University of York: Yorkshire runners to raise funds for mental health research

University of York staff, students and alumni are set to join members of the public and help raise money to support mental health research and services by taking part in this month’s Yorkshire Marathon.

More than 70 runners will take part in the event on Sunday, 16 October to support Mentally Fit York – a fund established by the University to help advances in mental health research and services on a local, national and international scale.

Runners can take part in a full marathon, a 10 mile run or complete a 26.2 mile run at their own pace, at a location of their choosing, as part of the Yorkshire Marathon month.

The run takes place in the same week that the University launches a new Institute of Mental Health Research, which aims to improve the lives and care of people affected by mental health difficulties, and mitigate the impact on individuals, families, the NHS, the workplace and whole communities.

Generous donations

Vice-Chancellor of the University of York, Professor Charlie Jeffery, who will be participating in the 10 mile run, said: “Mentally Fit York can and has made a significant difference towards advancements in mental health. Those who have already made generous donations have supported a range of causes, such as 24-hour online support tools for students and funding for mental health nursing scholarships.

“I am looking forward to participating in the run with colleagues, students, graduates and our local community, and thank everyone in advance for their support, not just for the runners, but for our wider campaign to raise awareness of the issues surrounding good mental health.”