Whitley Bay to Blackpool: charity walker nears finish in mental health fundraiser

Friday, 20 June 2025 11:12

By news@central.radio

An inspiring charity walker is just days away from completing a gruelling coast-to-coast trek to raise funds for a Cumbrian mental health charity supporting children and young people.

Michael Wise is currently on day six of his journey from Whitley Bay to Blackpool, with just 40 miles remaining. He is expected to reach the Lancashire coast by Saturday, completing a heartfelt mission in aid of PAC (Parents And Children Together) – a Carlisle-based charity that offers free face-to-face therapy to children and young people across Cumbria.

PAC provides one-to-one mental health and emotional support for children and teenagers dealing with anxiety, trauma, depression and other difficulties. As mental health services across the UK face unprecedented demand, PAC’s work remains a lifeline for struggling families – and Michael’s effort aims to keep that help accessible and free.

“This charity walk is not only a huge personal challenge but also a heartfelt effort to raise awareness and funds,”

“Every bit of publicity helps us to spread the word and keep these vital services free for families.”

Michael’s journey has already captured attention along the route, with updates shared by the charity on social media under the handle @APMLIVE. The hope is that this final stretch will bring a final fundraising push and renewed public awareness of children’s mental health needs in rural areas like Cumbria.

For those wanting to support or follow Michael’s journey, donations and updates are available via PAC’s online platforms.

Here is the donation page: https://www.justgiving.com/page/apmlive-coast2coast130

Michael is expected to arrive in Blackpool on Saturday, marking the end of a walk that spans over 130 miles – but the start, he hopes, of a wider conversation around mental health support for young people.