Hundreds of Elves run in support of Lancashire Mind

Three hundred people from across Lancashire have supported better mental health by completing Lancashire Mind’s annual fun run, Mental Elf, to help raise awareness and vital funds for mental health and wellbeing services across the county. 

Held at Witton Park in Blackburn, teams of colleagues, friends and family laced up their running shoes to raise a fantastic £8,500 for Lancashire Mind and the vital services they deliver within the county’s workplaces, schools and community groups.

Supporters took part in not one but three Mental Elf fun runs including a mini 2K for children under 15 years, a 5k and 10k – accompanied by a live samba band, salsa music, free arts and crafts activities, storytelling and face painting.

Tommy McIlravey, CEO of Lancashire Mind, said: “Mental Elf is a fantastic opportunity for families, friends and colleagues to have fun together whilst raising awareness for a very important issue – the importance of looking our own, after each other’s, wellbeing and mental health.

“After a difficult few years and ahead of a challenging winter, it is wonderful to see so many people championing positive mental health and supporting Lancashire Mind. Every penny we raise stays within our county boundaries and helps to deliver essential mental health support such as resilience workshops for young people, tailored workplace wellbeing training, employment and housing services and financial wellbeing support.”

Lancashire Mind has seen a significant increase in demand for support since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic.

As an independent charity, support from corporate partnerships and fundraising events are essential and with 1 in 4 people now experiencing poor mental health, every penny counts. 

Tommy added: “More than ever, mental health really does matter. We want people to know that they are not alone and that is it important to discuss wellbeing and mental health openly at home, with friends and at work.

“A huge thank you to everyone who has made today possible including our generous sponsors SPAR wholesaler, James Hall & Co. Ltd.; Pierce Business Advisory & Accountancy Group; Essential Industrial Services Ltd. Webbox, and Concert Homes – our amazing volunteers and dedicated runners.”

If you would like to fundraise for Lancashire Mind or find out more about tailored corporate training programmes, contact [email protected]

To find out more about Lancashire Mind, visit https://www.lancashiremind.org.uk