CPSL Mind

Cambridgeshire, Peterborough and South Lincolnshire Mind (CPSL Mind) is a dynamic, county-wide charity that supports local people in their recovery from mental health issues, promotes wellbeing and campaigns against stigma & discrimination: http://www.cpslmind.org.uk

We believe that no-one should have to face a mental health problem alone. If you are facing difficulties with your emotional or mental health, and are looking for support on your road to recovery, we are here for you.

We are also committed to tackling stigma and raising awareness of the need for everyone to look after their mental wellbeing. If you are an employer, organisation or individual looking to improve your own wellbeing, or that of your employees, we can help.

Melbourn FC raise over £3,000 for CPSL Mind

During the month of March, 44 players, family members and friends of Melbourn FC agreed to take part in a virtual challenge to run or walk the 3,000km from our home pitch, The Moor in Melbourn, to the Champions League Final at the Ataturk Olympic Stadium in Istanbul.

We originally set ourselves a target of £1,000 to be donated to the local mental health charity CPSL Mind. However, due to the phenomenal efforts of so many people, we reached the destination in just 14 days, raising a fantastic £2,000. The club then decided to extend the event and return from Istanbul, doubling the challenge to 6,000 km and raising over £3,000. £3,375 raised. Factor in gift aid and CPSL Mind will get over £4000!

Some of the highlights of the month have included people breaking their own personal bests for 5km and 10km (many times), with half marathons and full marathons being run. Two participants clocked up a staggering 400km individually and the eldest challenger achieved 227km at the age of 66.

Mick Walker, Chairman of Melbourn FC said, "We've had outstanding support from all involved and we are delighted to be able to offer funds to this really important charity".

Chay Wilson, First Team Manager, commented, "We're immensely proud of this amazing achievement by Melbourn FC and extended family. A massive well done to everyone involved. Thank you to all those that have really gone the extra mile to achieve the challenge and raise awareness for CPSL Mind. Thank you to those behind the scenes for all the admin work and of course we're so grateful to everybody who has donated to the cause".

Zoe Doherty, Fundraising Consultant for CPSL Mind said, “We have been blown away with how much Melbourn FC have raised and the dedication of all the players, friends and family has been wonderful to see. We all have mental health and during the pandemic, we have seen the need for our services increase. This amazing donation will support a range of services across our communities, including out of hours mental health crisis support, community wellbeing activities, peer support, campaigns and training. A huge thank you to everyone who was involved.”

Melbourn FC raise money for CPSL Mind

CPSL Mind was thrilled when Melbourn FC chose them as their charity for the year. Even with the recent challenges of social distancing they managed to raise a staggering £1,829.74 for their local mental health charity.

The main part of their fundraising was their amazing mental health awareness day which they held in November. Many local businesses and community groups got involved including; The Black Horse Pub, Melbourn Hub, Classic Wings, Strand’s Hairdressers, Tony’s Barbers, The Dolphin pub, Melbourn Fish & Chip shop, Leech’s Butchers and Unlimited Logos. The day raised over £1,000. Other fundraising activities included an annual quiz night and they even organised a virtual presentation and race night, which was highly successful.

Mick Walker, Chairman of Melbourn FC said, "A number of people in the club put real effort into this prominent cause via fundraising activities and involving local businesses and I'm immensely proud of this achievement."

Zoe Doherty, Fundraiser for CPSL Mind said, “We have been overwhelmed and so impressed with the hard work and dedication Melbourn FC have put into their fundraising. Not only did they raise an enormous amount of money, but they also encouraged their community to be involved and most importantly of all they raised awareness about the importance of talking about mental health and seeking support when you need to. We are also delighted that they have chosen us again to support next year. A big thank you to everyone who was involved.”

Picture left to right: Mick Walker (Melbourn FC Chairman), Steve Harrington (Landlord of the Black Horse), Emma Watters, Strands Hair Salon) and Jose Hales (District Councillor for Melbourn and representing Melbourn Hub).