Celebrities back North East actor's mental health drive to say ‘we’re here for you’

Former Coronation Street and Doctors actor Dan Westwood from Hartlepool started Here4U in 2018 after the suicide of friend and Love Island contestant Sophie Gradon to encourage people to talk more openly about their mental health.

A key part of the campaign sees people, including celebrities Dan knows, record video messages pledging to be there for others in difficult times which are shared on Here4U’s social media accounts.

Since its launch, the campaign has grown massively with more and more famous faces and members of the public supporting it including the Hairy Bikers, Christopher Biggins, and stars of Coronation Street, Big Brother, Gogglebox and more.

During Mental Health Awareness Week, Dan, currently a presenter on Tameside Radio, is reminding everyone of the importance of this year’s theme of kindness.

He said: “Kindness is key. You never know what someone is going through but kindness can cure almost anything.

“With lockdown we’re all in this together and you are not alone. The first step is to speak out.”

With the growing support, Here4U has spread all over the country and abroad with videos on the campaign’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagran accounts racking up thousands of views.

Dan, 34, who played Kylie Platt’s pal Ralph in Coronation Street and suffered from panic attacks for over a year, has also recently become an ambassador for mental health charity MIND.

After the coronavirus crisis ends, Dan, who is normally based in the North West, plans to take his campaign into schools.

Local celebrities that have recorded messages for the campaign include Hartlepool comedian Danny Posthill, of Britain’s Got Talent; David Ducasse from South Shields of Pop Band Scooch who represented the UK in Eurovison; plus had huge support from Pride World Radio based in Pelaw.

“It has been quite overwhelming,” he said. “It is testament to all the people that have helped me.

“The campaign is for everyone. Anyone can record a message.

“For anyone struggling who watches, it could be the first step for them to open up.”

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