I am Maria, a member of Leeds Animation Workshop. From 28th August - 10th September I'll be doing a 500-mile fund-raising cycle ride, from Leeds to Manchester - the long way round! - via Edinburgh and Glasgow. To raise awareness about Suicide Prevention Month, and to raise funds in aid of Leeds Animation Workshop’s new film, that helps support children and young people bereaved by a parent's suicide.

Leeds Animation Workshop is a small, not-for-profit, feminist collective, it is very important to me, and every day I am glad it exists. They have been making award-winning films about social issues for over 40 years. Their short animated documentaries are shown all over the world, spreading important messages in a way everyone can understand.

This year we made a short animated film, Suicide in the Family, which looks at the ways children and young people may be affected when a parent dies by suicide, and shows the best ways their families, carers or professionals can support them.

It is really important cause and means a lot to me so I want to spread awareness, and support the team of feminist filmmakers that have made tricky topics like this accessible over the years.

By donating to my cycle venture, you will be supporting Leeds Animation Workshop to continue making accessible and meaningful short films about difficult or neglected topics. Every contribution helps to keep important conversations going.

contact us at info@leedsanimation.org.uk if you or your organisation would like a copy of the film.

Thank you!