Staff from The Grangefield Academy, North Shore Academy, and the Northern Education Trust Central Team came together on 12 October 2024 to take part in a long-distance fundraising walk in aid of Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM).
CALM is a UK-based mental health charity that delivers vital support, advice and life-saving services to people experiencing mental distress. The organisation also works to raise awareness around suicide prevention, campaigning to ensure people have the tools and understanding needed to support themselves and others. Current figures show that 125 people die by suicide each week, with three-quarters of those deaths involving men, highlighting the urgent need for CALM’s work.
The charity was selected by staff due to its close relevance to both personal experiences and the challenges encountered through professional roles within the trust and the wider community.
A demanding but rewarding journey
A total of 23 staff members undertook the 20-mile coastal route from Whitby to Saltburn, departing Grangefield early in the morning before setting off on foot at 8.15am. The walk followed the scenic but physically demanding Cleveland Way, passing through Sandsend, Runswick Bay, Staithes and Skinningrove, before finishing in Saltburn at around 4.30pm.
Although participants were largely treated to dry conditions, the final miles proved challenging as heavy rain set in during the last stretch. Despite the weather, morale remained high, with staff supporting one another throughout the journey.
Fundraising success
This marks the second year the walk has been completed, following a successful 2023 effort that raised £2,210. This year’s event generated an impressive £1,631, including a generous £300 donation from Northumbrian Water.
Together, the two walks have raised more than £3,800 for CALM over the past year.
A shared commitment
Declan Wild, Assistant Principal and Teacher of Humanities at The Grangefield Academy, said he was deeply moved by the level of support shown by colleagues. He praised staff for giving up their weekend time to support an important cause, describing the walk as a true reflection of the trust’s collective spirit and shared values.
The fundraising page will remain open until the end of November 2024 for anyone wishing to make an additional donation in support of CALM.