This year I’ve decided to run the London Marathon, with a friend of mine called Jack. We’re both running for different charities but both are great causes, so I’m hoping you can dig deep and donate what you can. 

Although I'm not an athlete and I have what some might call a "Dad Bod," I'm excited to challenge myself mentally and physically by doing something that is far outside of my comfort zone. Doing this will help to raise funds for a charity that assists thousands of people.

I have decided to run for Mind, a charity that I'm sure many of you are familiar with. This charity is very important to me, as I have friends and family who have difficulty managing their mental health. The statistics are alarming, and it appears to be getting worse, 1 in 5 people have suicidal thoughts, 1 in 4 people will experience mental health problems each year in England. This has to change!

We often don't discuss mental health issues, leading many people who are struggling to not seek help from a therapist, confide in their friends or family, or even to suffer in silence. Unfortunately, this can sometimes go unnoticed and result in tragic outcomes, such as suicide.

For the past three years, life has been difficult for all of us. We have faced a pandemic, a recession, high interest rates, high energy costs, and a cost of living crisis. It is no surprise that the statistics are worsening. Charities such as Mind are essential now more than ever, so it’s important we do what we can to raise vital funds to allow them to do the amazing work they do.

Mind offer help whenever you might need it through their information, advice and local services. Bringing together an unstoppable network of individuals and communities – people who care about mental health to make a difference. So if you’re currently struggling or need someone to speak to, PLEASE get in touch with them they really are the best at what they do! 

I’m not trying to change the world by running this marathon, but if this can help just one person then it’s all worth it. 

I’d love to see you all at the finish line, as I think I’ll need all the encouragement I can get! Hopefully see you there, Tobe x

When you're experiencing a mental health problem, supportive and reliable information can change your life. That's what we do. We empower people to understand their condition and the choices available to them through the following:-Our Infoline, which offers callers confidential help for the price of a local call.-Our Legal Line, which provides information on mental health related law to the public, service users, family members/carers, mental health professionals and mental health advocates.-Our award-winning information, certified by the PIF Tick."Mind was such an invaluable source of information. I can't put into words how helpful they were for both of us..."