31 Miles in May: A Team Effort for Wellbeing

Published: May 2026

At our Staff Clarity meeting in April, we, the Mental Health First Aider (MHFA) team, set a simple but meaningful challenge to Team MMW:  to walk 31 miles in May.  It is a goal that feels achievable when broken down across the month, but it also carries a bigger message about how we look after ourselves at work.  In the middle of busy days, full calendars and back-to-back tasks, this challenge is a reminder that small steps really do add up.  Our endeavours will be to ultimately raise money for Mental Health UK.

For many of us, the working day can mean long periods of sitting at a desk.  Taking time to step away, stretch our legs and get some fresh air can make a real difference.  We all know that regular movement breaks can support both physical and mental wellbeing, helping to reduce stiffness, improve energy levels and give us a chance to reset our focus.  Even a short walk can clear the mind, lower stress and leave us feeling more refreshed when we return to our work.

What makes this challenge even more special is the team effort behind it.  Walking 31 miles in May is not just about individual steps; it is about encouraging one another, sharing progress and making wellbeing part of our workplace culture.  Whether it is a lunchtime stroll, a quick walk between meetings or choosing to get outside before or after work, every mile completed is a positive step towards healthier habits and stronger connections as a team.

Not that it should be a competition (!), but a shout out goes to Nicola who at this near half-way point, has so far completed 63 miles, closely followed behind by Lucy at 56 miles.  In total, 352 miles have been logged to date based on the website tracker, with a further 268 miles in our sights!

As May continues, this challenge gives us all a chance to think differently about movement during the working day.  The 31 miles may be the target, but the bigger achievement is creating time to pause, move and prioritise wellbeing together.  Here is to every step taken this month and to the reminder that sometimes the best way to move work forward is to first move ourselves.