A team of NHS workers from the Carleton Clinic in Carlisle and the West Cumberland Hospital in Whitehaven are embarking on a journey to walk the length of Hadrian’s Wall, spanning 84 miles (135km). The goal of their walk is to raise money for a mental health football team run by the Carlisle United Community Sports Trust.
The initiative is focused on promoting meaningful and welcoming activities, such as the football group, for individuals who are unwell or on the road to recovery. Hannah Lund, clinical manager at the Carleton Clinic, highlighted the importance of physical activity for overall wellbeing, not only for the body but also for the mind. She emphasized that the social aspect of the football group can significantly contribute to individuals’ wellbeing by providing them with a supportive network in their local community.
Although unable to physically participate in the walk, pharmacy staff will show their support by setting up a treadmill in their office. Staff from six wards spread across both hospitals will be walking different sections of Hadrian’s Wall. The journey is set to begin on 15 May and will take three days to complete. Inpatient Matron Aaron Vaughn expressed excitement about this opportunity for staff to come together and boost their own wellbeing while supporting a valuable resource within his organization.
The football group receives support from SHINE fund, which is part of Cumbria, Northumberland Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust (CNTW). All funds raised from this walk will go towards supporting this initiative as it offers valuable assistance to individuals within the trust who may benefit from structured exercise and mental health support offered through sporting activities.
