Pre-covid, and at the start of 2020, Old Coulsdon residents Deke Adams and Kieran Pettman met for a drink in the Tudor Rose pub. During that meeting, they created the concept of KASGA (The Kent and Surrey Golf Alliance), scribbling down their ideas on a napkin.
Both of them have a passion for golf, and they decided to set up a society that could bring like-minded people together, and help each other through this challenging and difficult time. They would play golf, socialise and raise money for the charity CALM.
According to the Mental Health Foundation, 25% of people in the UK suffer from mental health issues and, of this, 25% are men up to the age of 45. CALM are a registered charity leading the movement against suicide, aiming to help those who are suffering with mental health disabilities, those with suicidal tendencies, and those tackling depression.
Every week, 125 people in the UK take their own lives, and 75% of all UK suicides are male. Suicide is the single biggest killer of males aged 18-45 in the UK. CALM are working hard to raise public awareness of depression and suicide, as well as providing support to those in difficulty, via their helpline.
KASGA has been created for those who need to talk and for those who would like to meet others who understand the issues surrounding mental health. It provides a support network, which is easily accessible, and provides an opportunity to socialise over a drink, following a round of golf.
Various events have been held to raise money for CALM, with the next one in the Tandridge area scheduled to be held at Farleigh Golf Club.
To date, an amazing £1,861 has been raised, and they hope to keep this momentum going. They have also designed and created merchandise which was helped by funding by sponsors- which can also creates a sense of belonging and pride for the members when playing at various golf clubs across Surrey. They are planning to continue to grow, and the team are also looking for any local businesses who might like to sponsor, collaborate or help the charity with donations.
To contact KASGA, email admin@kasga.co.uk or visit www.kasga.co.uk.
CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) offers a free and confidential helpline and web chat seven hours per day, seven days a week. www.thecalmzone.net
