Deputy head takes on gruelling challenge in support of children's mental health
A local deputy headteacher is preparing to run more than 80 miles in three days to highlight the importance of supporting the mental health of children and young people.
Liam Collins, who works at Asfordby Captain’s Close Primary School, will cover three ultra-marathons in March, visiting all fellow schools in the Discovery Schools Academy Trust en route.
He’s training hard for his challenge with the aim of raising at least £1,000 for YoungMinds Trust.
“I wanted to do something to highlight how important it is that we are there for young people at a time when they can really struggle with their mental health,” Liam told the Melton Times.
"There are lot of pressures online and it is really tough out there for children.”
Liam starts his fundraiser on Wednesday March 25 at Uppingham Community College and finishes the first day at Kibworth CE Primary School. Day two, the following day, will see him run from Keyham Lodge School to Danemill Primary School. And his final day stretches from Fossebrook Primary School to Birch Wood Area Special School in Melton Mowbray.
He commented: “It will be a tough challenge – I will be running an average of 28 miles every day.
"As I visit each of the schools I will be running around their playground or playing fields and hopefully some of the children and the staff will join me
Go to www.justgiving.com/page/liam-collins-1 to sponsor Liam.
This year’s annual YoungMinds Trust campaign supporting youth mental health – Hello Yellow – is on World Mental Health Day, on Friday, October 9, when schools, workplaces, and communities encourage children and adults to wear yellow.