation have been featured on BBC Radio Nottingham and BBC News East Midlands Today and have even had some celebrities show their support. The foundation has even sold some of their first merchandise (with more to come spring 2021), the funds made will be going towards supporting mental health resources.
The concept is simple, throughout the year they will be organising a number of walks and hikes. These days out provide a way to meet new people, to network with locals, to find new friends and are a great excuse to explore the outdoors whilst simultaneously helping to raise funds for individuals with mental health challenges.
Whatever your reason, The Hike with Mike Foundation would love for you to join them! Each event charges a small fee of around £10 with all funds going towards supporting those who need help but are not able to access it via the NHS.
Want to know more? Follow their Facebook Page: ‘The Hike With Mike Foundation’ or Instagram: @thehikewithmikefoundation to register your interest. Here you can find out when the next hikes will take place following government guidelines and the easing of current lockdown restrictions.