During the Summer, Deputy Lieutenant Dr Bhargawa Vasudaven represented the Lord-Lieutenant at the Iron Pier Brewery v Gravesham Cricket Club Memorial Match, held in memory of Elliott on the fifth anniversary of his passing. The event was organised in support of the Elliott Holmes Memorial Fund CIC, which works to provide vital mental health support for young people in Gravesham. Dr Vasudaven was joined by the High of Kent, Jonathan Neame.
The match drew an excellent turnout, with crowds gathering from late afternoon to enjoy an evening of cricket and community spirit. Thanks to the generosity of attendees, the event raised an incredible £5,320, enough to fund counselling for approximately 13 young people within days—a crucial intervention given that the average NHS waiting time for mental health support is currently over a year.
The Elliott Holmes Memorial Fund has developed a unique self-referral model, ensuring that vulnerable young people can access help without delay. This approach has reached many who might otherwise remain unseen, including boys—a group statistically three times more likely to take their own life. The charity’s work has been widely recognised, including coverage by the BBC, and continues to make a significant impact on suicide prevention.
The success of this initiative reflects a strong community effort, with support from local schools, Kent Police, Kent Fire and Rescue, Darent Valley Hospital, Gravesham Borough Council, and leisure centres. The charity has also introduced Wellbeing Cups for boys and girls, with finals held at Ebbsfleet United, further promoting mental health awareness through sport.
The Lord-Lieutenant of Kent commends the dedication of all involved in this important work and thanks Deputy Lieutenant Dr Bhargawa Vasudaven for representing the Lieutenancy at such a meaningful event.
