NHS Worker Ella Lucas Abseils for Brighterway

A smiling brunette woman in black running clothes stands in front of a set of trees.

On June 21st and 22nd, NHS staff will conquer their fears and take on a thrilling challenge as they abseil 100 meters down the iconic Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth. Co-hosted by Brighterway, the event is more than just an adrenaline rush – it’s a powerful statement of support for mental health services across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

Brighterway works to ensure that mental health support is accessible and effective, filling vital gaps in care and providing much-needed resources for those in need.

NHS worker Ella Lucas is abseiling for Brighterway this year. The Education Mental Health Practitioner (EMHP) is taking on the challenge to raise awareness for the Mental Health Support Team (MHST) and the vital work they do. She’s set up a special JustGiving page for anyone to donate to in aid of her efforts.

A smiling young brunette woman in black running clothes stands in front of a set of trees.

A First-Time Challenge with a Powerful Purpose

For Ella, this isn’t just about testing her own limits – it’s about standing in solidarity with the young people she supports every day.

As an EMHP in the New Forest MHST, she works with children and young people aged 4-18, offering Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)-based support to those facing mild to moderate mental health difficulties. The team also delivers a ‘whole school approach,’ helping to create an environment that prioritises mental wellbeing for all.

“I want to take on this challenge to advocate for the MHST and increase people’s awareness of the support available for young people,” Ella explains. “Mental health difficulties are something that everybody experiences from time to time, and for some, it can be an ongoing challenge. The young people I work with inspire me every day as they push themselves outside their comfort zones to overcome their struggles and support their recovery. This abseil is my way of doing the same.”

Why Mental Health Fundraising Matters

Mental health challenges do not discriminate. They can affect anyone, at any stage of life. Rates of mental health difficulties among young people are rising, and early intervention is crucial in providing them with the support they need to recover and thrive.

“The MHST helps bridge the gap between schools and specialist CAMHS services, ensuring young people get the support they need as soon as possible,” Ella says. “Fundraising events like this allow us to have the budget for more resources, which can help reduce some of the barriers to accessing support, such as socio-economic challenges.”

Facing Fears, Breaking Stigma

For many, the thought of stepping off the Spinnaker Tower is nerve-wracking – but for NHS worker Ella, it’s an opportunity to highlight an important message about mental health.

“I expect to feel pretty nervous, but excited before the abseil,” she admits. “Hopefully, during, I will be concentrating on not falling off the Spinnaker Tower! Afterwards, I hope I feel proud of myself and that I enjoy the experience.”

More importantly, she hopes that taking part in this challenge will help break down the stigma around mental health.

“Everybody feels anxiety at times – whether it’s when you’re about to abseil down a massive tower or facing a difficult day. The important thing is knowing that support is out there and that reaching out for help is not scary,” she says.

A young brunette woman in riding gear on horseback jumps over an obstacle during a dressage contest. She is riding a black horse with a white spot on its nose.

Join the Challenge or Show Your Support

Ella’s colleagues, friends, and family have been incredibly supportive – and she encourages others to step outside their comfort zones for next year’s challenge. “Give it a go! It’s great to push yourself outside your comfort zone, and the team at Brighterway are very supportive!”

Donate to Ella’s JustGiving page to support her cause.

Register your interest for the Brighterway Spinnaker Tower Abseil Challenge now – it’s your chance to overcome your fears and truly make a difference! No experience needed, and all safety equipment, support and spectacular views are provided.

✅Registration costs just £50

✅Participants will each get a medal, GoPro video, and group + individual photos.

✅Each supporter is encouraged to try and raise £500 or more

⭐These funds will ensure that Brighterway can continue our essential work improving the lives of people supported by Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust.

To stay informed, why not join our dedicated Spinnaker Abseil WhatsApp Group:

Spinnaker challenge 2025 WhatsAp Group QR

Other Ways You Can Help

For those who aren’t quite ready to abseil themselves, there are plenty of ways to support the cause:

✅ Donate: Every pound raised goes towards essential mental health resources for young people in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

✅ Spread Awareness: Share Ella’s JustGiving page, talk about mental health, and encourage open conversations in your community.

✅ Join the Challenge: If Ella’s bravery has inspired you, why not sign up for next year’s abseil?

By supporting Ella and her fellow NHS colleagues, you’re helping to ensure that mental health care remains accessible, compassionate, and effective.

Together, let’s take mental health support to new heights. 💙