A brave team of 11 fundraisers will be abseiling the 100 meters down the Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth today (Saturday, May 27) to help raise funds for the Isle of Wight Youth Trust.
The team includes five members of the Youth Trust Taskforce – a group of young people dedicated to ensuring children and young people on the Island have access to the services and support they need – the youngest of whom is just 14 years old.
Joining the youngsters for the abseil are four members of Youth Trust staff, one of the charities Trustees and one of the charities supporters.
Sophia Preston, Youth Trust service team lead, who will also be partaking in today’s event, said: “The courage and determination of those participating in the abseil mirror the qualities that children and young people require when facing mental health challenges.
The Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth (Image: Newsquest)
“There is uncertainty and apprehension when we step out of our comfort zone, and I’m sure, on the day, there will be racing hearts and sweaty palms!
“However, these initial feelings will soon give way to an incredible sense of achievement and fulfilment. The abseilers’ remarkable feat exemplifies the transformative power of confronting fears and embarking on an incredible journey.”
Funds raised through the Spinnaker Tower abseil will directly benefit the IW Youth Trust’s work, including the provision of 1 to 1 counselling services and wellbeing workshops that aim to improve the mental health and wellbeing of young Islanders aged 5-25.
Jo Dare, Youth Trust CEO, said: “The Spinnaker Tower abseil not only presents an incredible opportunity for these individuals to challenge themselves, but it also serves as a powerful symbol of overcoming obstacles.
“We are incredibly grateful for their dedication and determination to raise funds for the IW Youth Trust, enabling us to continue our vital work in supporting young people’s mental health.”
The public is encouraged to show their support for the team of abseilers by donating to the IW Youth Trust HERE.
