Chris has become a charity ambassador for Chester mental health champion ‘Platform for Life’.
Established in 2017, Platform for Life provides adults, children and young people in low-income families with a range of free, easy-to-access therapy support services within their own communities.
“I grew up in Blacon and I recognise the difficulties that can overwhelm low-income families, and the psychological barriers that prevent so many young people from breaking out and fulfilling their potential,” said Chris.
“Too many individuals and families simply can’t see a way out of their current circumstances and that’s where the Platform for Life team can do so much to help.”
Ceri George, CEO, Platform for Life commented: “There’s a strong link between poverty and poor mental health and those most in need of counselling or other therapy support are often the least likely to access help. NHS services are overstretched and only able to support a small number of those who are struggling with poor mental health. It can become a negative cycle that not only affects the individual who is struggling but that of the next generation as well.”
Ceri added: “With his deep personal connection to Blacon it’s wonderful to have Chris on the team to help us increasing awareness of the important work Platform for Life does and raise vital funds to help us do more for more families. He will play a key role in inspiring young people in the communities where we work to believe in themselves and achieve their potential.”
Chris added: “I want to give back to those communities that I was a product of and try to instil that level of belief in those areas where it is absent. If we don’t look after the youth of today or provide them with the chance to fulfil their potential, then who will?”
Chris will be talking to schools and at events, helping to fundraise money for the charity and most importantly, he will be providing support and guidance for children and families suffering from poverty or poor mental health.