On Sunday 11th October, runners will take to the streets of Peterborough for the Great Eastern Run. Among them will be Craig Else-Freestone, who is taking on the challenge to raise awareness and funds for CPSL Mind.
For Craig, running is about more than the event itself. It is something that has been part of his life for around seven years, supporting his own wellbeing and giving him time to think, focus and reset. It is also a way to support a cause that matters deeply to him.
A personal connection to mental health
Craig works as an Access and Inclusion Worker for CPSL Mind’s Connect to Work service, where he sees the importance of support, understanding and connection every day.
“Running gives me a chance to raise awareness and funds for a cause that helps people across our communities when they need it most,” he says.
Craig also has experience of his own mental health struggles, which has helped him understand the value of having people around you who will listen and offer support. Alongside his work with CPSL Mind, he leads Alright Mate? Fenland in Wisbech, a mental health peer support group that gives men a safe space to talk, connect and support one another.
For Craig, these experiences have reinforced the importance of making sure people feel less alone.
“Mental health means looking after ourselves and others, not just when things are difficult, but every day,” he explains. “It is about being able to talk openly, ask for help when needed and know that nobody has to face things alone.”
Seven years of running
Craig is no stranger to a running challenge. Over the past seven years, he has taken part in a range of events, from 5Ks to ultra-distance races of up to 102 miles. He also took part in Tough Mudder in July for CPSL Mind, combining his love of physical challenges with his passion for fundraising.
His training for the Great Eastern Run is going well, and he knows the importance of consistency, listening to his body and staying focused on why he is taking part.
“I hope to complete the event, enjoy the experience and use it as an opportunity to raise awareness and funds for CPSL Mind,” he says.
“Most importantly, I want to show that taking on a challenge can be a positive way to support both your own wellbeing and a cause you believe in.”
Every step makes a difference
Although Craig has plenty of running experience, he says it can still be a challenge. He knows that people may assume a half marathon is easy for someone who regularly takes part in long-distance events. But that does not make the commitment any smaller.
“I still give every event 100% and always try to push myself, whether that is by raising as much as I can or aiming for a new personal best,” he says.
Craig is looking forward to the atmosphere on the day, seeing familiar faces and being part of a positive event. Friends will also be taking part, and he hopes colleagues, family and friends will be around the course to offer their support.
“Having support there always makes a big difference and helps keep you going,” he says.
Supporting mental health, one step at a time
For Craig, the Great Eastern Run brings together two things that matter to him: supporting mental health and taking on a personal challenge.
His advice to other runners is simple: “Be consistent, start where you are and do not compare your journey to anyone else’s. Listen to your body, enjoy the process and remember why you started.”
And for anyone considering fundraising, he encourages people to share their story honestly and explain why their chosen cause matters to them.
“Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference,” he says. “Keep sharing updates so people can follow your progress and feel part of the journey.”
Whether you are running, volunteering, cheering from the sidelines or making a donation, there are lots of ways to support the Great Eastern Run and help raise awareness of mental health across our communities.
If you are in Peterborough on Sunday 11th October, keep an eye out for Craig and the other CPSL Mind runners. Your support could make all the difference!
Support Craig’s fundraising here.
Find out more about the Great Eastern Run here.
We have limited places left for the Great Eastern Run, but there is still time to sign up! Sign up here or contact fundraising@cpslmind.org.uk for more information.
