The annual Lord Mayor of Leeds Charity Appeal’s ‘Just One Day’ event is poised to return on Friday, May 17, rallying the entire city to participate in its seventh edition.

‘Just One Day’, now in its seventh year, aims to amass funds by encouraging individuals to dedicate a day, or any time they can spare, to engaging in enjoyable activities to support the Lord Mayor’s selected charity. This year, the honourable Lord Mayor, Councillor Al Garthwaite, has elected the Women’s Counselling and Therapy Service as the beneficiary.

Established in 1982, the Women’s Counselling & Therapy Service (WCTS) has been providing complimentary therapy and assistance to women and girls residing in Leeds, with a mission to enhance awareness surrounding women’s mental health. Additionally, WCTS endeavours to diminish stigma and influence national initiatives aimed at enhancing the lives of women, both locally in Leeds and across the UK. Notably, WCTS assisted over 550 women individually last year alone, with demand for their services persistently on the rise.

The call to action extends to individuals and entities of all sizes, urging them to contribute to this noble cause. Participants are granted the freedom to devise their own fundraising strategies, with events not confined to May 17; rather, they can be scheduled at any point throughout the year.

Whether it entails donning eccentric attire to the workplace or school, orchestrating sponsored activities, or even hosting a bake-off, all ideas and endeavours are embraced. The emphasis is on enjoyment, with more whimsical approaches being encouraged. Participants are encouraged to share their fundraising anecdotes and initiatives on social media, either by tagging @LordMayorLeeds on Twitter or utilising the hashtag #JustOneDay2024.

Councillor Al Garthwaite, the Lord Mayor of Leeds, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “‘Just One Day’ is my highlight of the year, offering an excellent opportunity for everyone to unite, unleash their creativity in fundraising, and enjoy themselves, all while contributing to a commendable cause.”

She continued, “Every contribution, no matter how small, will enable the Women’s Counselling and Therapy Service to persist in their invaluable mission, aiding underprivileged women and girls in Leeds through challenging times with their mental health, in pursuit of a brighter and happier future.”

“Whether you opt to organise an event or make a donation, please help raise awareness about the indispensable work of this remarkable charity. I extend my deepest gratitude for your support.”

For further details on participating in ‘Just One Day’ or to make a donation, please visit www.leeds.gov.uk/justoneday.

To obtain a complimentary fundraising kit to bolster your efforts, kindly reach out to the Lord Mayor’s office via email at LordMayorsOffice@leeds.gov.uk.