Mental health charity Mind is bringing back the family run for a fourth time
Local mental health charity Hull and East Yorkshire (HEY) Mind is delighted to announce the return of Mental Elf this Christmas. It will be the fourth annual event organised by the charity, bringing festive fun and community spirit to the city.
In 2024, the festive fun run raised vital funds to support HEY Mind’s work in promoting better mental health across the region. The event brought the community together with hundreds of participants running, walking, or dashing in their most festive outfits, creating a fantastic atmosphere full of laughter and seasonal cheer.
This year, the charity is aiming to make the event even bigger and better, encouraging more families, friends, and workplaces to take part in support of local mental health services. Emma Dallimore, chief executive of HEY Mind, said: “Mental Elf is more than just a run – it’s about bringing people together, celebrating community spirit, and raising awareness for mental health in a fun and festive way.
“When we come together like this, we remind ourselves that we are stronger when we support each other’s wellbeing.” The 2025 event will feature a festive fancy dress competition, along with music, entertainment, and plenty of Christmas spirit.
Participants can walk, jog, or run the route, which is suitable for all ages and abilities. Tickets for the most eager elves out there are available now, with a special discount for those who book before September 30, 2025.
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Mental Elf will start at 10am on Sunday, December 7. All proceeds from the event will go towards HEY Mind, helping local people improve their mental health and wellbeing.
While participants are encouraged to dress up as one of Santa’s elves, festive fancy dress is not essential. There will be exciting prizes for the best costumes, however.
Every participant will receive a medal and goody bag when they cross the finish line. Elsewhere, a Mini Elf initiative allows for younger participation in the Mental Elf School Wellbeing Challenge. This is a fantastic way to get your whole school moving, learning, and raising awareness for mental health – all while having fun and supporting an important cause.
Schools can register to take part, plan their own date and distance – possibly a festive 1K, 2K, or 5K fun run or wellbeing walk in school – and dress up as elves, wear Santa hats or festive jumpers, the more colourful, the better.
Pupils and staff can fundraise and make a difference, with every pound raised helping to support mental health services. HEY Mind will also provide resources to help pupils understand mental health and start positive conversations.
For more information, FAQs, and to sign up, visit www.heymind.org.uk/mental-elf