Leighton Buzzard charity champion takes on skydive and starts mental health podcast

Charity champion Neil Mills, 49, is encouraging people to listen to The 950 Mindset, which covers topics such as ADHD, autism, mental health, motivation and fitness.

The busy carpenter also took on a skydive to support cancer survivor, Jack Thompson – and Jack's nan, Elaine – encouraging vital donations for Jack's online fundraiser.

Neil said: "It was probably the most alive that I've felt in the moment. I knew I wasn't in control, but I was OK with it.

"They told me I was going to be last – one minute per person between each jump – but it seemed to go in seconds. When we came out of the plane it was instant relief."

Neil met Jack whilst completing an endurance challenge for Young Lives vs Cancer, and now has his sights set on a life-changing, long-distance trip for 2027.

Next autumn, determined Neil will be running and walking 620 miles all the way from John O'Groats back to Leighton-Linslade in a bid to raise £40,000 to support suicide prevention charity, The OLLIE Foundation.

Over two weeks, the father of five will be aiming to have 950 conversations with strangers – and seeking to find accommodation for free each night to spread the message that you are "never alone".

He said: "If you know anyone who would like to get involved, please do get in touch.

"I'll start at John O'Groats and work my way down the east coast, one of the loneliest parts of the country."

Meanwhile, back home in Leighton Buzzard, Neil is a presenter of The 950 Mindset, which recently released its first episodes on YouTube.

Interviewees include Chris Sibley, co-founder of The OLLIE Foundation, who has talked openly about losing his son to suicide.

Neil added: "It's about being open-minded – and creating a mindset – using conversation to break down stigma.

"We've also talked about ADHD – which I’ve got – putting a positive spin on it that no-one talks about; it gives me the opportunity to fixate on something, pull it by the reins, and really go for it."

And ‘go for it’, Neil does – as the busy father and his company SD Carpentry are also organising a community barbecue for The OLLIE Foundation.

The event will take place at the Axe and Compass on Saturday, November 28, from 1pm until late.

Entry is free, and there will be family fun, with a barbecue, raffles, stalls and activities.

Neil, who would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has supported his fundraising, concluded: "You can make a difference.

"The more people that come, all strangers alike, will show that you are never alone."

Neil also gave a special shout out to Del Stephens and Lee Myres.

You can read about The 950 Mindset here and listen here.

For the free Samaritans helpline, call: 116 123.

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