A DIRECTOR from Tunbridge Wells is hiking 96 miles across the lowlands and Highlands of Scotland this month for a mental health charity closer to home.
Mark Foxwell, 40, a Director at Sharp Minds communications, is walking the West Highland Way from Glasgow to Fort William in aid of the suicide prevention charity, PAPYRUS.
According to the Office of National Statistics, the suicide rate for Kent in 2022 is above the national average, with 11.7 per 100,000 people compared to the UK’s average of 10.4 per 100,000 people.
With the continued cost-of-living crisis and continued instability, Mark wants to give back
to those who might be struggling.
“I wanted to support Papyrus and raise awareness of suicide prevention in Kent. I have had my own personal struggles over the years. However, bad times do pass, and things do get better,” said Mark.
The ambitious hiker hopes the solo expedition will take him seven days, starting on May 29 and ending with a climb up Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK at 4,411 feet.
Mark said: “I deliberately chose the walk because you have to travel across the lowlands and into the highlands. This is to remind people that low times in your life do end, things do pass, and you’ll soon find yourself in a higher and better place.”
“More needs to be done to help. My hope is that we, as a community, join together to work towards a zero policy. I hope that my hike builds further awareness and unites us to prevent suicide in Kent,”
Ged Flynn, CEO of Papyrus, said: “We are delighted to have Mark showing his support and raising money for Papyrus.
“It’s people like Mark who can really make a difference to those that need help and support.”
To support Mark’s hike which starts on Monday, May 29, visit, bit.ly/markpapyrus
For practical, confidential suicide prevention help and advice please contact PAPYRUS HOPELINEUK on 0800 068 4141, text 07860 039967 or email pat@papyrus-uk.org
