A DUDLEY student is putting mental illness in the frame to raise money and awareness to help sufferers.

Demi-Leigh Freeman, who has experienced mental ill-health herself and has met many others with similar problems, has launched her own campaign.

The 18-year-old, of Willow Road, is making bracelets to sell, with proceeds being split between charities and supporting individual sufferers, as part of Demi’s Campaign for Mental Health

Demi-Leigh, who is studying film at Halesowen College, is also planning a skydive next month and hopes to raise £300.

She said she and others had experienced a general lack of help, support and understanding about mental ill-health and is keen to raise awareness.

And she added: “Rather than feel sorry for myself, I’d rather do something about it, and that’s exactly what I intend to do, to make a change not only to my life, but to as many people as possible, it would feel wonderful."

She is also planning to make a short film about her campaign and may write a blog tracking its progress.

Her efforts have earned her a Social Switch On award of £500 from Unlimited, a supporter of social entrepreneurs.

Demi-Leigh added: “I’m getting support off friends, and my family are supporting me, including my counsellor who stood by me through difficult times. I wouldn’t have been able to have done this without her.”