Put your best foot forward this month in aid of veterans’ mental health charity Combat Stress, as they seek to raise money to meet the staggering increase in demand for their specialist services…
In the last ten years, the number of former servicemen and women with mental health problems who have contacted the charity for treatment has risen by 143% – from 994 in 2006/7 to 2,420 in 2016/17.
The NHS, Ministry of Defence and Combat Stress’ own research forecast that demand for veterans’ mental health services will continue to rise over the next decade.
To fund the growing demand, Combat Stress is launching a new fundraising challenge March in March. Run, walk or jog ten miles on any day in March, submit evidence of your achievement and receive a special commemorative medal.
How and where people complete the challenge is up to those taking part, which means the event can be adjusted to your own personal challenge – walk ten miles in one day, beat your personal best by running 10 miles as fast as possible, even run the distance on a treadmill. It’s ideal training for those preparing for long distance events including the London, Brighton and Manchester marathons.
The charity is encouraging the public to share photos and videos on social media of them undertaking the challenge, using #MarchinMarch.
All money raised will enable Combat Stress to treat more veterans across the UK with mental health issues like anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Robert Marsh, Director Income Generation at Combat Stress, said: “It would be fantastic to see as many people as possible signing up to take part in March in March. It’s the perfect opportunity to show your support for the military community.”
For more information and to sign up please visit www.combatstress.org.uk/march
It costs just £20 to take part, which includes a £15 donation to help Combat Stress support veterans.
