PHS staff raising money for mental health charity with running challenge

Staff at Caerphilly-based hygiene company PHS Group are aiming to run 110 miles each throughout June to raise money for a mental health charity.

Seven members of staff are hoping to complete the challenge – running a combined 770 miles – for the Mental Health Foundation.

So far, the group has run 380 miles this month, despite the wet weather.

Kelly Greenaway, 36; Kate Lewis, 26; Andy Kelly, 58; Jay Stewart, 35; Rachel Haydon, 25 and Naomi Childe, 40 are hoping to raise more than £600 between them.

Also taking part in the challenge ins PHS engineer John Davies, 29.

In May, Mr Davies completed a solo challenge in May, running 100 miles for mental health charity Mindstep Foundation – inspiring his colleagues in the process.

Ms Greenaway said: “John’s achievement in running 100 miles in one month was incredible and inspired all of us to set our own trial.

“Everyone is being mentally challenged at the moment with the Covid-19 crisis and, with people feeling isolated and lonely, it’s more important than ever to raise awareness and talk freely about mental health.

“We also know that charities are feeling the financial strain at the moment and we wanted to contribute towards raising vital funds to ensure they can continue their efforts.”

Ms Greenaway added: “Everyone has their own running plan so there is a mixture of small runs throughout the week and then longer runs at weekend. At first the heat was challenging as it was so hot but now we’re all getting soaked by the rain. Time is another challenge, particularly in a busy job and when you have a small family.

“We also want people to spread awareness about the importance of mental health and to know that it’s okay to talk about it.”

Chris O’Sullivan, of the Mental Health Foundation, said: “We’re delighted to have the support of such a dedicated group of PHS staff running for us this month. Running 110 miles in a month is no mean feat, especially in lockdown.

“Exercise has played a key role in protecting people’s mental health during the lockdown, and this challenge something that will benefit the runners and the people they inspire as they go.

“Every penny helps us to respond to the mental health challenges the coronavirus pandemic has posed, and to build our work to protect and improve mental health across the UK.”