The MD of Telford company MyWorkwear, James Worthington, has been making positive use of his allowed exercise time during the COVID-19 lockdown by raising money for charity. James will run the equivalent of almost 4 marathons over the course of the month and has so far raised close to £300 through his Just Giving page. He is hoping to reach £500 or more by the end of the month.

James isn’t new to fundraising for the charity, having previously raised almost £2000 by completing an off-road ultra marathon. However, when he saw how badly they were being hit by the COVID crisis he knew he needed to take to his running shoes again.

In May 2020, MIND announced that nearly a quarter of people were currently unable to access the mental health services they needed and experts have called for mental health support to be increased.

Charities, such as MIND, are facing pressure from both sides during the crisis. The pandemic has had a huge impact on people’s lives, with many needing more help at this crucial time, whilst on the other side, the current situation has led to the postponement or cancellation of many active fundraising events, leaving them struggling to maintain their usual income.

When asked about the challenge, James commented “When I heard that this fantastic charity was struggling with fundraising, I knew I needed to do something to help. As a sufferer of mild anxiety & OCD myself, I’m very aware of mental health issues and sadly more people than ever, are now battling with their mental health as a direct result of the COVID-19 crisis. I fear that this virus will be here for some time to come and MIND will need all the donations they can get, to help people who are suffering the most in the UK.

James continued “It is more important than ever that we take steps to look after ourselves and our wellbeing, and keeping active is a big part of this for so many people. Although this has been a challenge to complete alongside managing my business under the new coronavirus guidelines, it has also given me the opportunity to do get outside and exercise, which I find invaluable”

UPDATE: We are pleased to announce that James smashed his targets – running nearly 110 miles in June and raising almost £750. You can still donate using the link below.

MIND Charity Run

www.justgiving.com/fundraising/run100milesinjune

To find out more about MIND, please visit www.mind.org.uk

Further information about MyWorkwear is available at www.myworkwear.co.uk