The charity turning movement into mental health support

In my experience, moving your body can feel like a mountain when your mental health is struggling. Thankfully, a Reading based charity has spent 15 years making that first step to exercise smaller — and less lonely.

Sport In Mind works with the NHS to provide welcoming sport and physical-activity sessions for children and adults experiencing mental health problems. The activities are designed to rebuild routine, confidence and connection, rather than competition.

The charity says it has supported more than 60,000 people. Among adults attending sessions over six months, 94% reported better mental wellbeing, while 91% reported improved confidence or self-esteem. Those are participant outcomes rather than proof that sport alone caused the changes, but they offer an encouraging sign that supported movement can help.

This October, its 100k Your Way challenge invites people to walk, run, cycle, swim or dance 100 kilometres over ten days, starting on World Mental Health Day. Participants can fundraise alone or in teams. Sport In Mind says every £54 raised can help ten vulnerable children and adults access its services. Perhaps you want to get involved...