Thank you for going the distance for Open Up

Your energy, determination and generosity helped raise vital funds and awareness for mental health, learning disability and neurodiversity services across Devon. Every step you took is helping us create better outcomes and stronger support for those who need it most. Here’s what some of our amazing fundraisers had to share about their experience and why supporting Open Up matters to them:

Ruby Bird, Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner at Talkworks

“I have close family and friends who have struggled with their mental health throughout my life, and I’ve seen how damaging it can be when people aren’t able to access support,” said Ruby. “I’ve also seen lives transformed by treatment. Now, working for Devon Partnership Trust, I see the positive difference services can make. By supporting Open Up, you help fund vital services that change lives, increase awareness and provide much-needed support.”

Claire Smith, Business Admin Co-ordinator at Devon Partnership Trust

“‘Getting fitter at 40’ was my mission when I first took up running at the end of last year,” said Claire. “I’d just completed the Couch to 5k app when I saw a post about places in the Great West Run to raise money for Open Up. As a running novice, the 10K option felt achievable. I’ve worked for DPT for three and a half years and learnt so much about mental health — it’s helped me grow professionally and personally, so what better way to give back than to fundraise for its amazing charity.”

Ben, runner and supporter of Open Up

“It was an honour to run for you guys,” said Ben, “and I’d definitely be interested to do so again in future events.”