THE West Essex community will come together in Harlow for a day of family fun and festive cheer in support of mental health next week.

Mind in West Essex’s Mental Elf Festive Fun Run on Sunday, December 7 promotes mental health awareness and raises vital funds for the local charity’s work in Harlow, Uttlesford and Epping Forest.

The 5km fun run at Harlow Town Park is open to everyone to walk or run at their own pace and festive fancy dress is encouraged.

Everyone who takes part will get a free National Trust family day pass as a thank you for supporting mental health and a reminder to look after your wellbeing this winter.

You’ll also get a special Medal Elf medal at the finish line to celebrate your achievement, whether you walk or run.

The course, which will start and end in the bandstand area, is stroller friendly and dogs on leads are welcome. There will also be children’s activities and raffles and prizes to be won on the day.

Mind in West Essex’s Harlow community connector Genna Roberts said: “Whether you’re a Dasher or more of a Prancer, everyone is welcome to join in as we jingle all the way along the course.
“Getting active and having a laugh are great for mental wellbeing – especially during the cold, dark winter months when we might be feeling low – so we encourage everyone to get involved. It’s going to be a cracker of a day!

“Mental Elf is also a fun way to support a great cause and get into the Christmas spirit of giving. As we’re an independent local charity, every penny raised for us stays in West Essex, so by supporting us, you’re helping your family, friends and neighbours.”

On the day, people are encouraged to arrive from 11am. A warm-up will be led by Sweat Harlow around 11.45am before the fun run starts at noon.

Visit MindInWestEssex.org.uk/shop/mental-elf-fun-run-2025/ for tickets. There will be a Black Friday sale on November 28 with all tickets 10% for one day only.

Now in its fourth year, Mental Elf is Mind in West Essex’s main annual fundraising event and has raised thousands of pounds for the charity since 2022.

If your business or organisation wants to support the event by donating items or raffle prizes, contact [email protected] to discuss.

We’re also calling for volunteers to help on the day. All volunteers will also get a free National Trust family day pass, even if you don’t participate in the fun run. If you can spare some time, please fill out a

Volunteer Application Form as soon as possible and we’ll be in touch: https://www.mindinwestessex.org.uk/get-involved/volunteer-application-form/