When Kev Bland founded The Leg Up Project in April 2019, it wasn’t to win awards. It was to stop people especially men—from falling through the cracks of mental health.
A former Royal Marines Commando, author, teacher, and university lecturer, Kev knows what it means to face hardship in silence. After a knee injury forced him to leave the military, the transition into civilian life was far from smooth.
Picture credit: Leg Up Project
He found himself lost, angry, and isolated.
“I didn’t ask for help,” he says. “I was struggling but holding it in. That’s what so many of us do—until it’s too late.”
The Leg Up Project was born from Kev’s personal journey and a tragic recognition: the number of men taking their own lives was heartbreakingly high—including some of his close friends.
His mission became clear: create a space where people could reconnect with themselves, each other, and the world around them.
What began as a grassroots initiative in Leicestershire has now supported hundreds of individuals—through activities like hiking, kayaking, climbing, and camping, as well as resilience building courses, emotional literacy, and wellbeing education.
The project focuses on early intervention, helping people before they hit crisis point.
In September, that work was formally recognised with a BBC Make a Difference Award.
“I wasn’t expecting to win,” Kev admits. “It was a shock, but a good one. The award was a great way to bring everyone together and celebrate the progress we’ve made—but the real reward is seeing lives change.
One such life is Patch, a former medic with the Parachute Regiment. In 2022, standing on the edge of the Severn Bridge, Patch was ready to end his life. He was talked down by fellow veterans and introduced to the Leg Up Project. Today, he’s a qualified paramedic and has just completed his first year of
medical school.
“That’s the magic of the project—people helping each other up,” Kev says.
“You don’t need to be fixed sometimes you just need a bit of support and a way forward. ”
Kev emphasises that The Leg Up Project isn’t a crisis service or counselling—he’s a coach, not a clinician. But for those ready to take a step forward, it’s a powerful lifeline.
“It helps me as much as anyone else,” Kev says. “It keeps me accountable. I always say I set it up because I didn’t have any friends—and there’s some truth in that.”
Now operating as a Community Interest Company, the project is expanding with online courses, corporate partnerships, and a growing community. Kev also published a book in 2022, sharing his personal story and practical tools for wellbeing.
“Proud isn’t the right word,” he says. “This project is necessary. It brings purpose and connection—not just for me, but for everyone who walks through the door.”
And that’s what the Leg Up Project offers: not just an adventure, but a community—and, often, a second chance.
To find out more, visit: www.the-leg-up-project.com
