More than 40 runners inspired by suicide prevention will take part in the Wigan 10k
Fund-raisers from several organisations will take part in the Wigan 10k in aid of two charities.
Council staff, healthcare workers and community partners hopes to raise vital money and awareness for two suicide support charities by competing in the Wigan 10k.
Members of Wigan Council’s public health team will be joined by colleagues from SWAN Primary Care Network, Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and addiction support charity We Are With You in running the race on Sunday, September 6.
Inspired by the upcoming Greater Manchester-wide Month of Hope, which spans from World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10 to World Mental Health Day on October 10, they aim to raise more than £1,000 for Survivors Of Bereavement by Suicide (SOBS) and Samaritans.
Both services will have stalls at the event at Mesnes Park, which last year saw more than 3,500 runners taking part in either the 10k or family mile.
Coun Keith Cunliffe, the council’s deputy leader and cabinet portfolio holder for adult social care and health, said: “The Month of Hope is all about having open conversations about mental health, sharing hopeful messages across our communities and showing those who may be struggling that they are not alone.
“We can all play our part in spreading hope, even with the smallest acts of kindness and generosity, and it’s wonderful to see colleagues from our Suicide Prevention Partnership and other partners rally together to raise funds and awareness for two tremendous causes.
“Samaritans and Survivors Of Bereavement by Suicide (SOBS) are fabulous charities who offer invaluable support to members of our community who are in crisis, or to those who have been personally impacted by suicide loss, so please support them if you can.
“Good luck to all our runners and to everyone else taking part in this year’s Wigan 10k – whether simply for fun or to raise funds for their chosen charities. We’re right behind you and look forward to being there on the day to cheer you all on!”
The fund-raising group will be made up of more than 40 runners, who will be aiming for personal bests and, more importantly, plenty of sponsors.
Lisa Sandiford, who is the suicide prevention lead at Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Having been bereaved by suicide myself, I understand the devastating and life-long impact that suicide has on families, friends and communities.
“This run is dedicated to the memory of everyone we have lost, to standing in solidarity with those who are bereaved by suicide and to demonstrating that through compassion, collaboration and strong partnership working, we can build hope, strengthen our communities and work together towards reducing suicide in Wigan borough.”
Dr Adam Jolles, one of 27 runners representing SWAN Primary Care Network, said: “I have seen and felt the devastating impact suicide can have on people and their support network.
“I feel it is all our responsibility to look out for each other and give support to those that are struggling with their mental health.”
Donations can be made at www.justgiving.com/team/wiganph10k, with all money raised split evenly between SOBS and Samaritans.