Every year, around 200 children lose their lives to suicide, and figures show that more than 75,490 children in England aged six to 17 attended A&E with a mental health concern in 2025 – a 36 per cent increase since 2019.
To help, charity Sport in Mind – which works with the NHS to deliver free sport and physical activity programmes – is launching the 100K Your Way Challenge
This will be on October 10, World Mental Health Day.
Youngster taking part in a Sport in Mind session. (Image: Sport in Mind)
Participants are challenged to cover 100K over 10 days through walking, running, cycling, swimming, dancing, or any combination.
Sport In Mind has supported more than 60,000 people so far, with 94 per cent reporting improved mental wellbeing, it says.
Founder and CEO, Neil Harris said: “We cannot wait until a child reaches crisis point before we decide they need support.
“For some children, joining a football session, going for a run, learning a new skill or simply having somewhere safe to belong can be the first step towards feeling connected again.”
Challenge participants are encouraged to raise sponsorship – £54 will enable 10 young people to access a Sport in Mind session.
Youngsters taking part in a Sport in Mind session. (Image: Sport in Mind)