An app-based charity that supports people experiencing body image issues has launched a new crowdfunding campaign.
The #BringTheSupport campaign was created by Been There in a bid to source £40,000 of funding to secure more Mentors for its support programme.
Supporters are being invited to share the hashtag to raise awareness on social media, with a number of celebrities and influencers getting involved.
Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge, rugby star Tom Howe and mental health warrior and makeup-free Miss GB contestant Elle Seline have already shared their support.
Launched over lockdown, the Been There app uses a safe and secure platform to connect those in need with vetted, trained Mentors, all of whom have experienced issues with negative body image.
Founder Tessa Peters spent years struggling with bulimia before transforming her experience into the charity app.
The service combines perspective, personal experience and expert guidance delivered.
The campaign has already secured over £35,446 in donations.
British Airways will match fund donations up to £20,000, helping the charity fuel its Mentor-seeking mission.
Tessa Peters, CEO and founder of Been There, said:
“As the stats show, when you’re experiencing body image issues it can be really difficult to find relatable help.
“Even when you have the support of friends and family, sometimes you need to talk to someone beyond your immediate circle, someone who really gets your issues.
“Finding someone who can relate to your struggles can be one of the most impactful parts of the recovery process; and that’s where we come in.
“At Been There, we wanted to create a system built on accessibility and authenticity.
“We use an app to help connect our community, but we team this tech with real and relatable Mentors to support, empower and listen to those in need.”
According Mental Health Foundation research, 80 per cent of people agree that their body image has a negative impact on their mental health.
However, 64 per cent of people that had accessed or tried to access health services relating to body image issues felt that their experience was either negative or strongly negative.
Peters added:
“Within a few months of launching Been There, we were inundated with people wanting access to our Mentors and the demand only continues to rise.
“With this funding we hope to expand the service we’ve established even further and offer more opportunities to the growing number of people who struggle with their body image and mental health.”
To learn more about the #BringTheSupport campaign or make a donation visit https://bacommunityfund.co.uk/p/beenthere.
Anyone looking to become a Mentor is invited to find out more at https://beenthereapp.com/be-a-mentor/ or apply on the Been There app – available for free from Google Play or the App Store.
