Charity takes on tough challenge

A new initiative to offer support for those struggling with mental health has been launched by a Black Country charity.

Tough Enough to Care offers support and advice to men from all backgrounds and walks of life, offering them a listening ear and understanding when they are finding it difficult to maintain their mental wellbeing.

It has officially launched the campaign to fund its Tough Truck, a mobile van that can travel to events and offer a safe place for support and help for people suffering with mental health issues.

The launch was made to coincide with Suicide Prevention Awareness Day, which founder Stuart Bratt said was a significant day to do the launch on.

He said: “The main reason for the van and for our charity is to reduce suicide numbers, so today went hand in hand with that.

“We are looking to get support to raise money to fund the vehicle to give back to the community to places that don’t get the support and to places that can’t set up support groups.

“It can sometimes be hard for someone to make that first step through the doors of a support group into the unknown, so we’re taking that away and bringing it to somewhere you feel comfortable.”

Stuart said the main aim of the Tough Truck was to beat the stigma around talking about mental health. It was named as an extension of Tough Enough To Care.

The Tough Truck will have a wind out awning and weatherproof lighting and a catering set up for hot and cold refreshments and could be used as a rapid reaction vehicle to support people who are in crisis.

The cost of the truck will be £50,000 and Stuart is keen for people to get involved in helping with fundraising.

To find out more about the Tough Truck and to donate, go to justgiving.com/campaign/toughtruck