On 14th May I’ll be 30. But before you all rush out and lavish me with expensive things, this year I’m calling for a ban on all gifts and cards. Instead, I would really like it if you could donate any money you might have spent to a small local charity called The Men’s Room.

TMR work with young men up the age of 30 who have experienced homelessness, offending or have been the victims of Child Sexual Exploitation or sex work. I’m not expecting to raise massive amounts of money for them, but if you would have spent a couple of £s on a card for my birthday, then I’d much rather that money goes to somewhere far more worthwhile than the bank account of a billion-pound high street supermarket or greeting card chain.

I’ve set up this page so you can donate directly to TMR but so I don’t miss out on birthday messages, I’d love it if you could leave me a little note when you donate. But instead of the usual sarcastic comments about me getting old, I’d like you to tell me one reason YOU PERSONALLY have to be thankful. 

There’s not enough good will and positivity in this world, and through these small acts we can begin to change that.

Thank you and big love, you beautiful people.