NICHE FEATURE
Loneliness has been an important factor contributing to higher levels of distress resulting from people’s sense of isolation
Mental health is everyone’s business
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supportive community has been created by Leicestershire Action for Mental Health Project (Lamp). The charity is dedicated to providing a voice to those whose lives are affected by mental health issues, aiming for beneficiaries to feel that they are valued, listened to and more able to cope. Their annual 5k challenge is coming up soon, which encourages local people to come together to tackle loneliness. The charity’s inaugural 5k ‘Around the World’ initiative in 2021 raised over £8,000. This year, they’re hoping to make it to the moon! Individuals and businesses can get involved by taking part or supporting the cause by volunteering or donating.
5k Trip to the Moon
Lamp’s 5k challenge this year aims to get to the moon. They’re encouraging people to cover 5k or more to collectively reach 384,400km – the distance from Earth to the moon – and raise £1 for each km covered. Participants can take on any activity they like, such as swimming, rowing,
walking the dog or even competing in a triathlon during Mental Health Awareness Week. Richard Kotulecki, Lamp’s CEO said: “Our 5k fundraiser ties in with this year’s theme for Mental Health Awareness Week, which is loneliness. The theme has been set by the Mental Health Foundation which found that loneliness has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. A study by the Foundation revealed that loneliness has been an important factor contributing to higher levels of distress, resulting from people’s sense of isolation and reduced ability to connect with others. “For this reason, we encourage you to join with us in the 5k Trip to the Moon challenge to get outdoors and exercise. Plus, it isn’t just the exercise which will help – engaging in the challenge with friends and family members will enable you to nurture supportive and meaningful relationships, all of which can contribute to positive mental health.” Get involved at lampadvocacy.co.uk/lamp5k. NICHE | 63
