AJW Group is proud to support a fundraising initiative by colleagues who recently completed a 152-mile (244km) cycle ride from AJW headquarters in Slinfold, West Sussex, to Leicester in a single day, raising vital funds for YoungMinds Trust.

 

The challenge was organised by Wayne Higgins, 145 Inspector at AJW's HQ Warehouse operations in Slinfold, alongside four colleagues and family friends. The team undertook the demanding journey in memory of Wayne's daughter, Lily, who tragically took her own life last year at the age of 18. The ride was dedicated to raising awareness and funds for YoungMinds Trust, a leading charity providing mental health support to young people and their families across the UK.

 

‘It means so much to me to have ridden so far with such amazing people, who all wanted to do this in memory of my daughter, Lily,’ Wayne shared. ‘If our ride, raising money for YoungMinds, helps one person, one family, and can prevent someone feeling the way that Lily did, then we all would be happy.’

 

YoungMinds delivers essential support within secondary schools, colleges, and universities, helping young people navigate difficult periods in their lives. The charity has also recently launched a dedicated parent support line, offering guidance and assistance to parents, carers, and families seeking help.

 

‘We are deeply moved by the dedication and courage shown by Wayne and the team,’ said Clyde Buntrock, Chief Executive Officer, AJW Group. ‘This challenge represents not only an impressive physical achievement, but a meaningful commitment to supporting mental health in our communities. AJW is honoured to support such an important cause and to stand alongside Wayne during this time.’

 

Cyclists Wayne Higgins, Alex Turner, Jacob Briggs, Simon Bryant, and Steve Norman, along with family friends Tim Canham and Pete Trott, completed the journey with strong support from Wayne's partner Toni, AJW Logistics Operations Manager Erin Kenward, and Paul, Simon Bryant's father. ‘We wouldn't have been able to do it without them,’ Wayne said.

 

‘Lily's death has affected many people and the way they view mental health,’ Wayne reflected. ‘She would have been happy to see just how many people care. You are never alone.’

 

Supporting Mental Health

The ride highlights an important message: young people may struggle silently, and sometimes they cannot talk to parents, family, or friends about what they are facing. AJW encourages anyone affected by mental health concerns to reach out to YoungMinds or other support services.

 

Donations to support this cause can be made via the team's Just Giving page. Every contribution will directly support YoungMinds' vital work in schools, colleges, and universities across the UK.

 

For more information about YoungMinds and their services, including the parent support line, visit www.youngminds.org.uk