A group of NHS workers from the Carleton Clinic in Carlisle and West Cumberland Hospital in Whitehaven are set to walk the length of Hadrian’s Wall to raise money for a mental health football team. The team, which is run by the Carlisle United Community Sports Trust, aims to walk 84 miles (135km) in three days, with staff from six wards across the two hospitals taking part.

Hannah Lund, clinical manager at the Carleton Clinic, emphasized the importance of meaningful and welcoming activities like the football group for individuals who are unwell or on the road to recovery. She highlighted the benefits of physical activity for overall well-being, both physically and mentally, and the positive impact of social interactions on people’s well-being. The football group provides an opportunity for individuals to meet others who understand what they are going through and build connections within their local community.

Aaron Vaughn, inpatient matron at the Carleton Clinic, expressed excitement about the opportunity for staff from various roles to come together to boost their well-being while supporting the football group. The pharmacy team from the Carleton Clinic will be showing their support by setting up a treadmill in their office to virtually join the walk. All money raised from the walk will be donated to support the football group, which is funded by Cumbria Northumberland Tyne & Wear NHS Foundation Trust (CNTW).