We are very proud to support an initiative introduced by England Athletics called the ‘Mental Health Champion Scheme’. Backed by the national charity Mind, it is a programme designed to support people experiencing mental health problems to start running or getting back to running as well as to improve the mental well-being of their existing members.

Running, and sport in general, has so many positive effects on the mind. The most obvious of which are those lovely endorphins, the fresh air, the increased fitness and feelings of achievement. Not to mention the social opportunities that being part of our special club brings. Yet, for potential new members, having the confidence to take that first step out of the door towards a club can be terrifying, and for someone with a Mental Health problem, it might seem impossible. For this reason we want to use our role to give people, who are experiencing these struggles, the confidence they need just to put that first foot in front of the other.

As well as bringing new people to the club, the scheme aims to support existing members who might be experiencing their own Mental Health issues. Having champions in place will encourage people to open up and hopefully talk about this often stigmatised subject. Perhaps we can offer moral support to keep members engaged with club activities if they are experiencing tricky times. So keep your eyes open for Facebook posts and why not come and say ‘hi’ at a club night.