Story
Supporting Veteran Mental Health During Mental Health Awareness Week 2026
This May, during Mental Health Awareness Week, a team of military veterans and civilians will take on an extraordinary challenge: running 308km across the UK in just 38 hours. This is more than a physical test, it is a movement to break the silence surrounding veteran mental health.
The purpose is “to create a powerful movement and authentic documentary that follows our team of military veterans and civilians running from one side of the UK to the other… to discover new ways to open the dialogue between civilians and veterans, bringing together the two worlds.”
We are running for the 38 veterans per 100,000 lost to suicide each year in the UK.
We are running to show that no one carries their burden alone.
Why This Run Matters
Veterans are often seen as unshakeable — but real strength includes vulnerability.
The project “encourages open dialogue about anxiety, PTSD, and depression… and shows others that it’s okay to seek support.”
A Symbol of Recovery
The coast‑to‑coast journey represents the path from isolation to connection.
The running packs symbolise the “invisible weight many carry daily – physicalising the unseen burden of mental illness.”
By pairing each civilian with a veteran, the run demonstrates unity, teamwork, and shared humanity.
It “breaks stereotypes and shows leadership through vulnerability.”
Community at the Heart
The route passes through towns and cities across three historic counties, this is a national effort — and you can be part of it.
Who’s Running
A combined team of veterans and civilians, including:
Brian Wood MC – Military Cross recipient
Jay Morton – Former SAS
Sam King – Ultramarathon Record Holder
Cam Ashurst, Si Gamble, Paul Haddock, and more
Together, they will run 308km in 10km relays, pushing themselves physically and mentally until “the only way forward is together.” Each runner will cover just over 100km (almost 2.5 marathons) in 38 hours.
Where Your Support Goes
Funds raised will support Head Up, the mental‑health charity for the Armed Forces community — our official charity partner.
Your donation helps:
- Provide mental‑health support for veterans
- Fund community programmes
- Support the creation of the documentary amplifying real stories
- Raise national awareness during Mental Health Awareness Week
This project is built on authenticity, purpose, and impact. It is about “real people, real stories, real impact.”
Be Part of the Movement
Whether you donate £5 or £500, you are helping us change the narrative around veteran mental health.
You are helping us honour the 38.
You are helping us ensure no veteran feels they must run alone.
Support the run. Support the documentary. Support our veterans.
Donate today and join us on the journey from one shore to the other.