On 7th September 2025, Me and Mandy have decided to lace up our running shoes and attempt the AJ Bell Great North Run, embarking on the world's most iconic half marathon. Our mission? To champion better mental health across Teesside.

Me and Mandy are not experienced runners, but we are determined to take part and to finish (however long it may take us).

About Lauren...

I have worked for Teesside Mind for just over a year within the Admin and Reception team. Our team are the first point of contact for people enquiring about mental health services and we help signpost the people of Teesside to the most appropriate service.

Since my time working here, I've witnessed the amazing work that all the services, staff, and volunteers do for the people of Teesside, ensuring that every local person has somewhere to turn to for support and advice. We couldn't do this without the support of donations.

Last year me and my husband walked from Redcar to Whitby in aid of Teesside Mind and loved the experience, this has inspired me to want to do something more challenging. I used to run as a teenager and have always wanted to do the Great North Run so thought... why not? This is a massive challenge for me but I'm really looking forward to pushing myself.

About Mandy...

I currently work for the Foundation & Recovery Team which is part of Impact on Teesside Service. Impact are the psychological therapies and wellbeing service working with people across Teesside. The team can work with those who have long term health conditions, those who need outreach and recovery support or those who need more general emotional and wellbeing help such as employment support.

I love working for the service and get to see the amazing work the staff and volunteers do everyday to help people across Teesside with their mental health.

I've always loved walking but I've never been a runner, so taking on the Great North Run is a huge challenge for me but I'm determined. I too have suffered in the past with my mental health and this has inspired me to give something back for a charity that is close to my heart.

Last year Teesside Mind supported nearly 27,000 local people in managing their mental health and emotional well-being.

Please sponsor us, any donations big or small will be greatly appreciated! Every donation helps us to run that little bit faster and directly contributes to vital mental health services, right here in Teesside.