Chloe's Story: 25 Lancashire Minds

Chloe’s Story

Running for resilience, family and fun.

At Lancashire Mind, we believe in the power of community, movement and mental wellbeing. Chloe’s story is a shining example of how one small step towards self-care can lead to something truly inspiring.

Chloe, a busy nurse and mum, first laced up her trainers to take on the popular Couch to 5K plan. With a demanding job and the responsibilities of motherhood, she knew she needed to carve out some time just for herself. Her goals were simple but powerful – to improve her fitness, boost her mental health, and feel more confident in her own skin.

“Running quickly became something I looked forward to – a real boost for my mood and energy,” Chloe told us.

Through friends, Chloe discovered Lancashire Mind’s flagship fundraising event: Mental Elf. Created right here in Lancashire more than a decade ago, Mental Elf is a fun run with the emphasis firmly on fun – and it’s since become a nationwide movement.

Community Fundraiser Nicola Tomkins commented, “Lancashire Mind are incredibly proud that an idea born in Lancashire is now making a difference across the UK. Lancashire Mind has supported over 50 other local Minds within the national Mind federation to bring Mental Elf to their own communities.” The result? Thousands of people across the country taking part, raising vital funds and doing something positive for their own mental health and the wellbeing of others.

Each event may look a little different, but the heart remains the same: getting outside, moving your body, connecting with others – and having a good time while you’re doing it. It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned runner or prefer a stroll in the park, the event is for everyone, with the open ended an option if you’d like a bit more of a challenge.

What caught Chloe’s attention was the supportive, pressure-free environment… no chip timing, just a celebration of movement and mental wellbeing. It felt like the perfect fit.

Not only did Chloe sign up to run the 5K at Worden Park, but she also decided to fundraise for Lancashire Mind, helping others who may be struggling with their mental health.

The best part? Her passion was contagious. Inspired by his mum’s determination, Chloe’s 7-year-old son, Tommy, signed up for the Mini Elf 2K run, taking place on the same day. It became a real family affair, full of smiles, muddy trainers and shared pride.

“We had the most amazing day together,” Chloe said. “It wasn’t just about running, it was about being together, making memories and supporting a cause that really matters to us.”

Chloe absolutely smashed her fundraising goal, raising an incredible £260 – a whopping 520% of her original target! Every pound raised helped Lancashire Mind support more people in the community with their mental health.

And to top off an already perfect day? Chloe’s friend, who had come along to cheer her on, decided last minute to enter her puppy into the Best Dressed Dog competition – and they won!

Support Mental Elf

Mental Elf is all about coming together with your local community to do something that’s good for you, whilst giving something back by helping to raise vital funds for Lancashire Mind. You’ll be connecting with others, doing some physical activity, spending some time in nature and getting the feel-good factor of supporting your local mental health charity – all things that help to boost your own mental wellbeing.

Discover Mental Elf