What we want people to do:

1) Say "Hi!" to as many people as you can when you go outside (can be for a walk/jog/run/cycle/trip to shops/standing on your doorstep), whilst remaining 2 metres apart at all times.

2) Donate £5 

3) Share a post on your favourite social media account, and nominate 5 people to do the same, by tagging them in the post.

Whilst the impact of Covid-19 has been upsetting, challenging and sometimes scary, one of the hugely positive things to come from the lockdown has been the increase in kindness, especially amongst strangers. As the lockdown slowly eases, we want to encourage people to continue to spread this kindness, and to be mindful of the huge impact that saying hello to a stranger can have on both their, and the stranger's mental health.

The money raised in this challenge will go to Mental Health Aberdeen, and the various projects that offer support to children and adults of the North East. The reality is that there were waiting lists to see MHA counsellors before the lockdown, and the intense pressure of this situation will only increase the number of people on these lists. So the money raised by this challenge will go towards securing the additional resources that MHA need in order to support the people of the North East, including:

• Smart phones and tablets/laptops to allow more video counselling sessions.

• Safety equipment for the eventual return of face to face counselling - barriers, signage, P.P.E.

• Additional counsellors

If you are taking part in this challenge, please remember to closely follow the government guidance on being outside, exercising and social distancing (you must remain 2 metres apart from everyone, at all times)

Please also remember that whilst we are encouraging you to say "Hi!" to people you meet, your own safety is the priority, so please don't put your self at risk.

#Hi5forMHA