Becca Maule, 16, from Salisbury has been keenly involved in helping to improve local mental health services and access to them. She is a member of Oxford Health’s Banes, Swindon and Wiltshire CAMHS Participation team, and earlier in the summer fronted a series of short films that encourage other young people to try digital consultations.

Now she has made a different personal commitment: in the end of September she had her blond locks shaven off in order to raise funds for the Samaritans. Her target is £1,000 and in just over a week from the haircut, she’s very nearly there with over £900 raised (at the time of writing.)

Becca says she shaved her head because “every person deserves to be listened to.” It is a fitting message as we are approaching the World Mental Health, October 10.

Becca shaved her head for Samaritans “because everyone deserves to be listened to.”

Becca says: “Mental health and suicide have touched my life in a number of ways. Dealing with mental health problems myself and having my dad take his life has given me an insight into the struggles so many people face in silence. The Samaritans offer a listening ear when someone is in crisis and help save so many lives.

“By donating you’re potentially helping save a life and begin someone’s recovery to a better life. 1 in 4 people have a mental health problem, and with services and the NHS underfunded, people find themselves in crisis situations and don’t know who to turn to. The Samaritans run a 24/7 service that could provide the help someone desperately needs.”

As for her new look, Becca says: “I actually really like it!! It was so liberating cutting it all off!”

If you’d like to help Becca reach her target and support the Samaritans, you can do so on her Just giving page

The Samaritans offer a safe place for you to talk any time you like, in your own way, about whatever is getting to you. They won’t judge you or tell you what to do – they’ll listen to you. They are free to call on 116 123.  

See also:

Becca and Aaron champion online consultations