Lisburn duo take on Mourne Mountains challenge to raise vital funds for PIPS

Nicola McDonnell, 28, from Moira Road and Jillian Irwin, 28, from Maghaberry, are set to climb all seven summits on the Mourne Mountains in one day

Nicola and Jillian are set to climb all seven summits on the Mourne Mountains in the coming months to raise vital funds for PIPS Charity.

With their momentous challenge set to take place on June 6, the friends from Lisburn admit whilst this will be ‘‘by far our hardest challenge to date, we are hoping to raise some money for a fantastic cause.’’

Nicola and Jillian are raising money for PIPS Charity in memory of friends who died from suicide.

Nicola and Jillian are taking on the gruelling challenge to raise funds for PIPS Charity

Jillian said: ‘‘On the December 31, 2020 we started climbing mountains and really enjoyed it as it is so peaceful up there.

''We decided to do this challenge with PIPS as our charity because with the difficulties of the past year, we will all know someone who has been affected by mental health issues and PIPS do such great work in support and prevention.

‘‘The past year has been difficult for everyone and it is sadly no surprise that suicide rates in Northern Ireland are at an all time high. PIPs charity not only helps those that are affected by mental health but also offers support to the family and friends of ones who have lost people to suicide.’’

Visit: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/nicola-mcdonnell4 to donate.

Nicola and Jillian will be taking on the challenge in the coming weeks

PIPS Charity delivers Suicide Prevention and Bereavement Support Services, Counselling and Therapies across Belfast and throughout Northern Ireland.

The charity’s website reads: ‘‘The organisation began, and very much remains, a community led organisation with a strong grass-roots led ethos to suicide prevention and self-harm.

‘‘Delivering Suicide Prevention Training from 2008 we are a professional organisation and have now trained thousands of ordinary people – like you – in how to save someone from suicide.

‘‘Our training is aimed at every member of the community because suicide can affect us all.

‘‘PIPS Charity provides information on how to be more aware of the risk of suicide it also gives you the knowledge on how to signpost someone to all the sources of help available.’’

When life is difficult, Samaritans are here – day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123, email them at jo@samaritans.org, or visit www.samaritans.org to find your nearest branch.