Support Rochdale, Oldham and District Samaritans by getting active outdoors this summer

You can walk, jog or run the equivalent of a marathon distance to raise money for Samaritans

Rochdale, Oldham and District Samaritans is encouraging people to sign up to Samarathon, the charity’s annual virtual marathon, and set themselves the challenge of walking, jogging or running the equivalent of a marathon distance during July, helping the charity’s volunteers continue to provide vital emotional support.

Launching in Mental Health Awareness Week, listening volunteers at the Rochdale, Oldham and District branch are encouraging local residents to make the most of the long summer days after months of lockdown by getting active and being out in nature, which is known to help boost physical and mental wellbeing.

Participants can choose how, when and where they complete their marathon – and can sign up alongside friends and family, cheering each other on either in person or remotely.

Branch Director, Moyra Purves, said: “Samarathon provides a great opportunity to get active and enjoy spending time outdoors which is more important than ever during the pandemic. It is also a real boost to our volunteers, who have clocked up 4,543 hours providing emotional support to those who are struggling to cope during these challenging times.

“The pandemic has significantly hampered our ability to fundraise over the past 12 months. Taking part in this challenge is not only a fun way to look after your own mental health and wellbeing but will allow us to support others who are struggling with theirs."

Laura, 43, signed up to Samarathon last year in memory of her sister Louise, she said: “Samarathon was so amazing, it gave me something to focus on after coming out of lockdown.

“I never liked running before, I found it too hard and arduous, but by taking it slowly and doing small amounts every other day, the mental health side of it almost took over from the fitness side. That was a big motivation because I felt great after it, I love it.”

Leonie, a listening volunteer for the past nine years walked three marathons during Samarathon 2020: “With the pandemic, I was very conscious of looking after my mental health so I thought it would be good to physically challenge myself, as well as being a good motivator to regularly get myself outside.

“I did three marathon distances over the month, and I’m hoping to do more this year. Samarathon gave me more of a purpose. Being out in nature helps puts things in perspective. I really enjoy getting out in the fresh air, feeling freer and not restricted by your own thoughts or responsibilities.”

To find more information or sign up to Samarathon, visit www.samaritans.org/samarathon