If you know me, you probably know that I love running, but you might not know about the groundbreaking mental health research being carried out by the University of Sussex - my old uni! - or even the importance of running to me to support my own mental health.

Sussex is a world-leader in mental health research, with their work focussing on children's mental health being recognised as one of the UK's best breakthroughs of the past century for its significant impact on people's everyday lives.

The UK Government is taking notice of the research which is specifically aimed at improving outcomes for children, it has a special focus on those that experience economic disadvantage and has led to the promotion of targeted family support.

Who hasn't had some level of experience of how disruptive and destructive mental health conditions can be, whether personally or through our loved ones? We have lost and lose too many people due to poor mental health, especially when people are unable to get the help and support that they need:

- 1 in 4 people in the UK experience mental health conditions each year.

- 75% of those with a mental health condition start developing it before the age of 18.

- 7 in 10 young people with a mental health problem haven't had sufficient help at an early age.

- Three children in every classroom have a diagnosable mental health condition.

Sussex are working to address these issues but they need our help, so please donate. Not for my sake - I'll (try to) enjoy every single mile - but for a great cause that could improve the lives of so many people.

Thank you,

LB.