Mental Health Motorbike 5th Anniversary

As the Regional Coordinator for South Yorkshire, I’m thrilled to announce that Mental Health Motorbike is celebrating its 5th anniversary on March 1st. Over the past five years, this remarkable charity has been dedicated to supporting the mental health and well-being of the motorcycling community across the UK.

A Brief History

Mental Health Motorbike was founded in 2020 by Paul Oxborough, following the loss of a close friend to suicide. Recognising the unique bond within the motorcycling community, Paul envisioned a support network “for bikers, by bikers.” The charity officially became a registered UK charity in 2021. 

Mission and Objectives

The core mission of Mental Health Motorbike is to reduce suicide among bikers in the UK. To achieve this, we are building a free, dedicated national network of trained mental health first aiders who can support bikers and their families across the country. 

Key objectives include:

• Raising Awareness: Promoting mental health awareness within the motorcycling community and the broader bike industry.
• Training: Aiming to have a mental health first aider in every town and city in the UK.
• Support: Providing direct support to individuals struggling with mental health issues through online groups, presentations, and event participation.

My Journey with Mental Health Motorbike

My own journey with the charity started when I completed my Mental Health First Aider (MHFAider®) training through MHFA England in March 2023, with support from Mental Health Motorbike. This experience was life-changing and reinforced my commitment to supporting the well-being of others in the biking community.

In April 2024, I took on the role of Regional Coordinator for South Yorkshire, helping to build local networks of mental health support and ensure that bikers in the region have access to vital resources when they need them.

Achievements Over the Years

In just five years, Mental Health Motorbike has made significant strides:

• Expanding Our Network: We now have 21 regional teams and nearly 900 mental health first aiders throughout England, Wales, and Scotland. 
• Community Engagement: Our diverse community ranges from ages 17 to 70, united by a shared passion for motorcycling. This inclusivity has strengthened our support network and outreach efforts.
• Resource Development: We’ve developed various resources, including mental health first aid training, self-care tools, and partnerships with organisations like Doc Bike and IAM Roadsmart. 

Looking Ahead

As we celebrate this milestone, we remain committed to our mission. The journey continues as we strive to expand our network, provide essential training, and support the well-being of bikers across the UK.

Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey. Your support has been invaluable, and together, we will continue to make a difference in the lives of many.

For more information or to get involved, please visit our website: Mental Health Motorbike