Fundraisers
Although we’re affiliated to the national charity Mind, we are an independent charity, run by local people. We have to raise our own money to fund our services and provide support to the people of Harlow, Epping and Uttlesford. This why your support, through fundraising and donations, is so important to us.
Your support helps us to be here for our community, now and in the future. Every penny raised locally, for Mind in West Essex, is spent locally – so, when you support us, you’re helping your friends, family and neighbours.
We often find that fundraisers aren’t aware that we are separate to the national charity Mind and that funds raised for Mind don’t go to us or stay in this community. So, if you would like to support mental health services here, fundraise for Mind in West Essex – like these amazing people below!
Suzanne Leader: London Marathon 2026
Saffron Walden’s Suzanne Leader, who works in children’s mental health for the NHS, is running the 2026 London Marathon in support of Mind in West Essex.
It will be Suzanne’s first marathon (what an event to do it in!) and by fundraising for us, she is supporting a cause close to her heart personally and professionally.
The 56-year-old said:
Mind in West Essex is an incredible charity and is at the heart of my achievements, sadness and grief. I have not only worked in children’s mental health for many years, but it has touched me very personally with the heart-wrenching loss of my sister to suicide.
Suzanne has overcome physical challenges to take on the marathon next April – despite being told by a surgeon she’d never run again.
She has had both of her big toes fused due to “debilitating” arthritis and been diagnosed with a connective tissue disease.
But Suzanne “loves a challenge” and has completed three triathlons, a half-marathon and a 100km charity bike ride.
Now, the mum of 2 sons, aged 23 and 25, is training for a marathon after winning our charity place in our ballot.
Suzanne said:
I’m determined to raise as much as I can for this incredible cause helping people with their mental health in my local community.
Suzanne had a setback in her training after injuring her hamstring. However, she is back on track now as she steps up her preparation for the marathon in April.
You can show your support by donating here: https://2026tcslondonmarathon.
