A West Mercia Police officer has told how he took part in a fundraising hike through the Lake District to give back to a mental health charity that supported him.

PC Rich Edward walked 13 miles over eight summits in the Langdales in the Lake District in aid of Climbing Out, a UK-based charity that helps people rebuild their confidence, self-esteem and motivation following a life-changing illness, injury or trauma. 

Rich wanted to raise funds to ensure the organisation could support others who are struggling with their mental health as well as creating awareness of the charity.

“In 2021 I suffered a bit of a breakdown as a result of things that were happening in my family life at home and experiences at work that I’ve had,” he said.

“I had a referral from work to Climbing Out as part of my recovery process.

PC Rich Edward walked 13 miles over eight summits in Lake District.

“So I went away with them in 2022 on one of their five-day programmes, which looks at all-round mental resilience.

“I came away with a change of outlook on life. I found it inspirational.

“Since then I’ve continued going away with Climbing Out and they do one-day walk and talks during the year, which are great.

“I felt this - their annual fundraising hike - was an opportunity to give something back, to allow people to receive the same level of support we have, and to raise awareness of the charity.”

Rich added: “It started off okay. It was dry and close, so quite warm going up the first summit but as soon as we got to the top the cloud came in.

“We had clouds and mist and rain for most of the rest of the day. The waterproofs were on.

“It was good to be out and I quite like the feeling of rain on your face.”

Rich is sharing his story ahead of World Mental Health Day on Tuesday (10 October) and is encouraging other officers to look after their mental health.

He said: “Climbing Out is a fantastic charity.

“It’s for people that have suffered trauma as a result of illness, injury or an event, so it could be domestic violence survivors, people diagnosed with life-changing illness, military veterans and members of the emergency services.

“They support people by taking them outside and pushing them out of their comfort zone a little bit and giving them coaching around mental resilience.

“It’s to motivate them to be able to climb out of that hole they find themselves in. They’re throwing a rope to people who have experienced life-changing experiences.”

He added: “If you’re struggling with your mental health then don’t suffer in silence. There’s help and support available.”

Rich, who undertook another Climbing Out hike this weekend in Glencoe in Scotland, said they were in preparation for another challenge he’s taking in the Alps next year.

“We’re going in July to do the Haute route,” he said.

“It’s to try to push you that little bit further to build your mental resilience and try to motivate people to get out there and start living their lives again.”

You can support Rich’s hike on his JustGiving fundraising page.