Ray’s Radio Call Sparks Team-Up Between Band Of Brothers And Mindset Bros To Support Mountbatten Hospice
- Dominic Kureen
- Nov 4
- 2 min read
A call to Isle of Wight Radio has sparked a wave of generosity and highlighted the importance of talking about men’s mental health.
It all began when Ray Braithwaite phoned in to play the station's long-running “What’s the Word” game in October.
Speaking to drivetime presenter Jack McHugh, Ray shared that he wanted to win the money so he could donate £500 to Mountbatten Isle of Wight, the hospice that supported his wife during her final days.
While he didn’t win the prize, his heartfelt story resonated with many across the Island.
The full audio can be listened to below:
Shortly afterwards, two local men’s mental health groups — Mindset Bros and Band of Brothers IOW — reached out to Ray via Isle of Wight Radio, pledging £250 each to support his donation.
Other local businesses and community members quickly followed, also wanting to make a difference.
The combined efforts of these groups, along with donations from Island companies including Island Windows & The Plastics Depot Ltd, Pretty Windows, Engenius Ltd, Pro-coat Painting, and MB Electrical EV Isle of Wight, meant that the total donation to Ray reached £1,000.
The cheque was presented by Ray to Becky McGregor - CEO Mountbatten Isle of Wight - along with Dean Harris (Band of Brothers) and Mark Lounds (Mindset Bros).
The initiative also carried a wider message: breaking down the stigma around men’s mental health struggles.
Dean Harris - Band of Brothers, who coordinated much of the campaign, said:
“Only together can we make a difference.
"If this can be the first spark that lights the fire in someone, then go make a difference in your community — together we are stronger. Strength comes from within.”
He added that the support and engagement from local businesses and the wider Island community had been overwhelming:
“In life we have to forget about material things and focus on leaving behind a legacy we can be proud of.
"This is about helping break down the stigma attached to men’s mental health and encouraging everyone to speak up and support one another.”
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