nn - one in four - the number of people who will suffer a mental health problem in 2015

THE boss of a struggling mental health charity which helps hundreds of local people every year has hailed the 'amazing' public response to its financial plight.

Jonathan Ingram, chief officer of South Lakeland Mind, said the organisation's 'dangerous' financial situation still remains - but thanks to thousands of pounds in donations from local people it is over halfway to its target after less than a month.

The charity faces closure in December if its financial situation - blamed on decreasing funding at a time when users are increasing - does not improve.

"The response from this community has been both incredible and truly humbling," said Mr Ingram.

"Getting this far, so quickly, is beyond what we dared to hope.

"My heartfelt thanks go out to all those who have supported us so far in whatever way they have been able – this collective effort will change lives.

"So many people have experience of mental illness, whether themselves or among family and friends, and they have told us the difference South Lakeland Mind has made for them."

Since the charity launched its 'HELP: Message in a Bottle' campaign public donations have ranged from a few pounds to £5,000, adding up to around £14,590.

Grants from foundations and organisations, including South Lakes Housing, the David Snowdon Trust and the John Cutforth Charitable Trust, have taken the total raised to just over £30,000.

But the charity, based on Kendal's Stricklandgate, needs at least £60,000 if it is to continue helping around 300 people every year suffering a range of mental illnesses including eating disorders, panic attacks and disorders such as bipolar.

"We do have to keep asking the public for donations: it is absolutely the right thing to do for the people we support," continued Mr Ingram.

"But now people can donate in the sure knowledge that they are helping a charity which can survive not just beyond Christmas but, with hard work, into the future."

To donate visit www.justgiving.com/southlakelandmind, text 'MIND05£your amount' to 70070 or leave a cheque at South Lakeland Mind's office at Stricklandgate House, 92 Stricklandgate, Kendal.