Mental Elf Fun Run

Click here to book tickets via Eventbrite

FAQs

What is Mental Elf?

Mental Elf is a 5K Festive Fun Run designed to boost community spirit and mental wellbeing, whilst also raising money for our new children and young people mental health service. Mental Elf is a family friendly event and we welcome runners (and walkers) of all abilities, as well as children and corporate teams.

Where and when?

The run takes place at Conyngham Hall, Knaresborough, HG5 9AY on Sunday 1st December at 11am.

What time do I need to arrive?

Registration opens from 10am, please arrive no later than 10.40 to allow time to get registered and down to the start line.

What is the route?

This is 5k route which is the same as the Conyngham Hall Park Run. Please see more details here: Conyngham Hall parkrun

Thank you to the fabulous Park Run team for their support with setting out the route.

Where can I park?

Pay and display parking is available at the venue (Conyngham Hall).

Can I get there via public transport?

Yes! We encourage the use of public transport where possible. Conyngham Hall is just a short walk from Knaresborough train station and the local bus stop at High Bridge, Knaresborough. Please note that the event is on a Sunday so services may be more limited than on a weekday.

What shall I wear?

Festival fancy dress is encouraged! Think elf ears, reindeer antlers, Santa hats, tinsel garlands!

Can I bring my dog?

Yes – but for insurance reasons, dogs must be kept on a short lead.

Are children welcome?

Yes! This is a family friendly event. Children can enter but must be accompanied by an adult.

Is this a timed event?

No, this is a fun run so there will be no running times recorded. However, many keen runners will track their time themselves using Strava or other running apps.

Do I have to run?

No! You can walk, jog or run. There is no time limit!

How much does it cost?

Adult tickets are £15, and children are priced at £12. Group discounts and early bird tickets are available.

Are there any group discounts?

Yes! We offer a team of 8 runners and a family of 4 runners, both at discounted rates.

Is there an early bird discount?

Yes! There is an ‘Eager Elf’ discount of 20% that is automatically applied to tickets purchased before 5th October.

Can I get sponsored for my run?

Absolutely! Please create your special Mental Elf Just Giving page here.

Where does my entry fee go?

Proceeds from this event will go to Mind in Harrogate District (registered charity no. 1151271) to help us fund a new service for children and young people’s mental health.

What’s included in my entry fee?

Your entry fee includes a place in the run, your runner number, a medal (which doubles as a Christmas decoration) and a goodie bag!

I can't attend, can I make a donation?

Absolutely. Thank you. Please click here to make a donation to our Mental Elf Campaign on Just Giving.

Click here to book tickets via Eventbrite

Step up your Sponsorship!

We would be incredibly grateful if you could help us raise more funds through sponsorship!

Please create your special Mental Elf Just Giving page by clicking the button below:

Our Goal

We are fundraising for a new service for children and young people in the Harrogate District.

Our goal is to include:

Counselling sessions for young people aged 11 to 18
Group mental health support in local schools
Drawing and Talking interventions for younger, primary school aged children
Workshops and resources to support parents and carers of young people struggling with their mental health

Every child deserves the chance to grow, learn, and thrive in a supportive environment. By launching a dedicated mental health service for children and young people, we’re not just addressing a critical need; we’re investing in the future well-being of our communities. Together, let’s ensure every young mind has the resources and support they need to flourish.

Tina Chamberlain, CEO, Mind in Harrogate District.

“Every child deserves the chance to grow, learn, and thrive in a supportive environment. By launching a dedicated mental health service for children and young people, we’re not just addressing a critical need; we’re investing in the future well-being of our communities. Together, let’s ensure every young mind has the resources and support they need to flourish.”

Tina Chamberlain, CEO, Mind in Harrogate District.

The Scale of the Problem

CAMHS rejected my referral and put me on a two-year waiting list so I had to self-study for my GCSEs… I believe that if someone had intervened when I was still in school I wouldn’t have the chronic mental health problems that I will now probably battle for the rest of my life.

Sources: Mind Report: Not making the grade (2021), Mental Health Foundation, Children and young people: statistics, NHS, Mental Health of Children and Young People in England, (2023).

“CAMHS rejected my referral and put me on a two-year waiting list so I had to self-study for my GCSEs… I believe that if someone had intervened when I was still in school I wouldn’t have the chronic mental health problems that I will now probably battle for the rest of my life.”

– Young Person

With thanks to our Sponsors and Supporters