Home   News   Article

Brora dad inspired by son (6) to scale Kilimanjaro in aid of children's charity





A BRORA father is set to reach new heights in a bid to raise money for a Highland charity which benefited his young son.

Paul Mackintosh, a site manager with Morrison Construction, hopes to scale 19,341ft Mount Kilimanjaro in February next year in aid of Safe Strong & Free, which works to reduce the vulnerability of young children to abuse and assault.

Paul is training hard to make sure he is as fit as possible for the Kilimanjaro challenge.
Paul is training hard to make sure he is as fit as possible for the Kilimanjaro challenge.

The charity uses interactive puppet workshops to teach young people strategies to use to help them stay safe if they encounter bullying or unwanted approaches.

Paul, who lives with his wife Kate, said their son Harris (6) had inspired him to fundraise for Safe Strong & Free.

"Harris has been to a few of their workshops and has spoken about them at home," he said. “He also brought home a book from the charity about ‘Callum’ who was being bullied. When I read it to Harris he got upset and said he would need to do the same as Callum to those who were picking on him at school. It was heartbreaking to hear him say that.”

Paul also has another reason to support the charity – Morrison Construction is supporting Safe Strong & Free as its partner charity in 2023.

Along with his walking buddy, his dog Dougie, Paul is training hard for the challenge which will see him tackle the longest 88km 'northern circuit' route, spending eight nights camping on the mountain.

"I have never done anything like this before," he said. "The daily climbs will be tough, especially when you add in the overnight camping, lack of washing facilities and altitude."

He has been overwhelmed by the support he has received so far on his Justgiving page, raising £1,420 so far.

Kerry Lowe, project manager at Safe, Strong & Free, spoke of the importance of individual fundraising to the charity.

"The money raised by Paul will help us provide workshops and resources that empower children to protect themselves from harm and seek help when needed," she said.

To donate, visit www.justgiving.com and search for 'Paul's climb up Mount Kilimanjaro for Safe Strong & Free'.


Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.



This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies - Learn More