Charlotte, one of our residents at Milnshaw House, had been participating in Park Runs prior to moving to Accrington. This leisure activity is part of her self-care routine and is an effective coping strategy. Running has helped her combat past addictions in her life and given her a focus. Charlotte describes the feeling of achievement at the end of the race as a surge of intense feelings, also known as a ‘runners high’. Additionally, the outdoor element of exercising in a green space is important to her and there are many evidenced benefits for this.
The loss of Park Runs during the lockdowns caused Charlotte, and probably many other runners, frustration and disappointment. An alternative was devised, and she began running with keen staff or taking longer walks with staff members’ dogs when they visited the service. It has been a positive experience for Charlotte and staff to have shared occupations.
Service Manager Vicky and Acting Team Leader Chloe joined Charlotte on the first Park Run at Hyndburn after restrictions had been lifted. The busy Park Run was an uplifting experience despite the undulations of the course. On subsequent Park Runs she has been joined by Team Leader, Jess. Jess has been encouraged into running and is now independently running in her free time.
A Park Run is a free national 5K event organised by volunteers across the country, it is inclusive to all abilities and often there are runners, walkers and even runners with dogs or prams. Find out more about Park Run here.
Charlotte has completed 50 Park Runs, an epic achievement! These have taken place at Widnes (flat), Blackburn (muddy), Hyndburn (hilly), and a very windy Fleetwood prom. Charlotte was proud to run the 50th in her Ronaldo training top, a Christmas present from her sister.
Due to an injury Charlotte is currently resting her running shoes and has swapped running for volunteering. Not straying too far from the track, she is now a course marshal at the Hyndburn Park Run, and reported that she ‘’enjoys cheering people on’’ – however she is keen to dust off her running shoes as soon as possible.
Once recovered Charlotte and staff will be aiming to try another local Park Run at Burnley and they are planning to run in a 10k race within the next few months! We wish them the best of luck!
Photo by Miguel A. Amutio on Unsplash.
