At Oakley Property, we believe in the power of community and the importance of supporting young people’s well-being. That’s why, this Children’s Mental Health Week, we’re shining a light on ESTEEM, a local charity that provides vital support to young people in Sussex.

Later this year, two of our fearless directors, David Beaken and Andy Hovey, will take on the ultimate challenge—an ultramarathon—to raise funds for ESTEEM and help save their headquarters, The Old School House. This space has been a safe haven for so many young people, and we want to ensure it remains that way.

At its core, Oakley Property is a family business, and that means causes like Children’s Mental Health Week will always be close to our hearts. Director David Beaken reflects on how being a parent has shaped his perspective:

"Becoming a father was without a doubt the best thing that ever happened to me, but, the feeling of being responsible for another life is huge and supporting their mental health is just as important as making sure that they brush their teeth and eat their vegetables. I also think that Covid and lockdown had a huge impact on everyone’s mental health, but especially young peoples. It may be generations until we can fully understand the true impact it has had. It is incredible to see that as a society mental health is so much more openly talked about and discussed, this has really helped remove the stigma around it. I try to listen and talk to my daughter as much as I can. Somethings might seem trivial to us, such as not being able to find your favourite trousers or water bottle but to children it can feel like a mountain and quickly spiral. Not all young people have adults in their life to turn to which is why places like Esteem in Shoreham are so vital, and this is why I am so eager to support them."

Director Andy Hovey also recognises the unique pressures young people face today:

"Children today have so much more stimulus than when I was a child, the bombardment from hundreds of television channels, YouTube, the internet, online gaming, social media and more. The influence is both positive and negative I am sure, and the mark it can leave significant. Its important to make sure that we talk with our kids and help them feel comfortable to ‘let us in’ and understand their world and the pressures they are feeling."

Young people today face enormous pressures—uncertainty about their future, financial stress, loneliness, and the ever-present impact of social media. Many of those who turn to ESTEEM have also experienced challenges like family breakdowns, housing insecurity, or the cost-of-living crisis—all of which can take a serious toll on mental health.

Cat Vizor, Chief Officer of ESTEEM, explains why this work is so important:

"At ESTEEM, we see firsthand how critical safe spaces and supportive communities are for young people navigating mental health challenges. The transition from adolescence to adulthood is full of pressures, such as uncertainty about the future, financial struggles, loneliness, and the impact of social media all contribute to rising anxiety and poor mental well-being. Many of the young people we support have experienced significant challenges, including family breakdowns, housing insecurity, and the cost-of-living crisis, all of which can deeply affect mental health.

What makes ESTEEM vital is that we provide not just professional support, but a sense of belonging. Our approach is unique; young people say they feel valued because they can help shape the organisation, co-designing projects, leading activities, and building confidence through real opportunities. By fostering connection, purpose, and empowerment, we help young people develop the resilience they need to thrive.

This is why David and Andy’s incredible fundraising efforts mean so much to us. With the future of our home, the Old School House, at stake, their challenge is not just about endurance, it’s about securing a space where young people can continue to receive the support they need. Their commitment will help ensure that ESTEEM remains a safe space for young people struggling with mental health."

Children’s mental health deserves our attention. If you’d like to support ESTEEM and the incredible work they do, you can donate to David and Andy’s ultramarathon challenge. Every contribution makes a difference.