Council leader Cllr Rob Waltham and North Lincolnshire’s Member of Youth Parliament, Jamie Allen have teamed up to raise money for Scunthorpe Samaritans.
The pair will take on all five parkruns across North Lincolnshire – in Scunthorpe, Normanby Hall, Brigg, Barton and Belton – before finishing their challenge with a 10k.
The challenge is being led by North Lincolnshire Youth Council, which has made young people’s mental health one of its top priorities.
Cllr Waltham said: “Jamie’s persuaded me to run every parkrun in North Lincolnshire and then take on a 10k. I’m looking forward to it – mostly.
“But there’s a serious reason behind the challenge. Young people have told us how much mental health matters to them, and Samaritans is there when people need someone to listen.
“If a few aching legs help raise money and encourage more people to talk, it will be worth every mile.”
Jamie said: “Mental health is a priority for the Youth Council because it affects so many young people, but people can need support at any age and whatever their circumstances.
“Taking on this challenge with Rob is our way of raising money, starting conversations and making sure more people know that they do not have to struggle alone.”
Rachel, a volunteer with Scunthorpe Samaritans, said: “We are so grateful to Rob and Jamie for taking on the North Lincs parkrun challenge and supporting Scunthorpe Samaritans.
“North Lincolnshire’s parkruns are wonderful community events. Seeing Rob and Jamie come together to raise awareness of Samaritans and help us be there when people need someone to listen is amazing. Every step they take will make a huge difference.”
Support Rob and Jamie through the North Lincolnshire Youth Council fundraising page [https://samaritanscommunity.enthuse.com/pf/north-lincs-youth-council].