‘Tommy to No. 10’ walk for veterans’ mental health
Military veterans, forces’ families and their supporters are to collectively walk 270miles to raise awareness of mental health and veterans’ suicide.
At least 50 walkers will make the five-mile return journeyfromtheTommystatue in Seaham to Nose’s Point further south, achieving the combined 270-mile target.
The collective mileage represents the distance between Tommy and Downing Street.
The volunteers and campaigners will meet beside Tommy on Sunday, October 17, at 10.30am for a short service to remember 59 veterans to lose their lives to suicide in 2021.
Organiser David McKenna launched the Fight of Our Lives campaign in February calling for more support to tackle the hidden epidemic of suicide b veterans.
The campaign achieved some of its main aims. A Government announcement was made last week stating that veteran suicide figures with be officially recorded for the first time.
Their other successes include the establishment of the EastDurhamVeterans’Trust, whichprovidesmentalhealth support, counselling and rapid intervention for local veterans in distress.
David McKenna, a former colour sergeant with the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, explained the purpose and meaning behind the walk.
He said: “A collective walk is a simple way to promote good mental health through light exercise, socialisation and a shared goal.
“These events have multiple purposes, commemorating and remembering those who have lost their lives to suicide, promoting good mental health, and raising awareness that our campaign continues to improve mental health services available to veterans.”
AndyCammissservedwith theRoyalSignalsandfounded
East Durham Veterans’ Trust based at Dawdon Community Centre.
He added: “East Durham Veterans’ Trust formed due to the unmet need for organised veteran mental health support. In our first full year, we established a walk-in hub, startedonetoonecounselling sessions,maintainedaregular programme of activities and events, while also fundraisingthroughparachutejumps, sponsored sports events, and the sale of charity merchandise.”