Fuel for Conversations That Matter
Strong social connections are a robust protective factor against poor mental health and suicide. They enhance psychological resilience, reduce stress-related neurochemical activity, and facilitate access to care. Addressing social isolation is not only a social priority but a clinically essential intervention for reducing the burden of mental illness and preventing suicide across the lifespan.
Disconnection doesn’t show up like a crisis. It looks quiet. Like drifting. Like “sorry, been hectic.” But the cost is massive. Social isolation is now one of the biggest public health risks we face. And it’s happening in every postcode, every age group, every family.
As of 2025, the UK is grappling with a significant mental health and suicide crisis, underscored by rising prevalence rates, demographic disparities, and systemic service pressures. About 1 in 6 adults report experiencing a common mental health problem, such as anxiety or depression, in any given week. Only around 1 in 3 adults with a common mental health problem are currently receiving treatment, which may include talking therapies, medication, or both.
In 2023, 6,069 people died by suicide in England and Wales (ONS) and for every person who died, there are said to be 135 people affected and 6 people directly bereaved. This means there are between 36,000 and 819,000 people each year who are largely suffering in silence and need support rebuilding their lives around their grief.
Losing a loved one to suicide shatters your life, and receiving appropriate support prevents deterioration of one’s mental health. Research shows that people who have been bereaved or affected by suicide are almost three times more at risk of suicidal ideation (Hill, N et. al).
We support Suicide&Co the charity focused on supporting those bereaved by suicide. We are committed to raising funds for this significant partner because connection saves lives, and sometimes the most powerful journeys don’t start with an engine, but with a conversation.
Social connection is one of the strongest predictors of long-term health across the board. Anxiety, depression, suicide, dementia, cardiovascular disease, and stroke; you name it, social connection fights it. Shared passion is the driver of connection. Driving is your passion, Refuel is your community. Raising funds with Refuel will support programmes that support the community and further improve the health and wellbeing of those around us.
From late-night drives to life-changing detours, cars have always been about more than speed. Refuel keeps that truth alive. We connect car culture with care, for yourself, for your people, and for the land you roll through. The more you raise, the more we protect what makes driving worth doing.
The story isn’t polished. It’s an open road. We’re building a future where driving means something again. You are the story.
For more information on mental health and support services - https://hubofhope.co.uk/
If you’ve been affected by suicide - https://www.suicideandco.org/
