Ashley only began running a few months ago to improve his fitness, but following the tragic loss of a friend, he wanted to do something more meaningful. Choosing the Mansfield 10k as his first event, he raised £150 for SOS Silence of Suicide – funds that will help break over 100 minutes of silence by supporting the charity’s helpline and group gatherings. 

“I started running to improve my fitness a few months ago and I was in the position where I was ready to take part in my first event and the Mansfield 10k was the perfect one to start with. A few months ago, we lost a friend to suicide due to mental health issues, and I wanted to do something to raise awareness in his name and make this event more personal to me. 

I came across SOS Silence of Suicide and thought what they do was amazing. Only if my friend was aware there were people like this available to offer support, maybe things would be different today. 

I managed to raise £150 which isn’t a lot of money in the grand scheme of things, but this was my first ever fundraiser. To me it was more about raising awareness than cash, which is far more valuable. Having said that, now I have a taste for it I will definitely keep this charity close to me and plan on doing future fundraisers in their name – me and some friends have already started a planning list so watch this space. 

If I had to sum up the whole experience in two words: worth it.” 

Jasmine Nisbett-Gordan, Fundraising Officer at SOS Silence of Suicide, praised Ashley’s efforts: 

“Ashley’s courage to turn such a painful loss into positive action is incredible. His £150 will directly help us break more than 100 minutes of silence – giving people in despair the chance to talk, be heard, and find hope. We are so proud he has chosen to keep SOS close to him, and we’re excited to see what he and his friends plan next. Fundraisers like Ashley are the heartbeat of our charity and help us reach even more people who need support.” 

Ashley has already begun planning future fundraising activities with his friends. His story is a powerful reminder that when we act, we can turn silence into support – and that together, every step, every pound, and every minute counts. 

If Ashley’s journey has inspired you, why not take on your own fundraiser? No idea is too small, and no effort goes unnoticed. Together, we can help ensure that no one has to face mental health struggles or suicide in silence. 

Issued: 18 September 2025