3K Open Water Swim for Minds and Meals

Hello, my name is Holly and I’m raising money by swimming 3000 metres at 2 separate events for three charities this summer. All are small, mostly local charities that aim to make a real difference to the people and communities they support. Funds will be split evenly across each charity.

A little bit about each of them:

Mikeysline - suicide prevention and mental health awareness work is at the core of what they do to break down the stigma associated with seeking support for emotional distress.

Penumbra - a pioneering charity providing dedicated services for people experiencing mild to serious and enduring mental ill health. They support people on their journey to better mental health, by working with each person to find their own way forward. The power of people’s lived experience enables them to provide pioneering services which transform lives.

Fochabers Food Stop - a very local, brilliant charity set up by a friend. It is a one stop community food hub for anyone and everyone who needs a little help. For the community, by the community.

A little bit about me and my reason for signing myself up for this:

Swimming is my happy! We all like doing things we are good at, and, swimming is my thing. It’s not about doing the exercise itself, more that, when I’m surrounded by water, either swimming through it or just being in it, my mind is totally quiet, just for that moment.

I picked to support:

Mental health charities because: Quite apart from the very obvious need to provide more mental health support to more people, this is a subject very close to my heart. It’s no secret to those of you who know me that my own mental health is something I struggle with. I’m lucky enough to have brilliant family and friends, as well as access to health care that many aren’t able to access. Most aren’t so lucky and in whatever small way I can, I’d like to help.

Fochabers Food Stop because: I’ve learnt a lot about the value of community initiatives since moving to Scotland. A very few people work tirelessly to improve the situation for others in their community and I’d like to make sure that can continue. Again, I know I’m lucky in being able to support myself and my family, not a privilege everyone has and I think it important to help.