A teenager from Beverley challenged himself to swim three kilometres every day in February to raise money for a charity supporting people with their mental health.
Dan Stevens, a 17-year-old Year 13 student at Beverley Joint Sixth Form, swam 84 kilometres in aid of Mental Health UK, a charity whose work Dan says is more important than ever.
The three kilometres daily target added up to 120 lengths of the pool at East Riding Leisure Beverley and this was in addition to Dan’s training with the Beverley Barracudas Swimming Club, which takes up six night per week.
Dan, who has twice qualified to compete at a national level, said the challenge is his way of contributing to charity while getting people talking about their mental health.
“I know that a lot of people feel reluctant to talk about their own mental health,” said Dan.
“Despite growing awareness, there’s still a stigma around the subject. That’s why Mental Health UK is such a vital organisation, especially in the times we’re living in, coming out of a pandemic and straight into a cost-of-living crisis.
“Mental Health UK offers support and information to people who might otherwise have nowhere to turn for help, so it’s a great charity to support.
“And at the same time, I hope I’m helping to show people that it’s not just OK to ask for help with mental health, it’s essential.”
Many of Dan’s friends, family and fellow swimmers pledged to his fundraising bid and he raised £653.
“I’d recommend swimming to anyone who wants to improve their mental and physical health,” said Dan.
“I’ve been a member of the Beverley Barracudas since I was 10, so it’s great to be able to spend some extra time in the pool to support a cause that helps so many people.”
