Healthcare workers to skydive for charity to raise awareness of mental health support

RDaSH's Lottie (left) is pictured with Jemma (right).

TWO healthcare workers are taking the plunge for charity – by jumping out of a plane from 15,000 feet to raise awareness of mental health issues and the support available.

Jemma Hall (30) and Charlotte Weinberg (29) are both communications and engagement officers for Rotherham, Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust’s Talking Therapies service.

The daring duo are braving a skydive in the hope their efforts will raise awareness and spread the word about the free mental health support available to those who may be struggling with depression or anxiety.

The pair have teamed up with a local radio station’s Cash for Kids charity for the jump, which will take place at Scunthorpe’s Hibaldstow Airfield on Sunday, September 24.

Jemma said: “As communications and engagement officers for NHS Talking Therapies in Doncaster, Rotherham and North Lincolnshire, we know that poverty, disability and quality of life can have a big impact on mental health.

“We’re seeing that the cost-of-living crisis is having a real impact on wellbeing.

“So, we hope to raise plenty of money for the incredible Cash for Kids charity, while raising awareness of mental health and the support our service can provide to anyone who may be struggling with theirs.

“Cash for Kids support children and families living locally.

“All the cash that is raised in our area stays in our area, with a focus on alleviating those issues that can contribute to poor mental health.”

Lottie said: “I am absolutely terrified to be jumping out of a plane, but I am very excited to be doing this to raise money for such a worthwhile charity while promoting the work of Talking Therapies, which Jem and I are so passionate about.”

To donate, head to www.bit.ly/CashForKidsJemNLotte.

The NHS Doncaster and Rotherham service offers free talking therapies for anyone over 18 who is struggling with a common mental health problem.

A range of treatments are available via telephone, face to face and online. You can self-refer to the service online at talkingtherapies.rdash.nhs.uk or by calling the Doncaster team on 03000 211 556 or the Rotherham team on 03000 215 108.