The latest Minds on the Mersey episode is a rollercoaster of emotion, humour, and raw honesty — starting with football hangovers and ending with a story that spans continents.

Sam and Richie open the show in classic form: hungover banter, football misery, and relentless digs about Liverpool’s performance. After the laughs, they dive head‑first into one of the most heartbreaking stories of the year: the closure of Papyrus, the UK suicide‑prevention charity behind the 24/7 Hopeline247.

The lads discuss what the loss means for people in crisis, how charities like Papyrus take pressure off the NHS, and why government support for mental‑health services is failing. They read statements from Papyrus trustees describing the unbearable decision to close after 30 years of saving lives. Their message is clear — suicide prevention isn’t optional; it’s a public‑health responsibility.

From there, Sam and Richie talk about Prince William’s visit to Merseyside to launch the On Your Side project, using sport to break stigma and open conversations around mental health. They reflect on their own experiences with the Mersey Mind Project, the power of men talking openly, and the growing community around their podcast.

Then, in part two, the energy shifts as they welcome Luke Leyland, the first Westerner to compete in Dambe — a thousand‑year‑old Nigerian combat sport. Luke recounts his wild journey: ignored warnings of danger, landed in Lagos to find a man holding an iPhone with his face on it, and fought in front of crowds who first doubted him but later embraced him. He lost the fight but won the hearts of the people, earning a tribal name and releasing his documentary Dambatori Kadawa on Amazon Prime.

Luke’s story is equal parts hilarious and profound — from spiritual rituals and black‑magic traditions to the moment he realised his “Birkenhead problems” weren’t so big after all. He closes by sharing his work with the Wick Foundation, a Merseyside group promoting walking, talking, and community support for mental health.

It’s an episode that captures everything Minds on the Mersey stands for: real talk, laughter, and life‑saving conversations.

Joel Evans Fundraiser in memory of his grandad Peter : https://www.justgiving.com/page/joel-evans-1

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If you’re struggling, please reach out — help is always available 💛

In the UK, you can contact:

• Samaritans — free, 24/7 at 116 123

• Mind — mental health support via 0300 123 3393 or text 86463

• Shout — text 85258 for confidential crisis support

You are not alone. Talking saves lives. 💛