Now more than ever the charity needs public support
Scots are being urged to sign up for the Samarathon virtual marathon to help raise much needed funds for life-saving charity, Samaritans.
The fundraising initiative encourages supporters to run, jog or walk a marathon in their own time over the month of July.
Samaritans Scotland, which provides round-the-clock emotional support to anyone in crisis and distress hopes Samarathon, which launches today, will motivate more people to get active to improve their mental wellbeing.
Rather than focusing on a physical endurance challenge that requires participants to run 26.2 miles in one stretch, ‘Samarathon’ invites people to raise money through a flexible fundraiser that lets participants set their own pace and get active in a way that works for them.
Rachel Cackett, executive director of Samaritans Scotland, said: “Samarathon is a totally flexible way to keep active and support a good cause - which makes it a fitting challenge for this time. While we don’t know how long we’ll be observing social distancing and government guidance on outdoor exercise, you can do Samarathon on your own, with members of your household or by virtually joining with friends, family or co-workers to cheer each other on.
The organisation said that it needs public support now more than ever public’s as it faces a significant loss in funding.
Cathy Shipton, who is well known for playing Duffy in the BBC’s medical drama series Casualty is also taking part in the challenge
“I'm supporting Samaritans’ Samarathon 2020 because since the #stayhomesavelives advice was issued, l realise they’ll be under extra pressure during the lockdown from people who are struggling to cope,” she said. “They’re also doing an amazing job providing another channel of support for all NHS frontline workers too. Funds are vital and Samarathon is a healthy way to help.”
Registration is now open, via the dedicated website and is launching just days before the start of Mental Health Awareness Week. With this year’s theme ‘kindness’, Samaritans is calling on people to be kind to themselves by getting fit and healthy in a way that works for them, as well as being kind enough to raise valuable funds to ensure Samaritans can help those who are struggling.
