Milewood Mudders Battle The Elements To Smash Fundraising Target For Suicide Prevention Project
A team of Milewood colleagues battled wind, rain, hail, freezing water and plenty of mud to raise thousands of pounds for a suicide prevention charity.
The 14-strong team, took on the gruelling 6K Tough Mudder challenge in Manchester, helping to bring the organisation’s fundraising total for The Red Bench Project to an impressive £6,450 – smashing its original £5,000 target.
The challenge, which took place on World Mental Health Day (Saturday 10 October), saw the Milewood Mudders tackle a series of demanding obstacles in some particularly unforgiving weather conditions.
The Tough Mudder challenge was the culmination of a series of fundraising activities organised by Milewood in support of The Red Bench Project, which aims to raise awareness of suicide prevention and the importance of talking about mental health.
Earlier fundraising efforts saw people supported by Milewood and colleagues from its Hudson Street and Caedmon House services in Whitby take part in a sponsored walk from Whitby to Robin Hood’s Bay, followed by a sponsored skydive.
Simon Brown, Group Learning and Development Manager, who completed the Tough Mudder alongside his colleagues, said: “I don’t think any of us quite appreciated just how much mud, freezing water and sheer determination would be involved when we signed up for this!
“The weather certainly didn’t make things any easier, but what stood out for me was the incredible spirit of the team. Whenever somebody was struggling, there was always someone there to offer a hand, some encouragement or a much-needed laugh.
“Completing the challenge on World Mental Health Day made it particularly meaningful. The Red Bench Project carries such an important message about looking out for one another, taking time to listen and recognising that a simple conversation can make an enormous difference.
“In many ways, the teamwork we saw during Tough Mudder reflects exactly what this project is about. Life can throw some incredibly difficult challenges at people, but nobody should feel they have to face them alone.
“I’d also like to thank everyone who has sponsored, donated and supported our teams. Their generosity will help The Red Bench Project continue its vital work.”
The Red Bench Project was founded in 2023 by suicide survivor Wayne Rambo Groves, inspired by his own experiences of depression and mental health difficulties and the loss of his friend Mick.
The initiative creates distinctive red benches in public spaces where people who may be struggling can stop, reflect and find information about mental health and suicide prevention support.
Each bench features details of the Samaritans and a QR code directing people to further sources of help. The project also encourages people to check in with anyone who appears to be struggling, reinforcing the message that a simple conversation could help save a life.
The Milewood Mudders who completed the challenge were Martyn, Simon, Kelly, Farah, Kieran, Matt, Gemma, Terri, Kim, Charlie, Martin (Fletch), Chris, Callum and Ellie.
Martyn Heginbotham, Milewood CEO added: “There were certainly some aching muscles afterwards, but also a huge sense of achievement. Everyone gave their time, pushed themselves beyond their comfort zones and supported one another throughout.
“We’re delighted with the amount raised, but just as importantly, we hope our efforts encourage more people to talk openly about mental health, check in on friends, family and colleagues, and never underestimate the difference that listening can make.”
