Woking Mind Launches Skydive to Mark World Mental Health Day 2021

Mental health charity Woking Mind are launching a skydiving event to mark World Mental Health Day on Sunday 10th October 2021. Prioritising mental health has never been more important that it is today. Over a fifth of people in Britain have experienced symptoms of depression, which is double the pre-pandemic figure, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

The idea of skydiving was inspired by local students, Amelia Richardson and Sophie Hounsell, who recently completed their tandem skydives in aid of Woking Mind last month. Originally from Woking but studying at Exeter University, the students dedicated their jumps to raise vital awareness of the help that is available for people struggling with their mental health.

“I feel strongly about the awareness and help needed for mental health support, especially recently, as I have struggled with my mental health and so have a lot of people close to me. I understand how hard it can be for some people especially if they aren’t lucky enough to have support from friends and family,” said Amelia Richardson.

The event has been organised in association with Skydive Buzz, one of the UK’s leading parachute schools, based at Dunkeswell Airfield, Honiton. The adrenaline-fuelled experience includes views of both the north and south coast and a canopy ride above the Blackdown Hills, before landing onto the dedicated drop zone.

Tony Bennett, Chief Executive at Woking Mind said “Access to good quality support services is critical than ever before and whilst we’re doing all we can to meet significant demand, we can do even more.

That’s why I will also be doing my bit to help raise vital funds to ensure that anyone in Surrey has somewhere to turn to.”

Tony will be joined by Mandy Dhingra, Marketing & Fundraising Director at Woking Mind, to jump out of a plane from 15,000 feet in the sky. The event on Saturday 10th October is also open to members of the public who are interested in doing a tandem skydive to raise funds.

Mandy Dhingra, Marketing & Fundraising Director at Woking Mind said, “For many, skydiving is about facing your fears, but it can also have a deeper sense of achievement by helping you develop the confidence to face fears in other walks of life too.

We are very excited about partnering with Skydive Buzz to offer this adrenaline fuelled experience to anyone who want to challenge themselves whilst raising awareness and funds for mental health support services across Surrey”.

To find out about participating in a tandem skydive on Saturday 10th October 2021, visit their website: www.wokingmind.org.uk/sky-dive

If you or someone you know is feeling lonely, anxious, or struggling with their mental health, reach out to Woking Mind on 07860 340 739. You may also visit their website for more information at www.wokingmind.org.uk.