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HPFT Service user awarded ‘Outstanding Contribution to parkrun’

28 Nov 24

An HPFT service user, Jamie, has been awarded an ‘Outstanding Contribution to parkrun’ by the High Sheriff of Hertfordshire.

Jamie with his carer and the High Sherriff holding a certificate

Jamie, who accesses our East & North Herts Community Specialist Learning Disability Service, first became involved in parkrun after a suggestion by the service that he might like to consider volunteering.

Dr. Sarah Hawkins, HPFT Consultant Clinical Psychologist said: 

“Holding valued community roles, being independent and helping others are really important to Jamie and it was felt that the role would suit him well and help to boost his mood and confidence.” 

Jamie has described, with support from his mum, his parkrun journey.

When my mother emailed Barclay parkrun on my behalf, the run director immediately replied offering me a position that coming weekend in October 2019.  I volunteered with my personal carer, Matt, and we were made to feel so welcome and important on that day and felt part of the parkrun community straight away.  We volunteered several times until early 2020, then sadly, covid hit us and it all stopped for a while.  It was whilst volunteering one Saturday that I said to Matt that I would like to have a go at running.  Matt is a very keen runner and encouraged me to go with him.  We did our first run together in January 2022 and I have now completed 13 parkruns. 

When I volunteer, I stand in a position on the course and indicate which way the runners need to go.  I also enjoy shouting out encouragement to the participants, which I know as a runner, really helps when you are feeling tired.

Not only do I get a great feeling of achievement when I run and volunteer, but I have also made many friends over the years.  Matt belongs to a running club and many members stay to the end of the session to cheer me over the finishing line.  I sometimes feel anxious or worried, but when I finish doing a parkrun, I always feel happy.

For more information about parkruns, please visit https://www.parkrun.org.uk/

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