PTSD999

We have two further fully funded Mental Health First Aid England courses available for serving Emergency Services only.

Apply Now to be in which a chance to being offered a course. (Links in comments)

Dates and Times

August 10th and 11th
0900-1630 each day

September 14th and 15th
0900-1630 each day

Delivered online via MS Teams.

*Must attend both days
*Must provide Emergency Services email address for verification

This weekend we funded training for another cohort of Emergency Service Workers in MHFA England® Full 2 day course.

These amazing delegates gave up their own time to enhance their skills to the benefit of the organisations they are employed by.

We would like to Thank all 16 of you for your passion and drive to help others.

It makes everything we do at PTSD999 even more worthwhile knowing we have amazing people like you.

Keep following for some exciting news on further course opportunities and a fundraising project you can sign up to, to help us continue to support our amazing Emergency Service Workers.

A Massive Thank You to our official training Partners at L.E.T.S ( Lived Experience Training Services) for yet another successful course

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Another Busy Weekend for our CEO.

Firstly he was at a fundraising event by the freemasons (Hornchurch) which raised almost £1000 for our Charity.

This was followed by a visit to meet the Blue Knights who were hosting a ride out and fundraiser which yielded another £350 (part of an ongoing campaign).

Thanks to Everyone that supported us at both events.

We had over 60 applications for our July Mental Health First Aid England course.

We didn't expect so much interest.

So, we are pleased to announce we will be extending our training offer.

Stay tuned for information about our courses in August and September.

The best way to be kept updated is to sign up to our email subscription via our website . www.ptsd-999.com

Thanks Tom. We look forward to seeing you at Cops N Cars in a few weeks 💙

Massive shout out to who’s raised an amazing £2677 for PTSD999 and Andys Man Club, and will be splitting the money between both charities at “Cops&Cars” on the 3rd August!

Tom…..you’re an absolute legend! I’m sure both charities will be over the moon with all your hard work. The Motorist

Big love and thank you # #

Thank you The Amazing Northampton Run

meet the Charity Monday! (some technical issues means that we rescheduled!) Today we throw the spotlight on to PTSD999 working hard looking after military and blue service personnel who have suffered mentally as a result of their service.

The charity was set up in 2015 by friends Gary and Simon, both of whom served within the Military and Public Sector.

As a result of their duties both have Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

They realised that there wasn't any widely available accessible support for those serving, or who had served, within the Emergency Services, and their families, living with PTSD. So they set about creating an organisation that could provide support, source and fund treatment, training and raise awareness of the impact PTSD has on a persons life.

To support them or another of our amazing charities go to - https://www.gobeyondchallenge.com/the-amazing-northampton-run-charity-place/

The Casting Away Trauma (CAT) programme was developed in partnership between iCARP Community Interest Company, the
University of Essex and NIHR.

It is based on evidence-based data gathered during several years of rigorous, scientific research, which has been published in peer-reviewed, international journals.

The CAT team would like to thank all the past participants, volunteers and colleagues who have helped along the way.

In particular, we would thank those men and women with lived experience of PTSD,
who, through their public and patient involvement (PPI) roles, have helped to develop the programme into its current form.

The Casting Away Trauma (CAT) programme is an evidence-based approach to supporting people with post-traumatic stress disorder
(PTSD). It is built upon several years of research at the University of Essex and elsewhere into a specific form of nature-based or ecotherapy centered on angling (fishing).

Specifically, it combines
fishing in a calm, natural environment with being among a familiar peer group and learning new skills.

The Casting Away Trauma (CAT) programme is designed to be run over the course of two days and one night at a fishing lake. Our research has shown that this is an ideal timeframe to allow you to settle into the tranquil environment, socialize with your peers, develop your angling skills, and briefly disconnect from your everyday concerns.

The CAT programme provides the use of all necessary angling equipment to its participants over the course of the weekend. This includes overnight camping equipment (i.e. bivvie, camp-bed, sleeping bag, chair etc). You are free to bring your own equipment but local lake rules need to be abided by, particularly with regard to
nets, slings and unhooking mats, as these can be vectors of fish disease.

For further information email
[email protected]

Warning, the follwing poem contains references to Su***de.

“These Thoughts”

These Thoughts; they’re not mine. They just appear in my head.

(They tell me) I’m worthless, Life’s pointless,

I'm better off dead.

They Scream and they shout and they fill me with dread,

From the moment i awake, whilst I’m still in my bed.

It takes me a while , I’m lying there still,
considering if I still have the will.

The will to live, to battle on through, to face the day ahead, a challenge up hill.

I brush these thoughts aside, these thoughts aren’t mine

They will stop, won’t they ? It"s just a matter of time?

These thoughts are now constant, not just when I awake.

They are with me every moment, please just give me a break.

I want them to stop, but I just don’t know how…

'Let's stay strong, you've got this, it's only for now"

Days, Weeks Months- they may pass, but the thoughts still remain.

They don’t want me to me to be happy so they smother me with pain;

They are taking over, but I will fight this .. I Can…

But for me these thoughts, they have a different plan.

These thoughts; I drink to silence them and it works for a while.

Just Grin and bare it , they're not real, put on that fake smile.

But they come back fighting. They are angry, they don’t like what I do

“How dare he, he’s weak and pathetic, Its time for Step 2…,” (behaviours)

These thoughts; they are winning, they are getting on top.

I find myself listening, I can't get them to stop.

I am now on a bridge. They want me to drop.

As I look down, I know I don’t want to go, I just want this pain to stop.

Then something awoke from within, a clear sign of life,

Quickly followed by a call from my wife.

Now my new life begins as I make my way home, Just take it step by step , you are not on your own.

These Thoughts; They are mine, they still come from time to time..

But I am learning to control them.

I’m gonna be just fine.

Author - Our Comms Officer (Lived Experience Speaker)

Devasting News. 😪 RIP Reece

Devastating news as Hertfordshire Constabulary announce the death of Acting Sgt Reece Buckenham.

Reece died in a road accident on the early hours of Saturday morning. He was 36 and a dad of two young children.

He has been remembered as a "loving son, brother, uncle, friend, and colleague to many and, most importantly, a wonderful father to his son aged 10 and daughter aged four."

Thoughts are with his family, friends and close colleagues at this horrific time.

His family said in a statement: "Reece loved having a laugh and was fun to be around, he would light up any room with his smile and infectious personality.

"He was fiercely protective of those he cared for and would stand up for those that needed support, be that friends, colleagues or just anyone that needed Reece.

“Reece joined the Metropolitan Police Service as a PCSO and transferred to Hertfordshire, fulfilling his dream becoming a police officer. It was a role he loved, and he was incredibly proud to be part of Herts police.

“As a family we couldn’t have been prouder of him, he was an Acting Sergeant soon to be going through the promotion process to be substantive. Reece had just finished a night shift when the terrible events of Saturday morning happened.

“Nothing can take away the pain we are feeling at his loss, but we are thankful for the support we have received.

“His son describes him as a ‘great Dad’ and his hero.

“The world will be a darker place without his smile (and many silly faces he was known to pull).

“We will never fill the void that is now in our family.

“Reece, our son, brother and super hero daddy, we love you.”

Luke Mitchell, Chair of Hertfordshire Police Federation, said it had been "an incredibly difficult weekend for our policing family. All our thoughts go out to Reece’s family."

Chief Constable Charlie Hall said: “The thoughts of all in the constabulary are with Reece’s family and friends following their tragic loss. He was a much-respected colleague to so many and his death has been felt hugely throughout the force. He was a committed and experienced police officer, who served the public well and who I was proud to say was one of us. Rest in peace Reece.”

Yesterday our CEO, Gary Hayes , was at Hornchurch Fire Station , London Fire Brigade as a guest of Station Commander Paul McClenaghan. He was joined by Mark Whiley, Jimmy Lambrianou, Micky Collins, Chris Lambrianou, and Trevor McKeever.

The group were brought together to talk about the challenges of Men's Mental Health.

Men are three times more likely to die by su***de than women and Stigma and Shame plays a big part in that. Talking can release some of the pressures and help us to understand and accept our feelings which in turn can help us to identify our needs , find suuport and address them.

https://thehaveringdaily.co.uk/2024/07/02/special-group-formed-to-support-mens-mental-health-in-havering/

A few more pictures from Thursdays fundraiser.

Team PTSD999 are now safely home and recharging.

A very special Thanks to our unsung hero, our leader and CEO Gary Hayes .

Gary has had a emotionally challenging week with a family member taking ill and in hospital.

He remained focused, postive and supportive. He ensured all team members enjoyed their visit to Liverpool and travelled safely.

He departed home on Thursday at 7am to collect the team from various locations on route and arriving at 3pm.

He spent his time at the event networking and promoting our charity.

Yesterday he departed Liverpool with the Team at 9am with drop offs in Northamptonshire, Essex, Kent and Norfolk and arriving home at 11pm 😱 (13hrs on the road)

What an inspirational leader and great friend. We appreciate all you do and Love you.

Enjoy your well deserved rest this weekend no1.

❤️💙💚🧡

On National PTSD Awareness Day 2024 – Wise Words From Gary

Millions of people worldwide are living with PTSD. Stemming from deeply distressing experiences, it profoundly impacts mental health.

20-25% of Veterans and 1 in 5 in the Police Service may experience PTSD after service.

But there’s always hope.

Management and recovery are possible with resilience, treatment, and key support.
Organisations, like PTSD999, can offer crucial help.

Supporting those in the Emergency Services and their families, Gary Hayes, PTSD999 Co-Founder & CEO, reminds us:

“You are not weak for struggling. Seeking help is a sign of strength and resilience. Don't hesitate to reach out to your colleagues, friends, family, or trusted healthcare professionals for support.

“Most importantly, have compassion for yourself. Acknowledge the challenges you face and be kind to yourself throughout this festive season. You have dedicated your life to serving others, and now is the time to focus on your own well-being.”

Together, we can make a huge impact letting everyone know that help is available.

You can read Gary’s story, ‘You are not Alone’ at:
https://www.motorfinity.uk/blog/ex-military-gary-hayes-story/ 💙

Thanks Civil Nuclear Police Federation for your continued support 💙

A huge thank you to everyone who supported the Big Summer Quiz.

Your donations, prize draw ticket purchases, and auction bids raised a fantastic…

£12,030 for PTSD999 last night, AND…

… that sum is continuing to rise as more generous donations are received!

We will update you with the grand total asap but for now, we would like to thank our headline sponsor, Ardonagh Insurance and sponsors Axon, National Police Healthcare Scheme, George Hay Accountants, and The Blue Light Show whose support has been invaluable.

Gary Hayes from PTSD999 is pictured talking to the audience about the impact of trauma on emergency workers and how his charity helps.

The minibus is loaded and Team PTSD999 are heading home from Liverpool.

What an absolutely amazing event. We are completely overwhelmed by the support and generosity of those in attendance and those that donated online.

Gary Hayes " I am completely blown away by all of the support we have recieved.The thousands raised (official total to be confirmed) will help us to continue to train and support our Emergency Services Heroes. I would like to Thank Everyone involved in making the event such a huge success but I want to give a special mention to Gary Thwaite ( Civil Nuclear Police Federation ) and Stuart Cowan ( British Transport Police Federation ) for your unwavering support, passion and dedication to raising awareness of our charity and the challenges faced of those working in our Emergency Services. "

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The Day has arrived and Team PTSD999 are on route to "The Big Summer Quiz" at The Crowne Plaza Hotel in Liverpool 🎊🥳

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The countdown to "The Big Summer Quiz" is on.

We look forward to meeting many of you in Liverpool tomorrow.

Just 38 hrs until the Silent Auction Ends. Get your bids in here 👇

https://uk.givergy.com/PTSD999BIGSUMMERQUIZ2024/?controller=home

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Big Summer Quiz | Powered by Givergy Bid on exclusive money can't buy items & experiences with Bethan Federation. Enter into one of our charity auctions, prize draws or buy exclusive item

Applications for Places on our next fully funded Mental Health First Aid Courses taking place online over the weekend of 20th and 21st July (must attend both days) will close on Wednesday 26th June at 1800hrs.

If you have or are considering replying you will be notified of the outcome of your application no later than Monday 1st July.

Good Luck

https://forms.office.com/e/RJRXdW6R56

This weekend we delivered yet another Mental Health First Aid England course.

We had a cohort of Emergency Service Workers from Merseyside Police, Staffordshire Police, North Yorkshire Police, Hertfordshire Police and Metropolitan Police.

These Officers now have the knowledge to identify common signs and Symptoms of mental health related issues such as Depression, Anxiety, PTS, Psychosis, Su***de, Self Harm, Eating Disorders, Substance Misuse, Panic Attacks and much more.

They are also competent in having conversations about these topics with colleagues, friends, family and the public using the simple step of ALGEE.

That is now 128 whom have been trained and funded by PTSD999 in the last 11 months with more courses planned.

Thanks to those that have attended the course and those that have made it possible through funding.

Lastly Thanks to our Training partners at L.E.T.S.

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Just 5 days left until this amazing event, The Big Summer Quiz 2024 (Liverpool).

You have the opportunity yo get your hands on some amazing prizes and in the process support our charity.

Please Share and tag any wealthy friends.

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Thanks to British Transport Police Federation and Civil Nuclear Police Federation
https://uk.givergy.com/PTSD999BIGSUMMERQUIZ2024/?controller=home9 there are some amazing lots and àa Summer Quiz" next week.

To make a silent auction bid, purchase draw tickets or make a pledge then you need to register. Its quick and simple using the link below.

https://uk.givergy.com/PTSD999BIGSUMMERQUIZ2024/?controller=home

Here are some of the amazing items available.

Please share and tag anyone you feel would be interested in the items available.

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For those not able to attend " The Big Summer Quiz" in Liverpool on 27th June we have some exciting news on how you can still be part of the event.

The money raised from auction lots, prize draw tickets and of course, donations, will help PTSD999 to continue to support emergency service workers who may find themselves struggling with their Mental Health as a result of their duties.

You can look at the lots and prizes on your phone right now by following this link…
https://uk.givergy.com/PTSD999BIGSUMMERQUIZ2024/

…BUT to be in with a chance of winning, you must register asap, bids and pledges can be placed from anywhere across the globe. 🌎

On the post below you will see a quick video explaining the process.

Pleass Share ❤️💙💚🧡

We will be featuring some of the amazing prizes each day building up to the event

Big Summer Quiz | Powered by Givergy Bid on exclusive money can't buy items & experiences with Bethan Federation. Enter into one of our charity auctions, prize draws or buy exclusive item