LegIt Lancashire
1849. Louise Goddard
Louise Goddard, from Lancater, founded 'LegItLancaster', a running, coaching and rehab service based in Lancaster, supporting communities across Lancashire and Cumbria by getting people more regularly active.
Through the initiative, Louise runs the #mentalhealthmile campaign, a monthly event held across several towns in the North West to encourage people to come together for a run, not only to benefit physical health but to raise awareness of how exercise can improve mental wellbeing. The mile is particularly aimed at people who do not do much exercise or those who wish to start a healthier work-life balance and need support and encouragement.
In a personal letter to Louise, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:
“For many of us, the pandemic highlighted the need to focus more on our overall health, and I am delighted that you are helping people of all abilities and ages enjoy exercise. I was particularly inspired to learn of your #mentalhealthmile campaign which is helping people across Lancashire and Cumbria take those first steps to improving their mental wellbeing, alongside improving their fitness.”
Cat Smith, MP for Lancaster, said:
“Louise Goddard’s work in establishing ‘LegItLancaster’ as part of the official #mentalhealthmile has allowed so many local people to get active and take part – no matter what their age or ability, which I can attest to having completed one with a toddler!”
Louise said:
“It was a pleasant surprise to hear that I’d been nominated and chosen as a Points of Light volunteer, it helps make the volunteering seem even more worthwhile.”