A BARNSLEY firefighter has backed a campaign to raise money for 999 mental health support after being helped himself.

Dan Nortcliffe, a watch manager at Tankersley fire station, struggled with his own mental health following divorce and childhood bereavement.

Now he’s calling on others to open up and seek the support of organisations like Fire Fighters Charity - which a push for the Christmas number one spot is trying to raise funds for.

Dan said: “After my divorce and dealing with the death of my dad when I was just ten years old, I found myself struggling with poor mental health.

“I wasn’t feeling great about life and it was affecting my work and personal life.

“Recognising the need for support, our occupational health team recommended that I try the online counselling services provided by Fire Fighters Charity.

“I was hesitant at first, but I knew I needed help.”

Dan reached out to the charity and was connected with one of the charity’s counsellors, who made a profound impact on his journey to better mental health.

“The counsellor was amazing,” he added.

“He helped me build my own coping mechanisms and provided a sense of stability that I desperately needed.

“One thing he said that will stick with me forever is, ‘I’m not going anywhere, I’m here while ever you need me’.

“That assurance meant the world to me.”