Mental Health Day event raises money for charity

Around 150 people attended a 5k fun run and 1k walk at Witton Park on Sunday, October 9 to mark World Mental Health Day and help raise funds for the East Lancashire Hospice.

As well as raising awareness of World Mental Health Day the event, which was organised by the Blackburn with Darwen Community Restart Team, raised £510 for the East Lancashire Hospice.  Participants said they had a brilliant day and were complimentary about the organisation of the event, routes and support from the marshals and event team.

The Community Restart Team plays a key role in tackling the social exclusion that people with mental health problems experience. They help people to access and use mainstream community services, like college or arts and sports activities, and meet new friends, which can lead to improved confidence, self-esteem and wellbeing.

Waj Bashir, Community Development, BwD Community Restart Team said:

"By getting people talking about mental health we can break down stereotypes, improve relationships, aid recovery and take the stigma out of something that affects us all. People who have a mental illness are part of the community and can contribute positively to wellbeing. The awareness day provided an opportunity for people to talk about mental health and what more needs to be done to make mental health care a reality for people as well as raising funds for the hospice at the same time. Together we can make a difference."